Escape to Paradise: Unforgettable Wyndham Santa Cruz Getaway
Escape to Paradise: Wyndham Santa Cruz - Is It REALLY Paradise? (A Messy, Honest Review)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to spill the tea on the Wyndham Santa Cruz. Forget the polished brochures and the glossy website shots. I'm talking REAL talk, the kind that makes you feel like you're chatting with a slightly frazzled friend who just got back from a trip. And let me tell you, this "Escape to Paradise" thing? Well, it's…complicated.
First Impressions: The Good, The Okay, and the "Wait, What?"
Right off the bat, accessibility gets a thumbs up. I'm not a wheelchair user myself, but I always appreciate a place that clearly caters to everyone. The elevator? Check. Ramps? Check. The website even mentions accessible rooms. Score one for inclusivity!
Now, about that "Unforgettable Getaway" promise… hmm. Let's just say it wasn't every moment unforgettable. But the little things… those are the memories that stick.
The Room: My Personal Bubble of Bliss…and Slightly Smudged Mirrors
Let's face it, the room is where you spend most of your time, right? The good news: my room had EVERYTHING. Seriously, the list of available amenities is a mile long: air conditioning (thank GOD, it was HOT), a coffee/tea maker (essential!), a mini-bar (tempting…), and even an ironing board (I may have used it once). They really do go above and beyond. The free Wi-Fi was lightning-fast, thank heavens. The work-from-anywhere dream? A solid win.
The bed? Bliss. Like, melt-into-the-mattress, sleep-like-a-baby bliss. The blackout curtains, also a godsend for a light sleeper like me. I absolutely loved the quiet, the privacy. It was truly my own little sanctuary… despite the slight smudges on the mirror I noticed as I was putting on my makeup. Hey, nothing's perfect, right?
Oh, and the separate shower/bathtub? Luxury! Plus, those fluffy bathrobes? I practically lived in them. But, um…let's just say I probably could have used more towels. And maybe the hairdryer could've been a bit more powerful. Minor gripes, though.
The Paradise Within (and Without): Spa Days and Poolside Hangs
Okay, the spa. This is where things get VERY interesting. It wasn't exactly like the pictures on the website, but…I'm a body wrap junkie, and I had to try it! I envisioned myself enveloped in fragrant muds and oils, completely blissed out. The reality? Well, the mud was a little cold, and the lady giving the wrap seemed a bit… rushed. I felt like I was more wrapped like a burrito than in a pampered cocoon. But, hey, the spa did have a sauna, a steam room, and a pool with a view. And who can complain about a massage when you've got a knot in your shoulder the size of a small planet? It wasn't the best massage ever, but I left feeling much looser.
The outdoor pool was absolutely gorgeous. Seriously. The water was sparkling, and the views…chef's kiss. I spent an embarrassing amount of time lounging by the pool, sipping on a poolside cocktail (the "Santa Cruz Sunset" – highly recommended!). One thing though: finding a chair was like a competitive sport. Seriously, people started claiming chairs before breakfast!
And then came the fitness center. I always feel awkward in a gym. But, the one at the Wyndham was spacious and well-equipped.
Food, Glorious Food (and Occasional Disappointments)
Alright, let's talk nosh. This is where things got a bit… uneven, the culinary highs and lows of my stay.
Breakfast: It's the most important meal of the day, and the Wyndham delivered. The buffet was incredible, that is if you like a buffet. It seemed to always be crowded, but you can always opt for breakfast in room. I loved the the Asian breakfast, but the Western breakfast option looked just as good.
Dinner: The a la carte in the restaurant was a delight, though the service in the Asian cuisine restaurant was slower than molasses in January. The waiter got my order mixed up twice, but the food was ultimately delicious, it was definitely worth the wait.
The poolside bar was a lifesaver. Perfect for snacks and a quick drink. They even had a snack bar, so you can enjoy a quick meal near the pool.
Cleanliness and Safety: The New Normal
COVID things. The Wyndham seemed to genuinely care about this whole mess. There was hand sanitizer everywhere, and the staff were masked up and looking serious about hygiene. Seeing them sterilizing equipment, and seeing a doctor/nurse on call was very reassuring. I loved that there were individually-wrapped food options everywhere.
They offered room sanitization opt-out available, which gave me more piece of mind.
The Downsides (Because Every Paradise Has a Few Weeds)
Okay, let's get real. No place is perfect.
