Ok, why Mexico?
TripAdvisor Award
It's all about the resort. The Royal Playa del Carmen was a 2010 Traveler's Choice winner for Best Luxury Hotel, and they won a Certificate of Excellence in 2011 for having a consistently high volume of top ratings on Trip Advisor (check out the reviews here). When JD and I went there in 2009, it felt like a honeymoon. With only around 40 friends and family to invite, a destination wedding was a perfect fit, and it was important for us to choose a location that we knew everyone would love.
I'm in! Wait.. how much does it cost?
Right now, the Royal rooms are currently on sale with rates starting at $365/night for double occupancy (or $293/nt for single occupancy). Keep in mind that the price includes all five-star meals (with free room service) and top-shelf drinks for the duration of your stay, in addition to the luxurious accomodations. $2,250 is a good amount to budget for a long weekend for two people, including airfare (~$450pp from most cities) and three nights at the Royal.
JD says if you have any doubts, just take a look at the pictures on this website again - you get all that and MORE! :) You're also welcome to stay anywhere you'd like in Playa or the Riviera Maya, just keep us posted.
JD says if you have any doubts, just take a look at the pictures on this website again - you get all that and MORE! :) You're also welcome to stay anywhere you'd like in Playa or the Riviera Maya, just keep us posted.
Where in Playa del Carmen is the resort located?
Unlike most all-inclusives along the Riveria Maya (the area between Cancun and Playa del Carmen), the Royal is in downtown Playa, just two blocks away from 5th Avenue (the city's main pedestrian street) and directly on the beach - no car needed!
Which airport should I fly into?
You have two choices, and both are about 45 minutes away from the resort. One is to fly into Cancun (CUN) and take a shuttle to the Royal (see Booking Info). The other is to fly into Cozumel (CZM) and take the ferry across the water to Playa. We recommend whichever has the cheapest flight. If anything, Cozumel is a bit trickier because you have to taxi to and from the ferry, but gliding across the water gives you the feeling of being in Mexico sooner.
Are there any additional expenses?
The shuttle/ferry airport transfer runs around $50 per person (detailed in Booking Info), and you may want to bring some dollar bills for tipping. The latter are NOT REQUIRED at the resort, but like learning a few words in Spanish, it's kind gesture - especially if you've had particularly good service.
What's this about a dress code?
The majority of Royal restaurants are semi-formal and ask that men wear long trousers and covered footwear to dinner (no sandals/flip-flops/running shoes). JD was fine in jeans, a collared shirt and dark Sketchers. None permit swimwear only, but it's generally ok if you're wearing a swimsuit and a t-shirt/coverup during the day. Essentially, they view dinner as a proper occasion worth dressing for, which is a nice change of pace. Also, you can order room service 24/7, so you won't go hungry no matter what you wear. : )
Can my kids come?
The Royal is strict about their adults-only policy, though guests under 16 are permitted to attend the wedding ceremony and reception. Families are welcome at the sister resort, the Gran Porto Real, which is located directly across the street from the Royal (see the map in Links for location). Depending on the room category you book, adults may be able to pass between resorts, and guests of the Royal can visit the Gran Porto anytime.
Do I need a passport?
Yes, you will need a passport to travel to Mexico. If you don't already have one, you'll need to order it 2 - 3 months in advance. If you have a passport, be sure to check the expiration date to ensure it will be valid for the duration of your journey. For an application or a renewal form, go to the US government website here.
Does everyone speak English in Mexico?
Cities like Playa del Carmen and Cancun grew to support tourism, so the locals are quite hospitable to foreigners and the vast majority speak English. They do, however, seem to appreciate it when you can speak a bit of Spanish, so learning a few basic words can go a long way.
Can you use American Dollars in Mexico?
Generally yes, in denominations under $100. You shouldn't have trouble getting to and from the airport using solely US dollars, and they're welcome for tipping. Credit cards are also universally accepted.
What if I have more questions?
Just give us a call, and we'll help you out.