Mayan Palace--ask away - Page 3

Aimee · 03-05-2002

Thanks, Munichchick! After talking with my husband last night, we realized we want to be able to come and go as we please. We difinitely don't want to feel "stranded" or have to wait for other transportation.

Munichchick · 03-05-2002

Amee and Merk! I am sure you will be happy you rented a car. Merk - I am sure we will find each other on the 9th around the pool. I will look for the Minnesota Glow! This will be fun. Hey, we can even cripe together about the construction and noise over a Margarita.

Linda · 03-05-2002

Hey you two (Merk and Munichchick) be sure to update me when you get back, I'm dying to know if they keep moving those platforms (big, heavy wood things) in and out of the palapas down by the pool, they would put them under the palapa (takes 3-4 guys to carry one) and then 2 days later, they would take them out again. This happened twice while we were there, people were taking bets on how long it would take to move them again!

And of course brace yourselves for the constant barrage of salespeople and their customers, it was nonstop, even walking right through your sitting areas by the pool!

Oh, and I just remembered, there is a "welcome" party held on Mon. night (I think it was Mon.) down at the beach bar with free drinks (lots of them), started at 6 p.m. but get there by 5:45 for a table.
_________________
Linda

[ This Message was edited by: Linda on 2002-03-05 22:12 ]

[ This Message was edited by: Linda on 2002-03-05 22:13 ]

psminn · 03-06-2002

Linda,
Thanks for the information. Yes, I called the customer # on my card, and the exchange is 8 min used/1 min talked. I guess the girls found the bus yesterday because I received email from them (they found an internet cafe near "senor frogs" (?). They are 25 and 23 and somewhat disappointed in the location of the mayan palace. But I'm glad they found their way to playa del carmen. I'm sure they will go back. They said the palace has a day trip to cozumel with snorkeling and sightseeing. They may do that. Just out of curiosity, how much is 120 pesos in american funds? Obviously, I don't travel much!
Pam.

Dagen · 03-06-2002

Pam,
We did the Cozumel tour offered at the palace and we really enjoyed it. However, if you talk with them before they book it recommend to them to take the ferry to Cozumel and just go to the Aquaworld there to go snorkelling. Aquaworld is the tour operator and by going directly to them they will bypass the "middle-man markup". Also, the tour heads back to the mainland at 6:00, while the last ferry leaves at 10:00. So, if they want to do any shopping while they are there the ferry would be the way to go. I'm saying this because we ended up taking the ferry back anyways, even after paying for the tour because there just wasn't enough time. By the way, 120 pesos is approx. 12-13 US$$.

Linda · 03-06-2002

Merk; If you are still around (with the big snow predicted for this week-end, I thought that you might be heading into the TC a little early), anyway, just wanted to catch you before you left to wish you a great time and a relaxing one. Hope the weather has gotten better over the last few weeks there, be sure to throw in a lightweight sweater or button up something or other, just in case.

Head for the palapas on the far south end of the pool on your first morning, there is a restroom right there and the best views in the house. There are about 5-7 of them down front (palapas), usually "taken" by 7:30-8:00 a.m.

Take care and beware (the best advice that my grampa ever gave me), but most of all enjoy! Linda

p.s. If you come into town early, try to get a room at the Ramada near the airport, it's got the best rates and a shuttle to the airport. :smile:

Merk · 03-06-2002

Linda-I'm still here, but will be leaving tomorrow afternoon. I've heard the nasty forecast and hope it holds off for a few days, or misses us altogether!

Do you know how much a room at the Ramada runs? I've booked a room at the Days Inn-Mall of America for $69 and didn't think that was to bad. I could cancel it if the Ramada's more reasonable.

I'm an early riser so I'll make sure to head to those Palapas bright and early-maybe even catch a sunrise.

The cocktail party sounds good. I'm hoping the timeshare folks don't pester TO much (ha!). I paid $200 for my week through RCI on a guest certificate from my folks. Why would I want to spend thousands of dollars when I can do it this way? I'm hoping a firm "no thank-you" is all it will take.

Munichchick and I will have a few cocktails for you-Pina Coloda's right? I'm looking forward to meeting new friends and will definitely post a report when I return. Hopefully, I will be able to help out others like so many have helped me.

Adios :smile:

psminn · 03-07-2002

Dagen,
Thank you for your input on the cozumel tour. I will probably talk to them this morning and will encourage them to do as you suggested. They said the price was $80/person for the tour. Will just taking the ferry and paying for snorkeling at Aquaworld save them any money? They are on a tight budget. Thanks again!
Pam.

