Playacar Palace- Oct 2015

A nice upscale low key resort right on the south edge of Playa del Carmen.  I have to preface it rained every day, so that was somewhat limiting to what we could do during our visit.  The facilities were in good condition, and they were painting or polishing something every day we were there (even in the rain).  Our room was very nice – a good size, and walkout to the beach.  We were just a few rooms away from the end of the property next to Senor Frog’s but honestly can say there was no noise at all like I expected, especially at night. 

Dining – 4 options – buffet (B/L/D), lunch & snacks at the pool grill, dinner either Italian or Asian sit down restaurants.  Reservations were required at the Hibachi table in the Asian restaurant, otherwise none required.  Food overall was good, but with a 6 day stay, dining options felt limited by about the 4^th day.  Drinks varied – wine was not bad; mixed drinks decent quality.  Service was very attentive and pleasant except for the Hibachi experience (end of night – not very prompt service; forgot drinks). 

Entertainment was good – did same shows from other Palace resorts, but on a smaller stage.  The shows in the main lobby felt cramped, and the fire show was outside on the driveway (couldn’t do the outdoor deck as was too windy there).  Quality was good, but with weather limiting performance locations, they did the best they could. 

A couple wedding parties were there – one seemed to be having a great time; the other maybe not so much (a few bad Trip Advisor comments).  Weather was a factor, but nice to see them adjust smoothly from outdoor to indoor locations for both wedding and receptions. 

We did the hydrotherapy circuit in the spa, and really enjoyed it – my sister said she would do it again!  There was a small workout room with good equipment also. 

Overall if you like a boutique style hotel with a walk to town location, this could be for you.  We were given “VIP” wristbands, so there was NO timeshare sales hassle (nice, but sometimes I prefer to experience what the clients would experience too).  And as always – wet surfaces are slippery – my 2 guests both had slips, but fortunately were not seriously hurt.   

As usual many pictures, so feel free to look if you like!  A few of Cozumel Palace, plus the “zoo” and cenotes at Aktun Chen