April 15, 2009
Diane Grigus

“We called Fernando and he took us to Tulum on Monday. He suggested we make a day of it and see other places he knew about. He was so right. The ruins are interesting and we were amazed at the beautiful panaroma of the ocean as you looked down the rocky cliff. Then he took us to a beautiful lagoon where he knew of a nice restaurant for lunch in a more remote area. That beach was so quiet and absolutely breathtaking. The kids played football with a coconut! The views there were breathtaking. He took us to a second lagoon beach which was beautiful too and so pristine. We got lots of fun pictures of the kids climbing a palm tree that was at an angle. Then he took us to a cenote which is supposed to be one of the best around. We got snorkels and saw divers down below and turtles and fish. Really fun. We had a great day and were really glad we did it. We ate at La Parrilla last night.

This morning we had our Discovery Jungle adventure. We drove ATVs out of town for 20 miles and then went ziplining. We all went and had a blast. There are three ziplines and we all did them all (except Phil took a pass on the highest one…he’s not a big fan of heights). We’ve never been before…pretty exciting! Then we went in their cenote. It felt really refreshing after being on the dusty road with the ATVs. It wasn’t as big as the one we had gone into in Tulum. We spent the afternoon on the beach here today and had lunch at the Blue Parrot this time and then ate dinner at Mandarina’s Cafe. We did a little more shopping and we’ve had our share of gelato! The kids have had a great time. They are up on the roof enjoying the hot tub right now. It’s nice that there is so much for everyone to do. Thanks so much for all of your suggestions and help making this such a memorable trip. We all love it and would be delighted to come back sometime!” Diane (family vacation with teenagers and adult children)
dgrigus@msn.com

March 14, 2009
Nancy Hough, New York, New York

First time we stayed in this unit we were in Playa for a long weekend and some serious R&R. Within an hour of landing at the airport we were having lunch on the beach. We ate, slept and walked the beach for 3 days and totally recharged. This last time we stayed for 10 days. The first 2 we relaxed. Then we went on day trips. One day to Cozumel for the best snorkeling I’ve ever experienced. Another day we went to XCaret, an eco park. We got there at 10 am and stayed till 9 that night so we could see the “celebration of Mayan Mexico”. It was fabulous. Another day we went to Chichen Itza, one of the 7 wonders of the world. It has Mayan ruins and was unbelievable. It’s a long ride, but well worth it. I can’t say enough about Playa del Carmen, and the Porto Playa condo/hotel. We’ve stayed in unit 216 twice and the owner could not be more helpful with booking the reservation, to restaurant recommendations, to sights to see. We will be back!

March 30, 2009
Mary Hinske, Houston Texas

What a romantic place to be! We were there celebrating an anniversary and another guest was getting married on the beach. It is beautiful. 5th Avenue is the Mexican equivalent to the Avenue des Champs Elysees in Paris. Restaurants are phenomenal. Unit 216 has the best view of the pool, a little bit of the gulf, and was better than Hawaii.

March 14, 2009
Nicole and Kevin, Illinois

We traveled out of the country for the first time for our Wedding/Honeymoon. Not knowing what to expect but going off of reviews ourselves. We were amazed on how at home you feel at Porto Playa Condo 216. The condo was immaculate and so cozy. We will be returning to this same Condo for our Anniversary. It was a dream come true for us! The recommendations from the owner Laura were fabulous. We had our reception at Play Asia and were not disappointed. The food was delicious and the atmosphere was amazing! Our regular restaurant was La Parilla. The Mexican food was fabulous. The best restaurant in town!

March 31, 2009
Suzie Burns , Traverse City, Mi

Secluded feeling while being in the heart of Playa! The lush landscaping within the walls of this resort gave a serene atmosphere. I loved everything about the condo: proximity to beach, and to the dining and shopping of 5th Avenue, and the friendly staff, who provided security and daily cleaning. Could spend the day surrounded by many people, and retire to the privacy of the condo. Relaxing to the hilt! We loved staying here, and would definitely recommend Porto Playa to our friends!

December, 2008
Victoria Weise , Forest Park, Il

As soon as you arrive at Porto Playa, a sense of peace, tranquility, safety, and privacy surrounds you. The gardens and tropical plants are mature and exquisite; the pool glistens in the sunlight. The staff are gracious and helpful. I truly felt welcomed and secure. The condo was wonderfully decorated with quality local furnishings and art, conveying a real sense of the Mexican Riviera. Rooms are spacious, complete with all provisions that could possibly be necessary for a vacation getaway. Beds are extremely comfortable, contributing to a wonderfully refreshing rest. The patio is perfect for any time of day, from breakfast coffee and rolls with exotic birds chirping softly in the beautiful morning sun, to a mid afternoon guacamole and wine fest. Beach is perfect. Right around the corner, with an abundance of restaurants with great food and drinks. The margaritas were my favorite – perfect for watching the clear beautiful Caribbean. I’ve already booked my next vacation at Porto Playa!

March, 2009
Jack Dinh , San Bernadino CA

If you are looking for a quiet condo right in the heart of Playa Del Carmen within seconds walk of the beach and 5th Avenue, this is definitely the place for you. We rented this 2 bedroom 2 bath condo along with another couple (all 4 of us are in our 30s). Suffice to say, we were NOT disappointed. First of all, the condo offers you the privacy and independence that resorts cannot offer. At the same time, there is a full time staff as well as full time security to cater to your needs. The best perk of the condo is the incredible location, right next to the action of 5th avenue (a pedestrian only street where all the restaurants and shops are). The walk is literally seconds to 5th avenue, great after a night of dinner and drinking. In addition, the beach is only a minute or so walk away (beach towels are included) Despite being so close to everything, when you are physically within the condo premises, you feel completely isolated in your own sanctuary. Each condo is private. There are two pools and two jacuzzis. All are heated, which is great for the late night swim after a day at the beach. The condo itself is incredible. Modern, clean, and spacious. A/C included, although you don’t need it. The showers were heaven. Really, the pictures do not do the condo justice. You have to see it with your own eyes! Another perk of the condo is underground secured parking, in the event that you decide to rent a car to visit the Mayan ruins or other excursions. Finally, the owner and staff are so helpful. After talking to the owner to reserve the condo, I was sent a list of places to go and eat. The recommendations were dead on. In summary, this condo offers everything you may need for a stress-free vacation. Very few rental places will not only meet, but exceed expectations, and this condo definitely does so.

November, 2008
Brian Leli, Chicago, IL

This is a fantastic place to stay, both in terms of location and quality. It’s practically right on the beach and right in the heart of Playa (right off of 5th ave). It’s very roomy, comfortable, clean and well-maintained, and the customer service is outstanding. There are an endless amount of restaurants (and places to shop), no matter what your tastes. I would highly recommend staying here.

Jann Barnes, Winfield IL

The top 10 things we love about staying at Porto Playa:
1. Luxurious accommodations
2. Beautiful beaches
3. Great restaurants
4. Fantastic shopping
5. Friendly people
6. The nightlife
7. Margaritas, margaritas, margaritas!!
8. Ceviche on the beach
9. Sitting on the balcony at sundown with a glass of wine
10. A refreshing dip in the gorgeous pool