Poor Mark. I asked him SO many questions prior to our departure, and not only did he reply to every single one, but he did so promptly and in a respectful manner, always ending his reply with, “do you have any more questions?” Why yes, yes I did!
The information Mark and Yvonne provide their guests upon booking is extremely detailed and thorough, from directions to their home as well as information guests may need about the house during their stay, to the names and locations of recommended restaurants and excursions nearby. Some of my questions related to safety in and around Playacar, and though they both assured me it was safe, I still felt a little anxious... until we arrived in Playacar and drove through the secured gates. Any anxiety that possibly remained was alleviated as soon as we walked into their gorgeous home.
I say home, not house, because Casa Alegria truly feels like a home from the moment you walk in. We have rented several condos over the years, and this is the first one that truly has a welcoming feel to it, most likely due to all the local, decorative touches throughout. The home is spacious, the kitchen is FULLY stocked, there are enough bathrooms for everyone, and it comes with everything you may need for a trip to the beach: a cooler, freezer packs, beach towels, and an umbrella!
Upon the suggestion of the hosts, our family of 4 had planned an excursion to Xel-ha one day in the middle of our stay. (Tip: pre-book and pay at least a week before the day you plan on visiting Xel-ha, and you’ll save between 10-15% on your tickets). Our family (2 adults, a 15yo and a 12yo) loved absolutely every second of it! So much fun, lots to do (cliff jumping and zip lining were firsts for us!) and the food was delicious! We didn’t rent a car during our stay, so upon the recommendation of Mark and Yvonne, as well as assurances that the public method of transportation would be safe, we took a Collectivo to get to Xel-ha. Super easy, quick, and economical. If there are more than a couple of you, and you want the assurance of staying together on the drive back into town, I’d suggest pre-paying the return tickets on the ADO bus in Playa del Carmen a day or two before your adventure. Costs a few dollars more pp than the Collectivo, but for the assurance and convenience, we thought it was worth it.
Mark and Yvonne, thank you for allowing us to share your beautiful home, and for being a part of our family’s unforgettable memories.