My husbands family is having a mini reunion in Cancun next April or May for 7 nights.
One of the couples has been already and stayed at the Riu Caribe. So, that was their suggestion on where to stay. Can anyone tell me the best time to book for next year and if we should go through a travel agent, the hotel directly, or one of the travel websites.
Thanks to all who can give me advice.
Also, anyone who might have stayed at this particular hotel, can you tell me what a good price for 7 nights would be for the AI?

You do not say where you live but if I were you I would find a good travel agent and see what package deals are there. Companies like Funjet, Apple, etc. all offer nice air/hotel deals that can often be really good. A good travel agent will know which ones operate from your area and what is available. I really think that is the best way.

Thanks for the advice. We live in Kentucky. He is youngest of 7 and so far 5 couples, including us, have committed to meeting there. They will be coming from Florida, California, Illinois and Tenn.
So, I know all deals will not be the same but I wanted to get an idea of how much we needed to save up. They are planning late April, early May. Is this a good time?
I did check a couple sites and came up with around $2500 for 7 nights at the Riu Caribe. That seemed high compared to what other people I know have paid.
But, like everything else, prices are going up.

That price does seem high. Have you check out Apple and Funjet as Reisender suggested? They usually do offer the bnest prices.

I tried funjet and got just less that $2500 for us to go the last week in April.
When I checked Apple they did not come up with the Riu Caribe for a price check.
I am not sure why, but they had the Riu Cancun and also Riu Palace.

There are so many wonderful places in that area....look into some of the other resorts. YOu might want to check out the Rivier Maya area which is outside of Cancun. I would recommend any of the Iberostar resorts there. Very family oriented.
Also...this person specializes in Mexico and Caribbean...check her out
www.tripsurfer.net

Thanks. I will do that.