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Rio Bueno - Jamaica |
Here are a few trip reports submitted by
some of our clients. |
| May 2009 - James K |
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Braco is slipping badly. This was our
eighth visit and this one did not live up to Grand Lido promises. Cost cutting,
staff funk over rebranding and general management lack of interest in repeat
guests showed in many ways. To name a few: check in: arrived about 2:30; no
room until 6pm. Promises/promises for four hours! The automatic rum
punch/champagne welcome is gone. Hot tubs generally down more than half the
time due to some kind of problem from over heating/under heating or need to
clean. Contaminated water in the rooms due to recent rains (very yellow) which
led to running out of Wata. Over the two weeks there most meals had some kind
of bust: missed course at French, poor drink service in both timeliness and
ability to deliver some basic drinks, out of Cabernet wine for close to a week,
intermittent and sometimes rude piano bar. Manager, Burchell Henry, publically
apologized for overall intermittent service at repeaters' night but words did
not seem to carry through. With AN becoming very expensive, textile side
lacking decent beach grill comparable to AN or beach or hot tubs on par with AN
and toll gate now to be erected between sides of this resort... it is hard to
see booking Braco again. Could say alot more about how far Grand Lido has
fallen since the days of white chocolate pianos--good thing they are dropping
the name.
Editors Note: We've received reports
about inconsistent service as Grand Lido Braco moves towards its rebranding as
Breezes Rio Bueno. But a changeover in the future is no excuse. We passed these
comments to the resorts general manager (we do not forward the name of the
guest unless they request) |
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| April 2009 - Rob & Linda Harvey |
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My wife and I booked a three week stay at
GLB arriving April 2, 2009. It was our second trip to GLB and our third to
Jamaica in four years. We had read many recent trip reports warning of many
problems at the resort and had been worried that the resort had deteriorated
since our previous visit in 2007.
Our arrival was smooth at MontegoBay
airport. Superclubs has a reception lounge which is easily found in the airport
arrivals area. On arrival, we were warmly greeted by staff that took our bags,
offered us a cold bottle of water, and presented us with our guest registration
card to be filled out. A porter gathered our bags and we were then taken to the
awaiting bus.
Check in at the resort was a little slow but we were
warmly greeted with a "Welcome Back Home!" We were offered a rum punch but no
cool towel this time. We had requested a ground floor room in Building A on the
AN side, but were told it was being closed with no other explanation. We were
given a ground floor suite in Building B; an upgrade at no charge. The room was
spotlessly clean and only a few step from the beach. Housekeeping kept it clean
throughout our stay although some days the room did not get attention until
late morning. Hot water was plentiful and never an issue and the daily turndown
service was a nice touch. We had no air conditioner problems. We did have brief
power interruptions, but they occurred in the evenings very briefly twice in
our three week stay.
You cannot go hungry at GLB. Everything we had
was good. The French restaurant was excellent. We ate there three times and
everything we tried was wonderful. The service was outstanding (thanks
Desmond!) We did hear that some guests were upset about being turned away
because the men had no dress shoes (no open toed shoes allowed). We had sushi
three times. On our third visit to the restaurant, O'Neill invited us to try a
special Jamaican Jerk Chicken roll that he prepared special for us. The beach
party food was very good but the entertainment needs to be changed up; it was
very similar to what we had seen 2 years ago. The street party was spectacular
and the food was awesome. Room service food was good and service prompt.
The best though, was the lamb chops and lunch buffet at the AN grill.
Karen's lamb chops are THE BEST! The gals at Wayne's World were great
(Shernette, Shanoy and Lisa we love you!). And of course what would Wayne's
World be without the man himself (what a gwaan Wayne?).
The
entertainment staff were all terrific. Patricia (from Negril) was a real
ambassador for GLB and we enjoyed her company for lunch and breakfast several
times. Contrary to many reports about the unfriendly staff, we did not find
that at all. Admittedly, some staff did not appear outwardly friendly, but
overall the staff were wonderful .
