PFG

We are spneding days in Cancun (Hilton) in January. Should we rent a car to get around?
Is it safe to drive? Is it possible to drive to Tulum for the day?

Thnaks!

Little_Man

we'll be in Cancun at the end of the month and plan to rent a car, so we can take day trips to Playa/Tulum. Probably around Cancun itself, we'll just take the bus, but the cost of renting a car for 5 days and taking a couple of day trips is more economical than getting airport tranfers and renting at our hotel for us.
I've been reading a lot of warnings about speed traps lately an police scams -- be careful of your speed. Also, I would rent a less conspicuous car (I like the tsuro, which looks like an old Nissan sentra), rather than a jeep or van or something, so we stand out less as tourists.
I think it is quite safe overall.

colokid

Yes, it is safe as long as you understand the rules of the road. They are a bit different in MX but once you understand driving makes sense. Also, there has been a big step up in police presence on 307 between Cancun and PDC as they are trying to cut down on speeding and accidents so make sure you stay the speed limit. I always rent a car and will again in a few weeks. Yes, you can drive to Tulum for the day. It's about 40 min to PDC from Cancun and then another 20 or so to Tulum. Lots to see. Have fun.

colokid

frankie,

When are you going? I'll be in PDC from the 2nd through the 9th.

Sue

colokid

http://www.playa.info/playa-del-carm...ntal-cars.html

Here's some info on driving in MX.

Little_Man

hi colokid, we're ending up in Cancun 7/30 - 8/4. Looks like the Gran Melia for us! We'd hoped The Marriotts would be back in business by then, but no such luck. Then we were excited about the new Mayakoba, but reviews aren't good at all yet..
have a great trip!

Little_Man

oops posted too soon, where are you staying in Playa?

colokid

I think Riviera Del Sol for a few days and then the friend I'm going with has a timeshare at Mayan Palace (ugh) so I'll be there for four nights. But, I'll have the car so I'll be able to get around. I'm surprised somewhat about Mayakoba but it is new so it's to be expected. The new Esmerelda and Oriental Mandarin also look to be very nice. There's so much construction everywhere it's incredible but last month the beach was gorgeous and the water was great. Hopefully the condo will be done soon haha so we can at last have a place to stay. You're right about the speed traps - one heading south on 307 just after the turn from the airport heading south and one just south of PDC by Playacar. There must have been one heck of an accident last month on the highway when we were returning from Coba - at least 6 ambulances heading south right after a bad rain storm. Also, the less conspicuous your vehicle the better off you are - one reason why I don't like Executive. Who are you renting from? (car)

Little_Man

We've rented from Executive before, but their rates are high this time -- Hertz thru AAA had good rates, they seem to be reputable. What about you?

colokid

Ace works with Executive but at a much cheaper rate so I may go with them. Also checked out cancunsteve, America car rental and Easyway. I used Easyway last month with the 0%deductible. They were very good with customer service but their rate for August was high and I didn't have a 5th gear or reverse when I brought it back. I like the 0%. The only thing I don't like about Ace is they use Executive cars with those identifying signs on them. But for the week the rate was $123 plus $11 per day for the insurance. I'm still looking for a better deal.

jamie99

Hi,

We used Easyway this past May, I think the cost was about $365 for ten days rental of a Nissan Tsuro. That included tax and insurance. They give 10% discount for AAA and another 5% discount for cash. We have used Executive in the past but their rates have gotten too high.

PFG

Thnaks for the help!

xxxx

For those of you going in the next few weeks....if you get south of Cancun, would you look at (or at least see what is being said of) the new Grand Sirenis? Thanks.

shiftline

I stayed at the Grand Sirenis Over christmas, Here is a full review with pictures:


http://grand-sirenis.com/my_review_g...is_resort.html

-Deven