Help! Feeling overwhelmed and need help picking a resort!

[SMB&CRZ]

So I had been focusing on Cozumel, as I was really set on having sunsets, but the only place I was really considering doesn't allow outside vendors, and I don't like their photographer very much. So the search continues. I'm looking for suggestions for the Mayan. We are looking to get married at the end of March, 2010. Here are some must haves:

 

1. All inclusive

2. Nice beach

3. Not further then 30 minutes from the airport

4. option of private reception

 

I want to keep to the $1500-$2000 price range. I don't know yet if there will be kids coming, so to be safe, let's say kid friendly. I want a place that lets me bring in outside vendors, in case I don't like their photog or music options (unless they have really awesome ones to start with). I am willing to pay a fee. I prefer resorts on the smaller side, as I don't really like the idea of being one of 20 weddings happening that day. I think that's it for my must have list. I guess that was longer then I thought! Any recommendations are greatly appreciated.

 

Also, I'm still trying to figure out who to use as a TA, so recommendations for that as well are great. I am in the GTA area. Thanks everyone!

[endlesslove]

I wanted everything you want, lol. I saw the Excellence and I fell in love with it. Outside photographers cost only $70 for a day pass. You can bring in your own chair sashes, decor, and such. And the wedding package is great compared to most resorts. It all boils down to what you fall in love with. I'm trying to find a cheaper place but nothing appeals to me like ERC does.

[RedDiamond]

Have you tried contacting a wedding coordinator for suggestions?

[KLC77]

Check out Paradisus Paradisus Riviera Cancun All Inclusive Resorts |In Cancun, Mexico I think it meets all your criteria and they only do one wedding per day, which I love.

 

As far as a TA, there are several on this forum who are great and can help you. Check out the banner in the top right corner of the screen. I've emailed with TA Jennifer before and she was super nice and responded really quickly. Good luck!

[rach220]

If you really wanted to stick to Cozumel, there are usually ways to get around the outside vendor thing. For example, we are getting married at the Aventura Spa Palace in the RM which doesn't allow outside vendors, but are getting around it by having a photographer stay overnight. If you're willing to pay a little extra it might be worth looking into. Palace has a sister resort in Cozumel if you're interested.

 

Good luck!

[heather007]

To agree with Rachel, there are many resorts that have the "stay at one for x amount of days, stay at another for x amount of days". I suggest that you talk to a TA that focuses in Mexico and Cozumel. My suggestion, because you said you are from the T.O. is to talk to TA Lindsay on here. She is from Regina, but she is amazingly smart, gifted, and the friendlist person you will ever work with. Her company works with people all across Canada. Our TA is one of her co-workers and we have had nothing but good vibes and positive results working with her.

 

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[athena]

Why we picked the Royal in Playa del carmen:

It is a beautiful resort that is adults only (+16 years)... But kids are allowed in for the wedding day. There is a much more cost friendly sister hotel (Gran Porto Real) across the street, that is kid friendly. (This hotel would be an excellent place to stay & have a wedding as well.) The beach is awesome infront of the Royal & the Gran Porto. There are a few different wedding packages to choose from as well. And the big plus, it is right in Playa del Carmen, a 15 minute walk from the ferry terminal over to Cozumel. And it is right by 5th and 10th ave... So there is no need to take a cab, like some of the other resorts out of town. Outside vendors are allowed, but you have to pay $100.00 day pass. But we've heard that the resort photographers, videographers, DJ... are all really good. Hope this helps!