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[kjm465]

We picked this resort specifically because of the wheelchair accessible rooms, which the other resorts in the area (Barcelo and Las Hadas) told us they could not offer. My husband is a C 6/7 Quadriplegic who uses a manual chair, so our comments will be based on his specific disability. There were however a number of disabled guests (one man was visually impaired, several guests used walkers) at the resort at the same time as us, and none seemed to experience major issues. Please feel free to contact us with specific questions.

We read through the 300+ reviews on TA before our trip, and were pleasantly surprised by the available amenities on our holiday. When we phoned ahead of time, the Tesoro representatives were very honest about what they could and could not offer, and from an accessibility perspective we were happy with what we paid vs. what we received. Having traveled extensively, we know that basic things as ramps become a luxury outside of Canada and the United States.

Overall, the Tesoro is a casual, professional 3-3.5 hotel that needs a physical facelift. The staff provides excellent service, and they are constantly cleaning. Bottom line: it’s a good place to stay for an inexpensive holiday; if you expect a luxury resort, PLEASE stay elsewhere. Check-in and Check-out were very efficient. Here’s a basic breakdown of amenities:

ROOM # 337 (1 of 2 Fully Accessible Rooms)
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- Lots of open space
- Roll-in shower with bench
- Removal handle in shower (dual shower head)
- Good size
- Good view (watched the sun set every night over the ocean!)
- Balcony has small lip
- Bed is great height; king-sized; comfortable
- Clean
- Furniture was inexpensive but in fine shape
- Bright colours made the room feel warm and inviting

MAIN BUFFET
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- Good food and variety
- Lots of tables
- Fully accessible
- Excellent service
- Outstanding view

PLAZA ESMERELDA (Secondary Buffet)
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- Great layout
- Excellent shows – lots of spectacle
- Good food
- Good service
- Fully accessible

SNACK BAR (Daytime) // IL NAVIGATI (Evening)
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- Main level accessible
- Amazing view of ocean and sunsets
- Limited selection, but food is good
- Service is excellent

ADOBE RESTAURANT/BAR
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- Great service
- Best atmosphere
- Be sure to order the Spanish coffee for an awesome show!
- Slight lip up into the restaurant; fully accessible within

LOBBY AND LOBBY BAR
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- Huge, open, inviting, well-decorated
- Fully accessible
- Good drinks and snacks
- Good atmosphere


POOL
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- Absolutely inaccessible by wheelchair
- Big, clean
- Drink service excellent, inside and in the surrounding area
- Pool chairs are in high demand – we usually reserved on our way to breakfast
- Pool bar is 2-sided, has all major brands of liquor

BEACH
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- Very calm, relaxing, not busy
- Completely inaccessible
- The sand IS hot during peak hours; wear shoes and you’ll be fine

ELEVATORS
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- During busy times they could be a tad slow, but we never had any real issues. All three worked through our entire holiday.


IN TOWN
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We went into town 3 times: once as part of the city tour and twice on our own. The tour was great; downtown Manzanillo has ramps everywhere; lots of open areas and some good shopping. When we went on our own we used taxis; drivers were very helpful. My husband would transfer into and out of the car, and his chair fit in the trunk without issue. Taxis are very cheap; just be sure to negotiate the rate before you leave. We visited the Wal-Mart, Plaza Manzanillo, and a number of shops on our first excursion alone. There were curb cuts on nearly all streets and people were always offering to help us. The second time we braved the giant Saturday flea market in Santiago. It was an adventure, and we enjoyed ourselves, however it was located in an unpaved, uneven lot. With some assistance, my husband was able to get around just fine, but solo would have been a lot trickier. The incredible trip was certainly worth it though! They sell everything from fresh vegetable, fruit and spices to clothing and electronics. More locals than tourists, and some fabulous deals!

In conclusion, the Tesoro is what you make of it. If you want to have fun, you will. I would suggest to anyone staying here though to set reasonable expectations, and ask for help if you need it. The staff are more than happy to lend a hand.