Description: Probably the best rated all Inclusive adult only resort in the Riviera Maya and definitely the most expensive is
Royal Hideaway Playacar. We chose to return after a 10 year lapse since we had enjoyed it so much.
You feel "special" on the drive through lovely Playacar on the way to Royal Hideaway. You are greeted by name, offered cold towels and champagne, sit with a concierge for check-in, and are then escorted to your "villa" - one of the 14 - three story buildings that are set in lush landscaping surrounded by ponds, gazebos, and bridges. Each villa consists of 36 rooms and is staffed by a concierge.
The resort is well kept - beautiful lush landscaping, winding paths, soft lighting, beautiful pools, small bridges and the beach beyond. Unfortunately, Royal Hideaway and all Riviera Maya resorts have been severely affected by the economy and the H1N1 virus scare. Only four buildings were occupied during our summer 2009 stay - but service was not lacking. Plenty of space around the pool, shady spots and lounge beds were always available and there was lots of waitstaff for pool and beach service.
Restaurants were opened on a rotating basis....one for breakfast and lunch and sometimes two for dinner. roal Hideaway is renowned for its gourmet cuisine - I've dedicated another review to cover this.The nightly entertainment varies from a band, guitarist, combo and on most nights a piano player in Los Ventanos. If this seems too quiet for you, Playa del Carmen and all of their bars are only a few minutes away by cab or a long leisurely walk.
The
rooms are well appointed with many luxuries - robes, slippers, high quality linens, rich dark wood furniture, even umbrellas and walking sticks. All have balconies - many with oceanviews. the spacious marble bathrooms have a jacuzzi, separate toilet and powerful shower, double sinks, lighted mirror, embroidered bath towels and even a scale -(Oh no!!!!). The large walk-in closet has a safe, luggage rack, storage shelves and all rooms are in the process of being upgraded with flat screen TV's.
Ricardo was our friendly and efficient concierge. Upon arrival you are greeted again by name and he offers to make dinner reservations, spa appointments or arrange tours. Ricardo even offered to pack and unpack for you, make transportation arrangement, press two pieces of clothing on arrival day, shine shoes overnight, reconfirm your flights and print boarding passes. Ricardo went out of his way for us.....On my birthday, he arranged for my room to be decorated with a dozen balloons, towel art in the shape of a candle with a greeting card and a bucket with chilled champagne awaited us on our afternoon return. the dining room staff was also alerted and had a beautifully presented "special" dessert.
The beach area has vastly improved during the winter of 2010, when Cancun and Playa del Carmen dredged sand to restore the beautiful beach that they enjoyed before the hurricane. You can see for yourself with this live
WEBCAM.The decks along the
pool and jacuzzi areas have padded lounge chairs and Bali beds. You can walk for quite a distance in each direction past more all inclusive resorts and private homes.
You'll find mostly couples at this resort - many honeymooners. Everyone seems to enjoy the quietness and serenity that Royal Hideaway offers. We hope to return very soon.
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