Hotel Marina El Cid Cancun - Riviera Maya

Fantastic family resort. We stayed in building 16, with a view of the pool and the ocean and loved everything about this resort. We travelled to the resort from 10-18 Feb 09, were picked up and transported to the resort without difficulty. We had a very smooth check in and took advantage of the "freebies" given out if you endured the notorious time share meeting. Snorkelling is spectacular on the National Reef, only 15 mins by boat from the Marina towards Puerto Morelos. Our kids swam with the dolphins at Isla Mujeres(near Cancun) and will remember it forever. The restaurants were all very well presented and service was very efficient and speedy. All of the meals were great. The pool was a real highlight for our younger kids, who spent countless hours jumping off of the cliff located within the pool. We felt very safe and comfortable in this resort and let our kids enjoy the safety within. It wasn't one of the huge resorts where people get lost in the shuffle. The staff were all very courteous and friendly and rectified a small TV remote issue for us immediately. The maid service took excellent care of us and we tipped accordingly. No worries with this resort, we will be going back again!!!!

Only 20 minutes from the airport, the fishing village of Puerto Morelos is a nice change from the urban setting of Cancun. If you decide to rent a car, the location is great for getting to places like Playa del Carmen and Tulum.

If you like snorkeling and diving, there's a National Reef park all along the area. The resort became mandatory all-inclusive in 2008, so you need to check on those costs before you buy.

We bought a studio time share there 6 months ago. The firm has refused to act according to the contract, and refused to honor its commitment to provide a studio time share. It has refused to discuss the matter despite repeated attempts (by phone, email, and fax) to communicate with them.

We have owned 9 timeshares now and in the past, in the US and in Mexico, and this is our first experience with outright dishonest services.

If you like a smaller resort with activities and great food, then this is the place for you. This Resort is NEW (2006).

I visited with my 21-yr old daughter on a mother-daughter trip (in August 2006), but it is a great place for families, couples, singles, and groups, too.

The pool has a cliff jump, waterslide, and swim- up bar. Many activities that appeal to young and old alike, or just sit by the pool or beach and relax. Many beach activites and a great marina that offers the best snorkeling trip around (this is one thing you don't want to miss).

Located outside of Cancun, but offers transportation and trips to nightlife, ruins, etc. Felt very safe here and plan to return. NOTE: If you want to be in the center of the nightlife, noise, and action, then a resort in Cancun would be better for you.

RATING: The only reason I don't give it a 5- star rating is because I've stayed at 5-star resorts and this one is just a bit more relaxed and you get to know people (i.e. not stuffy). I don't have one negative thing to say about it.