Riu Playacar and Occidental Grand Xcaret question

claritysf · 08-08-2010

My husband and I just booked our trip to Mexico. Sept 15th - 21st It will be our first time in Mexico! We have six nights, so we decided to split it up between 2 AI hotels.

First three nights in Occidental Grand Xcaret (because we liked the description of the jungle atmosphere and Xcaret park)
and Three nights in Riu Playacar (because it's close to the beach and it looks like it's walking distance to Playa Del Carmen)

The price was really good, there was a promotional deal so the rate was 50% off on those days. we're so excited.

Has anyone else been to these AI hotels and what was the experience like for you? would you recommend them? Anything we need to watch out for or be aware of?

I've never been to an All inclusive before

Thank you so much, I appreciate any feedback you can offer!

Tracielynn · 08-08-2010

Never been to Occidental, but Riu Playacar is directly on the beach but its a bit of a walk to Playa del Carmen. Its only a 5-7 min $5.oo cab ride. There is a great little plaza accross the street from the Riu. The gated community of playacar is nice as well. You also have access to the Riu Tequila accross the street and the Riu Yucatan a couple doors down. If you like the jungle atmoshpere, the Iberostar Quetzel/Tucan directly next door to the Riu, has a great one. Definately thats my favorite!!

rainbow · 08-09-2010

Quote:

Originally Posted by claritysf

My husband and I just booked our trip to Mexico. Sept 15th - 21st It will be our first time in Mexico! We have six nights, so we decided to split it up between 2 AI hotels.

First three nights in Occidental Grand Xcaret (because we liked the description of the jungle atmosphere and Xcaret park)
and Three nights in Riu Playacar (because it's close to the beach and it looks like it's walking distance to Playa Del Carmen)

The price was really good, there was a promotional deal so the rate was 50% off on those days. we're so excited.

Has anyone else been to these AI hotels and what was the experience like for you? would you recommend them? Anything we need to watch out for or be aware of?

I've never been to an All inclusive before

Thank you so much, I appreciate any feedback you can offer!

...we're heading back for our 11th overall stay at the riu's in playa...we usually stay at the riu palace mexico and riu yucatan...but we ALWAYS spend time at the riu playacar because it is a lovely resort with a fantastic staff!...especially the bartenders at the lobby and theatre bars...bravo!...

...besides, if you stay at the riu playacar, you can visit the riu tequila, riu yucatan and riu lupita too...and drink there, enjoy their services...and eat all but your evening meals at any of those resorts!...each riu has its own unique charm!...

**Susie Q Roo** · 08-09-2010

Just got back from a few days at the Grand Xcaret. I think it's delightful! There are a few signs of aging but mostly it's kept up beautifully.

Be sure to make reservations for sit down dinners as soon as you get in and, even though you supposedly are allowed only so many ala carte reservations per length of stay, if you show up after 4pm the day of, and there is availability, you can get in. I think they are all good.

Also, I'd recommend that you take all your buffet meals, especially breakfast, at the one that's located at the beach area. The breeze makes it that much better, plus it seems better laid out to avoid crowding. And eat lots of cream puffs at lunch.

Warning that the pool water is actually HOT right now and probably still will be when you get here. The water off the beach area is cenote+sea and is COLD but refreshing. If you have snorkel equipment, bring it (no fins), as there are a ton of fish there (even saw a ray!).

Learn the bartenders/waiters names and give a 20 peso (or more!) tip now and again and you will be treated very well. All tend to be very friendly if you take the time to chat. I did, however, think that there was almost NO alcohol in the drinks, even though they seemed to pour a lot into them. I am a lightweight and never even got a buzz! But do try the mango and lime daiquiris... mmm!

Wear LOTS of sunscreen, relax, and enjoy!

