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 Cocobay Resort was paradise. Visited: June 2005 |
| Posted by denajaynemace |
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We stayed at Cocobay for nine nights. It was blissful.
The staff was friendly, fun, and always smiling. The food was superb - delicious. The cottage style huts were very pretty and clean, and looked lovely on the landscape. Petals on the bed and champagne awaited us on our arrival, and we enjoyed a cool drink when we checked in. Cocktails were great, too!
We would definitely recommend and will go again. |
| 8 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
 So close to very good indeed - but... Visited: June 2005 |
| Posted by andyelcomb |
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Yes, this is a wonderfully located, quiet, picturesque and low-key resort.
We like minimal facilites and appreciated the no young children, no smoking in restaurant, reasonable dress code etc. Our room was, like all of them, on the hill overlooking the bay with a superb view of green hills, beach ands sea - excellent!
The pool, restaurant, bar were all as described and everything looked to be 100%.
For us, it was the detail things that let it down - we forgot our plug adaptor but there should have been one available from reception but "it was already lent out". There were no chairs or table inside the room and no cushioning for the balcony wooden chairs. Our mosquito net had large holes and wouldn't overlap to seal (pegs would have helped there!).
Although mostly very good quality, if something ran out at the breakfast or lunch buffet it wouldn't be replaced until pointed out.
There was no fresh real fruit juice available - all concentrates or pub-style multi-dispenser.
The bar had limited quality labels, the water dispensers in the restaurant had black mould around the nozzle and often empty drinks cups would be left for days around the pool (maybe a resident problem too?) - although this improved after a nudge or two.
Our biggest disappointment though was the lack of any fans at all in the restaurant - and it got very hot, sweaty and downright unpleasant. This was compounded by the overloud (in our view) and repetitive piped music that ran from lunchtime through to the evening. That became particularly annoying. The evening meals were also disappointing in that although a la carte, we thought there was over-emphasis on presentation and a definite lack of vegetables.
When we were there the Sheer restaurant wasn't open (not told why) so we ate at the sister resort of Cocos for the last two evenings - now that was excellent! It cost, but with no music, very pleasant and attentive staff - actually pro-active people - a much better experience indeed. The only downside to Cocos is that it is nearer the huge Jolly Harbour complex and you could hear some evening entertainment from there - shame.
Anyway, most room things were sorted, but by the rep and not straight away by reception. However a later chat with the manager wasn't very forthcoming, him saying that fans weren't needed in the restaurant as this was unusual weather. Not good enough - they are needed at times and were very obvious and effective at other resorts that we visited.
In summary, we were disappointed. Not in the resort itself - its very good indeed, but with the management. None of the things we think would improve it would be expensive - it just needs an eye for detail. |
| 9 users found this review helpful. 5 found this review unhelpful. |
 We had a horrific experience with filthy rooms and disgusting food. Visited: May 2005 |
| Posted by ktunney |
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We thought the accommodations were horrible. Dead flowers and dried out sandwiches should have been our first sign to leave. If only the rooms were even remotely as pictured.
Also, we found the dining areas to be unsanitary (our arms stuck to the tables). We changed hotels after two miserabe days - forfeiting our money to salvage our paradise vacation.
In addition, the staff was patronizing and unhelpful to us. |
| 3 users found this review helpful. 7 found this review unhelpful. |
 It was just nice, but I will not go back. Visited: April 2005 |
| Posted by catherin80 |
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Cocobay Resort definitely was not what I had hoped for. My first impression of the staff was not good, though we met quite a few very nice guests during our stay.
Except for breakfast, the food level was very poor. On our last night, we did have dinner at Sheer (not part of the all-inclusive), and that was truly outstanding. We only wish we knew about the separate bar connected with this restaurant, since we would have gladly paid for a name brand liquor or great glass of wine during our stay.
The infinity pool was a definite plus, but the rooms were run down. But, we had great weather, so we spent very little time in our room. |
| 1 users found this review helpful. 4 found this review unhelpful. |
 Our stay was superb. Visited: March 2005 |
| Posted by bath_tim |
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We have been here twice and have already booked for Christmas 2006. We couldn't fault it for its simplicity and beauty, and the friendliness of the staff. It was awesome.
We find it interesting when reading other reviews that this is consistently the view of British visitors, but not Americans. It is not a surprise to me that they didn't rate Cocobay very highly. In our last two visits, we encountered guests from the USA who were demanding, rude, unreasonable and often gone within two days.
