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Stressed to the max and hunting for the right all-inclusive resort had us ready to just stay home with the dogs until I came across the Riu Palace Riviera Maya in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. My husband and I needed a vacation. Don’t ask why. Just trust me. We needed it!

In the past, we have cruised. But, this time we wanted to try something different. An all-inclusive perhaps? It would be great to stay on budget and not worry about extra charges for drinks or dodging the ship’s photographers or dreading that annoying but necessary muster drill.

The world of all-inclusive can be daunting. I waded through one Trip Advisor review after another. Good grief! “Great beach but the room was infested with bugs.” Not that place. “A woman slipped on the marble floor, and the staff didn’t help her.” Really? Don’t think I want to go there! “The drinks are watered down to nothing.” That doesn’t sound good. Is this all-inclusive idea destined to sleep with the fishes? I was getting close to tossing it off the metaphorical pier.

I’m glad I’m the determined type because we REALLY needed the perfect vacation. When I came across the Riu Palace Riviera Maya in Playa del Carmen, the fog in my brain began to lift. Three liquor dispensers in the room? We’re not big drinkers, but it was nice to know a cocktail in the room could be done anytime. A lovely beach? Yes. Any type of drink you desire will be served at the amazing pool. Why am I obsessing over the drinks? Maybe it’s because even a soda can cost you on certain cruise ships.

We booked and flew to Cancun. No fuss. We just did it.

As soon as we collected the luggage, our transportation to the Riu Palace Playa Riviera Maya was waiting for us. From that moment on, we had no worries.

If you’re like me, you love looking at beautiful gardens, lovely architecture, and gorgeous decor. When I stepped into the Riu Palace Riviera Maya’s lobby and saw the plush furniture, marble floor, and stunning chandelier, I knew we were off to the right start.

Can things get better? Oh, yeah! They can rise to sublime.

Our suite with balcony was nothing less than fabulous. How nice to have room! Cruise ships have nice suites – no question. But, this suite was huge. And, there were those three liquor dispensers. Ahem.

We wasted no time getting down to the pool with the gorgeous beach just a few feet away from our lounge chairs. We had no trouble finding just the right loungers in the shade. Lots of people were sunning, but I have to protect my skin. Glorious! The sounds of the surf, a good book, and a fruit drink in my hand… In short order, I had nodded off. That probably wasn’t a pretty sight, but who cares? My body knew this week was about rest and rejuvenation.

Every day of our vacation was perfect. My husband is a huge fan of Japanese food. Yep. They had it. Mexican, Brazilian, American cuisine anyone? How about a spa, gym, sauna? Feel like swimming up to the bar. Just too much fun!

Our first all-inclusive resort experience was heaven. Where else could I have champagne on demand? If you get a chance to visit the Riu Palace Riviera Maya, I say, “Book it!”

Copyright 2009

Sylvia Davenport-Veith invites you to check out her travel blog and tips on TOB Travels.

http://tobtravels.blogspot.com/

Travel often and safely!