PCANNIE · 08-09-2010

The Riu Playacar is a good 20 to 25 minute walk and very do able. You will pass a bird sancuary, small ruins, beautiful homes, very nice walk. The taxi is $ 5.00. We would walk to town and spend time then take a cab back.

claritysf · 08-09-2010

Thanks Pcannie for your feedback, I walk everywhere here in SF. (Sold my car when I arrived) So I think I'll find the walk enjoyable, especially from your description! taking a taxi home sounds like the best way to go.

claritysf · 08-09-2010

Thanks Susie for sharing your Occidental experience, I'll book a restaurant right away. since I'm only staying 3 days, I'll only be able to choose one. Which one did you like the best?

You mentioned tipping with Peso's, is it okay to use dollar bills there?

I can't wait to snorkel! I'm looking forward to that the most! I can't believe you saw a ray!

claritysf · 08-09-2010

Thanks everyone for your feedback
Rainbow, 11 times at the Riu?! that's awesome! It sounds like a place I'll want to go back to as well!

I look forward to exploring the different Riu hotels. That sounds like a major perk. can't wait!

rainbow · 08-10-2010

Quote:

Originally Posted by claritysf

Thanks everyone for your feedback
Rainbow, 11 times at the Riu?! that's awesome! It sounds like a place I'll want to go back to as well!

I look forward to exploring the different Riu hotels. That sounds like a major perk. can't wait!

...we are truly blessed to be able to return to this most beautiful of places...playa is magical...

**Susie Q Roo** · 08-10-2010

Quote:

Originally Posted by claritysf

Thanks Susie for sharing your Occidental experience, I'll book a restaurant right away. since I'm only staying 3 days, I'll only be able to choose one. Which one did you like the best?

You mentioned tipping with Peso's, is it okay to use dollar bills there?

I can't wait to snorkel! I'm looking forward to that the most! I can't believe you saw a ray!

I stayed only 2 nights, but had dinner both nights a la carte. The key is going to the desk right before 4pm to check on availabilities. I've eaten in all of them (I was there once before) EXCEPT the seafood one which is the most highly recommended, I hear. Wasn't willing to eat there, though, at 6pm after a long day in the sun and a late lunch, so changed to the Mexican, which might be my favorite of the other 3. The "molcajete" with filet mignon and shrimp had more meat and shrimp than I could eat, and that's saying something! Plus the flavors and accompaniments were wonderful.

USD is okay, but pesos are preferred, of course. However, the chance of getting your hands on small bills during your short stay is limited, I know.

You'll have a great time.

kcspd · 08-10-2010

I have stayed at the Riu Palace Riviera Maya several times and really loved the use of the other Riu's. The Playacar area is really nice, and there are some Mayan Ruins on the walk to 5th.

sandbarfly · 08-10-2010

I hope you enjoy the Grand Xcaret--- we had our first Mexico and AI experience there several years ago. We have returned at least 6 times since (things get fuzzy after a while)...

Great tips from Susie Q --- love your reservations tip. We also have just showed up if we didn't have a reservation and have been seated a few times (it's amazing how many people make reservations that never show up for them).

I'm sure you have probably read the OGX doesn't have a traditional beach, right? There is a nice large cove instead which is good for relaxed swimming and snorkeling even when the ocean is rough.

Don't forget to take advantage of your discounts for Xcaret and Xplor parks if that appeals to you. If my fuzzy memory serves, it's $40 pp for Xcaret and $69 pp for Xplor as resort guests.

On your first day, I would recommend getting a drink and a good seat on the "floating" deck in the lobby around 5-5:15pm... you will hear drums coming in distance around 5:30 and then see the Mayan warriors in full paint coming down the canal in a tradional canoe to light the torches (and let everyone know the big show at the park will be starting soon)... it's a great mood-setter for your vacation.

Hope you have a great time.

claritysf · 08-12-2010

Thanks Susie for the information on the restaurants at the Occidental! Filet Mignon and Shrimp sound heavenly!

I'm also curious about the seafood restaurant because a lot of the reviews rave about that place, it sounds like it has a nice view. I guess I'll see how I'm feeling when I get there! I Can't wait!

claritysf · 08-12-2010

Thanks Sandbarfly! I'll definitely be looking into the Xcaret Park tickets. It sounds like it's worth the money and a good deal with the discount.