Cocobay is exactly what it describes in the brochure. It's a paradise free of air conditioning, telephones and televisions. It is not for those who expect to be waited on hand and foot. |
| 7 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
| It was paradise! Visited: February 2005 |
| Posted by jah_1 |
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From the welcoming rum punch after a hot wait at the airport to the goodbye champagne, we spent a wonderful seven nights at Cocobay.
The staff was helpful and polite. The food was plentiful and appetizing.
The mosquito nets didn't work well, but thank you to the guest who suggested we take clothes pegs! They did help.
Don't bother with Sheer restaurant. Someone got our booking wrong.
We are looking forward to returning to Cocobay next year. |
| 5 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
| We had an enjoyable seven days here. Visited: December 2004 |
| Posted by sarah2 |
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My husband, Andy, and I have only just recently returned from a holiday to the Cocobay, having arrived back on the 05/01/2005).
Although we had a shaky start when we arrived, the issue was quickly resolved and we had a thorougly enjoyable seven days.
The Reception team was very polite and helpful. The bar was excellent, and all staff there was very polite and friendly. Try the blended Pina Coladas, Rum Punches, Banana Milkshakes. They were all very refreshing.
The restaurant was also excellent, under the watchful eye of the Maitre D' Kenroy, who was a delight to know, friendly and helpful. The food from breakfast to dinner was very nice, with lots of choice (sometimes too much choice!).
The hotel shop was a shopper's paradise full of local antiquities, some lovely items to buy, and some lovely gifts, too. The lady in the shop was very nice, very helpful and polite.
The rooms were very clean and airy, and the hammock was great fun. One minus to the rooms, was that the mosquito nets didn't work. I was severely bitten. Please invest in some insect repellant from the shop. It's called "OFF", and it's in an orange canister.
The infinity pool was very cold, but very refeshing after and during sunbathing.
I would suggest to Cocobay, that when experiencing bad weather as we briefly experienced, it would be advisable to invest in some games to keep people occupied, ie Snooker Table, Darts, Pinball Machine, etc.
More adequate lighting in the bar area and more comfortable seating is needed, as there were not enough chairs sometimes to go around.
On the whole though, we had a great holiday, and we are thinking of returning for two weeks this year, as liked it that much. The staff was really excellent. Cocobay was a great place, and a visit is a must. Although, it was not really suitable for children of any ages as it was very quiet. It would be a haven for adults. |
| 5 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
| It was nice, but could have been better. Visited: December 2004 |
| Posted by kahemmes |
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We just returned from a week at Cocobay. It was a very relaxing week. Our cottage was fine, and we loved the hammock on the balcony plus the breathtaking view of the sea.
The accommodations themselves were very simple--if not a bit shoddy. Simple changes would easily bring this resort to four or five stars (nicer linens, toiletries, upgraded bedding).
The food was sub-par, but for an all-inclusive I guess it was slightly above standard. The staff at dinner was a bit rude, and we felt extremely rushed. The maitre d' was not at all pleasant. The breakfast and lunch were fine (served buffet style). There was no room service for breakfast, so we had to be an early bird if we wanted to eat.
A beach bar or service on the beach would be another touch that would bring this resort up to four- or five-stars. Also, grooming the beach would be nice as it was a bit unkept. Goats and cows roaming around made for some less than perfect conditions.
The restaurant, Sheer, was perfect! We could not have asked for better service, ambience, food or cocktails. The best rum punch around was made by Thor, and they are not to be missed. Dinner here was truly worth every penny. We ate there three out of seven nights, and if they were open on Sunday and Monday, it would have been five!
The wellness cottage was also fantastic. The setting alone was worth the visit. Be aware - it was buggy here. The mosquito netting around the bed was not just for looks-it was required!
Overall, this place was nice and simple. I would return if the price was right. But for an average of $500 a night, you can find much nicer accommodations. |
| 2 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
| It was amazing. Visited: July 2004 |
| Posted by russell_hounslow |
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What a fantastic resort. From the moment we entered the reception area until the time we left, everything was just perfect.
The staff at the resort was very friendly, and very willing to talk and help in any way, especially the bar and restaurant staff.
The food was scrumptious, especially the evening meal which was also presented beautifully.
Three beaches were available for guests and, at times, we had one of the beaches to ourselves.
