All-inclusive resorts are often marketed as dream destinations where everything is taken care of—luxury accommodations, endless buffets, and entertainment. But sometimes, the reality can be far from the picture-perfect advertisements. Recent reports from travelers visiting Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun, owned by Blue Diamond Resorts and part of Marriott's "Autograph Collection," have revealed a troubling practice that every traveler should know about.
The Allegation: NDAs Before Medical Assistance
Several guests have reported being asked to sign non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) before resort staff would call for medical assistance during emergencies. This is not only unethical but also incredibly alarming. It places vulnerable travelers in a position where they must prioritize immediate medical help over their right to share their experiences publicly.
Imagine being in a medical emergency—perhaps food poisoning, a severe allergic reaction, or an accident—and being told that help won’t arrive unless you sign away your rights to speak about what happened. This practice seems to prioritize protecting the resort's reputation over guest safety, which is both morally wrong and potentially illegal in some jurisdictions.
Why I Avoid All-Inclusives
I want to start by saying that I have never stayed in an all-inclusive resort—and never would. Over the past 30+ years, I’ve found so much more joy in staying at small posadas and family owned hotels where I can mix with locals and experience the culture of the area. Even in Cancun, I’ve always chosen smaller accommodations where the people are kind and genuinely care about their guests.
This approach has allowed me to enjoy authentic experiences, meet incredible people, and avoid the corporate, one-size-fits-all vibe of massive resorts. Hearing stories like this one about NDAs only strengthens my resolve to stay far away from these operations.
Why This Matters
1. Guest Safety Should Come First
Hotels and resorts have a duty of care to ensure the safety and well-being of their guests. Delaying medical care to coerce an NDA signature is a breach of this responsibility.
2. Transparency and Accountability
NDAs are often used to silence victims and prevent stories of negligence from reaching the public. This lack of transparency can perpetuate dangerous conditions for future guests.
3. Corporate Responsibility
While the Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun is independently owned, its affiliation with Marriott through the "Autograph Collection" raises questions about corporate oversight. Marriott must address whether this practice aligns with its brand values and commitment to guest safety.
What You Can Do to Protect Yourself
1. Research Before Booking
Look up recent guest reviews and complaints about the resort. Platforms like TripAdvisor, Reddit, and other travel forums can be valuable resources.
2. Ask Questions
Before your trip, contact the resort to inquire about their policies regarding medical emergencies. A lack of clear answers can be a red flag.
3. Know Your Rights
Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs. In many countries, refusing medical assistance or delaying it could be grounds for legal action.
4. Travel Insurance
Always invest in comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. This gives you the option to bypass resort services altogether if you face a similar situation.
5. Spread Awareness
Share this information with others planning trips to Cancun or similar destinations. By staying informed, travelers can make safer choices.
Demand Change
If you or someone you know has been affected by this practice, consider reporting it to:
Local Mexican authorities
The Canadian or U.S. consulate (depending on your nationality)
Marriott's corporate headquarters
Consumer protection organizations and travel watchdog groups
Final Thoughts
Traveling should be a joyous experience, not one fraught with fear and exploitation. It’s unacceptable for resorts to prioritize their image over the health and safety of their guests. By spreading the word and holding these companies accountable, we can push for a travel industry that truly puts people first.
Let’s take a stand together. If you’ve experienced something similar, feel free to share your story. Together, we can make a difference.