I read about the beach being a man-made cove and I don't mind so much because I love the idea of snorkeling in calm waters. I chose to go to the Riu Playacar for the last few days so I could experience a real beach too. I'll get to experience a bit of both... A jungle atmosphere and then a traditional beach resort experience. I'm so excited!

Thanks for the tip on the Mayan Warriors showing up at 5-5:15, I'll be sure to be there to check that out!

sandbarfly · 08-14-2010

My wife loved the Seafood restaurant... it's in the Beach Club building, same one recommended for breakfast (I agree).

I'm allergic to most seafood so I had a steak--- something that's not on the menu. I mention that because it was just another example of the staff doing all they could to accomodate.

I must be honest, I usually don't bother with the a la carte restaurants at OGX. The buffet has different theme nights and I think the quality of food is just as good as the a la cartes. In my opinion, the reservation restaurants are more about the presentation and experience. Just my opinion...

08-08-2010	#1 (permalink)
claritysf way into it Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: San Francisco Posts: 169	Riu Playacar and Occidental Grand Xcaret question My husband and I just booked our trip to Mexico. Sept 15th - 21st It will be our first time in Mexico! We have six nights, so we decided to split it up between 2 AI hotels. First three nights in Occidental Grand Xcaret (because we liked the description of the jungle atmosphere and Xcaret park) and Three nights in Riu Playacar (because it's close to the beach and it looks like it's walking distance to Playa Del Carmen) The price was really good, there was a promotional deal so the rate was 50% off on those days. we're so excited. Has anyone else been to these AI hotels and what was the experience like for you? would you recommend them? Anything we need to watch out for or be aware of? I've never been to an All inclusive before Thank you so much, I appreciate any feedback you can offer!

08-08-2010	#2 (permalink)
Tracielynn beachaholic Join Date: Jul 2004 Location: Southwestern Ontario Posts: 272	Never been to Occidental, but Riu Playacar is directly on the beach but its a bit of a walk to Playa del Carmen. Its only a 5-7 min $5.oo cab ride. There is a great little plaza accross the street from the Riu. The gated community of playacar is nice as well. You also have access to the Riu Tequila accross the street and the Riu Yucatan a couple doors down. If you like the jungle atmoshpere, the Iberostar Quetzel/Tucan directly next door to the Riu, has a great one. Definately thats my favorite!! Last edited by Tracielynn; 08-08-2010 at 11:26 PM..

08-09-2010	#4 (permalink)
Susie Q Roo Critter Magnet Join Date: May 2003 Location: Q Roo Posts: 16,086	Just got back from a few days at the Grand Xcaret. I think it's delightful! There are a few signs of aging but mostly it's kept up beautifully. Be sure to make reservations for sit down dinners as soon as you get in and, even though you supposedly are allowed only so many ala carte reservations per length of stay, if you show up after 4pm the day of, and there is availability, you can get in. I think they are all good. Also, I'd recommend that you take all your buffet meals, especially breakfast, at the one that's located at the beach area. The breeze makes it that much better, plus it seems better laid out to avoid crowding. And eat lots of cream puffs at lunch. Warning that the pool water is actually HOT right now and probably still will be when you get here. The water off the beach area is cenote+sea and is COLD but refreshing. If you have snorkel equipment, bring it (no fins), as there are a ton of fish there (even saw a ray!). Learn the bartenders/waiters names and give a 20 peso (or more!) tip now and again and you will be treated very well. All tend to be very friendly if you take the time to chat. I did, however, think that there was almost NO alcohol in the drinks, even though they seemed to pour a lot into them. I am a lightweight and never even got a buzz! But do try the mango and lime daiquiris... mmm! Wear LOTS of sunscreen, relax, and enjoy! Last edited by Susie Q Roo; 08-09-2010 at 10:43 AM..

08-10-2010	#11 (permalink)
kcspd very sparkly Join Date: Aug 2009 Location: Chicago Suburbs south Posts: 38	Riu I have stayed at the Riu Palace Riviera Maya several times and really loved the use of the other Riu's. The Playacar area is really nice, and there are some Mayan Ruins on the walk to 5th.

