Gaia Hotel And Reserve - Adults Only

The property is stunning - up a steep hill that requires a ride in their golf carts - with gorgeous views. The first room we had felt small and not a place to hang out, but after having issues with our A/C we were moved to a better loft room with much more space to relax. The multiple pools are amazing and the open air restaurant/lounge area stayed cool with overhead fans despite the hot weather. Free hourly shuttle service to the national park made it easy without having a car. The staff are extra friendly - maybe a bit too friendly at times - but trying very hard to help make every stay 5*. Dinner was very good, breakfast OK, and drinks at the bar excellent (though why the tip jar in the pool bar?). Treats to take with you when you check out are a smart touch. Would book again depending upon the nightly rate.

Our initial room was a bit warm and stuffy - the thermostat read 74-75F - and it was not cooling down quickly as expected. After discussing this with staff and requesting prompt action, we were given fans and a promise of a room upgrade the next day. The second room was cooler and much more spacious and comfortable so perhaps try to avoid the Jungle Studio. The biggest disappointment was the scarlet macaw tour offered to hotel guests. A large number of people showed up (some didn't book) and it turned out to be a strenuous hike inside the reserve. I thought it was a tour of the breeding and release program. We saw the birds from a viewing platform first (you can't do this at any other time) then hiked a fair bit down and up in the sweaty heat (no birds). Make sure to bring good shoes and lots of water. Hopefully they'll improve this tour to be more educational by focusing on these incredible birds as it was one of the reasons I booked this hotel.