Allegro Playacar resort

[DaniP]

I was really nervous on my way to PDC because of the negative things I had heard about the Allegro Playacar, but I have no idea what happened with these people who didn't enjoy the resort! My husband and I spent eight days there and we LOVED it. The staff and the activities crew were incredibly friendly and attentive. I saw a couple of people who didn't get great service but these people were condescending and rude, so they got the same back in the end. If you get the chance, talk to EVERYBODY. The first guy we met was the towel guy, Jose. He was great and told us all we needed to know about snorkling, fishing, water sports, etc. He even set us up with some gentlemen from Germany that we shared a fishing charter with. He called them and had them come down to meet us beforehand so we wouldn't be 'four strangers on a boat'. We caught a Dorado and brought it back to the hotel where the cook cleaned it, froze it, and then wrapped it in plastic for our trip home. We tipped him for his efforts, but he didn't ask for any money. We couldn't find any coolers for sale, so one of the guys recommended that we pack the fish in one of our bags. We were nervous, but did it and he wrapped it so well that there was not a drop of water or any fish smell when we got home 10 hours later and our fish was still frozen solid! Our drink glasses were never empty and the food was GREAT. The drinks were typical of AI's, I think; not real strong, and not exactly blended to perfection, but we enjoyed them. There are two restaurants available, but we didn't eat at either of them since they change their buffet on different days of the week. The minuses: I thought that the bed was a little on the hard side, we had problems with water pressure and consistent temperature in the shower, and there are people right inside the resort trying to get you to come to a presentation. Just lie and say you've already gone and they'll leave you alone. We're planning another visit for next year and we'll definitely be staying at the same place.

[TNTIII]

We just returned from Allegro Playacar, and had a wonderful time. We were also very worried because of negative reports we had read on other sites, but we found all complaints to be untrue. The hotel, beach, grounds, service, and especially the food were all wonderful. We hated to leave. Our room was a little small, but it was just fine for the three of us (myself, husband and 20 year old daughter). We were so busy enjoying all the resort had to offer, so spent very little time in the room. Anyone who goes there must eat at least once in both the Italian and the Mexican Specialty restaurants. You have to make a reservation around 8 am the morning before. Trust me, the inconvenience of doing this is well worth it. The food was delicious, and service was the best. Our benchmark for this sort of thing for the past 25 years has always been held up to vacations in Bermuda.
Both this trip and our previous stay in Cozumel were fantastic, and we hope to return to Playa, and specifically the Allegro next year. The only complaint (and it's really not a complaint) was that they do not provide bottled water in the rooms. The problem is easily solved by purchashing a couple of bottles of water from the gift shop and then refilling them at any of the bars where they have purified bottled water. And a little advice--tip your maid a little something the first time you see her upon arrival (I gave her $5. American), and we were never without clean towels, and our room, and patio were always spotless, and clean as could be! Also, tip a dollar now and again at the bar, or at breakfast, and perhaps a few more at dinner. The tips are so appreciated. We probably tipped no more than $50. the whole week (including leaving a nice tip at both the Specialty Restaurants). We are folks who just love the beach, and all water sports, good food, so this was definitely the place for us. The drinks were just fine, and definitely not watered-down. And they served my favorite beer--Corona! My husband is a diver and dove from the dive shop located at the resort and had a wonderful experience. He also took the ferry to Cozumel one day to do some wall diving with an operation he used there in the past, and that, too was terrific and easy and convenient for him to get over to Cozumel. We all had fun using the free Hobie Cats, and kayaks. We found this resort to be everything it was advertized to be, and are very happy we stayed there. Can't wait to return! So go, and enjoy!!

[tialoco]

I made reservations at Allegro, prior to checking out any boards. Then I got scared. I had read several negative things about Allegro Playacar and even considered changing resorts prior to leaving. Then I thought about it.
#1....You can't please everyone all the time and SOMEONE will find something to complain about, even if it's the most elegant resort on earth.
#2....we are not traveling within the US, so therefore DO NOT expect US standards. Running water, let alone HOT running water is considered a LUXURY
#3...this is vacation...which means lay back and enjoy, forget the rat race. You will live without some things you take for granted.
The beach was clean, the water was great. As for beach chairs or pool chairs being to crowded. you have feet, move them yourself.
The drinks were fine...maybe a bit watered down, but you can correct that, if you want. Ask for more alcohol
The food was great, even for a picky eater.
if you expect the worst, you will get it, no matter what. Cause there is no pleasing whatever one does.
You go with the attitude that you are on vacation and will have a great time, you will get that.