Deciding between these two for an August vacation for a family of four

Ritz is more luxe and service is incredible. (It is just a bit stuffy though.)

Le M is nice - probably better for the kids - but I would most likely rank them...

Ritz or JW Marriott
Fiesta Americana Grand Coral Beach
Le Meridien

I agree w/Diana

LeMer. does look very pretty. The only problems I see with it are some reviews on tripadvisor re. poor service.

If money was the same, and usually its not, the Ritz is a lot more $$, I'd probably choose the Ritz, but LeM in a way is more attractive, at least architecturally...and maybe more casual which would appeal to me.
Have fun deciding!

Sorry, but I have to disagree! The Le Meridien is much better than the Ritz, in my opinion. The Ritz is very dark inside and looks like a prison from the outside (in fact, that's what I've heard a local call it). In contrast, the Le Meridien has a light, airy atmosphere with relaxing, soft music and sunlit restaurants and inside areas. I will admit that the service at the Ritz is a bit better (nobody does it better than the Ritz in some areas!) but the service I've received at the Le Meridien was great - absolutely no complaints. Plus, they have the best spa in all of Cancun. I choose the JW and Le Meridien over the Ritz (which is not true in many destinations....this Ritz is just not as beautiful...). The heavy draperies, dark inside areas, etc. just don't make me feel like I'm vacationing along the Caribbean. Plus, the Le Meridien is usually much less expensive...the Ritz always prices itself higher b/c they are the Ritz and that's what they do, but for the money, value and overall hotel experience, I say go for Le Meridien.

The money is actually fairly even. I can get a one bedroom suite on club level at the Ritz as compared to two non club at Le Parker MEridian. Stuffy doesnt bother me. I am looking for the best overall experience. In August there will be tons of kids everywhere, so that is not a concern

well, maybe then, the Ritz might actually be the better deal, especially if stuffy doesn't matter to you. The Club level would be a real plus, I'm sure.