Last Updated on May 3, 2023 by Jerardo Gomez
Welcome to our comprehensive review of RIU Resorts, where we’ll take an in-depth look at what these resorts have to offer. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or just some time to unwind and relax, RIU Resorts is a practical choice for many.
With locations all over the world, from tropical destinations in the Caribbean and Mexico to the idyllic beaches of Spain and Portugal, you can experience getaways in some of the most beautiful destinations around the globe.
In this review, we’ll explore the various amenities that RIU Resorts has to offer, including their restaurants, spacious accommodations, and fun-filled activities. We’ll also take a look at the staff and service, to see how they go above and beyond to make your stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
So, whether you’re a first-time guest or a loyal RIU Resorts customer, join us as we uncover the luxury and hospitality that make RIU Resorts stand out from the crowd.
Accommodations
RIU Resorts offer a wide range of accommodations to suit different needs and preferences. From standard rooms to luxurious suites, there’s something for everyone.
You can find family-friendly resorts to adult-only Riu hotels and on top of that find multiple room options from affordable multi-bed rooms to suites.
Types of rooms and suites available
The front desk will check you in and provide all the necessary information.
Rooms are either no-ocean view, partial ocean view, or with an ocean view. The upper floor is nice since you get better views.
The standard hotel rooms at RIU Hotels Resorts are spacious and comfortable, featuring modern amenities like air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and Wi-Fi. Suites offer even more space and luxury, with separate living areas and upgraded amenities like Jacuzzis and private balconies.
You can expect rooms to be more than enough. Items like hair dryers, safes, iron, and ironing boards, are something you can ask the lobby to bring if it’s not already in the room.
Bed sizes that I have seen range from twin – king size bed.
Amenities and features of the rooms
All rooms and suites at RIU Resorts are designed with comfort and convenience in mind. Guests can enjoy amenities like mini-bars, coffee makers, and in-room safes, as well as plush bedding and high-quality linens. Suites offer additional amenities like separate seating areas, sofa beds, and in-room Jacuzzis.
A lot of these resorts are located on the beach with great views and access to the water.
Most resorts have room service to a certain time.
Additionally, balconies are typical, along with lounge chairs and a small coffee table on the balcony.
Overall impression of the accommodations
Overall, the rooms at Riu Hotel Resorts have everything that is expected in a resort with nothing extra special. With multiple room options, I think it’s a good choice for families. Housekeeping is daily which is nice and makes a big difference in the level of comfort so you can expect fresh towels.
Spring break is a time when a lot fo people travel here because college kids do not have a lot of money and you get a lot of bang for your buck here. You get a nice beach, pool area, nice hotel staff, good hotel room and a sports bar for cheap.
Dining
A variety of restaurants and cuisines are available
RIU Resorts offer a diverse range of dining options, including à la carte restaurants, buffet-style dining, and snack bars. Guests can choose from a variety of cuisines, including Italian, Asian, Mexican, and more. Many restaurants also offer vegetarian and gluten-free options, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.
Moreover, reservation-only restaurants are available at resorts at no cost but make sure to reserve ahead.
Quality of food and drinks
The quality of food and drinks at RIU Resorts has mixed reviews.
70% of Riu Resorts are all-inclusive resorts which means food and drinks are included and you can eat or drink as much as you want.
The customer service in my experience has always been good and people working in service here always try to do their best so I’ve had good experiences. Sometimes they may forget something or you may have to wave to get someone’s attention because they are working at a lot of different tables. Always remember to at least tip.
Now for the quality food and drinks…
There is mixed reviews. For me and my experience, it has been hit or miss. I’ve never had a horrible experience but I have not had a fantastic one either. Food is always okay, at buffet food I find really great options and avoid typical things I don’t like such as bread which tends to be stale, or pizza.
As for the drink service, I had a good experience. If you want a specific brand of alcohol always ask for it in your drink such as Bacardi Mojito, or Don Julio Margarita to get better quality drinks. If you don’t specify they will give you whatever house alcohol they have which is always cheaper. This is true for every resort.
Service and overall dining experience
The ambiance is always relaxed, and I think it is a good option for families or anyone looking for an all-inclusive resort with a nice wait staff. Most staff speak two languages with one being English which is helpful.
You can find live cooking stations throughout resorts such as pizza and burgers but you can also find it during breakfast for eggs and such.
Activities and Entertainment
RIU Resorts offer a wide range of activities and entertainment options to keep guests engaged and entertained throughout their stay.
On-site activities and facilities
RIU Resorts offer a range of on-site activities and facilities, including pools, spas, fitness centers, and more. Guests can enjoy lounging by the pool, indulging in a relaxing massage at the spa, or staying active with a workout at the fitness center.
There are also plenty of outdoor activities, such as tennis, golf, and water sports, for guests who want to stay active during their stay.
Wifi can be found throughout the resorts.
Entertainment always brings up the mood and they have the pleasure of hosting games, pool activities, and late-night shows.
Hotel Riu Resorts typically have a pool bar, within walking distance to a beautiful beach with palm trees and beach chairs.
Off-site activities and excursions
In addition to on-site activities, RIU Resorts offer a variety of off-site activities and excursions. Guests can explore the local area with guided tours, take part in cultural activities, or try out new outdoor experiences like hiking and zip-lining.
PRO TIP – AVOID timeshare presentations no matter what they say they offer for free! A lot of times excursions will be offered, I would avoid those and book your own elsewhere.
Riu Cancun for example is really close to the nightlife so if you are looking for things to do or specialty restaurants to go to, you are walking distance away and are not too far from Cancun airport.
Riu Property is always near a great location.
Nightly entertainment and events
RIU Resorts are known for its nightly entertainment and events, with a range of activities and shows to keep guests entertained after dark. From live music performances and comedy shows to dance parties and themed events, there’s always something going on at RIU Resorts.
When I was at Riu Palace Mexico, I saw excellent and professional service from the performers like fire dancers and comedians. I did have an enjoyable time with night events but I wouldn’t spend every night there.
Overall, the activities and entertainment options at RIU Resorts are impressive, with plenty of options for guests of all ages and interests. Whether you’re looking to relax, stay active, or explore the local area.
Location and Surroundings
With over 90 locations across 9 different countries, there is a lot of resorts that are managed under this company.
Some of the popular ones in Mexico are in Puerto Vallarta and the Cancun area with many different options such as Riu Palace Riviera Maya or near Playa del Carmen.
All of them in my experience, I’ve had an ocean-view room, lobby bar, and good food, in a beach area with a minibar throughout the resort.
Final Thoughts
I think its a great choice if you are a budget traveler or travel with multiple people since its cheap and you get everything you need from a resort. Not the best, but certainly not the worst.
Spacious rooms provide comfort and great food can be found if you look for it. Some places are outdated.
The A La Carte restaurant a perfect for those wanting to try a lot of food or get unlimited drinks. Hotel Riu Cancun is one that stands out as having the closest location to nightlife.
