Just got back yesterday from one of the properties in that group (Reef Regency at north end) but there is significant work going on at all the properities there e.g. Reef Regency, Sabor, Sabor Exclusive and Aura. I have not heard of Aura changing names but given the number management companies over the years it would not surprise me (if that is waht you meant by Secrets). I think Dreams is the name I heard.
We initially used the wooden pier in front of Aura for diving since we were told that the concrete northern pier was unavailable but we think that there was some issue with a homeowner and Dive Palancar (divers walking through the yard and the path torn down a bit). We started using the concrete pier for the reminder of our 10 days tho. There was no charge for using either pier as there was last year. Be aware that the path, stairs and pier at the northern end are in a bit of disrepair. If you are in Aura then the wood pier there is most convenient.
Aura had completely gutted the beach bar and snack bar but were working on it. Many other restaurants like the northern one we use, Mosiac in Sabor exclusive and we heard a restaurant in Aura were closed.
The Hotel section - Sabor- was undergoing major renovation (rooms) - paint, badge door entry, pools, grounds, in anticipation of being fully booked for Ironman.
The word we got was that many if not all projects were scheduled to be done before Ironman at the end of this month (Nov 25).
So I can't say if they are behind schedule or not, just messy. We did hear some construction but it was not bad. If you are not high maintenance it is tolerable and I would expect significant progress by January. While there we did talk to some people who were in Aura who opted to move to the north end (Reef Regency) though I don't know the details but my impression was that is was not due to noise but lack of restaurants.
We did spend half the day diving in the am every day so the construction did not start before we left.
I would post this question again in Dec to check progress. I would expect that going into high season, the ownership would get things in order. If you have specific questions or need clarification, just ask.
