Riviera Maya - Mexico

I have been to Mexico twice and both times I have stayed in the Riviera Maya area. I like it here as you are between Cancun and Playa Del Carmen, so if you want to go to a livelier area they are accessible but you are not right in the middle of the action. For those that are looking for busy busy busy, then Cancun would be the best area for you although I like things slightly quieter (only my personal choice). Playa Del Carmen is also a lovely resort and has the balance of having lots of shops, bars and restaurants without been too over busy. From here you can also get the ferry across to Cozumel.

On my first visit I stayed at The El Dorado Royale which is very much a couples and honeymooners hotel. It is very luxurious and the service is second to none. It is an all-inclusive hotel and the standard is very high. There are 12 swimming pools, 8 gourmet al a carte restaurants and 14 bars including 10 swim up ones. All rooms have a whirlpool in the bedroom and there are many private cabana beds on the beach and some around the pool. I would highly recommend this hotel particularly to newlyweds wanting a luxurious honeymoon.

My second stay was at the Gran Riviera Princess. This hotel is on a very large complex and they use a mini train to take guests up to the main building. I particularly thought the food and drinks here were of a very good standard. There are two buffet restaurants and seven a la carte (including Italian, Swiss, Mexican, Grill, Asian and Seafood). Our room was really lovely and also were the pool areas. There are 12 swimming pools in total which I liked as you could enjoy the lively entertainment around the main pool or slope off to one of the quieter pools if you wanted a bit of peace and quiet.

I really liked Mexico as you have the best of everything; the hotels are generally all of a very high standard and good value for money. It can be a very relaxed beach holiday if you wish but there is also lots to see and do such as jungle tours, Chithen Itza, Xel ha, the island of Cozumel. It is also very safe to go out and about in Cancun and Playa Del Carmen at night time if you want to get away from your hotel.