Mount Irvine Bay Resort

We were in Tobago for one night on a business trip, and the review by a YouTuber convinced us that the resort was worth the money. Our flight over from Trinidad was delayed and as such we arrived at the hotel at approximately 5:00 pm. Check-in was straightforward, but when we were taken to our assigned room, the drama began. The room was not ready, and the attendant( the same person who checked us in) quickly shut the door and said it's not ready. A foul scent hit us at the same time. We were then given an upgrade of sorts with an ocean view and a king bed. Towels had to be brought in, and they were pretty worn as well. The bedding was fresh and clean..a plus there. This room also had an odor that eventually improved as the AC kicked in. Coffee station in the room was lacking, one one pack of sugar and no creamer. At around 7:30 pm we headed down to the Sugar Mill Restaurant for dinner but with only 3 items available on the entire menu we promptly left for Crown Point and the Brown Cow.(A favorite of ours). The next morning, breakfast was adequate, and on looking at the hotel grounds, one could see that it was once a beautiful one. I remember it being so when I was a boy about 50 years ago. The golf course has been closed now for over 4 years. What a missed opportunity here. It's a shame that the owners try to sell this as a resort...I can only imagine how disappointing it must be for our foreign visitors.

Overall the experience was good value for money. If we had not had such a great deal from BA it would be 4/5. We stay in lots of fantastic resorts and hotels, but they often lack any heart or soul. I can honestly say we'll always remember the staff at this hotel. They are a big part of our positive experience. Reception, were always there, going above and beyond tp make sure we enjoyed our stay. Catering staff were excellent and housekeeping are on fire! Breakfast was outstanding and the breakfast area was gorgeous. The hotel pool was always lovely and quiet. The proximity to a beautiful beach and beach bar as well as other local amnefies couldn't be more perfect. We benefitted from an upgraded room. Looking at other hotels these rooms seem to be the best. This is only to help and not a criticism but it would be great to get more of a caribbean vibe. Having background music in reception and public areas would be nice. A small rum punch on arrival, maybe some nice local flowers on reception would make a better entrance. In the room, a TV that works would be good. Wifi is patchy. A nespresso machine in upgraded rooms would be nice. More coffee creamer and nicer cups would be a small improvement. Coffee at breakfast needs to be better. Paint the hotel! The colours are a bit depressing. Maybe get a local artist to paint onto the cottages, giving each room some personality. Give these rooms names associated with the island or the area's history. The pool area could do with some updating. Nicer pool furniture, swing chairs. Turn the shaded seating areas into cabanas maybe. Encourahe people to hang out and spend money! Grounds are beautiful but the fabric of the hotel reminds of hotels I stayed in, in the early 80s in SE Asia....that have all moved on now or don't exist. We'll definitely be back- thanks so much.