Maya discovering the Caribbean

Late on July 11, we returned from our trip to Mexico and now trying to get back in the rhythm of our life at home.  On July 3rd, we left for a week-long daring adventure to the Riviera Maya with our toddler and teen.  We left the country just in time for the 4th of July holiday the next day.  It was somewhat odd to celebrate the occasion in a different country, seeing the red, white and blue balloons while listening to some classic American music.

My 2 year-old daughter Maya had a challenging time on the 5-hour plane ride.  It was surreal to see a sense of Mexico from the plane, which reminded me of my village in India, with its flat, rustic roofs.  Once in Cancun, we were hit by the humidity and then transferred to our resort at the Riviera Maya about an hour away.  Once there, the resort matched what we saw and read on-line and even what we saw via satellite on Google.  It was interesting to be in the ocean that I saw clearly on-line, right to the rocky, patchy areas.

It is difficult to complain about a vacation and resort over-all.  Because, you know, it’s a resort and vacation.  When all else fails, there is always the ocean, which can not disappoint.  We saw some negative reviews of the resort on Trip Advisor, and that was echoed upon arrival.  We had been placed in the wrong room and then on the wrong side.  After finally getting to our correct room, we had some issues with our room not getting cleaned and then the toilet not flushing.  We also had some issues with my son’s age – he was 12 when we booked, which was at a lower rate, but then he turned 13 upon arrival, a higher rate.

Things got resolved and we were able to appreciate the beach above all, and then the pools and having food/drinks included.  It was challenging feeding Maya – we actually had a hard time finding beans at the buffets!  There were no tacos, burritos, enchiladas or other traditional vegetarian Mexican food we are accustomed to in the states.  The first thing we did after landing late Monday was to stop at a cheap fast food Mexican drive-thru on the way home.  My son and I were so desperate for Mexican food after our trip to Mexico!  At the fancy Mexican restaurant, we were offered roasted vegetables.  This followed the fancy French food the previous night where we had the same vegetables.  I do regret not insisting on some whole beans and accepting what was offered.

I would probably not book an all-inclusive in the future.  I gained 5 lbs, and unless you are used to eating and drinking a lot, it may not be the best value or provide you with the choice you want.  Since you have already paid for your package, the restaurants don’t need to impress you, particularly vegetarians.  There isn’t competition for your business.  We had considered a vacation rental, which is something I would try next time.  We could have our own room and only pay for what little food/drink we may want.