Understanding NH Krystal and Why You Might Want Out

If you’ve ever come across NH Krystal in your vacation planning, chances are you were drawn in by the beachfront resorts, enticing amenities, or maybe a friendly timeshare rep at one of their locations. But if you're reading this, you might already have second thoughts, and with good reason. Here, we’ll break down who NH Krystal really is, what issues have been reported, and why working with a timeshare exit company might be your smartest move.

What is NH Krystal?

NH Krystal used to be a part of the NH Hotel Group, a large Spanish hotel chain that started back in 1978. They carved out NH Krystal as their beachside, leisure-oriented line of resorts located mostly in Mexico, Cancún, Puerto Vallarta, Ixtapa, and even in urban spots like Mexico City and Guadalajara. These resorts were marketed as family-friendly, all-inclusive escapes that offered meal plans, water sports, pools, and nightlife.

In 2001, NH Hotel Group bought out the original Krystal brand and incorporated it into their lineup. Then in 2018, things shifted again: Minor Hotels, a Thai hospitality conglomerate, acquired NH Hotel Group. By 2024, the NH Hotel Group had officially rebranded as Minor Hotels Europe & Americas.

Following a string of consumer complaints, the "NH" branding was quietly dropped from these resorts, and they're now simply known as Krystal Hotels & Resorts. The idea was to separate the resort properties from NH's business-focused hotel image and to distance the brand from a rocky track record.

The Corporate Web

The Krystal brand is part of a layered corporate structure:

• Ultimate parent company: Minor International (MINT), a Thai multinational with interests in hotels, restaurants, and retail.
• Hospitality division: Minor Hotels, which includes various brands like Anantara, Avani, Oaks, Tivoli, NH Collection, and formerly Krystal.
• Mexican operations: Managed under Hotelería Chicome S.A. de C.V.

This sprawling structure can make it hard for consumers to get answers when problems arise, especially when trying to file a complaint or pursue a refund.

A Quiet Rebranding

In response to the rising tide of criticism, the company dropped the "NH" prefix and rebranded their properties simply as Krystal Hotels & Resorts. It may sound like a minor name change, but it speaks volumes. This was likely done to sidestep the negativity attached to the NH Krystal name, particularly with respect to its timeshare dealings.

Some of the rebranded properties include:

• NH Krystal Cancún → Krystal Cancún
• NH Krystal Puerto Vallarta → Krystal Puerto Vallarta
• NH Krystal Ixtapa → Krystal Ixtapa

Even in Cuba, a property once called NH Krystal Laguna Villas & Resort reverted to its earlier name, removing the NH label altogether.

Problems Reported by Guests

This isn’t just a case of one or two bad reviews. Over the years, NH Krystal (now Krystal Hotels & Resorts) has gathered numerous complaints from frustrated visitors:

• Security Issues: One alarming case involved a full safe-box theft at NH Krystal Cancún, where a guest lost a laptop, camera, and jewelry. The hotel refused to show surveillance footage, despite there being no signs of forced entry.
• Cleanliness and Food Quality: Locations like NH Krystal Santa Fe and Zona Rosa have been criticized for dirty restaurant floors, tasteless or cold food, and even moldy bread. One guest even reported seeing preferential treatment given to foreign tourists over local guests.
• Disappointing Amenities: Guests at Krystal Puerto Vallarta noted forced tipping through receipts, a lack of entertainment, no room service during bad weather, and persistent beach vendors. There were also reports of surprise charges and even a guest claiming to have contracted Hepatitis A after a stay.
• Timeshare Complaints: This is the big one. The timeshare sales at Krystal resorts have been tied to misleading promises such as guaranteed rental income, easy resale options, vacation exchanges, and annuity plans through "Lloydshare," which was misrepresented as being affiliated with Lloyd's of London. Aggressive sales tactics and poor follow-through have left many owners feeling duped.
• Fraud Allegations: The concerns go beyond just guest dissatisfaction. Independent blogs and watchdog sites have reported investigations into NH Hotels for fraud. While official confirmation is sparse, the accumulation of negative experiences and allegations points to a troubling pattern.

Why You Might Want a Timeshare Exit Company

If you’re stuck in a timeshare with Krystal and feeling misled or pressured, you’re not alone. Many others have struggled to get out due to confusing contracts, lack of transparency, and a lack of accountability.

This is where a timeshare exit company can step in. They specialize in helping you legally distance yourself from an ownership that no longer benefits you. In cases involving companies like Krystal, where the paperwork and promises might be murky at best, getting professional help could make all the difference.

Make sure the exit company you choose is reputable, has a clear process, and doesn’t ask for large upfront payments. Look for reviews, client testimonials, and accreditations before signing anything.

Final Thoughts

Timeshares at first glance might seem like a great deal, but as NH Krystal's story shows, the experience can sour quickly. Between security lapses, questionable food standards, aggressive sales tactics, and a mysterious rebranding, the signs are there. If you’re one of the many people rethinking your investment, know that there are paths to get out, and you don’t have to navigate them alone.