I originally wrote that Aqua Antigua was “one of the most enjoyable and relaxing experiences I’d had in a long time.” At the time, that was true. The pool and jacuzzi were lovely, and it really did feel like the kind of place where you could relax, sip a drink, and enjoy the day.
What changed my experience was something small that was never made right. I was given a voucher for a free drink in exchange for leaving a review and showing it the next time I came back. When I returned, I presented the voucher and showed him the screenshot of my review. Someone brought me the drink, and then offered me another, and they both ended up on my bill. I was too polite to say anything in the moment.
What didn’t feel good was realizing that something promised to me hadn’t actually been honored, and I haven’t been back much in the months since. When I finally brought it up during a visit today, I was told there was nothing they could do. I’m always grateful when a place throws me a free drink, which happens to me a lot, but when a place won’t even honor a drink they already owe you, it really puts a damper on the whole experience.
The food and drinks are already overpriced, so after being told nothing could be done, I didn’t order a drink, I left earlier than I planned, and I bought plenty of drinks on the way home.
I do want to be clear that this is not a criticism of the servers. I’ve consistently had kind and friendly service there, and I won’t change my original five-star opinion of the staff themselves. They seem great and are doing the best they can within the limits of management decisions.
It’s unfortunate, because this could have remained a place I was excited to return to, but small things like this don’t really leave you feeling welcome.
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