The new towel policy was of concern
after reading some of the trip reports. However, our experience was that it was
no a big deal. We were given four vouchers at check in for towels. We had only
one time when we had trouble getting new towels and that was at 6:30 PM one
afternoon. However by the next morning, plenty of new towels were available.
Internet service was a bigger issue; it slow and expensive. The beaches are
indeed rocky, and the AN beach is definitely the better. Wear water shoes and
all is good. The AN pool is huge. Pool volleyball is a must; great fun and a
great way to meet new friends. The AN hot tub is a fun place to be at 5:00.
Seems everyone gathers there at the end of the day. We even had a pizza party
there one evening!
We heard the theme nights were fun, and although we
had planned on going to them, we never made it. We did attend the returnee
cocktail parties held each Thursday evening and even won a half hour massage
for two at our first one.
If we had one wish, it would be that the
entire resort was nude on that it at least be clothing optional. It would be
nice not to have to dress to go to the main beach or water sports. We hope that
there will not be any wholesale changes made when Breezes takes over. This
resort is a wonderful place to spend your holiday; we'll be back!
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| April 2009 - Ji MB |
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Just back on Saturday from our "annual"
Easter-time visit of 8 days @ Braco. Lots of good fun and great people, which
include guests we see almost annually, newbie's, and staff that we've gotten to
know over the years. Most was good and we had a wonderful time, although
continued low occupancy has really had an impact, particularly on the
entertainment and in some cases, the food. This year we were ID'ed as being
part of the "Bunny Bunch" by the Quiet Brits (I think) as we can only come
during spring break. I thought this most amusing and will have to see if we can
find some "clip on" bunny ears for next year …
...MORE - This is a detailed and lengthy
report... Read the rest here... |
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| January 2009 - Mike |
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Grand Lido Braco is definitely going
downhill. We have been there multiple times and each time it gets more run down
and there is absolutely no service anywhere. Food was average at best.
Entertainment was non-existent except at dinner in Victoria Market. Toga Nite
was a complete flop because the staff decided to eat at the pasta restaurant
until people left the bar. Absolutely the last time we go there. And everyone
had bug bites, no see-ums. Don't waste time or money. Too bad because Au
Natural side is so beautiful at Braco. Breezes buying place in Fall (2009).
Hope they fire everyone and start over.
Editors Note: Unfortunately we've been hearing
more negative reports about the service at not only GL Braco… but many
other Jamaican resorts as well. Economic conditions and lower occupancies on
the island are certainly having a negative impact at many resorts. Recent
meetings we've had with SuperClubs management suggest the strategy of
"re-branding" the Grand Lido's to be under the Breezes umbrella should have a
positive effect at Braco. Perhaps offering fewer services and options but
consistently performing those services very well, and at a more attractive
price point, will be at least part of the answer. |
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| December 2008 - January 2009 - GS |
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After all the negative things we've read
about Braco, we decided to go back and see for ourselves (December New Years
2008). We were not disappointed. We had a great time. The service at times was
a little slow but it seemed to be from a lack of guidance rather than a lack of
willingness. The hot tub, as usual, was a problem. We actually used it two
afternoons during the 5 nights we were there.
The staff out did
themselves for the New Year's Party. It was excellent. We found the food very
good everywhere except Victorian Market. It was ok but they seemed to serve the
same thing every day. We just ate elsewhere. Not a problem for us. Room service
was prompt as well. The updated bathrooms are fantastic. The grounds were more
beautiful than we had seen them in the past. All in all, we hope to return
again. |
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| December 2008 - Wayne and Suzanne |
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We had a great week at Braco. The nude side
seemed pretty full, but the other side changed by the day as local Jamaicans
came and went on short 1 or 2 night stays, many of them using it as a business
trip hotel. Many regulars very unhappy about the apparent policy of below the
waist coverups required for the nude side buffet lunch line. We never heard an
announcement, so never covered up. Noticeable cuts in food quality and variety.
The French restaurant had the same couple of wines as everywhere else, where
they used to have premium. No more Fr. onion soup, only one very basic green
salad, less entree choices. No smoked salmon at breakfast. No lobster at the
street party. Buffet for everything but entrees at Victoria Market. Towels in
the gym only 1 day out of 7.
