We've not gotten out there to explore the possibilities, much; and, because we came here to live, we've never experienced Cancun as a tourist would. I'm wondering what the rest of you- those who live in Cancun- have found that you like to do, and places you like to go, in the hotel zone. So far, we've enjoyed overnighting at Kin Ha, and sitting at Lagoon side at Plaza Isla. What are some things you've found to do, and things you have enjoyed enough that you have, or would want to repeat?
My favorite restaurant in the HZ is Thai Lounge in Plaza La Isla. It's the most gorgeous restaurant I've ever seen, set right on the lagoon. It's a totally unique experience, although a bit on the pricey side! Great for dinner or for drinks. I recommend a reservation 1 day in advance. Laguna Grill is another great restaurant, a bit further down Kukulcan. Took my family there once and we loved it. Right on the lagoon. There's a new Guanatos at Playa Tortugas if you want to get a few beers on the beach. Jorge and I have been there a few times just to talk about life Try not to be there between 6:30 and 7:30 pm because that's when all the Caribbean Carnaval people make a line right through the middle of the restaurant. As far as activities go, I've done the pirate ship and Caribbean Carnaval. Don't really recommend either of them... it's a fun time but nowhere near fun enough for the money you spend. I'm not a huge fan of the beaches in the HZ, even less after they "improved" them a few months ago. For the beach, I much prefer Isla Mujeres. I'm like you... our favorite activity is hanging out by the lagoon at Plaza La Isla, watching the big fountain, having lunch, etc.
I try to stay as far away from the HZ as possible(part of my work is there...) But if and when I go there, its for my runs(the track) and to jump from the bridge at the big Xcaret flag(cant remember the name of the "Punta"..) I just find it a bit too much "in your face", but Im sure I would feel different if I came as a tourist Prefer the downtown area and to discover "new" places.
We don't get to the HZ much, but when we do we like to go to Fish Fritanga on the lagoon. Playa Delfines is great, we like Playa Marlin as we can pop into Plaza Kukulkan for supplies or Playa Gaviotas behind the Forum. If we're feeling flush, we'll go to Playa Cabana, the beach club behind The City. Last weekend we went to Wet n Wild, they have a weekend special of 350 pesos adults, 250 kids for all inclusive (drinks, food, water). We're hoping to do the helicopter tour soon, just saw that they've really lowered their prices (used to be $90 USD, saw a sign for $45). The pirate ship tour is cheesy but so fun (maybe it's better if you have a kid, but I did enjoy it).
I always liked Ruinas Del Rey. My hubby and I went before our son was born and we were literally the only ones there, apart from the people working the booth.
Thanks, everybody, for the suggestions, so far. I planned to have a trial run at the Thai Lounge, Sat even, after seeing "La Ponitifice" at Cinemark 5, but that's when we had the wind driven rain, and the tables are outdoors. (I agree, Gringation, it is an attractive place, with not so attractive prices; but, now and then, eh?) I probably would have been OK with the rain, but I didn't like the idea of the waitresses having to serve me in the rain, as the pathways they had to use were not covered, so I told them I'd try it again, another time. By the way, for anyone reading this who is concerned about the weather, the sun is coming out, today- it's out now- and we'll be back to normal, weatherwise, very soon, with just the occasional, normally brief tropical rains we have here, this time of year. Enjoy your visit! ____________________
I couldn't agree with you more, Thai Lounge is awesome! The service is terrific and the food is from out of this world; highly recommended! We also enjoy walking around Plaza Kukulkan; my son loves the calendar-type ceiling, and we just sit and have some ice cream while he runs around. It's a good way to catch specials at the stores there as well
I try to avoid the HZ as much as possible. It is too pricy compared to things en Centro. But there are some things worth going there for. Fish Fritanga is one of them. I always ask to be served by Eduardo as his waiter skills far surpass the others who have served me. He is great with kids too. Plaza La Isla has many dining options not available in town. I am constantly reminded that when my taste buds get back to normal I need to get back to the Thai Lounge. I get to Hard Rock Cafe from time for the Pig sandwich. Not sure if they still accept the Entertainment Plus card or not, but they did for lunch so don't go alone if you have the card. Outback is great and you can eat in the bar or the restaurant. Hard to park unless Valet or unless you are rude to the valet guy and they wave you in. Not sure why you need valet to park in a lot that is right there, other than to get a spot if people are there to party at Pat's or Buffet's and want to save their $$ to drink. Jaja. As Rawkus says, the HZ is a bit in your face. Parking can be a hassle even if you pay. I hate Forum by the Sea as they have about 10 spots that are not valet so it is a hassle if you don't want to valet your car. Went to Pat O'Brien's yesterday to watch England get kicked by the refs and by Germany. $90 for a large beer. Basic burger was like $160. Had the smallest naranjada I have ever seen and it was $45. We did get a 15% Cancunense discount but were only offered 10% till we questioned the waiter on it. Thanks Steve for remembering that you got 15% on your last visit. We were force fed a 15% tip and I hate this. I would have tipped my low end of normal, 20%, but if he only wanted 15% who am I to argue.
TJ - I go to Outback from time to time, and we've never had to deal with valet... just drove right into the parking lot. Maybe it's a new thing? (Please no!) Or just on weekends? (I usually go weekdays) You also get 15% cancunense discount there They even give you a punch card if you ask.
Coco Bongo I was told, last night, that Coco Bongo- show, dancing, and open bar- is just 250 pesos to those who present proof of residency in Quintana Roo. Anybody had any experience with that?
