Tried a lower-cost respite at Viceroy Riviera Maya near Playa del Carmen

[Tried to include pix but gliches ensued. Will try again.

Why did I choose this venue? I've been travelling to and through Mexico since age 9. I'm consirably older now, and have been going solo for the last three years. In the past I've chosen traditional luxury resorts, on the higher end (Las Ventanas, Esperanza, Las Alamandas, La Casa Que Canta, Belmond Marona, etc). This trip I'd determined to go lower end to see if saving a few bucks would be worth it. It was a good trip but I'll be going back to spending more for greater satisfaction.

The resort is a very deep (mile plus) swatch of jungle with the beach, restaurants nice resort pool at one end, and reception lobby at the other end, connected by concrete walkways. There is a spa, I did not indulge.

I stayed in one of two beachfront villas, 1700sqft including outside lounge. It is the only accommodation that is acceptable (to me anyway). The large shaded outside area was lovely, well furnished and featured two day beds (one shaded, one not), dining table and chairs, and a heated pool -- larger than plunge, smaller than a regular pool. I have mobility issues and had a difficult time getting safely in and out if the pool. Inside there is large bedroom, large bathroom with slipper tub and dual sinks, outdoor rain shower, large walk-in closet, toilet alcove, and foyer. It us adjacent but very well screened from the restaurant/pool area. All well appointed and comfortable. 

The beach is not really up to par although fairly accessible. It is very small and very rocky. There is a sporadic parade of tourists walking past most of the time but the villa is mostly spared the sight. It’s not much of a bathing beach.

Service at reception, concierge and restaurant/room service was swift, courteous and competent. This is the category in which the resort shines.

Transfers arranged through the resort were perfect barring one VERY chatty driver.

I likely won’t return. It is an option for those who don’t want to pay $5K per night for a villa at Las Ventanas, as one example. The beachfront villa here is about $1,450/nt plus the usual add-ons (taxes, service, etc.) about 25-30%.

For me, it will be back to Casa Que Canta, and Las Ventanas. Maybe others as yet untried.

Fine, see main body of review.

Outstanding, see main body of review.

Food was good.

Not good. Cheek by jowl in a long line of other resorts. Some issues at night, loud pop mysic.

Good value for the money but not for me.

Fine, see main body of review.