My challenge was to plan a family vacation in Playa del Carmen for our family -- me, my husband, our 16- and 18-year-old daughters and two of their girlfriends. I didn't want to go the all-inclusive route, since we wanted to actually get out and experience the area, its restaurants, and all the culture. Plus, a condo seemed like it would be much more comfortable (and affordable) in terms sleeping arrangements for 6. After hours and hours of research, I finally decided to book the Grand Penthouse (#7209) at Xaman-Ha. It turned out to be a fantastic vacation for all of us.

John (the owner) went above and beyond to help make our trip to Playa enjoyable. The condo itself was awesome. Highlights include the spectacular and huge balcony with a gorgeous view, the well-equipped kitchen (including a blender that whips up perfect margaritas), daily maid service, and a computer with Internet access (a huge hit -- especially with the girls). Also, I read so much about bad mattresses in Mexico, but not at this property. The beds were very comfortable. The property itself was wonderful...right on the beach, beautiful clean pools, swim up bar during the day, a five-minute walk to amazing shopping offered on 5th Ave.

Thanks to John's in-condo guest guide, we dined at fabulous restaurants every night, never once having had a bad or even mediocre meal. We mountain biked and zip lined through the Mayan jungle, snorkeled in the Cenotes, toured the Mayan ruins, snorkeled at Paamul, rented jet skis, went for a spa day at Spa Itza (not a great experience), and shopped, shopped, shopped. When we weren't out and about, we lounged by the pool, swam in the ocean, and hung out in the super comfortable condo -- with tv, movies and music to entertain us.

Make no mistake -- this was not a resort, with someone there to wait on us every minute. Instead, it was the real Playa experience in the most comfortable accommodations imaginable. What an unbelievable value! It's a definite must do!