First timers wouldn't notice most of
these things, but for a place that relies so much on repeaters, the gossip and
griping can't be good. None of this stuff was a big deal for us, but with so
many noticeable cuts in food, it would make us wonder what else will be cut
next time. They still have lamb chops at lunch every day. When they cut those,
that will be the last straw for a lot of people, it seems! The Italian and
Japanese were good. We met lots of very nice people and had a very relaxing
week. |
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| December 2008 - M & E |
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The most disappointing item: The lack of
clean towels and the resort's new towel policy. You need coupons to get a pool
towel now. They didn't give us coupons when we checked in nor would they bring
them to us when we called. We had to go back to the front desk to get our
coupons, walk back to the pool and THEN wait for about an hour for some clean
towels to be delivered to the pool. We spent the first afternoon of trip
fighting the resort for clean towels; it unfortunately sets the mood for the
rest of the trip. This new policy and lack of clean towels cheapens the resort
in my eyes. For that kind of service I can go to Hedo and save a lot of cash in
the process.
Castaways
Note:Unfortunately... this type of towel policy is becoming fairly common
at many of the resorts in the Caribbean. Ask for a towel when you check in at
the resort or ask for the towel card upon registration. As back up, take a
beach towel with you if you prefer.
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| October 2008 - B & A |
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Although we had a great time, this was not
close to our numerous earlier visits. Food was not as varied, and not as good.
The Jerk Pit was variable, from awesome to way too salty. Drink supplies often
ran out, no grapefruit juice for two days, Crown not to be found, often no
bananas for Dirty Bananas. Had to keep your pool towel overnight, our first day
there had to bring down bath towels. Reduced staff/service in Victoria Market,
less social director activities, seems to be a lack of leadership. Lots of
tension between most workers and upper staff. Tensilyn in the spa is still a
massage goddess. Braco is coasting on it's reputation and is not providing the
premiere service we expect and are paying for. Tepenyaki was not as colorful as
in the past (I still can't catch a shrimp tossed to me) but still good. Piacere
was very good but the menu has been reduced. Maybe that sums it up, still good
but reduced overall.
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| April 2008 - Brend & Linda |
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We flew Delta ( never again ) out of
Denver through Atlanta. They were stunning in their ability to separate
families ( some with small children ) throughout the plane. My wife and I (
same address, last name, reservations made together ) were seated 6 rows away
from each other in middle seats, in spite of the plane showing half-empty at
booking time, and having chosen an aisle and middle seat together when booking
the flights. Many others at the boarding gate had similar experience. I weep
for Northwest. We arrived in Montego Bay at 1:00PM on a Thursday. Immigration
was fairly quick ( the expansion at Sangster is pretty impressive, and was a
bit disorienting at first ), and then down to wait for luggage. And wait.
Somebody could make a killing with a Red Stripe stand in the baggage area. Took
about 45 minutes to get two bags, and clear Customs ( about two minutes in
Customs ). Then off to SuperClubs desk for check-in. Very smooth, we were on a
bus less than ten minutes later. Had just had a lousy experience with Delta,
not in a social mood, so kept to ourselves on the big bus with maybe another
ten or twelve couples aboard. A group of couples also headed to Braco, did a
great job of keeping activity/noise level up ( in a mostly good way ) with the
help of some vodka. Ride was smooth and quick.
