Well, the vacation is over and it’s back to the real world.
The resort I stayed at ( Secrets Excellence) was as close to paradise as anyone could imagine. First class all the way.
Every inch of the property was beautifully landscaped, it had huge pools with a great swim up pool bar, more restaurants than we had days to sample and more amenities than I can list, including a stocked mini bar and two person jacuzzi in each room.
The people who worked there were incredibly eager to please and friendly. Most spoke limited English but knew enough to get the job done. I had no problem communicating with them and I know very little Spanish.
I would highly recommend this place to anyone who is considering traveling to the Caribbean.
As for armed guards restricting your travel, I never saw it, and I left the resort almost every day, either by walking the beautiful beaches, or by bus for day excursions. They did have security posted at the gates and both property lines along the beach, but they never attempted to restrict anyone’s travel and had no visible weapons. They seemed to be there simply to make sure everything was O.K. and to regulate access to the hotel.
The bottom line is I wish I could go back tomorrow. I wouldn't hesitate. I took loads of pictures. If I get a chance and can figure out a host, Maybe I'll post some.