Originally Posted by
opus2002
We have never been to Cancun or any part of Mexico before, so not sure what to expect. Four of us: me, wife, 3-year old, and an infant. Hyatt Diamond status, so that is why I am looking at the Hyatt hotels. With a baby, we are probably limited to the hotel area and nearby vicinity. We are looking for some nice beach and warm weather for this January trip of about 1 week. Direct flight from PHL preferred.
Some thoughts:
Hyatt Aruba - no diamond suite upgrades available. A little far ...4.5 hours by plane. Heard good things about Aruba and its safety.
Hyatt Ziva Cancun - got good reviews here, but not available on points. I might have to use my Citi Prestige 4th night free, but still expensive.
EDIT: I also have lots of IHG points. So, wondering if Intercontinental at Cozumel might be a good choice as well.
Grand Hyatt Playa Del Carmen - Is there anything to do nearby? How's this hotel for kids over Hyatt Ziva Cancun?
I've stayed at both IC Cozumel and Cancun recently and would not recommend either. Ferry to Cozumel can be rough and not worth the hassle.
Hyatt Playa del Carmen def has most around it as far as restaurants/bars/shopping, you could also prob split trip with the new Andaz Mayakoba which opens Jan 9th.
Also stayed at Hyatt Zilara several years ago, which is tremendous. Ziva looks to be just as good if not better and very family friendly. I have stay booked here in Dec using DSU which provides the massive Pyramid suite. I'd prob go with this option if available. Ziva rates include all taxes/resort fees which can run around 25% at other places, between this and the money you won't need to spend on F&B and it's prob the best bang for buck.