Ocean Riviera Paradise

My husband and I took advantage of a three-night getaway package from the cold temps to enjoy a wonderful stay at the Ocean Riviera Paradise all-inclusive hotel. From the time we arrived at the airport and boarded the bus taking us to the hotel (after dropping off passengers at two other hotels) to the ride back to the airport in Cancún, we felt that we were treated amazingly well. Our room had been upgraded to a jr. suite in a quiet building with a jacuzzi/walk-out pool area. Over and over we commented on how everything went above our expectations. Staff always greeted us whether going along the walkways, coming to clean the room or at the reception area of a restaurant. Each person was polite and helpful. As I speak Spanish, I enjoyed joking and chatting with the staff. They are hard workers who truly went out of their way to please. Breakfast and lunch is served in a large buffet restaurant where there were many many varied options to choose from. The quality of the food was very good-not superior- but very tasty and well presented. I never felt it was crowed in any restaurant or area in the resort. The only restaurant that seemed to have a line for reservations was the Japanese one, and we didn't bother trying to eat there as there are many others. We enjoyed the Mexican, Italian and the Steakhouse restaurants. Food was good at all three and service excellent, the Mexican one our favorite. All had waiters who were attentive, suggested items and made our meal special. Every evening we would stop at the ice cream shop for a delicious tropical ice cream. Although popular, we did not try Mike's for coffee and desserts. The beach area was always well groomed and clean. From time to time someone would ask if we would like to order a drink. Otherwise, the bar is close by, along with a small restaurant on the beach. We had hoped to go into Cancún for a half day or to Valencia but because of the faraway location of the hotel, we opted not to take the time. Many people took tours to Tulum or Chichen Itzá but we had been to those places on a previous trip. Our only disappointment was not having a yoga session that we were told would be at 8 am at the beach. There were many young families (many times with grandparents) who seemed to love the activities provided at the huge pool and kids' slides area. There was also an