I stayed at the Riu this past June and absolutely loved it. I believe this resort can stand the ground of a 4 star resort. The food was good, the drinks were plentiful, the staff was so nice and pleasant, the grounds were well maintained, and our room was to die for - room 2105 - suite style. I don't think you will be disappointed if you choose to vacation here.

when you are in developing nation, the standard of 5* is relative... You don't mention where you are coming from but I suspect it is US or Canadad b/c I know some North American travel/tour companies rate these properties as 5+* where in reality it's just based on a check list of ammenties and not an indication of international standards...

basically wherever you go in the world (unless you are at private function that has been arranged as such) if you have to get up off your butt and get your own dinner roll, it's not a 5* :)

in Jamaica (near) 5* properties include the likes of Goldeneye, Jamaica Inn, Royal Plantation, Half Moon Bay, Strawberry Hill, the Caves and likely Geejam (although I haven't heard much about this property yet).... there are also a couple villas that are probably close to be included in that list, but that's getting completely away from the type of property you are asking about...

4* properties include the couples, Grand Lidos and Sandals...

(if you look up some of these properties you'll see the trends in pricing... for a true 5* what you pay in for one night could get you a week at a mega-AI)

most other properties are solid 3-3.5* and are typically not an indication of cleanliness, or appearance but rather level of service... In a true 5* you are "waited on"... you get white glove service and are truly treated as a "guest" in a mega all-inclusive you are typically left to fend for yourself more often than not...

most people who usually fully enjoy the Rius and other mega properties, they offer much more variety of dining options and activites than the true 5*s which are smaller and more intimate experiences... as for the true 5*s, save those ones for truly special occassions unless you have a bottomless bank account :)

Chelle

that should read most other (large AI) properties are a solid 3-3.5*

Chelle

I appreciate both of your posts.

Chelle-Yes, I am coming from the states, Florida. I do like 4* properties they are more laid back, I have found 5* to be too pretentious and I can't be myself. I have been to two all-inclusives in Mexico, Dreams P. Vallarta and Sun Palace in Cancun. Both were solid 4*, had good service, good food and great drinks. But people weren't falling all over themselves to help you i.e. 5* (which is fine with me). I was just just a bit confused because both Riu and Gran Bahia look to be solid 4*.

I stayed @ GBP in June 2008.. It was fun & the resort is beautiful, but I would not stay there again. There are too many control issues with the upper management. For more details read my review. I would try the Riu if I where you, especially if you enjoy drinking alcohol on your vacation. It almost seems that the management @ GBP does not want you to drink.

Stayed at Riu in May and still think the overall experience was less than our stay at Couples San Souci. There was just something about San Souci that we loved. As far as being a hotel snob - we're picky out the wazooey. Check Couples out.

Yes Gatorsr1.........listen to Mraudi.........The GBP is all glitz, meaning marble, architecture;spa on premises;tennis courts (a bit of a walk);room service; mini bar and generally kept tidy. BUT definitely no jamaican feel; food is controlled except BUFFET which is varied enough to enjoy each night. BOOZE is controlled; juices are controlled. Only breakfast you can get your own. Lunch and dinner served. No snacks........Unless you are going to play cards all day; drink all day; read all day; or sit and talk all day around pool, then dont go here. You will notice that it is all glitz and no substance and the man made beach is not worth it.

I loved the RIU too in 07 but could not get in there this year as I waited too long.

Good Luck.

I'm going to the Gran Bahia shortly and I've been reading those forums for weeks now. Since food and drinks seem to be controlled, I'm going to do the following (as a matter of precaution):

-BMOB (bring my own booze) from the duty free: some ABSOLUT vodka and some liqueur should do the trick.

-Bring some energy drinks from powder (Gatorade like): it provides all minerals, vitamins and carbs that your system needs in between meals.

-Bring protein shakes powders/bars: I always do that, no matter the place. My food supplementation is rich in proteins so those whey shakes are definitely a must. A protein bar (meal replacement) is good at the airport for long waits too. It helps compensate the lack of proper food.

Great idea! I like your ideas, I think I'll do the same! We'll be there in a few weeks but reading the latest reviews have gotten me worried. Let me know how your trip goes. When will you be there?

Thanks,

Rocky

Great move Masterpace........looking forwad to your review..............