An Insider’s History of Tropical Palms
Karen Norris, a Tropical Palms Team Member, and her husband, Richard, have been coming to Tropical Palms since 1988. She’s seen a lot of changes over the years, and some very dramatic ones since Royalty Resorts took over the property in July of 2008. Get our unofficial historian’s story of all that’s happened.
Karen and Richard Norris became full time RVers in 1988 after selling their business in Chicago and stayed at Tropical from November of that year through March of ‘89.
“We fell in love with it right away because while it was near so many attractions, once you entered the property it was like an oasis. But over the years the property kept changing hands and frankly a lot of things that needed attention were neglected,” Karen says. “It was the strong friendships we developed that kept us coming back.”
“The area around the pool slowly deteriorated. Extensive landscaping was needed. The streets needed paving, lighting was poor, the pond wasn’t taken care of, there weren’t any picnic tables, the food wasn’t very good, there was litter everywhere and there weren’t really any activities for Guests. Happily, that all changed when Royalty took over. Changes have been sweeping.”
Much of that neglect had to do with Tropical Palms frequently changing hands. Soon after the Norris’ first visit, the property went into receivership and was sold. The new owners held it for about six years, but did little. It was sold again in the late 90’s and then again in 2003 to Equity Lifestyles. Then, 18 months ago, Royalty Resorts leased the property.
“Within three weeks of Royalty taking control, new pool furniture was delivered. It was the first sign big changes were happening. They took out the 30 oldest cottages and brought in new ones, resurfaced the existing pool deck and then enlarged it by 2600 square feet. Now, we have special activities with live entertainment every weekend at the pool. People are having fun again.
“Royalty’s also done extensive landscaping to get the property back to its pristine state. They’ve repaved the streets and added lighting. They’ve changed the menu and brought in a new chef for the restaurant and poolside cafe. They put in free WiFi, an exercise room with a treadmill, bike, weight machine and flat screen TV, added an 18-hole miniature golf course, bocce ball and French lawn bowling (petanque). They’ve even added a playground for the kids,” Karen says.
“Now, there’s always something special going on. We have monthly parties for long-term Guests and monthly parties for Sandcastle Owners. We’ve been so happy with what Royalty Resorts has done with the property that we sold our RV and bought a cottage.
“One of the biggest changes is in the attitude of the Team. I started to work a few years ago after being a Guest for 15 years. Royalty has made me so proud to be a part of a truly fantastic Team that treats Guests they way they should be treated. And people see the difference. They talk about it all the time.
“Tropical Palms is a place where you come as a Guest and leave as a friend. That’s the kind of history Royalty Resorts is making here. I’m proud to be a part of it.”
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