I've been staying at the Royals for the past 25 years. (There are four of them - five if you count Club International which is still in the Royal family although it doesn't have the "Royal" moniker) My parents own four weeks at various Royal locations. While the Royal family of resorts are not the best resorts on the island, they are some of the most comfortable. Personally my favorite is the Royal Mayan, but that's probably because it's the one I've stayed the most at (I practically grew up there - yes I was spoiled,.. get over it)
Some things you should know:
- One thing at the Royals is that they must have an agreement with Aqua World, the largest dive operation in Cancun. While I don't have a problem with the operation (they are the one's who initially certified me), I have heard plenty of negative reviews of their operation. As always, any diver is responsible for your own equipment whether it's your own or rented. Test it out thoroughly before hand. Of course you don't have to dive with them, but they do have a presence at the resorts.
- Just like any timeshare resort, you will be approached by someone to attend a presentation. At the Royals, this will be your personal concierge. These guys are usually great. They will do anything for you like plan and book your trips, make reservations for you, etc., but don't forget how they make their money. If you’re not interested, just be firm yet courteous. They'll understand.
- In case you haven't been to Cancun before, almost always take the buses to get around instead of a taxi. Buses are something like .50 cents each way and are way cheaper than a taxi. They're not super clean, but neither are most taxis. And you'll inevitably sit/stand next to a sweaty local,.. but hey, when in Rome....(besides,.. it's worth it) One other thing to note is that the Royal Resorts have a free shuttle that goes to each of the Resorts (and their restaurants) on a regular basis. Take advantage of it.
- Dives: Two main dive areas are off the northern point of Cancun and Cozumel. Frankly they are both good, but if you haven’t dove Cozumel, it's worth making a day trip out of it. It will take a full day, but there are some good wall dives over there. The Cenote dive is also a great experience. Definitely a must. I've used Aqua World and have been plenty happy.
- Alternative excursions: While the ruins are something to see, If you have seen them once, you don't need to do it again. The newest thing that I did last month is the zip-line adventure. What a blast! 11 zip-lines through the jungle, a mile mountain bike ride to a cenote, and an hour of zip lining into the cenote. Good times.
- Restraunts: Ok this might sound biased, but I really think you can get almost everything you need at the Royal Resorts. Captains Cove is right below the Royal Mayan/Caribbean and has great all-around food (mostly seafood though). Go there at night and see the alligator/crocodile that comes up to the outside seating area. They are owned by the Royal resorts so you can pay with your room key. El Conquistador in the Royal Mayan is a very nice evening dining experience as well. It is more of a fine dining establishment. Last but not least, Hacienda Sisal is over at the Royal Sands. If you time it right, you can take the free Royal shuttle over there and back. The nice thing about Sisal is that they have a pretty good evening show every night (I think) full of dances of the world. Once again, since it's under the Royal umbrella, you can pay with your room key.
Anyways,.. I've written a small novel here, but as you can tell, I love the Royal Resorts. They have always treated me well and the construction is solid (Each of the Royal resorts have withstood ALL of the major hurricanes with very minimal damage. All other resorts have taken pretty severe beatings.)
If you have any questions,.. feel free to ask or PM me.
- Rob
* one last side note... Although the Royals are family friendly, they generally aren't overrun with kids. Of course I haven't been there for spring break. Either way they will treat you well and I'm sure you'll have a good time. Have Fun!