08-10-2010	#12 (permalink)
sandbarfly sandflea Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: SW Virginia Posts: 8	Ogx I hope you enjoy the Grand Xcaret--- we had our first Mexico and AI experience there several years ago. We have returned at least 6 times since (things get fuzzy after a while)... Great tips from Susie Q --- love your reservations tip. We also have just showed up if we didn't have a reservation and have been seated a few times (it's amazing how many people make reservations that never show up for them). I'm sure you have probably read the OGX doesn't have a traditional beach, right? There is a nice large cove instead which is good for relaxed swimming and snorkeling even when the ocean is rough. Don't forget to take advantage of your discounts for Xcaret and Xplor parks if that appeals to you. If my fuzzy memory serves, it's $40 pp for Xcaret and $69 pp for Xplor as resort guests. On your first day, I would recommend getting a drink and a good seat on the "floating" deck in the lobby around 5-5:15pm... you will hear drums coming in distance around 5:30 and then see the Mayan warriors in full paint coming down the canal in a tradional canoe to light the torches (and let everyone know the big show at the park will be starting soon)... it's a great mood-setter for your vacation. Hope you have a great time.

08-09-2010	#5 (permalink)
PCANNIE life=playa Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: OTTAWA Posts: 584	The Riu Playacar is a good 20 to 25 minute walk and very do able. You will pass a bird sancuary, small ruins, beautiful homes, very nice walk. The taxi is $ 5.00. We would walk to town and spend time then take a cab back.

08-09-2010	#6 (permalink)
claritysf way into it Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: San Francisco Posts: 169	Thanks Pcannie for your feedback, I walk everywhere here in SF. (Sold my car when I arrived) So I think I'll find the walk enjoyable, especially from your description! taking a taxi home sounds like the best way to go.

08-09-2010	#7 (permalink)
claritysf way into it Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: San Francisco Posts: 169	Thanks Susie for sharing your Occidental experience, I'll book a restaurant right away. since I'm only staying 3 days, I'll only be able to choose one. Which one did you like the best? You mentioned tipping with Peso's, is it okay to use dollar bills there? I can't wait to snorkel! I'm looking forward to that the most! I can't believe you saw a ray!

08-09-2010	#8 (permalink)
claritysf way into it Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: San Francisco Posts: 169	Thanks everyone for your feedback Rainbow, 11 times at the Riu?! that's awesome! It sounds like a place I'll want to go back to as well! I look forward to exploring the different Riu hotels. That sounds like a major perk. can't wait!

08-12-2010	#13 (permalink)
claritysf way into it Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: San Francisco Posts: 169	Thanks Susie for the information on the restaurants at the Occidental! Filet Mignon and Shrimp sound heavenly! I'm also curious about the seafood restaurant because a lot of the reviews rave about that place, it sounds like it has a nice view. I guess I'll see how I'm feeling when I get there! I Can't wait!

08-12-2010	#14 (permalink)
claritysf way into it Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: San Francisco Posts: 169	Thanks Sandbarfly! I'll definitely be looking into the Xcaret Park tickets. It sounds like it's worth the money and a good deal with the discount. I read about the beach being a man-made cove and I don't mind so much because I love the idea of snorkeling in calm waters. I chose to go to the Riu Playacar for the last few days so I could experience a real beach too. I'll get to experience a bit of both... A jungle atmosphere and then a traditional beach resort experience. I'm so excited! Thanks for the tip on the Mayan Warriors showing up at 5-5:15, I'll be sure to be there to check that out!

08-14-2010	#15 (permalink)
sandbarfly sandflea Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: SW Virginia Posts: 8	Seafood restaurant... My wife loved the Seafood restaurant... it's in the Beach Club building, same one recommended for breakfast (I agree). I'm allergic to most seafood so I had a steak--- something that's not on the menu. I mention that because it was just another example of the staff doing all they could to accomodate. I must be honest, I usually don't bother with the a la carte restaurants at OGX. The buffet has different theme nights and I think the quality of food is just as good as the a la cartes. In my opinion, the reservation restaurants are more about the presentation and experience. Just my opinion...

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