TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

My stay at the Occidental Cancun was one of the most disappointing experiences of my life. Where do I even begin? Let’s start with the food. The quality was abysmal; it tasted like it had been sitting out for days, and I ended up with a severe case of food poisoning that ruined several days of my vacation. I couldn’t even enjoy the beautiful surroundings because I was stuck in my room, sick as a dog. And when I tried to bring it up with the staff, they were dismissive and unapologetic, as if it was my fault for expecting decent food. But the food wasn’t the only issue. The service was appalling. It seemed like the staff couldn’t care less about the guests. They were slow, rude, and seemed annoyed whenever you asked for something. It felt like I was inconveniencing them by being there. And don’t even get me started on the noise. Every night, they blasted music through speakers that were so loud, I could hear it in my room as if I was standing next to the DJ booth. It was impossible to get any rest until they finally turned it off at 11pm. And even then, the noise from other guests partying in the halls went on until the early hours of the morning. But the worst part? Someone broke into my room in the middle of the night. I woke up to find a stranger rifling through my belongings. I was terrified. When I reported it to the hotel, they acted like it was no big deal and brushed it off, offering no apology or compensation for the violation of my privacy and security. Overall, my experience at the Occidental Cancun was a nightmare. I would never recommend this hotel to anyone. It was a complete waste of money and ruined what was supposed to be a relaxing vacation.

We had a great time at the hotel, great food options in the various restaurants. We especially enjoyed the Mexican and Italian redtsurant. Chef Miguel A. Bautista and the kitchen staff went above and beyond for me and my wife's special pasta alla vodka dinner, that he customized for us. We are forever grateful to Chef Miguel. A huge thank you to you! The hotel was right next to the xcaret ferry pickup and drop off, where we took the ferry to Isla Mujeres, public transportation is fast, easy, and always available right in front of the hotel. The tours can be bought on property, no need to buy online. Great service. We had an absolute great experience over all, and highly recommend this place.

The gift shop is EXTREMELY overpriced and sold me fake sunscreen. I paid $40 USD for a can of 2 in 1 after forgetting mine at home, the can was in English and I put it on generously. The first day in the sun, within two hours I had a SEVERE sunburn that ruined the rest of the trip. I couldn't be in the sun again and we were not able to go on excursions because of it. The resort was otherwise good, food was good, but the whole trip was ruined by the gift shop selling fake products.

This hotel location is right on the beach … has one large pool with different areas. The sunbeds are plenty and are cleaned every evening ready for the next day . The hotel is kept spotlessly clean - constant tidying she cleaning by very friendly staff. The rooms are a little tired especially the bathroom but once again spotlessly clean. Provided with a full minibar which is topped up as much as you like . There is a coffee filter machine too (however a kettle and teabags would have suited me better) The beds are very comfortable and there is a daily maid service. There are three special restaurants that are free to book - a Mexican an Italian and a fish restaurant. The main restaurant serves a good selection of food however my friend is gluten intolerant and there was nothing set out in the main restaurant as gluten free. The main difficulty being bread and deserts , as she was able to find food for main meals , however the Chef Javier did make her evening meal towards the end of our holiday which made such a difference for her. The gardens are pretty and well Maintained Evening entertainment was hit and miss some excellent and some not so good. I found the pool Area too noisy In the afternoon with loud music …. Some people like that - for me too loud. The entertainment team did a good job and didn’t keep pestering you if you were not interested. The Barcelo team on the whole were friendly helpful and welcoming. Would I come back - yes Would I recommend it - yes

everything was good, only the night entertainments should be different each day, all the chefs went above and beyond the expectation as we only eat veg and they made special veg dishes for us.