I honestly couldn’t be happier with our choice of hotel on our recent trip to Playa del Carmen. This hotel was fantastic. The staff were kind and attentive, the facilities were fantastic, and (most importantly) the hygiene and cleanliness were second to none. The cleaning staff worked tirelessly to ensure that all private and public areas were kept spotless. Even the communal bathrooms which I’ve found to be awful in other hotels!
The food was really good. We didn’t even bother with a restaurant visit as we enjoyed the buffet food so much. We loved the Mexican food, but they catered for everyone and even the fussiest of people could find something to eat every day. If you think the foods ‘repetitive’ then that’s because you’re choosing the same things every day! There was always a choice.
Drinks were amazing. The iced coffee was a must have in the mornings, cocktails were great. Bar staff were hilarious.
This hotel was fairly small, especially compared to the surrounding Riu’s, but that was one of the features we liked the most. If you wanted peace and quiet you could get it. If you wanted a bit more of an energetic environment just head to the main pool. If you were in a party mood, hop on the shuttle to the beach/playacar pool. The weekly foam party was always a laugh too. This would be in the main pool, so the quiet pool would still be an option if you didn’t want to get involved.
The beach was nice, and only a very short shuttle ride away from the hotel. We sometimes got a taxi instead to avoid waiting for the shuttle (every 30 mins) and this only cost £4 (100 pesos). Beach was clean, space and sunloungers were plentiful, and the life guards were always very professional. In December the Riu Lupita’s own beach bar should be re-opening, but it really makes very little difference, it’s the same beach, the same distance away, you’d just be using your own ‘beach club’. There are beach sellers on the beach who were a bit annoying, selling anything from magnets to drugs, but there’s nothing the hotels could do to stop this as all beaches in Mexico are public property, they can’t stop anyone walking on to any beach, only call the police. When the police arrive the less legitimate sellers scatter, then return later. They’re not awful though, Take no for an answer, and never try to sell anything elicit to families or children. I was only offered drugs when walking on my own. Again, you can’t hold the hotel to blame for this.
The surrounding wildlife was amazing. Coatis (raccoon like animals) everywhere. They were very cheeky, but very cute and friendly. If you’re an animal lover you can get all the attention you want. If not, make a loud noise and they’ll leave you alone. Iguana’s all over the place too.
Entertainment was great, but they weren’t pushy. If you didn’t want to get involved they didn’t try to make you. There was always plenty to do. Evening entertainment was good too.
Big thank you to all the staff. We will be seeing you again soon!
