I think it is so hard to pick a favorite! We own at the Islander and the Sands. I like both for different reasons.
Sands
1. Location - I prefer its location being closer to the punto Cancun, next to the Kulkulkan mall, etc.
2. Access to beach and street - as was mentioned, the beach access is so much easier at the Sands. The street access is also easier, no huge hill to climb.
3. Pools - I LOVE the section of the main pool where you can put the loungers right in the pool.
4. SPA - We use the spa, so the convenience of it on site is great!
5. Hacienda Sisal - This is one of our favorite restuarants in Cancun, and it is right on site!
Islander
1. It is MUCH more tropical in its look. It feels more like a tropical place. The Sands is much more "modern", more concrete there.
2. I like the tri-Royals all together the way they have it set up. It is like one huge mega resort with 3 separate places to hang out. I like that choice.
3. Royal Mayan restaurants - We love the Palapa restaurant at the Mayan, and REALLY LOVE the El Conquistador restaurant there. It is so convenient to be able to just walk right over to those restaurants.
4. Islander is more "cozy" in its feel. This is hard to explain, but it just feels that way. My husband actually prefers the Islander hands down because of this cozy feeling.
I hope this helps...I guess my main point is, no matter which Royal Resort you get, you will be happy! The service is exceptional at both resorts! We LOVE LOVE LOVE the people that work at the resorts. They are what make the Royal Resorts a true 5* destination.
Michelle