- The service could be a little hit-or-miss. Some staff members were absolute angels, others… less so. The doorman was always helpful, and daily housekeeping was amazing.
- During my stay, my room faced an exterior corridor meaning that passersby could see into my room if I didn't have my blinds down, which was a small concern.
- Finding a place to park was an absolute NIGHTMARE.
So, is it REALLY Worth It?
That depends. If you're looking for 100% perfection, maybe keep looking. But if you're looking for a comfortable, well-equipped hotel with some amazing amenities, and you’re okay with a few imperfections, then yes, the Wyndham Santa Cruz is worth it.
Escape to Paradise: Unforgettable Wyndham Santa Cruz Getaway: The Bottom Line
The Wyndham Santa Cruz is an experience. It's not just a hotel; it's a launching pad for adventures, a haven for relaxation, and a place to create memories. It has its flaws, sure. No place is perfect. But, as I sit here, reminiscing about my stay, the good memories far outweigh the bad. If you are looking for that perfect stay, you might want to look elsewhere. But if you're open to a little adventure, and you're seeking a place that offers comfort, luxury, and stunning views, then book your escape!
Here's my Pitch (Because I'm a Tourist with an Agenda):
Tired of the same old boring vacations? Craving a REAL escape?
Imagine yourself:
- Sipping a cocktail by a sparkling outdoor pool, soaking up the sun.
- Indulging in a rejuvenating body wrap at the spa, melting away your stress.
- Waking up in a luxurious room, with lightning-fast Wi-Fi and a view that’ll take your breath away.
- Exploring Santa Cruz, from the beautiful beach to the quirky vibe of the town
Book your “Escape to Paradise” at the Wyndham Santa Cruz TODAY!
Why book NOW?
- Guaranteed Comfort and Luxury: You deserve a break, and the Wyndham Santa Cruz delivers.
- Unbeatable Amenities: Every room has everything you need for a memorable stay.
- Amazing Value: Your escape is waiting!
- Risk-Free Booking: you can always reschedule
Don't wait. Paradise awaits! Click here to book your forgettable, unforgettable, messy, and wonderful experience at the Wyndham Santa Cruz!
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Santa Cruz, Bolivia: My Attempt at a Tryp-y Adventure (or, How I Survived the Airport Food)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your average, meticulously planned itinerary. This is me attempting to navigate Santa Cruz, Bolivia, fueled by caffeine, a questionable understanding of Spanish, and the absolute promise of a decent internet connection at the TRYP by Wyndham. Let's see how this unravels, shall we?
Day 1: Arrival, Airport Apocalypse, and a Tiny Glimmer of Hope
Time: 6:00 AM - Ugh, landed in Viru Viru International Airport. Let me just say, the "international" part is… generous. The air tasted vaguely of jet fuel and existential dread. My first Bolivian experience: a two-hour wait for baggage, punctuated by the rhythmic thud of a guy in a sombrero arguing with a customs official. (Honestly, I think I understood more of that conversation than the directions to the nearest bathroom)
Transportation: Taxi (that smelled suspiciously like a wet dog and stale cigarettes. I swear, I’m already imagining the hotel being a paradise.)
Travel Time: 45 minutes. Felt like 45 years.
Objective: Get to the TRYP, survive.
Event: Checking into the TRYP was actually…easy! The staff, bless their hearts, were unfailingly cheerful despite enduring the chaos that is the airport. The lobby, though, was a bit… bland. Functional, but lacking that "wow" factor. (Though, after the airport, "functional" was practically luxury!) The room? Surprisingly decent, albeit with a view of a construction site that promised a symphony of jackhammers in the morning. (Insert nervous laugh.)
Impression: Okay, first impressions: Airport food = avoid at all costs. The TRYP? Needs a little oomph in the decor department, but hey, hot water and a comfy bed are wins in my book.
Emotional Reaction: Panic (airport), Relief (TRYP). Pure, unadulterated, blessed relief.
Afternoon
Time: 1 PM - Okay food, let's go for a walk around town.
Transportation: Walk (lol, I'm doing to walk on a sunny day in Santa Cruz, what else?)
Objective: Get to the city center and find some food.
