Coco reef - 10th October - 2nd November 2003

[Pat Smith]

Joined: 02 Oct 2003
Posts: 2
Location: Buntingford, England
Posted: Tue Nov 25, 2003 2:09 pm Post subject: Coco Reef - a review

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We have recently returned from 2 weeks at Coco Reef, before writing about the hotel we want to say that Tobago is a beautiful island and the people warm and friendly, it was great exploring the island and meeting the people - DON'T JUST STAY IN THE HOTEL.
We arranged a couple of trips, an island tour and a trek thru the rain forest, go to 'Yes Tourism' - Patrick is more of an old friend than a guide and very knowledgable.
In booking Coco Reef we were looking for a quiet and relaxing holiday, on arrival we were shown to our suite (two standard rooms with the connecting door unlocked so had 2 bathrooms, the bed in one replaced with a sofa!), however, the view across the bay was great. NB. if you want a sea view get a room on the first floor. We had room 253. We were baffled as to where the loud music was coming from, a large cruiser had moored right off the beach with about 8 guys on a Stag weekend, numerous complaints to the hotel,police,coast guard failed the music continued until 4am and started again at about 10am until they finally left late Sunday, not a good start. The remainder of the first week was lovely although we did object to having to put towels on sunloungers before 7 am to get some shade.
There is also a new club in Pigeon Point road which plays music until approx 3.30 am on Fridays and Saturdays which most rooms can hear.
Not having children of school age we made the mistake of being there during half term, peace and tranqulity went out the window, on the Sunday the beach area was likened to the Costa del Sol in mid August with approx 50 kids, but I must say they were impeccably behaved in the restaraunts. The staff were rushed off their feet and the standard of service suffered.
On the whole I cannot see how the Coco Reef was voted best hotel in the Carribean, our suite was OK, but you had to get the timing right in you wanted a hot shower. The staff are wonderful and do a great job and the food was excellent in both eateries.
The breakwater is not really an eyesore you get used to it and is an absolute necessity as they don't want to lose the sand again, however the razor wire at either end of the breakwater is unnecessary, who are they keeping out?, you can swim round the breakwater at either end!!
I think we were unlucky in the weeks we chose, we would definitely return to Tobago but would we stay at the Coco Reef? I don't know, but it is probably the best hotel there.
NB. Tobago Hilton guests are bussed to Pigeon Point every day.
Where to go next year ????

[Kirsten Giles]

Pat

I remember that stag weekend as well as I have to say it put a damper on our holiday as well. We actually arrived back on the 20th October and thoroughly enjoyed our stay. I also have to admit my two children were with me and also thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

The razor wire was put up to stop traders getting into Coco Reef and hassling the guests.

My parents are already booked to go back in May and October next year.

Kirsten