Review of Secrets Aura Cozumel 4*

Overall, Secrets Aura Cozumel is a good resort. There are several restaurants located on the property to take advantage of. We were happy that there was a buffet option because we can be picky eaters. We want good food, but it doesn't mean we like "expensive" food like seafood or dishes like duck or mushrooms on items. There were three different pools. Oceana pool was closest to the beach and restaurants. This one had a "lazy river" that you could swim or walk around but there was no current to it. Manatee pool was farthest from the beach but did have a swim up bar. This also had swim up rooms in link with the pool area. There were watersides there but signs said that they are not recommended to be used and are just for "show". I saw people use them, but several people got stuck because there was no water running down them, haha. The Preferred pool was the most calm pool and also had a swim up bar. Only "preferred" people were suppose to use the preferred pool and lounge chairs, but it seemed like no one checked anyone so everyone was using it/them. The beach area was pretty substantial and there were a nice number of beach lounge chairs. Wait staff around the pools and on the beach were excellent. I never "wanted" for drinks or food. We were confused about tipping — usually at all inclusives you don't need to — but we saw about 1/2 the people doing so, we felt bad not as well and ended up tipping. I don't think it necessarily got us any better service as the service was good to begin with. Our particular room was pretty outdated and had a lot of strange/nonworking things in it. The shower door was missing on our shower so water sprayed all over the room when using it. The door on the toilet didn't close all the way and with the sink right next to the toilet it made for an awkward view that we didn't appreciate. Also, the sliding glass door to the bathroom was stuck and wouldn't move/close. We did tell the resort people about these things twice but nothing was ever done about it. On the preferred room balconies, if it rained (which is did twice on our trip) there is no water funneling system so the water from above pools underneath getting much of the very large balcony wet. This may be something to update as well. The grounds are beautifully landscaped and we appreciated the colors and textures everywhere. It is a bit confusing to get around at first as there are many different pathways to and from each area. In the end, I liked that about the resort as it created a more secluded feel. Overall we enjoyed our stay. The people were incredibly friendly and hardworking. The rooms and facilities could be updated a bit to appear nicer and in better working order.