Amazing trip to Kantenah FS

[Anne]

By Bonnie

Here is my review in case it helps anyone. I am sorry for the length, but I could have gone on forever as it was hard to stop writing! Feel free to ask me questions but bear with me as I came home to mountains of work( like everyone here I am sure). Multi-Generational Family Vacation – Family Selection & TRS Experience
Having had the opportunity to explore many luxury hotels and all-inclusive resorts over the years, our expectations are high. This was our 12th visit to the Grand Palladium—mostly at TRS, but also a number of times at White Sands.
This year, we were celebrating two milestone birthdays: my husband’s upcoming 70th and my son’s (our grandsons’ uncle) belated 40th, both this year. So, we decided to take our grandsons and stay at the Family Selection.
I was asked if it was worth the extra money to take children my grandsons’ ages—10 and 12—to Family Selection, and I absolutely think it was. That said, even without it, we still would have had a great time. If I wrote about all of our experiences, it would be a book—so I’ll just highlight a few.

Arrival & Accommodations
Before we even arrived, the communication from the Family Selection hosts and the travel club was outstanding. Upon check-in, we were offered an upgrade to a full suite with a private rooftop pool. My husband (who normally never pushes for extras) really wanted it, and although I strongly felt we’d already spent enough money, I agreed.
I’m so glad I did—it turned out to be the most stunning room I’ve ever stayed in: incredibly spacious, beautifully designed, and located right on the beach. No words could capture how breathtaking it was. I often escaped to the rooftop pool for some peace and quiet.
We also had the pleasure of meeting Emmanuel, now our favorite butler of all time. We will never forget his kindness and how hard he worked for us.

Dining & Activities
Our days were filled with a balance of relaxation, fun, and connection.
Breakfasts at The Nest were always a highlight, especially with Adriana’s warm service and special touches—like hot chocolate with faces drawn on it for the kids. The kids enjoyed the play area there. The Niu restaurant by the Family Selection pool became a go-to for many (but not all) lunches, and we had excellent service from Mischel. Sometimes we had lunch at one of the nearby buffets, depending on where we were at the time.
The beach had yellow flags for two of the days we were there, and we all enjoyed riding the waves. On other days, we explored a variety of pools. The boys especially loved the inflatable slides and obstacle course, which we allowed them to use one day.
The junior club was excellent—engaging enough that our grandsons felt independent but safe, especially since we provided a phone so they could reach us. They loved playing foosball, pool, and even made friends from England. Our son and grandsons also spent time together at the sports center, playing many games.
We had memorable dinners at the teppanyaki restaurant, the Brazilian restaurant, and The Nest, as well as others.

TRS Experience
When the boys were with our son, we spent time at TRS, visiting our longtime favorites: René at the bar, Anya at the bar and at La Terraza pool, and being warmly greeted by Alberto and Samuel.
I had a quiet solo lunch at Capricho while the boys were at the club, and my husband and son enjoyed their birthday gift massages. Paulina’s service was excellent, and I felt warmly welcomed. My husband and I also had an exceptional dinner at the TRS lobby bar and La Bohème, where Ana provided truly outstanding service—while the boys had their own special dinner with our son.

Entertainment & Shows
Evenings were filled with wonderful live shows, including an incredible Beatles tribute band, the White Party with a fire show, and a chocolate tasting.
The TRS Mexican show was a standout—starting slow but evolving into a full theater performance with dancers, mariachis, live music, and traditional clothing. Although we had eaten earlier at El Dorado, we couldn’t resist sampling some of the delicious Mexican desserts.
The next day, the adults attended another Mexican show at TRS that was very different but equally special.

A Few Hiccups
One of our grandsons created a minor issue at the junior club, but the staff responded appropriately and professionally. The care from Isis, the head butler, was incredible.
One night, the team at Family Selection made a special dinner just for the boys, decorated their room, and even delivered another meal through room service—a magical experience.
At one restaurant, one of my grandsons told the manager he loved Oreo cheesecake (not on the menu). It just happened to appear at The Nest another night, baked just for them.

Final Highlights
On our last days, we enjoyed the White Sands Pool, perfect for both kids and adults with its swim-up bar and relaxed atmosphere.

Closing Thoughts
This vacation combined the very best of multi-generational travel—luxury, thoughtful service, diverse activities, and meaningful memories.
Family Selection at Grand Palladium White Sands continues to set the bar high. We are so grateful for every moment. This was a trip we will never forget.

 

From Anne: Than you for an amazing trip report

Bonnie: Thanks. I could’ve written forever as there were so many “little” things that will end up being big experiences in all our memories. There were experiences like allowing the boys to sit at their own table in the sports bar, while we sat near by, walking out of our room and allowing them to get ice cream, sitting in the front seat of golf carts, going to the Butler to order carts etc etc. I was able to experience things through the eyes of children which made this trip even more special.

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