Which AI?
 

I am trying to decide on the best AI for a trip with my wife in the Riveria Maya area. We have stayed at 2 AI's in the past Couples in Negril and Sandals in the Bahamas...both years ago.

We are looking for something a little more upscale then these resorts.

The most important features would be great food, nice pool and beach....something more on a luxury level. We want to relax but also have options.

We are looking at Zoetry and it seems to have some nice features but the beach does not seem to be that nice and I am worried about it being to quite.

I was also looking at Grand Velas which seems to be nice as well. However, I am afraid that with its size it would be too crowded for what we were looking for.

Any thoughts or suggestions on these resorts or others in the area?

The Royal at Playa Del Carmen has everything you want. The beach is beautiful and the food is excellent. I requested smoked trout at breakfast and it was waiting for me every morning. The service was outstanding. Great resort

NYY,

My wife and I will be staying at Secrets Maroma beginning this weekend. From everything I've read on Trip Advisor, it seems like it might fit the bill for what you are looking for. The beach at Secrets Maroma is reportedly one of the best in the world. Will be happy to post an update once we return home.

I do like the look of Zoetry, but then found they allow children, so crossed it off my list. We've stayed at the Royal Playa del Carmen and enjoyed it, but from your comments it might not be what your looking for. We've been to 2 Sandals also.

I agree with Secrects Maroma. Maroma Beach is the nicest beach in that area. However, I also been looking at the El Dorado Maroma and feel it might be less crowded and more intimate. Possibly more upscale. Also, I like the look of the swim up rooms better.

We just returned from Secrets Maroma. I think it has everything you are looking for. We were on the 4th floor in an ocean view room and from our balcony we could see the entire resort and the ocean. The first floor rooms are the swim out rooms and I think they would be noisy because right outside the door is the ice machine, elevator and concierge desk. So there always be will people walking by your room, talking and making noise. Preferred Rooms are closer to the beach than the other rooms. If you want a oceanfront room then take a look at Iberostar Grand - just a mile up the beach from Secrets Maroma. We stayed there last year and had a room right on the beach.

Thanks for the responses. We are juggling between Secrets Maroma, El Dorado Royale and Excellence Playa Mujeras.

We are leaning toward Excellence at this point - it looks great and has great reviews.

Does anybody have any thoughts on the comparison of these 3 or comments on Excellence PM?