Please visit our "Travel" page for links for more information on international travel updates and resort policies. COVID testing is required at least 3 days prior to reentry to the United States. The resort offers this service on site and we would like to cover the cost of all testing for our guests. Reach out to us with any questions. We understand anyone not being comfortable travelling so please make the choice that is best for you.
We always knew that we wanted to do a destination wedding. We researched lots of places like Hawaii. Jamaica, and Alaska. Eventually we started to look at Mexico, found Sandos Caracol, and we saw exactly what we were looking for: An All-Inclusive Eco Resort that was great for both families and adults. The property is wild with ancient ruins, cenotes, and jungle, but still clean like you would expect from a resort. Activities, meals, and drinks will be included in your stay cost and there are many room and suite options. Please take a look at the resort website under the TRAVEL tab to check out photos and amenities!
We will be staying at the resort a few days before and after the wedding and plan to do some excursions and enjoy ourselves on vacation. Outside of a few events the day before and the day of the wedding, you are encouraged to plan your own trip! There are many interesting things near Playa del Carmen, including Cancun, Chichen Itza, and Xcaret. We do recommend you stay in the resort but be aware it has a 3 day minimum booking. If you choose to stay at a different hotel please let us know in advance so we can purchase a guest pass.
Airfare averages $400 round-trip per person for a flight to Cancun. 3 night stay (minimum) in the resort with all-inclusive perks for two adults (as of 10/6/2019) costs $551.88 ($183.96 per night) infants less than 2 years old do not affect cost but need to be included on y our reservation. Two adults and one child cost $689.82 ($229.94 per night). Two adults and two children cost $827.76 ($275.92 per night). All pricing includes taxes and gratuity.
Yes, everyone will need a passport to get to and from Mexico, including infants. If you already have a passport, please check to ensure it is still valid. Your passport must not expire within 6 months after your expected return date to the states. If you need to get a passport, we recommend you apply as early as possible, however you can pay to expedite the process. Please do not hesitate to contact us with questions about international travel or browse the following FAQ page from the Department of State website: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/passport-help/faqs.html
There are three classes of rooms available each with multiple layouts depending on how many guests you will have. Maximum adult occupancy per room is limited to 3 adults and each room must be booked with the exact guest count to account for all-inclusive perks including children (12-2) and infants (2 and under). Do NOT spend the extra money on the Royal Elite rooms. These are reserved for timeshare members and even if you spend extra to book that class of rooms, you are not allowed the exclusive perks unless you pay to join their program. If you will not have children joining you, you may choose to upgrade to the Select Club Adults Only which will allow you access to a restricted pool, beach area, and club house that is intended for a more romantic, luxury experience. The standard rooms affront all the same all-inclusive amenities with the exception of the exclusive areas, however restaurants located within the adults-only area are still available to all guests, children included.
We love to use the application WhatsApp when we travel outside the country. It is available for free for all smartphones and runs off any WiFi. You can text, make calls, send photos and videos without purchasing expensive international cellular or data plans. Anyone back home you wish to call or text will need to download the app as well. Facebook/Messenger can also be a key communication tool when you are within WiFi. We will most likely create a Facebook page for our guests that RSVP so we can communicate when and where we will be during our wedding weekend so we can ensure enough opportunity to visit with everyone.
We HIGHLY recommend arranging transportation with the resort directly before you leave the United States. We are not sure on the additional cost this would incur but we are confident that it would be more secure than trying to figure it out after landing. You should share your travel information with the resort before leaving the states to arrange for them to pick you up from the airport hassle free. It is a 45 minute commute from the airport to the resort but you can arrive in Mexico and be confident that you will be transported safely and at a fair price.