Dagen · 03-07-2002

It will most definately save them money. The ferry is ~$7 each way I believe. Then once at Aquaworld, the snorkelling is $38 pp. I don't recommend the package that includes food, because it was terrible!! So in doing it this way, the total is $52pp...better than $80. One more thing regarding the hotel package, the girls would have to take a cab to Puerto Aventuras (~15 min. south of PDC)to catch the "ferry" (and I use that word loosely cause its a rough ride) and a cab back to MP. we paid $35 for that ride (each way)...yikes. I can answer any more questions you may have Pam.
Dagen

[ This Message was edited by: Dagen on 2002-03-07 13:23 ]

psminn · 03-07-2002

Dagen,
I'm not sure what you mean. Why do they have to go to Puerto Aventuras? Could they take the bus from MP to PDC? How could they avoid the $35 each way fee that you paid? That ride isn't included in the hotel fee? Sorry for all the questions, but I'm not sure what you were saying...:smile:
Pam.

[ This Message was edited by: psminn on 2002-03-07 14:28 ]

[ This Message was edited by: psminn on 2002-03-07 14:40 ]

Dagen · 03-07-2002

sorry for the confusion...I'll try again. For the Cozumel tour offered at the MP, the tour leaves from puerto aventuras, not the MP, so getting to aventuras will be up to them and at an added cost and is not included in the hotel fee. That is why I recommend getting to PDC and taking the ferry. I hope that clears up some confusion.
Dagen

psminn · 03-07-2002

It absolutely does! Thanks! Pam.

Linda · 03-07-2002

Merk--bet that you are just counting down the hours now, right? The Ramada is about the same as the Days Inn, probably just stick with what you have (the price sucks either way, I think but that is the price you pay for a hotel near an airport and the Mall).

The sunrises were awesome (I think we had 3 in 2 wks.), be sure to take a photo right between the conveniently placed double palm tree on the beach, sunrise is about the same time as here. By the way, my camera works again, must have gotten a little rain on the night of the downpour, again, I am keeping my fingers crossed for the weather for you and Munichchick!

The timeshare folks took no for an answer, after the second time, they just are really annoying there, sometimes when they were walking down the sidewalk towards the bldg. with "potential buyers", they absolutely would not share the walk, you had to step on the grass so that they could all pass. I won't tell you what my husband called them, use your imagination.

Best of Luck and be careful, hope the weather holds up for you here so that there are no plane delays.

Have a great time!! Linda

Towonda · 03-09-2002

[quote]
On 2002-02-28 11:27, Munichchick wrote:
Let me explain the draw! First of all it is NOT an all-inclusive. Therefore, no wristbands!

Munichchick: We are so-called owners/or what-ever (since you can't buy land in MX as an American citizen, I am not sure what to call ourselves) in Acapulco and anytime we have traveled to a MP, anywhere in MX, they put wrist-bands on you. : ) The "Green Ones" mean you can charge anything to your room because you have a credit card on file. I am not sure of the other colors, but they also identify you as a guest of the resort and your method of payment.
We are counting down the days... hmmmm...I think it's less than 6 weeks now.
Are we there yet????

psminn · 03-09-2002

Dagen,
Here's an update. The girls decided to take the MP tour. They were transported via shuttle to PDC and took the ferry to cozumel (included in the fee). The ferry as you said, was very bad. They were all nauseous when they got there. The snorkeling was wonderful, they were taken by boat to two different reefs, then stopped at a secluded spot for a wonderful buffet. Lots of corona, tequilla shots, etc. They had a wonderful day! Then two hours of shopping in Cozumel before the return ferry trip. All in all, they were delighted. I guess the tour has improved since you took it. They've told me that they were totally pampered at MP. All of the staff have treated them with care and concern. Thanks for your input. It was greatly appreciated!
Pam.

