Mexico vacation 2009: post 2

Home(s) away from home.

The first three nights of our trip we stayed at the Cancun Hilton.

The next four nights we spent about 40 miles south, in Playa Del Carmen (PDC), at The Royal PDC.

Before I continue on I think I should mention that each resort had its pros and cons ... the largest difference being that the Royal PDC is all-inclusive (free food and drinks) and adults only. Our group of eight was quite split on picking a favorite hotel between the two so I think it's fair to say that booking a room at either place would be a safe bet. If you want any more resort-specific details, check out Trip Advisor (love that site!) or comment on this post and I'll try to answer your questions.

Okay, on to photos ...

First the Hilton:

The sunrise from our balcony. We upgraded to oceanfront villa rooms - definitely worth it!

Morning on the Hilton beach. There was a red flag (no swimming in the ocean) warning all the days we were there, but the beach was great for looking for shells and strolling.

Showing off my expanding tummy.

The cascading pools were amazing.


At the end of the cascading pools - an infinity pool- a favorite with our group.

Pool-side food service - seafood ceviche.

Our little elephant towel creature, enjoying our view.

On the beach right in front of our room. Notice the large rocks ... no swimming here.

Fajitas by the pool. Love.

Chaz and Caitlyn, just a day before becoming engaged!

Corey and Chaz enjoying the balcony and a beer.

What a fun vacation!

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Next stop, The Royal Playa Del Carmen:

The view from our room - the pool area. Most rooms have a hammock on the deck! fun!

Looking left is the ocean and pier.

The pool area at night.

Our room - yes that is a Jacuzzi tub :)

More of our room. Definitely impressive.

The in-room alcohol selection.

They went above and beyond with the nightly turn-down service.

Room service. Somehow we got chocolate milk instead of chocolate pie. Either way, it was all delicious. And no, that is not just my food order.

The beds. Oh my they were so comfy, we'd just hang out in them.

When it rained, we took the party indoors. This is the beer cooler.

The beach was much, much busier with some crazy people-watching (see dudes in tiny speedos). The ocean was much calmer and was swimmable.