What do you hate about AKR ? I have seen many negative reviews. I don't care about the food or the quality of the room. Is there an issue with the dive operation?
I didn't "hate" AKR by any means. AKR was fine. "Fine" meaning it met my expectations for a mid-range dive resort. I suspect that if I had gone with a group, as in the recent Scubaboard Invasion, that would probably have addressed some of my (admittedly minor) complaints about the group I had to dive with. From what I have read on SB, I get the impression CocoView would have suited me better, that's all. Again, nothing against AKR--it is adequate.
My review is here: Anthony's Key Resort (AKR) trip report - November 2013
If room and food are of no consequence to you, then why not stay at a guest house or something of that sort and dive with a dive op of your choice in West End? I mean, why bother with a resort? I did just that on a previous trip, and I think I enjoyed diving with West End Divers more than I did with AKR. It seemed more personalized--less perfunctory. It can even be a cheaper way to go than AKR, too. Resorts are the answer for people to whom the room, food, amenities, etc.--and not having to plan anything--are important considerations. My advice would be to go to AKR or another such resort if the idea of a "resort" carries some weight in your decision. Otherwise, why not just book diving and lodging separately? Eat when and where you want. West End is a cool place. Resorts--at least AKR--are isolated. Schedule dives for when you want, etc., rather than paying for a week package at a resort. Just something to consider.