03-05-2002	#33 (permalink)
Linda toe in water Join Date: Jan 2002 Location: Oakdale, Mn. Posts: 51	Hey you two (Merk and Munichchick) be sure to update me when you get back, I'm dying to know if they keep moving those platforms (big, heavy wood things) in and out of the palapas down by the pool, they would put them under the palapa (takes 3-4 guys to carry one) and then 2 days later, they would take them out again. This happened twice while we were there, people were taking bets on how long it would take to move them again! And of course brace yourselves for the constant barrage of salespeople and their customers, it was nonstop, even walking right through your sitting areas by the pool! Oh, and I just remembered, there is a "welcome" party held on Mon. night (I think it was Mon.) down at the beach bar with free drinks (lots of them), started at 6 p.m. but get there by 5:45 for a table. _________________ Linda <font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Linda on 2002-03-05 22:12 ]</font> <font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Linda on 2002-03-05 22:13 ]</font>

03-07-2002	#39 (permalink)
Dagen toe in water Join Date: Jan 2002 Location: Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Posts: 40	It will most definately save them money. The ferry is ~$7 each way I believe. Then once at Aquaworld, the snorkelling is $38 pp. I don't recommend the package that includes food, because it was terrible!! So in doing it this way, the total is $52pp...better than $80. One more thing regarding the hotel package, the girls would have to take a cab to Puerto Aventuras (~15 min. south of PDC)to catch the "ferry" (and I use that word loosely cause its a rough ride) and a cab back to MP. we paid $35 for that ride (each way)...yikes. I can answer any more questions you may have Pam. Dagen <font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: Dagen on 2002-03-07 13:23 ]</font>

03-07-2002	#40 (permalink)
psminn sandflea Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Harrisburg, PA Posts: 7	Dagen, I'm not sure what you mean. Why do they have to go to Puerto Aventuras? Could they take the bus from MP to PDC? How could they avoid the $35 each way fee that you paid? That ride isn't included in the hotel fee? Sorry for all the questions, but I'm not sure what you were saying...:smile: Pam. <font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: psminn on 2002-03-07 14:28 ]</font> <font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: psminn on 2002-03-07 14:40 ]</font>

03-05-2002	#31 (permalink)
Aimee sandflea Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Indiana Posts: 4	Thanks, Munichchick! After talking with my husband last night, we realized we want to be able to come and go as we please. We difinitely don't want to feel "stranded" or have to wait for other transportation.

03-05-2002	#32 (permalink)
Munichchick life=playa Join Date: Apr 2001 Location: Corona, California Posts: 857	Amee and Merk! I am sure you will be happy you rented a car. Merk - I am sure we will find each other on the 9th around the pool. I will look for the Minnesota Glow! This will be fun. Hey, we can even cripe together about the construction and noise over a Margarita.

03-06-2002	#34 (permalink)
psminn sandflea Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Harrisburg, PA Posts: 7	Linda, Thanks for the information. Yes, I called the customer # on my card, and the exchange is 8 min used/1 min talked. I guess the girls found the bus yesterday because I received email from them (they found an internet cafe near "senor frogs" (?). They are 25 and 23 and somewhat disappointed in the location of the mayan palace. But I'm glad they found their way to playa del carmen. I'm sure they will go back. They said the palace has a day trip to cozumel with snorkeling and sightseeing. They may do that. Just out of curiosity, how much is 120 pesos in american funds? Obviously, I don't travel much! Pam.

03-06-2002	#35 (permalink)
Dagen toe in water Join Date: Jan 2002 Location: Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Posts: 40	Pam, We did the Cozumel tour offered at the palace and we really enjoyed it. However, if you talk with them before they book it recommend to them to take the ferry to Cozumel and just go to the Aquaworld there to go snorkelling. Aquaworld is the tour operator and by going directly to them they will bypass the "middle-man markup". Also, the tour heads back to the mainland at 6:00, while the last ferry leaves at 10:00. So, if they want to do any shopping while they are there the ferry would be the way to go. I'm saying this because we ended up taking the ferry back anyways, even after paying for the tour because there just wasn't enough time. By the way, 120 pesos is approx. 12-13 US$$.

03-06-2002	#36 (permalink)
Linda toe in water Join Date: Jan 2002 Location: Oakdale, Mn. Posts: 51	Merk; If you are still around (with the big snow predicted for this week-end, I thought that you might be heading into the TC a little early), anyway, just wanted to catch you before you left to wish you a great time and a relaxing one. Hope the weather has gotten better over the last few weeks there, be sure to throw in a lightweight sweater or button up something or other, just in case. Head for the palapas on the far south end of the pool on your first morning, there is a restroom right there and the best views in the house. There are about 5-7 of them down front (palapas), usually "taken" by 7:30-8:00 a.m. Take care and beware (the best advice that my grampa ever gave me), but most of all enjoy! Linda p.s. If you come into town early, try to get a room at the Ramada near the airport, it's got the best rates and a shuttle to the airport. :smile:

