Mixed Experience at Shana Resort - Better Options Available Nearby
TL;DR: While Shana Resort isn't terrible, it's not worth the price when Parador Resort is literally 100 yards away offering significantly better value and amenities.
As someone who has worked in the resort industry for 6 years, I have a keen eye for service standards and guest experience quality. I recently spent 8 nights in Manuel Antonio, splitting my stay between two resorts. After four exceptional nights at Parador Resort, my remaining four nights at Shana Resort were quite disappointing by comparison.
The Good: The staff at Shana were friendly and accommodating. When I expressed my concerns, they were kind and even offered a restaurant voucher, though they couldn't provide the refund I requested.
The Reality: At similar price points, the difference in quality and service was stark. Having worked in hospitality, I understand what constitutes good value, and here's what you miss at Shana compared to Parador:
Room Quality Issues:
- No complimentary water bottles (replenished daily at Parador)
- No privacy on the balcony
- Cheap soap that smells like dish detergent (vs. lovely lemongrass at Parador)
- No bathrobes provided
- Rooms run warm with inadequate AC
- Toilet requires 10+ seconds of flushing to work properly
- No blackout curtains (room gets bright early)
- Only two pillows for a king-size bed
- Cheap furniture and poor attention to detail (artwork not even centered)
Noise Issues:
- Constant noise fro