smschloss

Looking for a relaxing vacation in February with husband and two daughters 17 and 20. Want an all inclusive and traveling from Connecticut USA. Want a good beach, but also closer excursions to historical places and/or snorkling. Was first thinking of Dom. Republic, but hearing betteer things about the weather in Mexico. Can anyone suggest an AI resort? thanks

MFNYC

There are several in the Mayan Riviera area. We used to do AI's when our kids were younger, but switched to condo rentals once they because old enough to do a little wandering on their own. We rent within walking distance of Playa Del Carmen. PDC has many very good restaurants to choose from (much better options that what we've had at AI's), along with a lively 5th Avenue, and some shopping. There is also very inexpensive public transportation to nearby ruins and other sights.

When we stayed in AI's years ago, we stayed at Barcelo Maya resort, and another that has since changed hands. Barcelo was very nice, and has a great beach, but it isn't walking distance to any town (if that's something you are interested in).

suze

I don't have a specific resort to recommend, but agree the "mayan riviera" is where you'd want to head for the best selections of AI's and convenience of flights from back East.

KVR

There are many AI resorts outside of Playa del Carmen. Look at the Iberostars, Barcelos, RIU's and Occidentls. Close to 5th Avenue is the Royal Playa del Carmen, which is adults only and thier sister resort the Gran Porto Real. They are about a 5 minute walk to 5th Avenue. There are many non-AI boutique hotels right off of 5th Avenue. Some offer 2 meals or just breakfast and are a 5 to 10 minute walk to the beach. They will also provide passes for beach chairs at a beach club. There are a few boutique hotels directly on the beach. We have been to Playa twice and did the AI thing, but are next trip in December, we chose the Playa Palms, which is on the beach close to 5th Avenue and non-AI.

I can understand you wanting AI with your adult children as it can be easier and more convenient. Many of the AI resorts are about 15-30 minutes outside of Playa del Carmen, so it can be rather expensive to travel by cab back and forth if you plan on going to 5th Avenue several times.

Most all of the hotels are close to outside activites and sites. You can book tours directly from the hotel's tour desk or on-line before going. I would suggest that if you are interested in Xcaret or Xel-Ha, just pay the entracne fee when you get there. I have used this on-line company several times with no issues and have just book 3 tours with them for December. http://www.playadelcarmentours.com/ We like guided tours that include transporation and lunch. However, others may prefer to do things on their own.

schmerl

There are so many family friendly AI resorts in the Riviera Maya. You have already been given some excellent suggestions.
The resorts in the Playacar area are closer to the town of Playa del Carmen and have had beach restoration done in the past year.
Do you want a BIG resort or a smaller one? The Barcelo Maya is very nice but is HUGE. Iberostar Tucan/Quetzal is also in Playacar and is smaller and very jungly. All the resorts are quite nice.
If you want to plan excursions contact http://www.edventuretours.com.mx/ They will design your day around what you want to do and you won't be stuck on a bus filled with other people. They provide transportation and a guide.

hopefulist

We chose cute, inexpensive hotels in great locations for our 2 weeks on the Yucatán last June - check out the photos with blog and detailed travelogue links here:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/staceyholeman/collections

Happy trails!