Papagayo Hotel Boutique

The neighboring bar's music was so loud that we couldn't sleep until late, even though we had an early flight the next day. We stayed one Friday night. I also had to pay in cash, which meant heading out to find an ATM, and had to ask for soap because there wasn't any in the shower.

We had a memorable meal from the wide range of dishes, prepared by experienced chefs. The staff were trained to give attentive, personal service, which helped make the stay excellent. A great hotel experience comes down to delicious food and good service, and this place aims to provide both.

The staff were friendly and helpful, and both the rooms and corridors were very clean. The bathroom faucets looked a bit old but worked perfectly. There’s a parking area opposite the hotel, enclosed with a rope gate, and we had no problems using it. It’s very close to Playa de Carmen, with lots of restaurants nearby and a lively nightlife, including plenty of events by the shore. We could hear people outside from our room, but the AC noise drowned it out.

The mattress was the one good part of this stay. The photos looked lovely, but I'd strongly advise against staying here. After a day at the beach, we heard other guests complaining about their rooms and checking out too. When we first arrived, check-in was awkward because the receptionist seemed unhappy, though she cheered up later. The younger woman was friendlier throughout the stay. Keep in mind that you have to leave some kind of ID with reception to exchange for the key. Luckily, we had a spare student ID. At first the room seemed fine, but then we noticed dirty sheets, very old towels, and a worker still repairing the AC behind the locked door at 3 pm, when check-in time had already arrived. There was also half a paracetamol tablet on the side. The Wi-Fi barely existed. It came and went, even though our room was right next to the router. The safe didn't work, and the AC never showed the actual temperature. There was no hot or even warm water. We were also told to leave our bags in an unlocked cabinet where anyone could find them. Bitterly disappointed.