Hello. I'm staying at the Gran Porto Real in Playa del Carmen. Typically, for my vacations I pack two pair of shorts, two swimsuits, 2 t-shirts and 2 cotton button shirts. That and a pair of flip flops. Is there any need for long pants at the nicer restaurants? Thanks.

I am not sure if there is a dress code at the Porto Real, but there is not one at any of the restaurants in Playa that I am aware of. The no shoes, no shirts policy does not apply to Playa, believe me.

Jom - I can't answer your question, but I have one tip for you and one question. If you do take long pants, be sure to take 2. And, Are you taking any undergarments??? (I didn't see those on you list - perhaps you are going "commando" style)

All of PDC is very casual. There are only a couple of very nice restaurants.<BR>Why don't you add a pair of khakis or tropical weight slacks so you won't feel out of place if you do go to one of them. (Maybe some loafers too.)<BR>I really don't think you will have a problem though - it's a pretty bohemian atmosphere all over.

Thanks for the advice. And, yes, Hiho, there will be undergarments but 1. not too many, and 2. not always worn!<BR><BR>I may end up taking a pair of long pants, but more likely that I will not. One of the reasons I take vacations is to not dress up. I just don't want to be not allowed into a restaurant at the resort.<BR><BR>

Hi Jim. We stayed at the Porto Real in June. It is very casual. I personally wouldn't bring any long pants or anything dressy. If you go to Tulum I suggest spending some time at the Porto's sister hotel, Gran Sole. It was very nice and has a beautiful beach and everything there is all inclusive with your Porto Real "wrist band." This was my first AI experience and it was OK but wouldn't do it again. Careful with the buffet food. You'll have a great time!

Just got back from Gran Porto Real in July.<BR><BR>It's so HOT...the AI is worth it just for the bottles of water you'll need on the beach!<BR><BR>Do's and Don'ts<BR><BR>Buffet for breakfast is easy.....but make reservations at the Margarita Mia's and Italian restaurant...food is not bad..and the servers work hard.<BR><BR>Bring a wad of $1 bills to give out as tips to waiters for delivering drinks..not each time but once in a while.<BR><BR>Make sure you find the swim up bar..it's on top of the spa near the hair salon and sports bar..BEST KEPT SECRET. Have room service deliver you an order of guacamole while you relax up on top of the hotel sipping your "Dirty Monkey"<BR><BR>Bring some air freshener for the room..can get a little stale.<BR><BR>If you go to Tulum..bring swim trunks and you can hit the beach there....or stop at Gran Sole...they have a nice beach....but not much cover out there and a lot of seaweed.<BR><BR>I hear Xel-Ha is a great excursion.