Hello!! My boyfriend and I are looking for a good deal to either Cancun or Playa del Carmen. Any suggestions on an AI that is reasonable? We just returned from Punta Cana, and we stayed at the Gran Melia, which we loved. The Melia in Cancun is not an AI, so we are looking around for another great deal. We want to stay for six nights, and we do not want to spend more than 1200 USD. Since I will be using frequent traveler miles for the flight, we want this to be a budget-friendly vaca. THanks!!

We are a family of three older sons and parents and have traveled extensively in Mexico and elsewhere. This August, we are going to Akumal Beach Resort, just south of Playa del Carmen. It is an AI, but not a luxury one. We've been to Akumal and up and down the coast several times, and this is one of the nicest beaches around. We got two ocean view superior rooms for 7 nights for $2600, so I would guess that you could stay within your budget if you go this summer. www.locogringo.com has lots of ABR reviews.

I went to Playa Del Carmen in December and I stayed at The Reef Playacar. We were there for about two weeks and payed $2290 All Inclusive. I think that might be a good option for you.

I understand that the Sandos Carocol (sp?) in Playa is reasonable. We stayed at the Royal Playa....fantastic, but about $140 PP/PN. It was a great deal for what it included. You really don't need an AI in Playa as there are amazing restaurants/ bars/lounges/etc. It is really a fun town. If you look into a hotel option, Playa Maya gets great reviews and it is less than $140 a night on the beach (a great beach!) I also met a lady on fodors who has a condo a few blocks from the beach and from the main street. She rents it out for $700 a week. Check Bookit.com for great AI deals, but I highly reccomend Playa over Cancun and if you can swing the Royal Playa del Carmen, do it if you want AI.

Well what do you want? Crowds and loud and cars aka Miami Beach Mexico or a little rowdyness and wonderful dining options and huge,clear sparsly inhabited beaches Try Shargri La Caribe ,Playa Del Carmen. Includes bkfast(wonderful spread) and dinner,you are free for lunch and a 5 minute walk to the Fifth Avenue, a hub of acivity,clubs,resturants etc.Liquor is not included but you can go to town, buy what you want and a styrafoam ice chest and have at it for mucho less pesos.We did two days out of 7 then just went to the bar and our tab at checkout was $212.00 and we LIKE CUBAN RUM AND COKES,the BIG ONES!!!
Have fun, it is a great wonderful place!!!!
Charlie