Event: I got disoriented immediately. The city center is confusing - I got lost immediately, and ended up in what I thought was a charming area. There I stumbled upon a salteña stand. You guys, it's a Bolivian meat pie that's basically a handheld, juicy, savory explosion. I ate three. Three! The juice dripping down my chin? Worth it. Absolutely worth it.
Impression: Oh my god, salteñas. My life has changed. Also, I need a map.
Emotional Reaction: Bliss, then mild shame at the sheer number of salteñas I inhaled. Then more bliss.
Evening
Time: 7:00 PM -Dinner and attempting to write a diary (this one, as you can see.)
Objective: Dinner. Research tours.
Event: I had dinner at the hotel restaurant - it was actually quite good, especially the sopa de mani (peanut soup). But the real challenge? Planning. Finding a decent tour for tomorrow is another level of stress.
Impression: Hotel restaurant: surprisingly good. Finding tours: Not fun.
Emotional Reaction: Mild frustration over tour options.
Day 2: The Amazon Beckons (Maybe… Or at Least, I Signed Up)
Morning
Time: 7:00 AM - Wake-up to the sounds of construction (told ya!). Coffee, strong coffee, is essential.
Transportation: None, just the hotel
Objective: Breakfast, prep for an Amazon trip (fingers crossed).
Event: Breakfast at the TRYP was… standard. Lots of eggs, bread, and that Bolivian coffee that could probably strip paint. I’m debating whether I can survive an Amazon trip, considering my track record with mosquito bites and humidity. I signed up for a three-day excursion. What have I done?!
Impression: Breakfast: Mediocre. Amazon trip: Ut oh.
Emotional Reaction: Nervous excitement. And a desperate plea to the mosquito gods for mercy.
Afternoon
Time: 2:00 PM - Attempting (and failing) to chill by the pool.
Transportation: Walk.
Objective: Relaxation (lol)
Event: The pool at the TRYP… it's small, surrounded by concrete, and the sun is brutal. I lasted about 20 minutes before retreat to the air conditioning.
Impression: Pool: Not great. Air conditioning: Heaven.
Emotional Reaction: Disappointment, but quickly replaced with gratitude for climate control.
Day 3: The Amazon (Part 1): Humidity, Mosquitoes, and a Glimmer of Wonder
Morning
Time: 6:00 AM - Off to the Amazon.
Transportation: Bus (bumpy, overcrowded, and smelling of… well, let's just say it's a "jungle aroma").
Travel Time: 5 hours. Bring Dramamine. And a rosary.
Objective: Arrive in the jungle alive.
Event: It was a lot of time. The bus ride was a torture of potholes and questionable driving skills. I actually saw a monkey. My fear grew.
Impression: Jungle: humid. Mosquitoes: massive. Monkeys: real.
Emotional Reaction: Panic, then a flicker of excitement.
Afternoon
Time: The Amazon is a sensory overload.
Transportation: Small boat.
Objective: Survival.
Event: There were monkeys, exotic birds, and the hum of a thousand insects. There were also more mosquitoes. I did not get devoured by a caiman. I'm exhausted. The guides were amazing.
Impression: Absolutely incredible!
Emotional Reaction: A mix of fear, awe and pure, unadulterated exhaustion.
Day 4: Back to the TRYP (and Sanity, Maybe?)
- Morning
- Time: 8:00 AM - Depart from the Amazon.
- Transportation: Bus (still stinky).
- Travel Time: 5 hours of reflection.
- Objective: Return to the TRYP, shower, and drink a large quantity of coffee.
- Event: The bus ride back was a blur of exhaustion. I slept. I sweat. I dreamt of air conditioning.
- Impression: The jungle was magical. The bus ride? Not so much.
- Emotional Reaction: Relief. Pure, unadulterated relief.
Day 5: Departure - Santa Cruz, You Were… Something.
- Morning
- Time: 7:00 AM - Last attempts and airport anxiety return.
- Transportation: Taxi
- Objective: Get to the airport and survive the flight.
- Event: Checking out, and the staff at the TRYP were as friendly as ever.
- Impression: The TRYP: Decent. Santa Cruz: Wild.
- Emotional Reaction: A weird mix of longing (those salteñas!) and relief.
Final Thoughts:
Santa Cruz was… an experience. It’s messy, it’s vibrant, it’s a little bit chaotic, and it’s definitely not for the faint of heart. The TRYP by Wyndham was my oasis, my refuge from the chaos. Could it use a little updating? Sure. But hey, at least the staff were great, the bed was comfy, and now I have a story to tell.