The resort looked very pretty with the gardens well maintained and spectacular views over the bay. If you also enjoy wildlife or birdwatching, there were a couple of small "lakes" adjacent to the resort which attracted a variety of birds.
If you're planning a wedding, you could do no better. We got married on the beach in the sunshine. It was perfect! |
| 3 users found this review helpful. 1 found this review unhelpful. |
| A great place to get away from it all. Visited: November 2003 |
| Posted by jayne1 |
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We've just returned from Cocobay, and although it rained for nearly all ten days of our holiday, we thought it was one of the best resorts we've ever been to.
Unfortunately we fell victim to the hotel's policy of overbooking - our seafront cottage was not available for the first two days of our holiday. By the time it came to move, we were so chilled out (and quite happy with our seaview cottage) that we stayed put! It seems that the hotel cannot cope with midweek arrivals, so the moral of the story is to arrive Friday/Saturday and stay for a multiple of seven days. You have been warned!
The food was excellent, although Sheer was rather disappointing, and considering what we paid (compared to Galley Bay and others) we could not fault the quality of the food or the service.
The main beach was narrow but adequate, and there was a deserted, very picturesque beach only a ten-minute walk away.
If you want to get away from it all, (no TV or telephone in your room, and very little entertainment) Cocobay is the place for you. We would definitely go back. |
| 2 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
| Paradise found in Antigua. Visited: August 2003 |
| Posted by lawrenceaepps |
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The Cocobay is nothing short of fantastic. When you consider the price you pay to stay here compared to other resorts, it is brilliant value for money. We saw other places and the only place we would rate above it would be Galley Bay or Blue Waters....both of which are vastly more expensive.
The resort consists of 41 cottages set on a small headland, flanked by two lovely beaches -both of which are practically deserted most of the time. The cottages are of basic design, but are quite stylish. We were lucky enough to be upgraded from a standard room to a seafront one....a double upgrade! And what an amazing view we had!
My only gripe is the lack of air conditioning, but you know this before you go so you can't really complain. The sea breeze does just enough to keep you cool.
The pool is nothing short of amazing. It's an infinity style pool and the views are breathtaking. I could never get bored of sitting in the pool and just looking out over Lignum Vitae Bay.
The bar is very informal and they have a great selection of cocktails.The food at the main restaurant is delicious...the best I've ever experienced at an all-inclusive. You get buffet for breakfast and lunch and a four-course a la carte in the evening with several choices for each course.
You also have the option to pay a supplement to have something a bit special such as Barbudan Lobster or Filet Mignon. A nice touch is the separate dessert menu where, for a small supplement, you can get after dinner liqueurs and even buy top notch Cuban cigars (Montecristo/Cohiba)!
There is another restaurant on site,"Sheer". This is not part of the all-inclusive, but is supposed to be excellent.
We were quite wary of the perceived "attitude" of hotel staff towards guests on the island. Let me tell you, Cocobay is the freindliest palce I have ever stayed - not only in the Caribbean but in the entire world. The staff is so friendly. This extends to the rest of the island. I cannot understand why so many people think that they're miserable...it's simply not true. As long as you acknowledge them with a "hello" or "good morning" (which is basic courtesy even in your own country) then you will have no problems and make a few freinds along the way.
If you want complete relaxation, Cocobay is the place to stay. I cannot praise it enough. Why pay thousands to stay at Sandals when, for a fraction of the price, you can stay here?
If you want beach barbecues, constant activities, swim-up bars, cable TV and manufactured food, this won't be your cup of tea. However, if you want peace and quiet in a stunning setting....there's nowhere better in Antigua. Kick back, relax and enjoy....we certainly did. |
| 4 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
| It was absolute paradise! Visited: June 2003 |
| Posted by juliarobinson |
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We had our two-week honeymoon at Cocobay in early June this year. It was just amazing. It was the most beautiful resort and island we have ever been to.
The accommodation was fantastic, the food was fantastic and the service was brilliant. It was just paradise. It was definitely a pure relaxation and "chill out" destination.
Also, the barbecue with a steel drum band on Friday night was excellent. If you are planning an exotic trip, you won't find anyplace better! We are going back for our second anniversary in June 2005 and we can't wait. |
| 1 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
| Cocobay is a panoramic paradise. Visited: April 2003 |
| Posted by myra_gregory |
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This "chillout" location was everything it offered on the Internet and more - a definite "wow" factor.
