Casa Shiva Bacalar by Mij

The location and the staff. The villa was beautiful!

The front of Hotel Shiva at first glance doesn’t seem like much but their lagoon property view has the WOW factor and a very good reason to stay there. The rooms are well kept and have what you expect. Not sure about the other rooms but mine had no tv or mini fridge. We did have breakfast there which was good and convenient. Would stay again and recommend.

If you're looking for an easy and enjoyable way to access the fantastic Laguna de Bacalar, Casa Shiva is a great choice. For 400 pesos, you get a Daypass that includes access to a nice sunbed right by the water, a hammock, towel, changing facilities, kayak rental, and, not to forget, a refund of 200 pesos with a purchase in the restaurant. We spent much of a day swimming in the incredible water with its many shades of color and chilling in our sunbeds on the covered pier. Most of the time, we just couldn't help but smile happily.

For the price we paid ($250 per night) I was totally disappointed by the room, facilities and the service provided. The members of reception staff spoke very little English which made any communication challenging. The room is one of the most basic I’ve seen in my life. No blankets, only bed sheets (we froze on the first night and I came to reception twice to ask for blankets to eventually be given only 3 when there were 4 of us staying in the room) Nowhere to dry our clothes on apart from chairs or bannisters at the balcony Not a single glass in the room No toilet brush!!!!! I had to go to reception to ask for a toilet paper as we had only 1 roll and no one was checking if we had enough No cleaning for 3 nights (but the bathroom bin was emptied once!) Extremely limited breakfast options - only eggs, toasts (no jam or butter), tea and coffee (no black tea offered although I pointed out twice that it’s really weird not to offer the most basic morning drink), small fruit bowl was offered on the last day. Kayaks free of charge available but paddle board had a hole and no paddle available Wooden sun loungers on the grass had no cushions Overall impression was that the staff was totally not interested in making their guests experience memorable or even nice, we felt like they just let us stay there for free so we should expect anyone to take care of us. Extremely disappointing. Good things I’d mention were - beautiful view, lovely pontoon with a hammock and sun loungers, good WiFi.

If you want a romantic getaway this place is it , very private and semi secluded. The scenery is perfect as you are across from a bird sanctuary area. Kayaks and paddle boards are included in your stay and the staff will get you what you need from food and drinks . Definitely will come back soon!