I've been at the Blue Bay Club twice now and find it to be a real jewel on the ocean. It's not a fancy high rise, but a smaller, more intimate setting with the beach just outside your room. The buffet offers a different theme every night. The food is good but not great. The grille on the patio offers a salad bar and hamburger, hotdogs, chicken, and pizza during the day. The onsite restaurant, Osters, is excellent, but you can only eat there once per week. The staff is super- accommodating and the rooms meticulously cleaned. If you want to check out the scene in the hotel zone, there is a free shuttle service to the sister resort (Desire) which is for the over 21 crowd. The buffet and restaurants there truly are excellent, but avoid the pool area if you're not into spring break type games. Instead, take the opportunity to go clubbing and shopping.

I was particularly impressed with the international clientele there. I think there were more visitors from the UK than from the US and Canada! With the size of the facility and all the activities, you could really get to know people from other parts of the world. As for excursions, the catamaran to Isla Mujeres was a hoot! I also enjoyed the tours to Chichen Itza and Tulum; however, know that these are all day affairs. Chichen Itza is in the jungle and it's hot out there! Pack a light meal as the bus doesn't stop for lunch until 3:30. Tulum is much closer and on the water.

In short, I would recommend the Blue Bay for any family planning a beach vacation, particularly in the fall or winter. It's easy to get around, there is much for the kids to enjoy (including several live shows per week), the food is plentiful, the staff is great, and you'll have lots of opportunities to make friends if you want to. Oh, and there are no vendors on the beach!

What I didn't like was not being able to place a calling card call from my room without paying a fee. Also, although it appears there is an 800-number that can be called from the States, it doesn't work. Ask your cell phone provider to turn on international roaming. The reception was fine.

Visited in March 2005. Fantastic suite with great view. Beach is not good, weedy and shallow. Small pool. Friendly and helpful staff. All inclusive food average- breakfast is great, but avoid lunch and dinner buffets- try the snack bar at the pool for lunch or speciality restaurant for dinner. Small Mayan ruin less than 1 mile down the road worth a visit. We spent most days at adults only Blue Bay Getaway, but not a place for conservative types.(topless and "adult" games.)