We stayed at the Villa del Arco. It was a very nice place. We had a large room that was called a “Deluxe Suite.” I thought that “suite” meant a “connected set of rooms,” but this was just one large room that had a kitchenette (microwave, mini-fridge, sink, range, cupboards with dishes, and utensils). The mini-fridge doubled as an ‘honor bar,' so we had to just move the expensive items out of the way for the items we purchased. It has a large heated pool with two hot-tubs. Because there was still construction occurring, we ended up using the beach most of the time as you couldn’t hear the noise from there. Chairs and umbrellas were free for guests (we’ve been to places where they charge $5 a chair and $5 for an umbrella per day). The ones by the pool had cushions and despite the rule against saving chairs, most of the prime spots away from the construction were ‘reserved’ very early in the morning. The hotel was part of a three ‘Villa’ property complex and there was a small grocery store and a relatively reasonably priced deli. These could be reached by a free trolley or a very short walk.

We had read about the check-in trick where they try to get you to sign up for a time-share sales presentation, so after checking-in we just declined speak with the person at the next desk about our free gifts. We probably missed out on some sort of Gold (discount) Card, but at least we didn’t spend a half a day of our precious vacation time on something we were never going to be interested in. We thought the service as excellent and it was a very clean place. The one breakfast we had at La Perla was not very good and was very overpriced. We normally went into town, which was either a long walk or a $7 cab ride. The concierge desk was helpful in making dinner reservations and suggesting restaurants.

Best Things Nearby:
Tons of food, excursions, and drinking establishments.

Best Things About the Resort:
The landscaping and convenience of shops.

Resort Experience:
Well, after two weeks at this resort, I would have to say that the resort itself is satisfactory, but by no means did I consider this a five-star or Gold Crown Resort. All in all, I got what I needed, and it was a pleasant stay.

Don't get me wrong, we really did have an excellent time; we met a lot of great people and had a ton of laughs. As far as staff goes -- that is, of course, if you can find your poolside waiter -- let’s just say it would've been faster for me to serve myself, with the exception of Tomas, Alma, Edith, two waiters -- one from each restaurant -- and the daytime hostess from Bella California.

As far as the "all-inclusive" goes, I read some reviews saying everything was not included. I did not find this to be true. We had the pizza, and it was included, which was pretty good. Unless they made an exception for us, everything we ordered was included. We also stuck to the menu. There is a column that says you will be charged this much extra if you order this item if you’re on the meal-and-drink package -- non-readers beware. My only other gripe with this package is that, if I take part in it, I DO NOT want to have to wait around and sign a check. That’s why I purchased the bracelet for convenience-waiting for the check and signing was annoying and a bit unbearable at times.

Would I return to Cabo? Absolutely! Loved it! But would I stay for another two weeks being that traveling from New York takes a whole day of your time. Would I stay at this resort again? Probably not, as I expect more from an RCI resort recommendation. They definitely have some things to work on. It really could be a great resort. They definitely have the best spot and views on the beach.

By the way, I had read that there was a swim-up bar at this resort. This is not true; there are four pools and two hot tubs, which other reviewers failed to mention. There are two main pools on the upper level and lower levels, with a whale slide kind of connecting them. It’s lots of fun take the ride. Next to the lower pool, under the rocks, is a hot tub also. Next to the poolside bar is a decent-size plunge pool, which is the coldest on the resort and very refreshing. We spent most of our time here. It shares its space a large hot tub, which was excellent. This area is where you'll find the best views. Also, there is a children’s pool located on the other side of the Bella California restaurant, a great place for small children or adults looking for a bit more low-key times and privacy. Like I said earlier, if you don't expect anything, you won't be disappointed. I hope this review is helpful.

• Unit Type: 1 Bedroom
• Activities: Fair
• Amenities: Fair
• Unit Satisfaction: Good
• Family Friendliness: Good
• Service: Poor

Best Things Nearby:
Beach and access to ATV activity

Best Things About the Resort:
Very nice -- new hotel-like accomodations. Beautiful pools and water slide with cave-like spa area for unwinding in. Very family oriented -- lots of couples or families. Planned activities on the premises for the families. Fine dining experience with their on-site Italian restaurant.

Resort Experience:
Villas del Palmar had a very smooth check-in routine. The staff was very helpful and courteous. The grounds were very clean, even though they were in the midst of still repairing the damage caused by a hurricane in September 2001 (travel date was end of November). Their beach was eroded from the storm, and they had caution tape around the cement steps leading to the beach (beach not accessible from the resort). There was an almost-five-foot drop from the last step to the sand (that's how much beach had been washed away). The beach will slowly return after several months of tides and waves, but we were not informed of the condition the hurricane had left their resort in. There is a small area of upper beach that is roped off for resort guests to sunbathe on the resort lounge chairs provided -- peddlers still beckon while you sun. The pools are great. The guest relations for making arrangements for rental cars and activities were excellent. The timeshare presentation was to the point and very informative, as timeshare ownership in Mexico is lease hold – it runs 30 years from the last sale, and ownership returns to the Mexican government or land owner after the lease runs out. Beautiful views of the bay from the terrace units. The resort is within a reasonable walking distance of the Marina and downtown areas.

• Unit Type: Studio
• Activities: Very Good
• Amenities: Good
• Unit Satisfaction: Very Good
• Family Friendliness: Excellent
• Service: Excellent

We stayed in a unit that was adjacent to a courtyard. The unit was a one bedroom with two bathrooms. This is a fantastic feature, as both my husband and I could get ready at the same time. The living room was a good size with a pull-out couch and an eating area for breakfast and lunch. There was a balcony that overlooked a lovely garden.

The kitchen had everything you would need for any meal, but we basically had breakfast there and all other meals elsewhere. The maid service left us new coffee each day for our morning use.

The bedroom was well appointed with a king-size bed and a very large closet. There was sufficient drawer space to stay for a few weeks.

The room was immaculately cleaned and complimented by swan washcloths and the ten pillows on the bed, which were replaced each day.

While the unit was everything you could want for a comfortable stay, the room was quite dark. The bedroom had to have the light on all the time. Coming from a long New England winter, this was a bit depressing.

The resort sports two pools and a constant flow of activities. We chose to participate in some like the water aerobics and left some to the younger crowd- like tequila volleyball. There was truly something for everyone. It did become quite noisy at times, so you planned your sietas at a different hour of the day.

There was a complete complex here with a well-stocked store, some shopping, and a spa. Unless you owned there, however, you had to pay to use the fitness room. If you took therir tour, you got a card that entitled you to 20% off food and spa visits.

The food was good and they had a varied menu. At dinner, since it was still chilly, they would wrap you in a Mexican blanket.

Best Things Nearby:
Right on the beach, horseback riding, para-sailing, water taxi, jet skiing, boating. Restaurants on the beach.

Best Things About the Resort:
Close to the action, but it is the last hotel on the beach. The staff was very professional and helpful.

Resort Experience:
VDP is clean and comfortable. There are three, nine-story buildings. All units have a patio. Remember, this is a timeshare. They want you to buy.

Because we traded in to this resort, we felt we did not get a very nice unit. The best units are reserved for those who own there. Please read my comments in accomodations.

• Unit Type: 1 Bedroom
• Activities: Good
• Amenities: Good
• Unit Satisfaction: Fair
• Family Friendliness: Very Good
• Service: Very Good