As a travel agent, I sometimes visit as many as 10 resorts a year. Over the years, I have become extermely picky when it comes to where I stay, wanting to stay at the newest and best each year so that I can provide accurate information to my clients. After Wilma, we traveled to Riviera Maya, staying at Riu Palace Mexico and Secrets Capri. I am rarely surprised, but Secrets Capri actually surpassed my expectations.
Physical Structure - I'm not going to kid anyone, this resort is not even close to the nicest looking resort in the area. It is actually very plain. Damage to the physical structure from Wilma was limited to mostly cosmetic items (landscaping, paint, etc.). This is not the resort to stay at if you are looking for a beautiful resort (go to Riu Palaces, Iberostar, etc.)
Beach - Another area where Secrets falls a little short. Not the nicest stretch of beach in comparison to other resorts in the area. Only benefit is that there are only 2 resorts in about a 5 mile area there, so plenty of space to explore without running into other people.
Pool Area - Nice pool with very good service. Much better service than at most all-inclusives I've been to (including Sandals). Restaurant at the pool serves 4-5 star quality food depending on what you order. I highly recommend the ceviche.
Rooms - Again, phyical beauty is somewhat lacking although the bathrooms are well designed in marble. Overall rooms are adequate with no real plusses or minuses.
Food - This is where Secrets really begins to shine. Great meals at the Seafood and Grill restaurants (Surf and Turf, oysters, Filet Mignon, Rack of lamb, etc.) Things you don't expect to see regularly at an all-inclusive property. Italian restaurant was also top notch. Service at Buffet for breakfast was very good as well. Asian restaurant was slightly disappointing based on a long delay to get our food and the sushi quality didn't equal that of the other restaurants.
Service - This is where Secrets truly shines. Best service I've ever had in Mexico. Didn't hear "no" once the whole trip, and we are not the easiest of patrons (lots of tequila drinking with top shelf (1800 anejo or Don Julio), lots of pool drinks, always changing what we wanted from what was on the menu, etc.). Never had anyone say no. They would say they would check and 95% of the time, be able to provide what we were asking. Truely made our trip. Also, Concierges on-site for ALL guests is a great concept for these people really know how to make things happen (excursions, assistance, etc.). A nice tip with these folks goes a long way in making your stay perfect.
Other items of note:
1) No towel cards - biggest pet peeve of mine on a vacation. Secrets understands and just how towels on the seats when you arrive at the pool.
2) No bracelets - another pet peeve- hate being a tourist with a wristband...they just ask for your room number at all meals....great concept that other resorts should follow.
3) Great pool seating - really comfortable lounges (not plastic) and even lots of in-pool lounge areas (another great idea)
I have lots of pics but it will take me awhile to go thru them and see what I have. Feel free to email me at Mitch at TripGuy.com with any questions about the resort or the area.