Would I come back? Maybe. After a very long nap. And maybe a deep, deep dive into getting rid of my mosquito bites.
Turkey's Hidden Gem: B&C Hotel - Unforgettable Luxury Awaits!
So, was this “Escape to Paradise” actually paradise, or just, you know, *Santa Cruz*? (And what did that even *mean*?)
Alright, let's get this out of the way: "Escape to Paradise"... a little *much*, Wyndham? I mean, Santa Cruz is cool, sure. Beaches, boardwalk, the whole shebang. But paradise? That sets the bar pretty high, doesn't it? My expectations were SKY HIGH. Visions of fruity cocktails and… well, I’m not gonna lie: no work. Just bliss. The reality? Well… let's just say it involved me wrestling with a balky TV remote and a sudden, inexplicable craving for instant ramen at 1 AM. Not quite the Polynesian fantasy I'd pictured. BUT! I got a chance to reset – HUGE win.
Okay, so what's the *actual* deal with the Wyndham Santa Cruz? Like, the *rooms*? Spill the tea!
The rooms... ah, the rooms. They're fine. Honestly – and this is important, because I am not getting paid for this – they're *perfectly functional*. Think clean, comfortable beds, a decent-sized bathroom (always a win), and a balcony with a view of… well, it depended on your room! Some faced the pool (good!), some faced the parking lot (less good, let’s be honest). The decor was... neutral. Like, aggressively beige-neutral. But hey, at least it didn’t scream 'murder scene' (I'm easily spooked). One thing though: the air conditioning seemed to have a mind of its own. One minute I was shivering, the next I was sweating. I swear, I think I needed to call someone for help. This is important: bring extra blankets just in case.
The pool! *Was* the pool paradise adjacent? Give us the deets!
Okay, the pool... *THAT* was a highlight. The pool was a *real* highlight. It was perfectly positioned to catch the sun, and the water was inviting, and clean as a whistle. I could have stayed there forever. Although, there was this woman who had a screaming toddler who kept getting into the water and kicking sand everywhere and… okay, I'm getting off track. But the sun, the cool water, the feeling of just sinking into the moment… that *was* paradise adjacent. Also, the pool bar? A lifesaver. Margaritas at 3 PM? Don't mind if I do! Now that's how you unwind. Best decision.
What about the location? Was it easy to get around and explore?
Location? Pretty decent! You're close to the beach (obviously), the Santa Cruz Boardwalk (a MUST-DO, even if you hate rollercoasters like me), and a bunch of restaurants and shops. Walking distance? Depends on your tolerance for walking, I'd say. I preferred to drive, mostly because I'm lazy. Parking was a bit of a nightmare at times, especially during the weekends. Beware! But overall, the location was pretty darn convenient. You can definitely make the most of it.
Alright, let's be real. What was the *worst* part? Come on, we want the juicy stuff!
Ugh, okay. The *worst* part… it's a tie. First, the Internet. The Wi-Fi was slower than molasses in January. I tried to upload a photo to Instagram and felt like I was watching paint dry. Secondly, the check-in process. It took… forever. I swear I saw three generations of my family age while waiting. I was ready to just sleep in the car! Seriously, bring a book or a friend, or both. But hey! I did get a chance to relax.
Okay, okay, spill! What should you absolutely NOT miss while you're there? The must-dos!
Okay, MUST-DOS: The Boardwalk! Get a corn dog (even if you regret it 10 minutes later), ride the Giant Dipper (even if you also regret it 10 seconds later – exhilarating fear, people!). Explore the tide pools at low tide (amazing!), and definitely, definitely grab some clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl. But maybe avoid it late at night, though. You might get a little too… enthusiastic! Seriously, though, go to the Boardwalk and the beach, and you're golden.
So, final verdict: Escape to Paradise... yay or nay? Would you go back?
Hmm... okay. Did I find literal paradise? No. Did I have a relaxing, enjoyable getaway? Absolutely. Would I go back? Yeah, probably. I'd go back for the pool, the beach, and the chance to completely switch off (once that Wi-Fi cooperates!). Santa Cruz is a great little town. It was a good one, not perfect but definitely an Escape. Remember to bring the right expectations, bring lots of snacks, and pack your patience, because you'll need it. And maybe an extra battery pack for your phone so you can fully document your experience. Have fun!
