Sunscape Tulum

Bbbethie · 08-01-2005

My husband and I are considering a trip to the area in the next month or so. We've looked at the Barcelo Maya, but are concerned about the damage and vegetation. We also found that for only $150 more total, we could stay at the Sunscape Tulum which has a higher rating with Apple Vacations. Does anybody have any updates on the construction at the Sunscape Tulum? Any other general comments? TIA!

babs31 · 08-01-2005

I have not stayed at Sunscape. But do yourself a favor and look this resort up on trip advisor. (and any place you are considering, but keep an open mind that some people are extremely picky) I am not sure but I have heard Apple owns this property and hence the better rating. I have included a link from a previous post and if this is the same property ...I would go to the Barcelo.

http://playadelcarmeninfo.com/playa-...light=sunscape

Bbbethie · 08-01-2005

Thanks for the response, babs. I've been reading Trip Advisor reviews all day long. I had heard similar things about the Sunscape Puerto Adventuras, but I'm more interested in the Tulum property. The reviews on Trip Advisor are generally positive. However, recent posts are bad due to the air conditioning being out of commission after Hurricane Emily. I hardly think you can fault the resort for that.

I'll definitely consider the Barcelo in the future since it appears to be so popular around here. However, I am a bit concerned about the damage to the vegetation and other parts of the property from the hurricane.

I'm open to any other advice, so please keep it coming!

babs31 · 08-01-2005

I did not realize there are two of them..(should have realized

) glad to hear though that you are thouroughly checking it out!

TN Mary · 08-01-2005

We're supposed to be at the Sunscape this Wed. (Was supposed to be at another hotel late July but since it's still shut down, we had to switch.)

As far as airconditioning goes... yes, the Sunscape Tulum was having problems with the air... but just in the last week or so, they've upgraded their units and now they're working better than ever. I've emailed the manager personally about this, plus I've been in contact with someone who just got back from there. Bottom line: the AC isn't a problem anymore!

Also there are still lots of palm trees on the beach (from what I've been told). The property didn't have a lot of vegetation to begin with so they weren't hurt in that department too much. It's a beautiful resort... the architecture is very charming and has an "old world" feel.

From what I've read, the beach does have some rocky areas, but I've also seen plenty of pictures of the beach to the south of the hotel which looks beautiful (sandy, shallow, clear, calm etc). So it has the best of both worlds (both swimming and snorkeling). The best part is, no other hotels around... so there won't be the crowds that Playacar has.

And yes, there have been a lot of people who've been there but with super high expectations (maybe due to Apple's rating?). So they were bound to be let down and nit pick every single detail.

For us, we were originally booked at a 3 star hotel so this place will be fabulous for our crew! I don't think we'll have room to complain about anything. I 'm just glad we're still able to go and not have Emily totally ruin our trip.

Mary

**Shammy** · 08-01-2005

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bbbethie

My husband and I are considering a trip to the area in the next month or so. We've looked at the Barcelo Maya, but are concerned about the damage and vegetation. We also found that for only $150 more total, we could stay at the Sunscape Tulum which has a higher rating with Apple Vacations. Does anybody have any updates on the construction at the Sunscape Tulum? Any other general comments? TIA!

The Sunscape isn't worth an extra $150 just because you fear the damage to the vegetation at the Barcelo or because it's rated higher than the Barcelo. It would be worth it if there's something specific there that you like. While there is certainly damage to the vegetation at the Barcelo, it has been cleaned up and since you have never seen this hotel before Emily came through, you might not notice the difference to anything other than on the larger, more mature trees in the jungle. On the same token, there is also damage to the trees and vegetation at the Sunscape, but it is true that there is simply less vegetation at this hotel in general so less to be damaged.

The Sunscape is a nice property, small and quite "authentic Mexican" as far as these AI resorts go. It's very laid back and quiet here at night. There is only one pool, it's just a very plain but BIG rectangle. If you're looking for one of those lagoon shaped/sized pools like they have at the Barcelo, you won't find it here. Another not so great thing is that this hotel is VERY far from the airport, it's the last AI resort as you head down the coast. It takes about 1 1/2 hours driving non stop to get here and way longer if you have to stop at other resorts to drop people off. But if you don't mind the drive, and don't plan to go into Playa Del Carmen (taxi is WAYYYY expensive!), then this won't bother you.

