Don Cesar Beach Resort

Pros: A property to be appreciated concerning its historic value especially.
Cons: Upscale and expensive. Well worth a visit, at least, for dining pleasures.

This write-off contribution is for the beautiful and historic Don Ce Sar Beach Resort & Spa located in St. Petersburg, FL.



Introduction

In 1996, I had solely thought that the kind of properties...

Pros: Exceptional service, great ambiance,gorgeous beach, padded beach chairs,lobby bar, Maritana Grill.
Cons: Seeing lots of guests not tipping! Exceptional service deserves a little something.

Wow! We just spent 4 nights at the Don Cesar June 21-25 2004. My husband had been here once before for a business meeting a few years ago, and thought I would like it. We decided to come down, rather spur of the moment, to celebrate our 18th wedding ...

Pros: Architecture and history of property. Beach and surrounding community
Cons: Abysmally inadequate concept of service

I, my wife, and five year old son checked into the Don Cesar near midnight, July 24 2003, after a ...

Pros: Beautiful beach, great atmosphere, convenient location.
Cons: Staff can tend to be snooty or disorganized. Facilities not always maintained well.

We have stayed at "The Don" twice now. I know many people love it. It has quaint historic charm and ...

Pros: FRIENDLY, LOVELY
Cons: SOMEWHAT PRICEY

The 'DON' is located directly on the beach. Being that it is on the Gulf with it's white beach makes it all the better. The staff at this spa could not be more helpful and friendly. I moved to Florida 4 years ago and have had my vacation there for the...

Pros: The beach is beautiful.
Cons: Staff, Attitudes, treatment of frequent visitors

The Don Cesar was a relaxing treat I gave to myself yearly. My recent visit (my 12 stay) will be my last. Our reserved suites were not available. (I had the confirmation papers) 2 regular rooms with a roll away bed was the only option we were given. I watched many guest checking in and out before a room became available for us. Then they acted like they were doing me a favor. Our rooms were not comparable to the suites we had reserved. No compensation was made for us. Many other unpleasant experiences occurred during this stay. The staff (front desk, concierge, bellmen, housekeeping, chef, and pool restaurant) were rude and had attitudes. My attempt to discuss this with the Front Desk staff went nowhere. This was THE WORST trip I ever took.

Pros: Too many to mention. Had a great time
Cons: If you can find fault, you will find fault with Paradise

After reading the other reviews, I was cautious that I wanted to spend my honeymoon in a place with reviews such as these. I must say, either they felt slighted in some way, or this was not for them. The hotel employees were always VERY cordial, and VERY nice.It's a four star spa (soon to be five according to some staff who informed us that Lowe's had recently purchased them, and in order to get this, you should expect pricey! This is not a place for the faint of heart or looking to bargain shop.)
We never had a meal less than 30 dollars for two people (gratuity added), and there is a charge for almost everything, from cabana's to umbrellas. BUT....the service, the quiet sunsets on the velvet sand on the beach, and the 86 degree gulf, and Uncle Andy's (yes you must visit for the Sundaes alone) make the trip so much better!

Pros: Courteous employees, comfortable beds, clean rooms, excellent service, you get your money's worth, excellent food.
Cons: Expensive, not the biggest standard rooms (250 sq. ft.), limited parking, expensive valet.

My fiance and I were in St. Pete for a business conference and had never been to southern Florida. The resort was everything we expected and more. Courteous employees, comfortable beds, clean rooms, excellent service.