Riu Hotels & Resorts have long been a dependable fun-for-all all-inclusive brand, an icon for family-friendly, friend and group trips. But don’t make the mistake of thinking iconic means static. In fact, this brand’s been one of the most dynamic this year, with so many updates, renovations, and new constructions that we had to ask insiders … then create a whole mega-sized Hotel Confidential just for this brand.
Here’s everything you need to know about how ALG Vacations® September Partner of the Month RIU has been making all-inclusive travel better for everyone this year.
Riu Palace Aquarelle
Newly opened May 4 this year, this new family resort located in Falmouth, Jamaica sets a new standard for grandiose crowd-pleasing. An enormous Splash Water World is only one of the panorama of oversized pools sprawled across the beachfront … which isn’t even taking the wealth of swim-up rooms into account. These are just one of the many accommodation configurations available; suites, connecting junior suites, multi-bedroom family rooms, and various views are also available.
And of course, with a resort of this magnitude, amenities to match are a requirement. The new American Country restaurant and bar concept in on display in fine form here, and it’s joined by the signature Krystal gourmet restaurant, steakhouse, Asian restaurant, Italian restaurant with a buffet, full-out buffet, and 24-hour room service.
Riu Palace Bavaro
We went into tremendous detail covering the Riu Palace Bavaro’s dramatic renovation in our last Hotel Confidential, but this is just one of those resorts that deserve revisitation at every possible opportunity.
A total overhaul was completed August 31, and marked the largest ever for this property, introducing the Elite Club concept, a new Family Section with a kids club that even features a cinema, and a whole new food court concept. The latter is truly a feat, with concepts like a stir-fry station, pizza stand, ice cream, and more. And like Riu Palace Aquarelle in Jamaica, this Dominican resort also has the American Country restaurant, bringing the number of food and beverage outlets up to an incredible 32. Plus, all guests get access to Splash Water World and the adults-only Riu Party schedule as well for nonstop activity and fun, while the new Indulgence Beachfront Bliss package ups the ante on the celebrations.
Riu Negril
This Jamaican property is another deep cut renovation story with a whole-resort makeover, but the plot is still yet thickening. All of its improvements are set to be completed by December 7, 2024, and the plans are set to make it one of the most desirable properties in the area. Rooms, pools, and restaurants are all going to be totally overhauled; it’ll feel like a whole new hot spot on the island’s coast. Less tangible is the introduction of the Riu Party entertainment concept, which will introduce a weekly themes, spectacles, and exciting ways to feel irie.
Riu Cancun
This Mexican favorite is growing up! It’s currently in the process of becoming an adults-only resort, with the full change-over occuring December 23, 2024. Set in a prime spot in Cancun’s Hotel Zone, it’s one the properties that has been awarded Gold certification for the Travelife Sustainability System and offers three pools. Plus, Riu Party is already in this area – guests get a chance to explore Riu Caribe to experience it.
Riu Palace Antillas
Another reason to be excited for the end of the year for the Riu brand: the Elite Club is arriving at this Palm Beach Aruban hotel December 24, 2024, upgrading the experience with exclusive amenities and services for its guests.
This elevated upgrade for guests is currently available at Riu Palace Kukulkan, Riu Palace Pacifico, Riu Palace Baja California, Riu Palace Jamaica, and Riu Palace Macao, and is spreading to other properties due to its overwhelming popularity and warm reception. What it means for vacationers are the best room locations on the property, automatic late check-out when possible, welcome gifts, premium drinks and aromatherapy in their rooms, an exclusive restaurant, private beach area with upgraded drinks , and of course, an actual Elite Club in the form of a lounge.
New American Country Restaurant
It was mentioned a few times already, but we can’t understate how excited Riu is to introduce this all-American comfort food restaurant venue. It’s currently available at Riu Palace Aquarelle, Riu Santa Fe, Riu Palace Pacifico, and Riu Palace Bavaro, and to Riu Negril after its renovations. There, guests can get Riu’s takes on popular casual bites from home while watching their favorite sports games. According to the official RIU Blog, regular items on the menu include wings, burgers, nachos, jumbo hot dogs, mac and cheese, fries, onion rings, and lots of other food items you love to order at your local sports bar.
