Rich5

We've decided (at the last minute) to take a few days off and go somewhere warm. We have a 14 yo and an 11 yo, and my philosophy is somewhat "if they are entertained, we'll be happy too". They really like a fancy pool (with a waterslide would be awesome) and bigger waves (enough to boogie board is fine).

We pretty much just care that it is warm and that the food is above average.

There are so many resorts to choose from. I'm between Iberostar Lindo and going to Aruba right now. Does anyone with teens or tweens (sort of a mature one though) have any better advice on a great resort?

schmerl

The Iberostar Lindo would be perfect for what you want. No water slides, but they have a wave pool and lazy river.
The Barcelo Maya has a water park if you want to check that out.
I know the Iberostar has plenty activities to keep your children busy. There is even a disco for the under 18 crowd.

dcorey

The sea along the Riviera Maya is usually flat. We were there last week and it was very rough and surfing and boogie boarding was great. It was very rough! The last 2 days, the sea was flat.

Rich5

schmerl - Thank you very much. I think we are going to try it out. I'm a little nervous about it for my husband and I, but I do think it seems like a great choice for the kids. And if they are happy, we will be much happier.

dcorey - Thanks for the tip . I will hope for rough!! I read a SLEW of reviews over at Trip Advisor, and many mentioned the beach having a "red flag" . . .meaning to take caution due to waves . . .so hopefully we'll get lucky.

schmerl

Rich5 ,
You and your husband will LOVE the IB Lindo.
There is a concierge in each building to make your dinner reservations and you can make them all at one time. No need to go each day to make them. Try the Cajun restaurant there and the Japanese at the IB Beach..also the Lindo gourmet.
Go to this site and register and you can view all the menus. The site is also filled with great info...
http://www.iberostar-board.com/boards/index.php

Here is a link to a map of the IB Lindo/Maya and Beach/Del Mar so you can get an idea of the layout.
http://www.iberostar-board.com/IB_Maya_Lindo.jpg

The Commercial Center is across from the Lindo lobby (not on the map above) and houses some shops, additional eateries (tacos, burgers, crepes and icecream) which are included. The disco is also there. The tacos are fantasctic. The ice cream throughout the resort is wonderful. You and your husband might enjoy some coconut ice cream with Kahlua over it--YUM!

Rich5

anybody have trouble with getting sick? There have been a number of posts about food poisoning at IB Lindo (though this could be just plain old "turista"). Can you drink water, use ice in drinks, etc.?

schmerl

They have purified water at all the big resorts. I use tap water to brush my teeth, but drink bottled water. I use ice all the time there and drink the water at their restaurants and bars.
People get sick because they are over eating and drinking and also are eating foods that they don't normally eat. I do stay away from salads when I'm in Mexico. Just use common sense and you'll be fine.

schmerl

Also...the fridge in your room will have soda, water, beer, etc. We always requested extra bottles of water each day. Just leave a note with what you want stocked in your fridge.

sharie

I was sick at the Lindo. Just don't drink tap water/ice or eat salad and you might be fine

lifetothefullest

The Iberostar Lindo is the best resort that I would think of with what you are looking for!
Beth
http://www.riviera-maya-hotels.com/