Some good points are no towel cards, no bracelets, no reservations for the ala carte restaurants and no limit on how many times you can go. The food is pretty good to and the staff is very friendly.

The beach is "okay"...definitely not terrible, but not as nice as the Barcelo beach. There are more rocks and things in the water at the Sunscape, and there WERE less trees on the beach for shade...but who knows what the tree situation is right now at either resort. I did see a picture of the beach at the Barcelo after Emily and while there were less palms than there had been, there were still plenty left.

There is construction going on at this hotel, but it's fairly well hidden and I wouldn't say that it's too disturbing if at all...but that's certainly subject to change depending on what they are doing. This hotel will become a Dreams (also owned by AM Resorts, just like Sunscape and Secrets) by the end of the year as long as they stay on schedule.

Here are some pictures of the Sunscape Tulum taken this past May:

Here are some pictures of the Barcelo:

Bbbethie · 08-02-2005

TN Mary Thanks for your input. Glad to hear the air conditioning situation has been rectified. Make sure you come back and post a trip report upon your return.

Shammy You're definitely right, we're not only interested in Sunscape Tulum because of the minimal damage, but also because it is rated so much higher by Apple. The distance isn't too much of a factor because we've been to PDC several times already and aren't interested in clubs or bars. I don't see much of a need to leave the property as we will only be there five nights. We're currently expecting our first child and looking at this as a last chance for a quiet relaxing trip. DH also likes the idea of being close to the ruins, as we have yet to see them. Do you think we're making a mistake by chosing the Sunscape over the Barcelo?

**Shammy** · 08-02-2005

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bbbethie

Shammy You're definitely right, we're not only interested in Sunscape Tulum because of the minimal damage, but also because it is rated so much higher by Apple. The distance isn't too much of a factor because we've been to PDC several times already and aren't interested in clubs or bars. I don't see much of a need to leave the property as we will only be there five nights. We're currently expecting our first child and looking at this as a last chance for a quiet relaxing trip. DH also likes the idea of being close to the ruins, as we have yet to see them. Do you think we're making a mistake by chosing the Sunscape over the Barcelo?

No, I don't. Since I wasn't sure exactly what you were looking for, ie: don't care about the distance, not going into town, being near the ruins, looking for quiet, etc. then I feel that perhaps this resorts would suit you. Some people like different resorts for different reasons, that's why there are so many to choose from! Some of my clients for instance, they looked into the Sunscape and once they saw just one big rectangle pool, they simply were not as thrilled with it as they were with the multiple lagoon style pools that most other resorts, such as the Barcelo, have to offer. Some people place great importance on pools...but different strokes for different folks, know what I'm saying?

If YOU think the Sunscape offers things that are important to YOU more so than the Barcelo does, then that should be the resort you choose. Only you know what's right for you so only you can make that final decision.

TN Mary · 08-02-2005

Bethie...

We did the same thing... couple of years ago when I was pregnant, we went to PDC for one last "hoorah" before bringing home a new baby. I also wanted a low-key, laid back, atmosphere at a small resort.... so I could sip on my virgin daquiris in peace!

I don't think you'd go wrong with either resort... really.
The Barcelo does have a nicer beach... but the Sunscape's isn't too shabby either. The Barcelo will offer a lot more activities, bigger pool... but it's also a bigger resort. I've heard SO many wonderful things about the Barcelo... it has a very loyal following. We actually tried to get switched there when we our first hotel was closed from hurricane damage. But it was booked for our dates.

The Sunscape had openings... and that's where we'll be tomorrow actually!
From what I've read and seen in pics, the Sunscape has a different feel to it being that it's laid out differently, it's smaller and has a different type of architecture.

Many would argue that it has awesome food (esp for an AI)... .and top notch service.

BUT the Barcelo has a lot more natural beauty with the vegetation, palms, surrounding jungle... and awesome beach.

