This was our first all-inclusive resort and we had heard the good, the bad, and the ugly from friends and coworkers who stay at them regularly. For the most part, the name Riu Palace is synonymous with consistent good quality so we chose them when booking in Cabo. The location was great with a view of El Arco almost everywhere and we were able to walk the beach to downtown Cabo. We didn’t really have a problem with the food either–The choices at breakfast and lunch were extensive and fresh and we could have literally eaten something different everyday. Dinners were a bit limited with a few restaurants on site that required reservations being made early. We did not like having to stand in line first thing in the morning each day at the concierge to reserve our spot.  Maybe a system where you choose and reserve your restaurant choices prior to arrival would be a bit more efficient and guest friendly. We did have a bit of a problem with the cocktails.  Although “free”, the selection at the pool bars and at the restaurants was somewhat limited and the quality of the liquor not that great. But that seems to be a common complaint at most all-inclusives.  The pool area was always clean with plenty of loungers for everyone.  The grounds were lush and clean and the property well maintained. One thing we did not like about Cabo in general is that, although the property was right on the water, the Sea of Cortez is really not swimmable and the sand is not the soft powdery kind and almost hurts your feet. Also, once you walk off the property onto the beach you are bombarded with Mexicans selling everything from hats to jewelry and really don’t know how to take NO for an answer.  It was very annoying. All in all though we had a great time and wouldn’t hesitate to stay at another Riu in another location.