Check-in was
effortless. Arrived a bit after two, room was ready. Stayed in B Block, second
floor, on A/N side. Junior Suite. The usual terrible view of the ocean ( had to
open the shades ), and had to walk nearly 90 seconds to get to the club house
or the pool bar, down an entire flight of stairs. Room was clean upon check-in,
stayed that way throughout trip, towels in usual animal shape, repeat guest
letter waiting for us, along with a couple of complimentary T-Shirts for coming
back to paradise. Found Mike and Linda from Wis-Can-Sin ( short overlap this
year with them ) by the pool, and proceeded to drink. Merrily. Pool was
gorgeous ( thank you, Dan-i-el! ), drinks were good ( Wayne was out with new
baby first couple of days we were there - Congratulations on the latest
addition! ), and the company was the usual mix of folks hanging out and having
a good time chatting, floating, and drinking. We stayed for eight nights. Rich,
Sandy, Mike, and Connie ( Wis-Can-Sin and Chicago ) came in on Friday, and
stayed through following Friday. Hit, at one time or another, the Italian (
very good ), the Japanese hibachi ( very good ), and the French ( actually made
it _almost_ worthwhile to put on long pants ). The restaurants were amazingly
gracious in getting us all together for meals, regardless of numbers. Our first
experience with sushi was with O'Neil at the sushi bar at Braco several years
back, and went back this time and were not disappointed. We were thrilled with
the meal. We made it across for breakfast in the main dining room four or five
times, and it was quite good. The omelettes were exceptional, service was good.
There was always a spread of continental breakfast-style stuff ( fruit,
pastries ) in the A/N clubhouse. Lunch was on the A/N side throughout the trip.
On occasion, a few of the wives would venture across to get some different
fare, and were always kind enough to bring some back for the rest of us.
Quick run-down on the A/N side ( the primary reason that we continue
to come back ): Merle is gone. This was weird. We had lowered our expectations
heading down this time, knowing she would not be there. We were beyond
pleasantly surprised. As a matter of fact, we were overwhelmed with the job
that Wayne is doing managing the A/N side. It's like he has found his perfect
place in the world. Juliet and Shanoy were amazing; we never went thirsty. The
drinks were as strong or as weak as we wanted them, and ( with the exception of
Connie's Jack Daniels ), they were never out of anything for more than ten
minutes. For those of you with specific tastes in liquor, I'd call their
selection a limited, solid range of mid-tier top-shelf liquor. Vodka ran from
Popov to Smirnoff to Absolut to Stoli. Rum was the usual well stuff all the way
through the short-bottle Appleton Estate. Tequila was rough, but I've never
seen decent tequila down there, and I don't expect it. Was able to get Johnnie
Walker Black everywhere I went. They had Tanqueray at the pool bar on the A/N
side, for the gin drinkers. Champagne was plentiful. Entertainment staff was
great as well. The usual trivia, body painting, and toga demonstrations
abounded. Kemar spent an hour and a half talking Jamaican history and culture
with us one afternoon; he had most of the guests on the A/N side gathered
around by the end of the talk. It's inspiring to hear someone take so much
pride in their people and country. Gawayne was a pain in the, errrr, a lot of
fun. Stuck around for an hour and a half after being off-shift just to hang out
and keep us entertained. Karl was his usual, obnoxious and entertaining self.
Pool volleyball happened every morning, and probably half of the afternoons (
got a little quiet once Glen from Alberta left ). We picked up the ocean kayak
one day and carried it up to the pool for time trials. When the watersports
guys came to take it back, Ann Marie was kind enough to let us keep it. As a
matter of fact, when we went across to pick up a paddle boat from the textile
side for pool use, she arranged to have it transported over for us. There's
nothing quite like watching a kayak/paddle boat race in a pool, naked, with
drinks in hand. It makes you glad to be alive.
On the textile side:
The main bar is 180 degrees from what it used to be. The smell is gone. The
attitudes are gone. The service was spectacular. Courtney was a machine behind
the bar ( quick-witted, kept the ladies very entertained, and knocked out
drinks in masterful fashion ). Latoya was a fantastic server, all kinds of
personality and joy. Couldn't help but smile around her. We stuck around one
night for the Elvis show, and it was quite good. Didn't spend much time on the
textile side beyond eating and drinking in the main bar ( but then, we never do
).
Trip back was the usual, smooth departure and ride to the airport.
Delta, once again, did an amazing job of separating families on the flight
back. We had a four-hour layover in Atlanta, so managed to embarrass the gate
clerk into seating us next to each other.
