We spent 6 fun and relaxing nights at the residence. I would absolutely recommend staying at Las Verandas over the St Regis hotel, especially if traveling with kids/group. We were able to use all the hotel amenities as if we were a hotel guest - restaurants, pool, spa. And the extra space with kids was so nice. The property backs up to a beautiful portion of the golf course, which makes it both very private and the back patio very enjoyable. The only downside I could think of is that you need to take a 2 min golf cart ride (7 min walk) to the beach vs. walking out of your room at the hotel. But after staying at the resort I would put very little value on that difference. Another upside of the property that the hotel doesn't have is the private community pool right outside. We didn't think we would use much, but later in our stay we used a few times and wish we used more. It is a very nice setting, and was so easy to take kids over, and a good spot to have lunch/dinner as part of itinerary on certain days. Also didn't have much of a crowd which was nice when wanting some family time. The property and resort were fantastic. And Lucia was so helpful. We even had to reschedule our trip on short notice due to a family illness and Lucia was more than accommodating, which we very much appreciated. We really enjoyed our PR vacation, and hope to be back at Las Verandas for a future vacation. Hoping to bring more family next time! Also, kids loved the rainforest trips and ziplining!!