This was one of the worst experiences at a hotel in recent memory. It killed a weekend meant to celebrate a friends wedding and relax.

1. Most the staff did not speak English: We had to communicate with the valet through her phone on a translation app. When we requested a cab it was clear she was texting them and quoted ridiculously high prices we ended up having to negotiate each time.

2. None of the house keeping staff spoke English and as a result my room was only cleaned once in 4 days.

3. Hostess at restaurant, no English. Used a phrase written down that said " the buffet is $32.00 and does not include drinks" we were seated at 10:15pm. After starting our first plate of food the waitress walked over and informed us they were breaking down the buffet. We were not told this or we would of not eaten there.

4. Requested seaside view and ended up with a "jungle" view. The second day my room smelled so bad of mildew I had to ask to be moved.

5. Our first day at the pool we were told by a camera crew shooting a corona commercial that we were not allowed in certain areas of the pool/poolside area.

6. I had a friend come in on an early flight who arrived at 5am. We planned to have breakfast and head over to the other resort to help set up for the wedding. The security gate refused her access, I was told an extra guest fee was $150.00 and unless I agreed they would not let her in the gate. I argued she was coming for breakfast in preparation for a wedding and not staying at the hotel. They refused and literally held her hostage until I signed a form and agreed to pay $150. She had to walk up a long road/hill to the hotel. It was incredibly embarrassing. Several other friends at the hotel had guests from other hotels come through at different hours of the night/early morning with NO issue. I informed the manager upon checking out and ended up having to argue with her for 20 mins to have the $150 refunded.

This left a bad taste for the entire Marriott brands as they’ve yet to follow up with any resolution or simple apology. Stay away, better options closer to the hot spots.

Highly recommend the hotel next door or hard rock downtown.

We were scheuled to be there a week but our stay was shortened by 4 days. During our three days we had a very enjoyable stay. The room was excellent, the breakfast and evening buffets were very enjoyable and filling. The settings were small enough that we got to know several of the families as we shared our meals. Because there were many outdoor pools crowding was never an issue.

Nice beautiful resort on beach with great views. Nice vacation spot for family, beautiful views, pools, close enough to Panama City for tours & sightseeing. Excellent service from friendly staff (Ismael). Will return.