The bottom line is this:
This was probably the best trip we've had to Jamaica since our first time on
the island ( when everything was brand new and exciting ). Wayne is doing a
wonderful job on the A/N side; it hasn't missed a beat. It's still, as far as
we're concerned, the best A/N resort we'll ever see. |
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| April 2008 - DM |
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Castaways
Note: Compare the above and below reports for an example of how experiences
can be inconsistent from visit to visit... even at the "best" resorts. This is
frustrating not only for the guests... but us as well.
Having
been there 5 previous times we feel we are well qualified to compare the
property to visits of the past.
Upon checking in we told the
receptionist that this was our 6th visit to Braco if possible could she give us
a good room. She replied that she had us booked in a Garden room. We did tell
her that we usually stay on the A/N side but there was no availability. We
weren't asking for an upgrade just a nice room. The bellman took us to room
915. When we entered the smell was overwhelming (mold, musty,etc.) He said that
this room is not clean and called the front desk for us to be given another
room. He was totally 100% correct. It was dirty, crumbs and sand on the floor,
and we would not consider staying in that room. Then he took us to room 921. A
better room and from appearance sake, acceptable to us. I went into the
bathroom and the toilet appeared to be clogged and not repaired or cleaned.
This time I personally called the front desk and explained the problem. We
waited quite a while until another bellman appeared and took us to room 1133.
This room was much better.
The tables never had salt and pepper on
them. Many times we had paper napkins instead of the cloth ones. Was told they
ran out. Not one time did we sit down for a meal in Victoria Market that we did
not have to get up and get our own silverware, salt, pepper or perhaps a cup
and saucer. This was not evidenced in our previous visits. (Last one in
Sept.2007)
We are not trying to be picky or cantankerous but feel that
these problems are getting worse instead of better. The price keeps raising and
the service declines.
As this was our first time on the prude side we
were surprised of the general conditions of the rooms with banged up furniture,
dented walls, stained tile floors and showers. I realize this is not the US but
we have traveled extensively to Jamaica (20 times) and 23 other Caribbean
Islands so we know what is normal.
The last time we were there (Sept)
there was no recognition of us being past guests at all. Not even a simple
thank you from the management. (die, no wine, t-shirts, welcoming tray or a
simple little thank you note) The only thing they did was invite us to the
Manager's cocktail party. Whom we have never seen.
We are not guests
that require a lot of attention. We drink very little (2-3 drinks a day) stay
at the pool or beach all day only to return to get a shower and ready for
dinner. We do not use the golfing, water sports, trips outside the resorts,
etc. which costs the resort money. We just want to relax in a stress free,
carefree environment, but not stay in a depressing beat up room. Even the TV
had to be repaired. A cable was loose and they were in our room fixing it for
about an hour. We really enjoy a Jamaican vacation but will be considering
other resorts. Oh, we did receive a call at home but we were on our way home
from Atlanta. She left a message stating that she wanted to talk to us about
our remarks on the comment card and would call back the next day. We did not
get home until midnight. She never did call back which in our opinion means
they just don't care. We do appreciate your company, and especially Jennifer
McCoy, and your concern about our trip which is far more than Braco did.
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| March 2008 - JK |
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Just a not-so-quick report on the goings-on
@ Braco based on our recent visit.
Overall, I imagine the property is
"about the same." As with other years, some things better, some things less so.
Check-in was good. During our first few visits it seemed that checking
in was a new experience for the staff each time a guest showed up. The new road
is great. We got lucky with the line at immigration, but I think it was about
90 minutes from tarmac to lunch in the Market.
Food was about the
same. They now vary what is served at the A/N lunch buffet, which is a great
thing. We had a better cook for Japanese this year and a great table of folks -
which makes all the difference. We were so loud another table even complained
and we had to dial it back! Food in the French restaurant was good, but we
still miss Ralston and were sad that Wilson was gone. The new "in charge"
didn't even both to stop by and say "hi."
Victoria Market continues to
be hit or miss for dinner with food and service. One day very prompt and
another day - well, our before dinner drinks showed up for dessert. We're not
big on room service, but the one time we ordered (including some soup from the
French restaurant) it arrived promptly and was good. We just love the cheeses
and as usual, they were great, as were the lamb chops (we had hopped for
lobster at the street party, but no luck).
