Tortolla or Playa Del Carmen

neisy · Post by **neisy** » Fri Jan 25, 2008 4:04 pm

I am trying to plan a nice vacation for June. It will include myself, husband, 22 year-old son and his college roomate. We loved Tortolla when we were there in 2003. My son has never been to the BVI'S and I want so bad for him to see the beauty. None of us has ever been to Mexico and it will probably be a lot more affordable than Tortolla. The problem I am having is will we be bored in Playa Del Carmen for 10 days?

My heart is telling me Tortolla so we can visit White Bay, the Baths, possibly Anegada and of course the snorkeling day sails.

My wallet is telling me Mexico and that is about the only reason I can come up with.

Has anyone been to Playa Del Carmen and if so, what are your thoughts?

Thanks!

Denise

Pianogrl · Post by **Pianogrl** » Fri Jan 25, 2008 4:11 pm

We've been there...alot has built up since we were there though & since the hurricane. You could always go over to Cozumel & up to Cancun....but....as much fun as you'd have there, I personally don't think it can compare with the VI's....British or US!!
That said, it's always good/fun to visit different cultures to see, live, taste life from their perspective.
Enjoy.....wherever you choose!

ihochman · Post by **ihochman** » Fri Jan 25, 2008 4:13 pm

First of all I've been to Playa del Carmen and I wouldn't spend more than 10 minutes there. It is honky tonk, very turisty and very crowded. I love Mexico and have been there several times. If you want to save $ and want to stay on the East coast of Mexico try Isla Mujeres, or Tulum or even Cozumel. Playa del Carmen has gotten very popular in the last few years and what was
funky and beautiful 15 years ago has become dirty and and not very run down. It's really too bad. If possible, do Tortola. If not, research some of these other places I've mentioned. Good luck.

RickG · Post by **RickG** » Fri Jan 25, 2008 4:15 pm

Playa del Carmen is fun if you have a vehicle. Xpuha, Akumal, Tulum, Coba, Punta Allen - there's a lot to explore.

But, you are going to be doing some driving. The beaches are long and more coastal. That means all of the beaches (except for Cozumel) face the same direction and are 20-45 minutes apart. But, Coba is freakin' cool.

Me? I used to go to the Quintana Roo coast. But, I prefer the Caribbean experience. Given a choice, I would consider Costa Rica as well.

Good luck!

Cheers, RickG

augie · Post by **augie** » Fri Jan 25, 2008 5:15 pm

My family is going to Cozumel for 10 days in June.

I like STJ better, but for that time of year not only is Coz more affordable, but it's easier to get to, and we've invited a lot of friends and family to come down for some or all of the time that we'll be there (we're celebrating one of those "milestone" birthdays).

Me, my wife and my boys will be scuba diving almost every morning, and it looks like there's enough to do (and enough opportunities to not do anything!) to keep everyone as occupied as they want to be.

Gizzmo · Post by **Gizzmo** » Fri Jan 25, 2008 5:24 pm

CHECK OUT MY RECENT POST IN THE OFF TOPIC FORUM!!!

No more Mexico for me!

cypressgirl · Post by **cypressgirl** » Fri Jan 25, 2008 5:27 pm

Living in Houston, I've been going to the Yukatan for way more years than the VI's because it is so much more affordable. Playa Del Carmen used to be a sleepy village that you had to drive to from Cancun to get to the ferry that takes you to Cozumel. Now there is one resort after another from Cancun to Playa Del Carmen, and PDC is almost like Cancun, but seems to be really into the all-inclusives. The water is beautiful, and the sand is white, but it is not the VI's and June will be much hotter in Mexico than Tortola. If you are spoiled to "the view" of other islands and green lush hillsides, you will be disappointed. But I'm sure there are great hotels, great bars and restaurants, snorkeling and diving trips to take, and other excursions to enjoy. Mexico is not dirt cheap like it used to be. You can still spend plenty on food and drinks in the touristy areas.
But you will have fun at either place.

neisy · Post by **neisy** » Fri Jan 25, 2008 7:16 pm

Hey gizmo what is the off topic?

neisy · Post by **neisy** » Fri Jan 25, 2008 8:09 pm

I have decided on Tortolla! I always felt like I left a piece of my heart there when we visited in 2003 and now I have the opportunity to share that with my son and his friend.

Thanks for all the advice, it is really appreciated!

Can't wait till June 12!

Denise

traveler22 · Post by **traveler22** » Sat Jan 26, 2008 9:55 am

neisy-
Good decision, I also love the Caribbean,especially the VI's but have been to Playa Del Carmen and Mexico and in MY opinion they don't compare. The town of Playa Del Carmen (5th Ave) is really built up and crowded but fun. I prefer the smaller laid back island feel of St. John, Virgin Gorda & Yost Van Dyke. I also think the scenery is more beautiful with beaches & mountains all around you instead of just flat land. Have fun and I hope you son loves the islands as much as you and if not, take me next time!

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