So, it just depends on what's important to you.... b/c they're both fantastic resorts. (I wouldn't really judge by "apple" ratings... just go with what amenities are more important to YOU.)

Good luck!!

Mary

Bbbethie · 08-15-2005

Mary - Just wondering if you are back from your trip yet. I'm getting nervous about the recent negative reviews on Trip Advisor. I'd love to get your opinion on Sunscape Tulum! Thanks.

TN Mary · 08-15-2005

Here's my report:

http://www.locogringo.com/forums/tm.asp?m=102056

email me if you want too...

Bbbethie · 08-15-2005

Thanks, Mary. I'll have to discuss things with my husband about whether we should look for another property. Thank you for your feedback.

babs31 · 08-15-2005

Great report and pictures...sorry all of you were so sick....and the construction near your room....oh my....I would say I would have wanted to recieved about half off for that....but what can one do. It sounds as if you had a wonderful trip otherwise..thanks for sharing

Uno Mas · 08-15-2005

I personally don't hold much faith in the Apple ratings. I check here and Trip Advisor for real people opinions

Bbbethie · 08-16-2005

Uno Mas - I'm quickly learning to disregard the Apple ratings. Fortunately, I've always been a big fan of Trip Advisor. The problem I'm running into is that Sunscape had great review and only recently has there been an increase of poor reviews!

08-01-2005	#1 (permalink)
Bbbethie toe in water Join Date: Jul 2005 Posts: 54	Sunscape Tulum My husband and I are considering a trip to the area in the next month or so. We've looked at the Barcelo Maya, but are concerned about the damage and vegetation. We also found that for only $150 more total, we could stay at the Sunscape Tulum which has a higher rating with Apple Vacations. Does anybody have any updates on the construction at the Sunscape Tulum? Any other general comments? TIA!

08-01-2005	#2 (permalink)
babs31 life=playa Join Date: Oct 2004 Location: south of Green Bay Posts: 849	I have not stayed at Sunscape. But do yourself a favor and look this resort up on trip advisor. (and any place you are considering, but keep an open mind that some people are extremely picky) I am not sure but I have heard Apple owns this property and hence the better rating. I have included a link from a previous post and if this is the same property ...I would go to the Barcelo. http://playadelcarmeninfo.com/playa-...light=sunscape

08-01-2005	#3 (permalink)
Bbbethie toe in water Join Date: Jul 2005 Posts: 54	Thanks for the response, babs. I've been reading Trip Advisor reviews all day long. I had heard similar things about the Sunscape Puerto Adventuras, but I'm more interested in the Tulum property. The reviews on Trip Advisor are generally positive. However, recent posts are bad due to the air conditioning being out of commission after Hurricane Emily. I hardly think you can fault the resort for that. I'll definitely consider the Barcelo in the future since it appears to be so popular around here. However, I am a bit concerned about the damage to the vegetation and other parts of the property from the hurricane. I'm open to any other advice, so please keep it coming!

08-01-2005	#4 (permalink)
babs31 life=playa Join Date: Oct 2004 Location: south of Green Bay Posts: 849	I did not realize there are two of them..(should have realized ) glad to hear though that you are thouroughly checking it out!

08-01-2005	#5 (permalink)
TN Mary lost on fifth Join Date: Aug 2005 Posts: 19	We're supposed to be at the Sunscape this Wed. (Was supposed to be at another hotel late July but since it's still shut down, we had to switch.) As far as airconditioning goes... yes, the Sunscape Tulum was having problems with the air... but just in the last week or so, they've upgraded their units and now they're working better than ever. I've emailed the manager personally about this, plus I've been in contact with someone who just got back from there. Bottom line: the AC isn't a problem anymore! Also there are still lots of palm trees on the beach (from what I've been told). The property didn't have a lot of vegetation to begin with so they weren't hurt in that department too much. It's a beautiful resort... the architecture is very charming and has an "old world" feel. From what I've read, the beach does have some rocky areas, but I've also seen plenty of pictures of the beach to the south of the hotel which looks beautiful (sandy, shallow, clear, calm etc). So it has the best of both worlds (both swimming and snorkeling). The best part is, no other hotels around... so there won't be the crowds that Playacar has. And yes, there have been a lot of people who've been there but with super high expectations (maybe due to Apple's rating?). So they were bound to be let down and nit pick every single detail. For us, we were originally booked at a 3 star hotel so this place will be fabulous for our crew! I don't think we'll have room to complain about anything. I 'm just glad we're still able to go and not have Emily totally ruin our trip. Mary

