ardenvalia
March 8, 2024
The Yemaya Reefs Hotel in Little Corn Island offers a refreshing alternative to the all-inclusive resorts in Mexico, if one prefers the laid-back atmosphere of an island setting reminiscent of those tropical-island posters. The hotel is situated on an isolated region of an isolated island in the Caribbean Sea, requiring a plane ride from Managua ($80 each way), and then a boar ride to the hotel from Big Corn Island ($30 each way), but the result is an escape from the usual masses of tourists at traditional spots. Little Corn Island has no vehicles, only pedestrian walking trails. Power is supplied by a solar panel plant, and electricity is hut down for several hours each day -- but not at the Yemaya Reefs Hotel which has back-up generators. Guest are situated in separated cottages, with the fancier ones sporting a private pool adjoining their beach-front porches. Internet is provided, adequate for streaming, but strangely rooms are not outfitted with smart TVs. The staff is super friendly, and guests are offer welcome cocktails upon their arrival. The boat trip from Big Corn Island includes transfer from the airport to the docks, but the boat ride can be very bumpy (in one direction, we were holding on to our seats in the yacht providing transport as if we were riding wild broncos). Upon arriving at the beach in Little Corn Island, there is no dock, and so one must take off one's socks and wade a few feet to shore. The food and cocktails at the hotel are pricey, but of high quality. If one wants, one could walk to nearby beaches were food and drinks are cheaper -- but the quality is also diminished. If one enjoys Hyatt Global status, the breakfasts at the hotel are free, or otherwise they run around $17 for dish selections. Cocktails cost around $10 (competitor bars nearby might offer cocktails for $5-$6). No cash is transacted at the hotel, but your tab is paid for by credit card at the end of your stay. Snorkeling, kayaking, and sunbathing at the beach (with shay lounges provided by the hotel, are major activities. Other possibilities are fishing, deep sea diving. There is a village on the island, about 2 km or so from the hotel, connected by a pedestrian path. At the village, there are several cafes, bars to choose from. The massage services at the hotel are top notch, and my wife who is discerning was completely satisfied with her masseuse.