We simply love this hotel - we have been to Mexico 5 times before and have always stayed at the Iberostar - usually The Beach or Del Mar and they were nice but we decided that this year, we would book 3 nights at The Grand as a treat and WOW.

We often read the reviews on trip advisor and whilst we have never posted before we are very grateful that others take the time and go to the trouble to share their experiences.

We cannot fault this hotel (and we are pretty choosy). The restaurants and the facilities are first class. We have an Ocean Front Suite in building 71 and feel so pampered - everything from the Butler service ( they explain everything on arrival and stock your minibar with alcohol of your choice) to the restaurants - so far we have eaten at The Steak House and The Japanese Tepanyaki. The pool area has lots of spare beds despite being 90% full at the moment and the beach view from our balcony is to die for. There is a jaccuzi whirlpool bath in our bathroom and there are separate "his" and "hers" sinks in addition to the shower and WC areas. The Hotel is spotless and all the staff very friendly without going over the top.

We appreciate efficient service without it being too intrusive and The Grand has exceeded our every expectation.

In short, I think this stay will have spoilt us for life - I didnt know this kind of luxury was available at this price.

We would stay here again without hesitation and cant wait to come back.

Kate & Peter

My fianc'e and I stayed at the Grand from May3rd to the 10th 2008. It was the best vacation we ever had, and our first trip to Mexico. From the time we arrived, till the time we left was a magnificent experience. We left twice, once to visit Playa del Carmen and the other to Tulum to view the ruins. We couldn't leave without experiencing some of the region's culture and lifestyle. We found the entire staff and butler's at the Grand to be kind, courteous, helpful and very pleasant all round. We had no bad experience there whatsoever. One time, we ran out of ice, for our drinks at our Hotel room, and I went to get some, when I knew the location. As I was doing this, I was stopped by our butler Rodolpho, who kindly urged me not to do his job for him, and got the ice for us. I've never seen service like this before in my life, and it was eye opening. The beauty of the architecture inside and outside the property, along with the grounds was breath taking, and impeccably clean. The food was great, no matter where you ate, through all the restaurants on the property. You could pretty much find whatever food or pastry your apetite desired throughout the Grand's numerous restaurants. We did not eat at the gourmet restaurant, as the menu did not suit our tastes. The beach was awesome, and the view was beautiful. I have heard complaints about some rocks in the water, and we simply moved a few feet away, where there were no rocks, simple as that, if that's the only complaint some travelers have. We have traveled to St Marteen, Bermuda, Aruba, and Ireland in the last five years, and nothing surpasses the Grand, not even close. I didn't think anything could top Bermuda, but the Iberostar Grand did, in service, friendliness, views, architecture, and cuisine. Since returning, we have told everybody we know, and others we don't know to check out the Iberostar Grand, as we give a 10 on a scale of 1-10. We are already looking forward to returning again in a year or so.

This hotel and staff was incredible. There were some room issues like ceiling fans that did not work because of a short in a lamp (same circuit) that gave me a nasty shock, a most impressive electrical arc when it finally blew and the electrical outlet that came out of the wall when I tried to unplug it. I only mention it because other, more persnickety, clients might loose focus on the overall experience which was phenomenal.

The facilities and grounds were absolutely first-class. Staff from check in to, butlers, concierge, housekeeping and wait staff could not be more pleasant or attentive. To wit: Naomi on hearing our plight at check-in immediately upgraded us to water front at no cost then apologized that we would have to wait until 3pm while the room was made ready. We ran into her a couple of times during the stay. Her genuine pleasure at seeing Julie's joy for the room was heartfelt. Alfredo and Alberto (butlers) immediately saw to any room issues or any other request, listened to our desires, made excellent recommendations and shared personal experiences. Cynthia, the concierge is just about Julie's new best friend. On our second day, Julie had to go to the hospital. Cynthia made travel arrangements for us and seemed genuinely concerned for Julie. We returned after Cynthia left for the day and before she returned the next morning. When we got back to the hotel, afternoon of the third day, Cynthia ran up to Julie with a big hug and asked what happened. She thought Julie might have been admitted or sent home as she had not seen us all day and checked the room several times with no success (we were out and about). Each time after that, Same thing, big hug and asking about our day, how Julie was feeling, etc. Those are just a few examples of the fine staff there.

This is the place for someone wanting a high-touch if hands-off experience. Other guests tend to keep to themselves unless in more social areas like the bars or Star Friends events. Even at near capacity, the beach felt almost deserted, palapas were easily available, pools not crowded (except pool bar co-opted by a tour corporate group for a few days), and the buffets/restaurants with ample seating.

The hotel sent Julie a very nice note the day after her hospital adventure, wishing her well and offering further assistance. After the lamp escapade they also sent letter and a bottle of champagne to the room. Just a few small examples to give you an idea about how “grand” the place really is, I could rave on for quite some time.

Food was good, we liked the buffet the best. We did eat at Tony's which was outstanding.

Beach, is rocked in front of building 71 (that is where we were) all you have to do is walk 2 minutes to the nice beach.

All I can say is, we loved it and can't wait to go back

Julie & Jim

I just returned from another wonderful ten day vacation at the Iberostar Grand Hotel Paraiso in Riviera Maya, Mexico. This was my third visit in the past year and every time I return it just exceeds my expectations from the previous stay.

I cannot begin to tell you of the wonderful experiences you will encounter during your vacation with them. From your initial steps into the resort you feel that your in for a wonderful vacation.
The Grand is immaculate from the rooms to the grounds and beach, which are extremely well manicured. Your have five dining choices, with the meals are prepared better than a four star restaurant.

I had an oceanfront suite, with a breathtaking view of the ocean. The rooms are very large in size and all have a jacuzzi tub and large walk in shower. The service from the entire staff is beyond belief. You never have to leave your beach chair for a beverage or meal. If there is anything you need your Concierge or Butler will make sure your needs are met.

I cannot tell you what an impeccable resort the Grand is, you must visit it first hand to really understand how outstanding it is.
I have stayed at a few other resorts, but after my eleventh stay, between the Iberostar Lindo, Iberostar Maya and now the third at the Iberostar Grand no other resort could compare to an Iberostar Resort.

I had the privilege of meeting Mr. Mateo Caldentey who is the general manager of the Grand. I had the opportunity to let him know how satisfied I always am during my stays.

Another staff associate, Ms. Angelica Solis, who is executive assistant manager of the Grand always goes beyond her responsibilities and duties to make you feel like a personal friend, but always maintains her professionalism.

Mr. Mateo Caldenty and Ms. Angelica Solis both met me in the lobby on the day of my departure to say goodbye. That really made me feel great that these two people with extremely busy schedules took the time to see me off. Tells you a lot about the great people running this resort
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Your experience at the Grand will leave you wanting to return immediately. That's why I've already booked my vacation back at the Grand in November.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.

Bob Theus