Housekeeping and general maintenance of the complex was excellent. Cottages were tastefully rustic and authentic, the ceiling fan being adequate and preferable to air conditioning. The staff was very friendly, happy and polite, and all-inclusive food was delicious. The evening meals were of 'a la carte' quality and presentation.
However, a word of caution. We were one of four couples who arrived to find ourselves overbooked and lost two nights of our ten-night stay at this complex. It would not prevent us from returning, provided we were given a guarantee there would be no reoccurrance of this, but it seriously needs addressing. |
| 1 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
| A fantastic oasis on the sea. Visited: February 2003 |
| Posted by adam18 |
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We just returned from a wonderful week at CocoBay, thoroughly enjoying our perfectly peaceful and relaxing vacation.
We had a great seafront cottage, and there were absolutely no problems getting exactly the type of accommodations we had requested.
The food was fine, and we especially enjoyed our dinner at "Sheer", the new haute-cuisine restaurant (well worth the extra price). The pool area and beach were equally lovely, and the entire physical layout of the resort seemed well suited for relaxation.
The staff was well trained, professional, and friendly. CocoBay would be a great place for couples seeking a wonderful oasis from their everyday lives, and we highly recommend it. |
| 1 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
| What a fantastic place! Visited: December 2002 |
| Posted by bowkertim |
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We just got back from Cocobay, and had a great time. The cottages were very beautiful and rustic, the views were to die for, the meals were delicious, and the staff was very friendly. We would love to visit Cocobay again. |
| 1 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
| Cocobay exudes a very chilled-out atmosphere. Visited: November 2002 |
| Posted by max1 |
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We stayed at Cocobay for two weeks and had a really great time.
The location was fantastic and every room/chalet had a great view over the adjacent beaches. The rooms were pretty basic, but they were totally in keeping with the eco-values that the resort seemed to have been designed around with a ceiling fan instead of air-con and locally made furniture.
The veranda with loungers was particulary pleasant. It was always very quiet, apart from the sounds of the local natural nightlife.
The horizon pool was stunning and rarely busy and the beach was just a short stroll away.
Having internet in the lobby was useful and there was a TV in the gym. But this place was really for those who are happy to forget about things back home - just give in to the relaxing vibe and chill out.
It was a quite resort with little happening - the bar was almost always empty by 10:00 pm - and the service was sometimes a little too laid back (especially in the bar). Also, we disagree with some comments about the food - in general we were disappointed with the evening meals, but that may be because we were looking for a simpler menu.
If you are looking for a livelier night out, head for Lashings cricket bar or Shirley Heights for the weekly reggae concert (but watch out for the local rum measures!).
Overall, we had a great time and returned to England completely chilled out. |
| 1 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
| Nice resort, shame about the livestock. Visited: August 2002 |
| Posted by alan_max |
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We stayed 11 days at Cocobay in one of the oceanfront cottages directly overlooking the bay.
The resort has a lot going for it. The view from our cottage was simply stunning, the staff was friendly, efficient and helpful, and the evening meals were superb. Breakfast and lunch were a bit pedestrian, but the evening more than made up for it, with imaginative dishes beautifully presented. The restaurant staff was also excellent.
There was little in the way of night entertainment, showing only 2 or 3 nights a week and the bar was pretty much empty by 11pm. That reflects the style of holiday Cocobay is aiming to offer, quiet and relaxing and most guests liked it that way. Although some of the younger couples started to get a bit bored after a week or so.
Since quiet and relaxing was exactly what we were looking for, we had a good time there. However, I am very sorry to say it, we will not be going back to Cocobay. Why? Because of the room design.
The cottages are deliberately kept simple. The windows have fixed wooden shutters rather than glass. The only glass in the room is in the doors onto the patio. There are also wooden louvers on either side of the patio doors. This keeps the room surprisingly cool (despite the lack of air conditioning), but it also means that you simply cannot keep out everything that wants to come in. We had to share our room with lizards, mosquitoes (although there is a net around the bed), ants, and most annoyingly of all, mice.
To be fair, when we complained about the ants one evening, the hotel sprayed the room and got rid of them while we were at dinner. When we mentioned the mouse, they blocked the route we saw it use. The mouse promptly found another route! It was in at least 4 times during our stay. We know because of the mouse droppings on the fridge and on our clothes.
