As we drove to La Aldea lodge from the airport, I noticed a lot of typical hotels along the highway. They looked nice, but there was nothing really special about them. Then we turned down a country road with horses, on to a gravel drive surrounded by jungle. This hotel is different! Inside the lodge which had high ceilings and magnificent carvings and paintings, we were met by friendly staff. It took a while to check in but once we did - wow. We exited the rear of the lodge and were on raised paths surrounded by jungle! All the cabins are grouped off the paths into small lots of four or less, and have animal themes. There are helpful signs to the shared facilities like an all purpose room - great for families to get together, and the pool area which was massive. The drinks were amazing, delivered pool side, but the service was a little hit or miss. For example, sometimes drinks would take ten minutes or one hour! They also took almost four hours to deliver my room service one day, but I was sick and sleeping on and off so I didn't mind. They were SUPER apologetic though. The buffet breakfast was awesome, but the rest of the food was average. My friends had to send out for some medicine for me as I became quite ill with a cold that had run through our entire group. The hotel staff were really kind and helpful with getting me what I needed. I had my laundry done once which was great but you can only send small baskets, instead of large bags, and there are no DIY services for laundry. However, it all came back super clean and folded, and completely dry. The rooms were really comfy with excellent aircon, hot showers, and our own private balcony with hammock. This is the jungle, and we did have insects and more on our balcony, plus a giant leech and some insects inside as well. However, this didn't bother most of the people on our trip and was not an issue at all. If you are really anti-bug, probably don't stay in the jungle! Overall though, the atmosphere of this place cannot be beat. To be surrounded by jungle, to see wildlife all around you and hear it, even down to the little 'lodge cats' that meander here and there - let's call it the vibe. The vibe was epic. I would give five stars if the facility get a little more streamlined with their processes and the food improves, but would I stay here again? In a heartbeat.