We had a A/N Jr Suite which
was, well, about the same. Sadly, the air conditioner leaked water. As it
worked, we didn't bother calling for repair (not having much success
previously). The new bathrooms are nice, but ours was starting to fall apart
(handle on the door half connected, the spray unit no longer allowed a
selection). The bottom sheets still come off the bed. The room was very clean
and supplies always there (last year I think they ran out of shampoo). We had
an electronic safe this year and liked that a lot. As usual, most of the doors
and drawers really didn't shut.
The grounds overall looked really good
and there were always people around trimming, washing, and such. Maybe they
should reassign a couple grounds people to room maintenance? Anyway, there were
a few heavy storms that rolled through with the water causing rocks and mud to
go here and there - pretty much everything was cleaned up as fast as I could
imagine.
The sand gravity afflicts us so we rarely make it to anything
in the evening. This year we geared ourselves up for the A/N bonfire but the
wind and rain caused it to be cancelled. Similarly, the A/N buffer was
cancelled.
The wait staff on the A/N side were pretty good. Wayne was
in good spirits even as is his new child was about 3 days old when we arrived.
The new bartenders didn't know how to mix some drinks, but took direction well.
Sometimes they would chat between themselves and forget the guests, but it
didn't happen too often. Shanoy (not Shandy as some have reported) was
friendly, efficient, and very stealthy - drinks would show up during volleyball
almost without anybody noticing. They seemed to not have (as opposed to run out
of) some things. For example, tequila was hard to come by early in the day. We
had no idea why because there didn't seem to be a problem later in the day. We
missed Merle.
Some of the entertainment is getting a bit stale -
certainly great for the newbies, but it would be nice if there was some
variation over time for us return guests. There was an Elvis impersonator that
wasn't bad - don't know if he was fairly new or we just never got out of our
room on the night he was there. On Sunday morning they had a guy singing that
was just great. He did a lot of Marvin Gay and Barry White types of things.
Very mellow and sultry.
Lots of turnover in the EC staff. Kemar is
still there and we like him a lot. Didn't see Gwayne much. Karl is there and is
getting a little mellower. I'm forgetting a guy that we liked ... maybe
Richard? The new female ECs didn't seem to have much of a personality - they
might sit by you at lunch, but then not interact. On the other hand, we really
liked Oral and hope he sticks around for a time.
The staff seemed both
more relaxed and more tense - although the later was typically when some senior
Super Clubs type might be wandering around. Saw a bit more management this year
than last, but they didn't seem to offer opportunities to talk with them,
except for the bread and pastry chef. We chatted with him at the repeaters
party and asked him about the coco bread recipe. He went way out of his way to
get it to us the next day before we left. Very nice.
The smell in the
piano bar was gone! :-)
The above might sound negative, but we really
do love the place and so long as the prices don't go crazy, we'll be back. We
meet all kinds of wonderful people on the A/N side - some new friends every
year, and some old friends we see regularly. My wife won't let anybody sit
around the pool without at least responding directly to a "Are you playing
v-ball?" question. We've gotten so many people over the years to play and so
many of them have said that they would have likely sat on their lounge for the
duration. While they said they might have had a good time sitting around, they
allow that they had a great time after participating and getting to know folks
(last year an investment banker from Norway actually extended his stay as a
result).
This year Nigel from the UK, Steve from KY, and Wiley the
tuba player from Atlanta all got into the act and I wouldn't be surprised if
they all don't come back.
As I said, some better, and some worse. But
we have a wonderful time and will be back. |
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| December 2007 - B&C |
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We absolutely love Braco. Have been going
since 2000 and continue to return. I find the 'regulars' (though they keep
changing) to be be fantastic (Wayne, Meryl, Tameika). The food is always great
(love them little baby lamb chops). The Au-Naturel beach and pool area is the
best we've found. We like it a lot better than Negril even though we sound like
we are in the minority when you read the websites.