03-06-2002	#37 (permalink)
Merk very sparkly Join Date: Feb 2002 Location: Bemidji, Minnesota Posts: 28	Linda-I'm still here, but will be leaving tomorrow afternoon. I've heard the nasty forecast and hope it holds off for a few days, or misses us altogether! Do you know how much a room at the Ramada runs? I've booked a room at the Days Inn-Mall of America for $69 and didn't think that was to bad. I could cancel it if the Ramada's more reasonable. I'm an early riser so I'll make sure to head to those Palapas bright and early-maybe even catch a sunrise. The cocktail party sounds good. I'm hoping the timeshare folks don't pester TO much (ha!). I paid $200 for my week through RCI on a guest certificate from my folks. Why would I want to spend thousands of dollars when I can do it this way? I'm hoping a firm "no thank-you" is all it will take. Munichchick and I will have a few cocktails for you-Pina Coloda's right? I'm looking forward to meeting new friends and will definitely post a report when I return. Hopefully, I will be able to help out others like so many have helped me. Adios :smile:

03-07-2002	#38 (permalink)
psminn sandflea Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Harrisburg, PA Posts: 7	Dagen, Thank you for your input on the cozumel tour. I will probably talk to them this morning and will encourage them to do as you suggested. They said the price was $80/person for the tour. Will just taking the ferry and paying for snorkeling at Aquaworld save them any money? They are on a tight budget. Thanks again! Pam.

03-07-2002	#41 (permalink)
Dagen toe in water Join Date: Jan 2002 Location: Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Posts: 40	sorry for the confusion...I'll try again. For the Cozumel tour offered at the MP, the tour leaves from puerto aventuras, not the MP, so getting to aventuras will be up to them and at an added cost and is not included in the hotel fee. That is why I recommend getting to PDC and taking the ferry. I hope that clears up some confusion. Dagen

03-07-2002	#42 (permalink)
psminn sandflea Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Harrisburg, PA Posts: 7	It absolutely does! Thanks! Pam.

03-07-2002	#43 (permalink)
Linda toe in water Join Date: Jan 2002 Location: Oakdale, Mn. Posts: 51	Merk--bet that you are just counting down the hours now, right? The Ramada is about the same as the Days Inn, probably just stick with what you have (the price sucks either way, I think but that is the price you pay for a hotel near an airport and the Mall). The sunrises were awesome (I think we had 3 in 2 wks.), be sure to take a photo right between the conveniently placed double palm tree on the beach, sunrise is about the same time as here. By the way, my camera works again, must have gotten a little rain on the night of the downpour, again, I am keeping my fingers crossed for the weather for you and Munichchick! The timeshare folks took no for an answer, after the second time, they just are really annoying there, sometimes when they were walking down the sidewalk towards the bldg. with "potential buyers", they absolutely would not share the walk, you had to step on the grass so that they could all pass. I won't tell you what my husband called them, use your imagination. Best of Luck and be careful, hope the weather holds up for you here so that there are no plane delays. Have a great time!! Linda

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03-09-2002	#44 (permalink)
Towonda lost on fifth Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Barbara Posts: 11	[quote] On 2002-02-28 11:27, Munichchick wrote: Let me explain the draw! First of all it is NOT an all-inclusive. Therefore, no wristbands! Munichchick: We are so-called owners/or what-ever (since you can't buy land in MX as an American citizen, I am not sure what to call ourselves) in Acapulco and anytime we have traveled to a MP, anywhere in MX, they put wrist-bands on you. : ) The "Green Ones" mean you can charge anything to your room because you have a credit card on file. I am not sure of the other colors, but they also identify you as a guest of the resort and your method of payment. We are counting down the days... hmmmm...I think it's less than 6 weeks now. Are we there yet????

03-09-2002	#45 (permalink)
psminn sandflea Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Harrisburg, PA Posts: 7	Dagen, Here's an update. The girls decided to take the MP tour. They were transported via shuttle to PDC and took the ferry to cozumel (included in the fee). The ferry as you said, was very bad. They were all nauseous when they got there. The snorkeling was wonderful, they were taken by boat to two different reefs, then stopped at a secluded spot for a wonderful buffet. Lots of corona, tequilla shots, etc. They had a wonderful day! Then two hours of shopping in Cozumel before the return ferry trip. All in all, they were delighted. I guess the tour has improved since you took it. They've told me that they were totally pampered at MP. All of the staff have treated them with care and concern. Thanks for your input. It was greatly appreciated! Pam.