What exactly *is* a cabana?

[JC Butterfly]

Forgive me, I'm ignorant.

What exactly is a cabana?

I've read about people renting them as a place to hang out by the pool and have a fridge or tv or something. But how is this private? Is the tent closed off? If so, why would you want to sit in a tent by the pool? If its open, how is this private? I guess I just don't understand how it works, could someone please explain?

Also, is this something that can be reserved in advance of your stay or do you do it once you get there?

Thanks!
Brenda

 

[Winston112]

They can be reserved in advance, I called the hotel's fitness center and reserved ours. I was thinking of it as a way of reserving a good spot by the pool when the area is overcrowded and having sodas and water right there if you want them. Someone please let me know if that's not a practical way to use it.

 

[Puffy2]

I have reserved one to at the RP, our intent is to use it as a gathering place since we will be traveling with a small group of people (two - three families). We plan on having a "dinner by the pool" with the cabana as the "central location" to put coolers, etc... Plus, one in our group needs the shade for medical reasons. I've heard the cabanas at RP aren't as good as those at Hard Rock but I'm still not sure why exactly.

Do the cabanas at RP have the ceiling fan? TV? mini frig? table, chairs? How are they so different?

 

[suzysezso]

Yes, you did the right thing Winston. When the pool area gets crowded the cabana will be your own lovely oasis.
The Cabanas are like tents in that the 4 canvas sides may be opened or closed as you please, so you can keep the sides open and relax in the shade of it's roof, or if you want to change into your suit, have a nap, or whatever you can close the sides for complete privacy.
Each cabana has lounge chairs, a TV, a fridge stocked with snacks and beverages, and a table and chairs. Enjoy!