Another thing to watch for is overbooking. I do not know how common this is in the Caribbean, but at least two couples had to spend their first night at another resort, and another one failed to get their oceanfront room for a couple of days, because their reserved rooms were not available.
The main issue, though, is the room. Although Cocobay is a lovely resort, and the staff is great, they would have to put something over the windows and louvers to keep out the lizards, mice etc before we would return. If you are okay with this sort of thing, Cocobay should be the right place for a relaxing and enjoyable break.
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| 1 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
| A great place for quiet and relaxing times. Visited: July 2002 |
| Posted by bucky61969 |
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We came here on our honeymoon. And from the start, we liked the choice we made with a few reservations.
The individual cabanas were what attracted us, and they did not disappoint. The view from our almost beachfront cabin was amazing, we even had a pair of lizards visit us from time to time. We took pictures of them - as well as hummingbirds, up close! Beware of the ants, though! The cabins were open to the elements, so unwanted friends can shack up with you.
The staff was friendly and the wellness cottage was another great touch. For those looking for constant activity, this resort is not for you. There was no TV or radio. Bring a book, and read poolside or on the beach. It was quiet and relaxing. But, there were some very hot days, and there was no air conditioning.
The food could be a bit elaborate - especially at night. Steak and some seafood was extra. There was only one restaurant, so you might need to go outside the resort for some variety.
They had a large cabana-style house where the bar and pool were located. That was the best place to hang out, meet other couples and have a few drinks. (Ask for Bernadette, she was fun.) It also had the cool breeze that the cabanas were missing. We enjoyed great sunsets!
We would probably not return, though. The lack of a/c was big for us and the limited stuff to do, both in the resort and outside, were limited at best. We were charged for water (big bottles, $2, but still). Some of the things that we thought would be included were not.
All in all, it was a great place. It was very relaxing, but there was room for improvement. |
| 0 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
| Cocobay was a peaceful, beautiful resort. Visited: April 2002 |
| Posted by mo |
|
My wife and I very much enjoyed Cocobay. The stunning seafront villas were worth every penny. The beach was pristine and the whole resort was quiet.
My wife came with a mini library of books and just vegged the entire week. For decompressing, it was the perfect place. If I were a party animal, I would look elsewhere.
Why not five stars?
1) Although we ordered a seafront villa, we were given a seaview. After I complained, they moved us two days later, but we felt that this was a little sloppy. But after staying in each, I can unequivocally say that the seafront was worth the price.
2) Service was a solid B. The wait staff in the restaurant was attentive, and we appreciated the staff bringing people drinks on the beach.
But service fell short in other areas. Scheduling the snorkeling trip was not smooth. Their wellness hut was a disappointment -- the person never seemed to be around. Although there was a big mosquito presence, they didn't automatically supply incense coils --you needed to request one each day.
3) The food was very good, but not excellent. But the food was probably above par for the price of the resort.
4) Overall, their organization skills seemed to lack.
With this said, we still had a wonderful time and would return. I believe that a four-star rating for a resort priced like Cocobay was very good. |
| 0 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
| Very private. Visited: March 2002 |
| Posted by superakko |
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My husband and I were looking for somewhere very quiet and secluded. We found Cocobay on this web site and took a shot.
We made the right choice.
We loved the private cottage, white sandy beaches, and quiet nights.
The staff was very friendly and helpful. There was no night life, not many water sports and no swim-up bar, but we really enjoyed it.
As for food, they were not big on breakfast. It was just bacon, sausage and eggs - nothing special. Lunch was good. You could even order a special menu from the kitchen if you didn't see what you liked at the buffet.
The dinner was exquisite! It was not a dinner you get at most all-inclusive hotels. It was very creative and delicious. Desserts were so good, too. There were many choices!
We paid to stay at a beachfront cottage, but somehow we got seaview on the first day because of the overbooking. We got our money back, though. We moved to the beachfront room the next day. What a difference! If you can, you should get the beachfront room. They were much better!
We recommend Cocobay to anybody who wants to have a private and quiet vacation! |
| 1 users found this review helpful. 0 found this review unhelpful. |
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| Cocobay, an exclusive getaway on the sunset side of Antigua, offers many unique experiences for even the most discerning traveler providing a blissful atmosphere among its gingerbread fretwork, sandy beaches and plantation-style Caribbean chic. A colorful collection of pastel cottages, the resort crowns a hillside undulating down... |
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