Playa del Carmen, Mexico

I planned a year ago to visit Playa del Carmen, Mexico. The purpose of my visit was to check out some resorts and a casino that I had not seen before. Having returned two days ago, and while travel has changed under the new requirements, it was a wonderful visit. I was able to tour some great resorts that each offer something different.

The first night I stayed at one of my favorite resorts a little further south along the Riviera Maya. The next day I headed to Playa del Carmen for a three night stay at Sandos Caracol. Joining me on this site inspection trip was Shannon, from Riviera Reflections Weddings & Events, based in the Riviera Maya.The purpose of this trip was to scout out some new locations for honeymoons and destination weddings.

sandos caracol

Sandos Caracol is a family friendly, all inclusive resort set along a beautiful beach. There is also an adults only section, with its own beach club area. The staff is wonderful, and the food was good. This resort offers something for everyone, and the natural setting is amazing. Jungle, cenotes, monkeys, waterfalls, and a suspension bridge are just a few of the things waiting for you. The rooms are  comfortable, and a good size for 2 adults or 2 adults and 2 kids. If you are traveling as a family, I recommend the Eco Family Suite which gives you more room, a separate bedroom for the kids, a larger bathroom with 2 showers, and a plunge pool on your balcony.

playa del carmen mexico

Celebrating my birthday during my visit was extra special; the resort went out of their way to show me some ‘birthday love.’ It is special touches like this that will make a special occasion, honeymoon or destination wedding that much more memorable. The cake was delicious by the way!

playa del carmen wedding packages
Destination Wedding Options

The resort offers several wedding locations. Beach palapa for toes in the sand, but shaded from the hot sun. A rooftop terrace with views for miles. At the edge of a cenote; the possibilities are endless to craft your picture perfect wedding day. The resort offers several wedding packages which can be customized anyway that you like.

sandos caracol wedding packages

Top 3 Experiences in Riviera Maya

The Rivera Maya is one destination that will not leave you wanting for fun activities and things to do. Along with miles of beautiful beaches, the Riviera Maya of Mexico is home to some amazing outdoor adventures and activities. Our top 3 recommended experiences in Riviera Maya include nature, history, and something that might surprise you.

top romantic resorts, top 3 experiences in riviera maya

Mayan Ruins

The Mayan ruins of Tulum, Chichen Itza, and Coba draw visitors from around the world annually. Tulum, the smallest of the three historical sites, is perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean sea. Chichen Itza, the largest, is 120 miles from Cancun and it’s Kukulkan Pyramid is now one of the new seven wonders of the world. Coba is one of the lesser-known sites in a jungle setting surrounded by two lagoons. There are 120 steps to the top of the main pyramid; which you can still climb but it is a steep trek.

Cenotes

The Riviera Maya is home to many cenotes, which are part of an underground river system. You can snorkel, scuba dive, swim, and even rappel down into some of the deeper cenote caverns. The La Ruta de Los Cenotes stretches from Tulum to just north of Playa del Carmen. Spend a day exploring some of the top cenotes in the area, and there are also resorts in the region that have a cenote on the premises.

The Unexpected

Something very unexpected that no one imagined doing in Mexico; a camel safari. Enjoy a camel ride in the middle of the jungle of the Riviera Maya. A totally exotic and unique experience, ride through rainforests and gaze upon the beautiful beach of Maroma.

All experiences and activities can be included in your complete travel package. Would you like to take a Mexican cooking class? Spend the day at an ecological theme park? Snorkel and sail aboard a luxury yacht? The opportunities are endless. Add your own personal touch to the top 3 experiences in Riviera Maya.

Start Planning Your Personalized Travel Package

The Smoky Mountains

Are you itching to travel again but want to visit someplace closer to home? The Smoky Mountains of Tennessee is a good place to start. The Great Smoky Mountains are filled with adventure and waiting for you. You might see bear cubs playing, sharks swimming over your head, or enjoying unbelievable views that take you above the clouds.

the smoky mountains vacation packages

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a black bear habitat; chances are good that you’ll catch sight of these magnificent creatures when you visit. Our favorite is Grotto Falls. There is something very magical about standing behind a waterfall as it flows to the ground; this is the only waterfall in the Smokies where you can do this.

smoky mountains vacation packages

Get off the beaten path on one of Cades Cove’s numerous hiking trails. The journey along Abrams Creek is worth every step. It’s the most popular trail in Cades Cove. Plan to spend the day at Dollywood, play a round of mini-golf, or take some laps on a go-kart track. The activity options are many, and you can do as little or as much as you want.

Visit The Smoky Mountains

Explore other locations in the U.S.