As Innkeeper's in real life, we usually seek out off the beaten path, private homes when vacationing in new areas. The Mayan Riviera had been on our radar for quite some time, and having an old professional colleague that owns in the community of Chan Chemuyil, we contacted him for recommendations of neighbors who might be renting and have vacancies this past Christmas/New Year's holiday. Thus our introduction to this property's owner, Kathi K.

From our initial inquiry, through our stay, departure and booking again for next Christmas, Kathi has been prompt and extremely helpful in her replies, exceptionally accommodating and importantly accurately represented her property in this tropical paradise. In short, she was a delight to work with and has easily captured our repeat business.

The house itself is colorful, well-maintained and extremely comfortable. Located on one of the neighborhood's perimeter blocks, it faces the jungle and is just steps from the neighborhood cenote, perfect for a quick morning dip or late afternoon refresher. The overall appointments, while modest, were all in proper working order and allowed us the benefit of preparing our meals in and dining in the comfort of our own space. The bedrooms, each with queen beds, were comfortable and included linens. Water pressure and continuous, on-demand hot water exceeded expectations. While we just used the ceiling fans, there are a/c units in each room for warmer weather. The front patio and enclosed rear courtyard were great for reading, eating and playing games outdoors.

The benefits of renting in Chan Chemuyil are boundless. The "community" beach at Xcacel, just across Hwy 307 is idyllic and has opportunities to both snorkel and body surf. Uncrowded and inexpensive to access, with admission fees going to support the beach as a turtle preserve, this was part of our daily routine while in CC. There are also numerous cenotes nearby, pretty much all charging admission. We got around primarily using the colectivos and found this to be affordable and easy to use. Collectivos easily got us to dinners out in Akumal, public beaches just south of the ruins at Tulum, and grocery shopping either in Tulum or Playa de Carmen. We did rent a car for our final few days to travel further afield (Coba, Chitchen Itza, Muyil) and for our return trip to the airport.

Anyway, can't say enough about our experience and can only stress how big a part of that this rental was. Thanks Kathi!!!