We have never
experienced the 'difficulties' that others have whined about. Sometimes I think
people feel they need to complain about something when asked their opinion.
That said, if we could fix 2 things (albeit minor) we would like to
see some upgraded wines (would even pay more if we could get them...not overly
expensive but stuff that you would pay about 15 bucks for in the US liquor
stores). Secondly, I wish there was a way for Braco to 'know' you are a
frequent return guest. When they greet you they should not ask 'is this your
first visit?' when you've been there 10 times. And maybe a room upgrade if they
have them available even though sometimes we go the ROH way. This time we were
put in a dark, non-balcony, narrow garden room. We didn't even know they had
rooms so small and dank. A quick call to the desk fixed it, but it would have
been nice if they already knew we were the 'twice every year' frequent visitors
so you didn't have to beg. Small problems but I thought you might like to know.
Regarding your site, I love the instant quote and your agents if we have to
call or schedule anything. Always helpful. Keep up the good work |
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| December 2007 - B&C |
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This was our 6th year @ grand lido and it
may be our last. The service @ all the restaurants was poor especially the
Italian It appears they were short staff this year.
We go every year
and meet the same group of friends from all over the world. Really look forward
to it. If it were not for the great staff @ the pool bar. (Especially Wayne and
Meryl) we would not have enjoyed the trip. Also the loud music @on the nude
side was a pain to all. Had to ask them to turn it down more than once, just
want to relax with some good conversation and doze off after lunch. I am sure
you know what I mean.
Oh one more very important thing. The small
fleas were a pain. My wife and others were bitten (looks like mosquito bites)
Why / because they were not spraying. Had to ask the head of maintenance. His
reply was the “fogger has been broken for some time” after many many
protest, guess what? They started fogging that night.
Resort staff
needs some work. All in all, it was a disappointment especially for the amount
of money we all spend for this vacation. |
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| November 2007 - Teri Thomas |
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I had my first trip to Grand Lido Braco
from 11/21-11/26, 2007 . I traveled with friends in the Castaways' Bob &
Darla group. It was obvious my first day why my friends return year after year.
It was also my first AN experience. The staff at Braco was the best I have
seen. I was introduced to the AN side staff once and they called me by name
from then on. I told them what I was drinking once and my cup was never empty.
Castaways' Bob & Darla group was great fun and extremely friendly.
I was actually viewing my calendar for when to go next year when I received
this email. Aside from weather delays on my return home, my trip was top notch
and I plan to stay longer next year. Thanks to Jennifer at Castaways for
answering numerous questions prior to my trip and to the entire staff at Grand
Lido Braco. This was an amazing trip and I did not want to return home and
leave all my new friends sitting at the pool! |
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| Fall 07 - CS |
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We have been going to Grand Lido Braco
through Castaways for several years now, and have been mostly satisfied, but
this last rip was marred by the fact that we did not get our requested room on
the ground floor of b Block, and even though Jennifer requested this for us the
staff denied all knowledge of the receipt of same.
But, really the
place is going downhill in quite a few ways anyhow, eg: yellowing limp table
napkins, ridiculously small portions in the Italian restaurant, bad food at
dinnertime in Victoria Market and the ever ever constant screeching of the
maids outside our door,every afternoon. and the Chilean wine (Undurraga) which
RETAILS here where we live in Nassau for $7.00 per bottle is very very poor,
both red and white. Once ago there was a Valpolicella available at the Italian
restaurant, which was acceptable, but this now seems to have been discontinued.
Also the room service pizza which last year was delicious in now inedible.
Also, while most of the entertainment staff seem to be O.K it would be
nice I think if the persons in charge of asking the trivial pursuit questions
at the pool had better reading skills.
So there you are - you asked
for it!!!! |
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| Oct 07 - LoveToTan |
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In Sept/Oct 2007 we made our third trip to
Grand Lido Braco Jamaica.
We were there again during their Best of
Jamaica week. Additional shows, displays, events and booths were made available
during this time.
