kelly

Hello - can anyone help me decide between these two properties? The Ceiba del Mar looks beautiful but I've read that the beach and the water in this area is not so good. Does anyone have any experience with the Omni Puerto Venturas? The Omni may have a better beach area but may not be as nice of a resort. Please help! We are a group of single 20 something's looking for relaxation, some fun, nice beach and nice accomodations with ocean views.<BR><BR>thank you

Randy

I visited Ceiba del Mar, along with about 15 other Cancun/Riviera Maya resorts in October. Ceiba is a beautiful, intimate resort. The beach is fine. Has a great spa, and each of the buildings has its own roof-top jacuzzi and bar with attendant. Recommend taking the all-inclusive option, since there isn't anywhere to go nearby. If you're looking for excitement, nightlife, etc. it wouldn't be the best fit...too quiet. Would recommend something like the Riu Palace http://sunfinder.com/cancun/riu_palace_mexico.htm or Gran Porto, which will provide nightlife in Playa del Carmen. The Oasis Akumal is also a popular and very reasonable option. Have fun!

Kelly

Thanks Randy - what's your opinion of the Omni? Is its location better in terms of proximity to Playa del Carmen or other nightlife?

Randy

Hi Kelly,<BR><BR>Sorry, I'm not familiar with the Omni Puerto Aventuras, but am the Oasis Puerto Aventuras. It was just remodeled following the hurricane in September. Either of the two should be about 20 minutes or so from Playa del Carmen.

Kelly

Hi Randy - what's the area like that Ceiba del Mar is in? Would we have to take a taxi or bus to get anywhere? I noticed the hotel provides bikes for their guests. Would it be reasonable to bike to Playa del carmen or elsewhere?<BR>thanks!

randy

Hi Kelly,<BR><BR>The bikes are primarily for riding around the resort's property. The main road south is about a mile inland, and is a very busy thoroughfare. You would need to take a taxi or have car rental to get to Play del Carmen, which is about another 20 minutes south.<BR><BR>Just outside Ceiba is a residential area. As I recall, there was one other hotel nearby, maybe the Iberostar, but it's all-inclusive, so it restricts outside visitors.<BR>

Matt

Hi Kelly. I'm staying at the Omni Puerto Aventuras in January. It's been difficult finding much information on this resort, due to the small size (30 rooms). I, as well, considered Ceiba Del Mar. However, I wanted to be further south of Cancun and closer to Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Xel Ha, Cozumel Ferry etc. as we are spending our last 3 nights at the Le Meridien in Cancun.<BR><BR>There are a couple of posts on this website and several more on mytravelboard.com. I have not heard anything negative about this hotel except for a lady not getting her reserved room a couple of years ago due to overbooking.<BR><BR>By the way, what's the best rate you have been able to find? $197 a night, non AI, is the best I've found for an OCEAN VIEW ROOM. I've seen $160 on some other sites, but the rooms have all been Marina View.<BR><BR>Have a great time on your trip. I'll post some comments when I get back at the end of January.

Kelly

Hi Matt-<BR>Well, after even further research and angst, we've changed our plans completely. Ironically, we're now booked at Le Meridien in Cancun. Although Playa sounds like a wonderful laid back place, I was beginning to get nervous about not having enough to do in Puerto Aventura. We considered changing our hotel to something directly in Playa but then I found a great deal at Le Meridien. I've been to Cancun many times and really enjoy it. My friend I'm traveling with is a more laid back type, so I thought she might prefer Playa. However, Le Meridien sounds like it has a laid back atmosphere (no spring break party-goers) and it's not right in the middle of the party scene. I hope we made the right decision.<BR>The price I had at the Omni was $900 pp for 7 nights which included our airfare from Detroit. Our price for Le Meridien is $800 pp (no food included).<BR>Please post a review when you get back from the Omni. I'm anxious to here what its like for a possible return visit!<BR><BR>have fun!