08-02-2005	#7 (permalink)
Bbbethie toe in water Join Date: Jul 2005 Posts: 54	TN Mary Thanks for your input. Glad to hear the air conditioning situation has been rectified. Make sure you come back and post a trip report upon your return. Shammy You're definitely right, we're not only interested in Sunscape Tulum because of the minimal damage, but also because it is rated so much higher by Apple. The distance isn't too much of a factor because we've been to PDC several times already and aren't interested in clubs or bars. I don't see much of a need to leave the property as we will only be there five nights. We're currently expecting our first child and looking at this as a last chance for a quiet relaxing trip. DH also likes the idea of being close to the ruins, as we have yet to see them. Do you think we're making a mistake by chosing the Sunscape over the Barcelo?

08-02-2005	#9 (permalink)
TN Mary lost on fifth Join Date: Aug 2005 Posts: 19	Bethie... We did the same thing... couple of years ago when I was pregnant, we went to PDC for one last "hoorah" before bringing home a new baby. I also wanted a low-key, laid back, atmosphere at a small resort.... so I could sip on my virgin daquiris in peace! I don't think you'd go wrong with either resort... really. The Barcelo does have a nicer beach... but the Sunscape's isn't too shabby either. The Barcelo will offer a lot more activities, bigger pool... but it's also a bigger resort. I've heard SO many wonderful things about the Barcelo... it has a very loyal following. We actually tried to get switched there when we our first hotel was closed from hurricane damage. But it was booked for our dates. The Sunscape had openings... and that's where we'll be tomorrow actually! From what I've read and seen in pics, the Sunscape has a different feel to it being that it's laid out differently, it's smaller and has a different type of architecture. Many would argue that it has awesome food (esp for an AI)... .and top notch service. BUT the Barcelo has a lot more natural beauty with the vegetation, palms, surrounding jungle... and awesome beach. So, it just depends on what's important to you.... b/c they're both fantastic resorts. (I wouldn't really judge by "apple" ratings... just go with what amenities are more important to YOU.) Good luck!! Mary

08-15-2005	#10 (permalink)
Bbbethie toe in water Join Date: Jul 2005 Posts: 54	Mary - Just wondering if you are back from your trip yet. I'm getting nervous about the recent negative reviews on Trip Advisor. I'd love to get your opinion on Sunscape Tulum! Thanks.

08-15-2005	#11 (permalink)
TN Mary lost on fifth Join Date: Aug 2005 Posts: 19	Here's my report: http://www.locogringo.com/forums/tm.asp?m=102056 email me if you want too...

08-15-2005	#12 (permalink)
Bbbethie toe in water Join Date: Jul 2005 Posts: 54	Thanks, Mary. I'll have to discuss things with my husband about whether we should look for another property. Thank you for your feedback.

08-15-2005	#13 (permalink)
babs31 life=playa Join Date: Oct 2004 Location: south of Green Bay Posts: 849	Great report and pictures...sorry all of you were so sick....and the construction near your room....oh my....I would say I would have wanted to recieved about half off for that....but what can one do. It sounds as if you had a wonderful trip otherwise..thanks for sharing

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08-15-2005	#14 (permalink)
Uno Mas beachaholic Join Date: May 2005 Posts: 393	I personally don't hold much faith in the Apple ratings. I check here and Trip Advisor for real people opinions

08-16-2005	#15 (permalink)
Bbbethie toe in water Join Date: Jul 2005 Posts: 54	Uno Mas - I'm quickly learning to disregard the Apple ratings. Fortunately, I've always been a big fan of Trip Advisor. The problem I'm running into is that Sunscape had great review and only recently has there been an increase of poor reviews!