My husband and I are planning a trip to Playa del Carmen in mid to late May and are looking at the Royal Hideaway Occidental as an AI resort. It seems most of the threads on this resort are rather old so I am wondering if anyone has been here recently. We're looking for a great beach and great food. Is there a better place to stay in the area? We have friends who have stayed here and were impressed, but I always want to know what Fodorites think before making a final decision.

Thanks,
Beth

have you tried tripadvisor.com?

tons of recent reports there

If you are going to stay at an all inclusive then there is no nicer one then the Royal Hideway.

On our trips to the Yucatan we go back and forth between "funky" and all-inclusive. Have stayed several times at the Royal Hideaway and think it wonderful

Love the RH...we stayed there last May.Its the best ...no question.

Thanks everyone for the replies. I had never used tripadvisor.com, but it was very helpful. It certainly sounds as though we cannot go wrong here, so we're leaving the last week in May. Thanks again!

Beth

We stayed at the RH last February. Certainly one of the very best resorts we have ever been too. Small, adults only (16+), customer service is top notch, surroundings beautiful, beach is fabulous, food devine. I don't think you can go wrong with the RH. Certainly in a great location in Playacar. You can walk to Playa Del Carmen or around Playacar or just stay put on the resort. They have a real toaster for breakfast - not one of those turning toasters like you find at other resorts. Smoked salmon for breakfast and champagne and orange juice and just about anything your heart desires. Felt very safe, relaxed and pampered while there.