last time we went to riviera maya we went a little different route. have done all inclusive a bunch, it's the same thing whether you're in mexico, DR, Jamaica, etc. the only real difference is the amenities and how much you want to pay for luxuries. we wanted to get away from the more touristy spots and just do something new.
In January we went to Akumal Mexico, on the Carribbean about a half hour south of Playa. rented a car and drove down from cancun. initially i was a little concerned, after all it's mexico, but was surprised to find that it was really no different than renting a car in the states (get the "walk away" mexican car insurance though). driving was a little weird at first, but not bad at all. We rented a condo on "Half moon Bay" for a week. it was very nice and was super inexpensive ($125/night.) this included house keeping, fresh water, towels, etc. all the typical things you get in a resort/hotel as far as your room goes. it was right on the beach with an awesome reef about 100 yards out. We're talking world class snorkeling and we didnt have to do it with a group or pay because it was right there. for meals out we went into town (a beautiful fishing community) where there was a bunch of great locally owned restaurants all with amazing food. we went grocery shopping at the local supermarket, bought fresh produce and goods from the outdoor market in town, and interacted with the people far more than you ever would in a resort. like I said above the town is known for having incredible reefs/fishing, and there's a dive shop where you can go out and scuba if that's your thing. there's also a lagoon right there where you can see tons of turtles, manas, and aquatic life. there's plenty to do. but at the same time its a small community so it's quiet on the bay and there's tons of beach to relax on if that's more your style.
the nice part about this is that we had a car, so we could do what we wanted whenever. we went up to playa and shopped/ate, went down to tulum and checked out the ruins, and saw more of the countryside and real mexico than we ever had before going the all inclusive route. there really wasnt ever a time when we didnt feel 100% safe. there were a lot of other americans around and the local folks were great. I will be doing something like this again. just because it's a little different and I had such a great time.
I want to say it cost the wife and I about 2k for a week. that's flights, rental car, room, and food. no it wasnt all inclusive, but we had an a great time.
but if you're set on all inclusive, go with iberostar
