Banana Palms Hotel

This resort offers a memorable lakeside setting with stunning views of the water, providing direct access for various aquatic activities. Guests consistently highlight the spacious rooms, the attentive staff, and the delicious food as key aspects of their stay. The property is particularly well-suited for families due to its large accommodations and family-friendly activities, while couples seeking a romantic getaway will appreciate the serene environment. It also serves as an excellent base for sightseers interested in local historical attractions and for anyone desiring a peaceful escape for relaxation seekers. To ensure a comfortable experience, guests are advised to bring mosquito repellent, as insects can be prevalent, and to note that water sports rentals may be more affordable outside the hotel.

Facilities & Amenities
The resort features multiple swimming pools, including separate areas designed for children and adults, offering ample space for guests to cool off and enjoy. While most guests appreciate the availability of these pools, some have noted occasional concerns regarding their cleanliness and a scarcity of sun chairs, which can lead to crowding during peak times. For those looking to enjoy the water, the resort provides various water activities such as kayaking and jet skiing, with direct access to the lake. Wi-Fi connectivity is available in the villas and restaurant areas, though some guests experienced inconsistent or unreliable service, particularly outside these main zones. The property also offers secure parking conveniently located close to the rooms, and during a power outage, the emergency power supply was activated and resolved promptly.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be clean and well-maintained, with many praising their spacious nature, making them ideal for larger groups or families. The beds are often described as comfortable, contributing to a restful stay, though a few guests mentioned feeling springs or finding the pillows to be small. All rooms are equipped with effective air conditioning, ensuring a cool environment. While the bathrooms are typically large, some guests reported issues with inconsistent hot water temperature and pressure, and a few noted outdated fixtures or missing amenities like towel racks. Basic in-room amenities include a television and a complimentary water bottle. However, guests should be prepared for the presence of mosquitoes and other insects, especially in public areas, making bug repellent a necessity.

Dining & Food Quality
The resort's restaurant is highly regarded for its delicious food and the beautiful views it offers of the lake, creating a pleasant dining atmosphere. Guests frequently commend the quality of the meals, noting generous portion sizes and recommending specific dishes like the fish. While the restaurant staff is consistently described as attentive, friendly, and professional, many guests experienced significant delays in service, with wait times for food sometimes extending up to 40 minutes. The menu is extensive, though some visitors felt it lacked a strong connection to local cuisine. Breakfast is available, but it is not served buffet-style, and some guests suggested there is room for improvement in its offerings.

Location & Accessibility
The resort boasts an excellent location directly on the Rio Dulce and Lake Izabal, providing a serene and picturesque setting away from the main town. Its proximity to the Castillo de San Felipe is a significant advantage, as guests can easily walk to this historical landmark. The beautiful natural surroundings contribute to a peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for relaxation. While the resort offers a comprehensive experience on-site, guests should be aware that accessing other amenities or services in the wider area typically requires driving to the main road. The availability of secure parking on the property adds to the convenience for those traveling by car.

Staff & Service
The staff at the resort consistently receives high praise for their exceptional friendliness and helpfulness. Guests frequently highlight the attentive service provided across all departments, from the front desk to the restaurant and housekeeping. Many reviews commend the staff's professionalism and their willingness to assist with various requests, contributing significantly to a positive guest experience. The housekeeping team is noted for their pleasant demeanor and efficiency in maintaining clean rooms. Furthermore, the resort's management demonstrated responsiveness, with one instance of a manager quickly resolving an electrical shortage, ensuring minimal disruption to guests' stays. Overall, the dedication of the staff is a recurring theme in guest feedback.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that while the resort offers a beautiful setting, some areas, including certain rooms and facilities, are showing their age and could benefit from modernization or renovation. A recurring issue mentioned by several guests pertains to the water supply in rooms, with reports of intermittent hot water, fluctuating pressure, or even temporary lack of water, which can impact the showering experience. For those interested in water sports, it's worth noting that rental prices for activities like jet skis might be significantly higher at the resort compared to options available near the nearby castle.