This was our first time with the new master bathroom
in the A/N suites. Very nice updates of the bathrooms.
Also our first
time since the solar water heating assist and so there was always hot water no
matter when you showered.
We took advantage of our repeater night and
booked 8 while paying for 7 nights.
We also took 2 couples with us who
were new to GLB and therefore they counted toward our referral credits. I
confirmed at checkout that we were given credit for 2 referrals and they
assured me that I would be getting an additional free night letter. Although it
now is a week later and to date I haven't received anything.
We only
tried the PJ party in the disco this year and were disappointed. Low to no
attendance, which the DJ played rap music to which only 3 of the girl staff
danced to. |
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| July 07 - FDS |
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Grand Lido certainly lived up to the
expectations that were promised.
My wife and I are not regular "nude"
travelers, although we have enjoyed St. Martin beaches and many topless beaches
in the carribean. We were very very comfortable in this great resort and never
at any time felt anyone "encroaching" upon our level of comfort. Sex on the
beach is a drink at Grand Lido Braco, not an activity(lol). Whatever sexual
activity we witnessed was somewhat discreet. The age of most at the resort on
the nude side was over 40. I think that had a lot to do with the focus
remaining on nudism as opposed to sex; sometimes found at other resorts.
The accommodations were above average for sure; probably on the verge
of outstanding. The staff, with a couple of exceptions we chose to ignore, were
friendly and accommodating. The only slight disappointment came from the hotels
lack of attention to a few details. The in-room fridge was not re-stocked
regularly. The hot tub temperature was not watched and kept at reasonable
levels, and if one bar did not have something there was no effort on their part
to get it for you. I'd give them a c+ on their training program for waitstaff.
I'd give the waitstaff itself an A, since they were genuine in their efforts to
be friendly. Of course there were a couple of exceptions that one must just
overlook.
Most of the food was very good, not necessarily excellent,
but very good. The nude side pool bar served grilled lamb chops daily, which
were out of this world. The French restaurant is worth putting a jacket on to
enjoy and the Japanese restaurant I would rate as average. If you are looking
for seasoned foods, don't bother with their main-stay restaurant; Victoria's
Market. The Jerk chicken was especially good and a great afternoon snack if you
get hungry. And we did use the 24 hour room service at 2am and were served
quickly.
The 9 hole par 3 golf course was perfect for an early
morning, quick and easy "golf fix". The in-house pro was on hand to give
lessons and there was a visiting pro available to help work on your game. While
not in perfect condition, I give the little golf course an A+, especially with
the helpfulness of two pro's.
Overall, Grand Lido Braco was a great
place to relax, be pampered, and leisurely entertain yourself. We seldom return
to the same place when traveling. We're already trying to figure out how and
when we will spend a few more days at Grand Lido Braco. We were on a short trip
this time, only four nights. It was perfect. We didn't have the time to get
acclimated to the island and didn't need to. Grand Lido Braco pretty much had
all we needed for a long weekend. We never left the resort.
Lastly, we
must thank Tammy with Castaways Travel for making this possible. This was our
first trip booked with Castaways and everything was done perfectly. Tammy was
great in answering our pre-trip questions and getting our restaurant
reservations made before we left. Thank you Castaways Travel and
Tammy.
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| Sept 2006 - Brian |
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Overall we had a great time and would
reccomend Grand Lido to all. However, upon arrival we were disappointed with
the room, we had been to Hedo 3 on 2 previous trips and had higher expectations
of the Grand Lido room. In our opinion the rooms at Hedo 3 were nicer. We were
on the textile side as we had 3 other couples joining us over the 10 days (they
had not previously been to an A/N resort). I spoke with the manager Ron D. and
was disappointed to hear that an upgrade would cost us $150/night more, and
that company policy was not to make any exceptions. We opted to stay where we
were. As our vacation progressed, we noticed a heightened sense of service
level that we had not experienced at Hedo. The staff was great and more than
made up for our perceived shortcomings in the room. We are planning a return
again with our friends and plan to book an A/N suite. We have been told that
the A/N accomodations are nicer. |
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