Hi all! I'm planning a trip to PDC in December, and I think I've narrowed it down to ASP or RH. We love AIs, nice beaches, quiet, relaxation... and GOLF. I see that you can purchase an AI upgrade at ASP to include unlimited golf. Does anyone know about golf at RH? Also, any input to help me decide between the two would be appreciated. Thanks in advance!

The golf course is located right across the street from RH, you can walk, it's that close. Golf is not included but I believe the course has multi-day packages you can purchase and less expensive twilight rates. Keep in mind that you will have a transportation issue at ASP so check to see if it is included, I think ASP is about 15 minutes from the course because I believe it is not located in the Playacar section with the other resorts (?) We loved RH it was the best value vacation we have ever had for such an upscale experience, well worth the price.

Thanks Eileen - I really appreciate your input!

We really enjoyed ASP (first AI, and we were impressed), but the "beach" there isn't much. Mostly the coastline is rocky, but they have brought in some sand so you can sit on a beach. We did use the beach, but we generally preferred sitting by the pools (which are very nice). However, if you stay at ASP you can also visit their sister property, Xpu Ha (15 minutes or so further south), and that beach is beautiful.

I think ASP is a little south of PDC proper.

You should go with Royal Hideway ,it's the number ONE rated resort in Riviera Maya on a nice beach , great location , 5 minutes taxi to town or steps from a shopping plaza in Playacar , and since there're so many nice beachfronts resorts , I wouldn't want to stay at one without a REAL beach (like ASP)to enjoy or go through trouble taking shuttles back & forth to other beaches.

I think the two are in different classes. In Feb, 2002, we were at the RH (that was our 2nd visit - 3rd was last Feb) and voluntarily got "bumped" for 2 nights due to overbooking and were sent to the Spa Palace (and got serious credit at RH for last year's visit!!!). In all fairness, the Spa Palace had just recently opened, but it is clear to me that there is really no comparison. The spa and exercise facilities at Spa Palace are world class - and far superior to those at RH - but that's where the comparison stops. RH has just over 200 rooms, whereas the SP has over 800 - and although the rooms at the SP are quite nice (and a 2 person jacuzzi as opposed to a jacuzzi tub at RH), the level of service is altogether different. Also, the food at SP is adequate at best, whereas each of the restaurants at RH are absolutely wonderful, and the service is world class.
The bottom line is that if the spa and fitness facilities are a top priority, then the Spa Palace would be a good choice. If you demand world class service and "the best of everything," RH would be the logical choice.
P.S. ALso absent at RH is the heavy handed time share pitch that is a part of all Palace stays.

I really appreciate the advice - maybe RH is a better choice. But did either of you - DOH and Isnhc - play golf while staying at RH? I can't find any AI price including golf, and it can really add up if we both play every day...