This is my first visit to the Circle / Grand Reserve at Paradisus Palma Real and it was much better than expected. The resort is brand new (less than 1 year old) so everything is still in excellent shape. The staff are very courteous and the service is impeccable. Our concierge Cristian was extremely helpful and very attentive to our needs. Our vacation would not have been the same without him. In terms of the rooms, I would strongly recommend paying a bit extra for the Master King 1 or 2 bedroom suites with the Circle view. The suite is very large and comfortable and very nicely equipped. Unfortunately, there was a problem with the A/C in the living room and we had to call for maintenance to come and fix it every other day. On the bright side, the private spa on the terrace is spectacular. Nothing beats a bubbly immersion in the spa with a nice glass of scotch under a starry night enjoying the view of the elegantly lit resort with soft music in the background. The resort also provides free access to the water park but keep in mind that it is not a real water park, more like a few water installations suitable for young children, less than 8 years old. The resort grounds actually host 3 distinct resorts (Paradisus Palma Real, Reserve and Circle/Grand Reserve). Guests of the Circle/Grand Reserve have access to the other 2 resorts (including all the restaurants and facilities) but not the other way around. Paradisus has the immediate beach access and has a very nice large pool with a swim up bar. Transportation in the resort to/from the 3 hotels is very convenient in the golf carts (accessible day and night) and is a short 5 min ride. Therefore, I would strongly recommend paying a bit more as you will get the best of all worlds. The luxurious comfortable accommodations of the Circle and its restaurants as well as access to the beach and other facilities of the other 2 hotels. You should be aware that the staff might try to lure you to sit for a brief presentation about the benefits of joining the Circle membership in return for a free gift (dinner for two or swim with the dolphins excursion, etc). You and your significant other should plan at least 2 hours for the presentation, despite their claim of approx. 30 minutes, and be prepared for a high pressure relentless onslaught to get you to become a member. They will not let you go until you sign. It is the infamous intense time share selling technique so be mentally prepared. When all their efforts have failed, they will bring the Sales Manager to close the deal and s/he will offer you 1 week free in a Melia resort of your choice but they fail to mention that this does not include the All inclusive option. If you do take it, you will end up having to pay on average between $100-$200 per person per day for the All inclusive which means that the total cost ($1400 to $2800) without airfare would most probably be higher than if you would have bought that package online. My advice is simply to decline the offer for the presentation and enjoy your vacation to the fullest. There are plenty of activities to enjoy so make the most out of it!
