sully76

Trying to figure out my mid October honeymoon. I think I have information overload and am starting to go crazy. Some insight from the fodors people is needed!
Basically, I am trying to decide between Mexico and Hawaii. Then there are specific hotel questions of course. Looking for something romantic (duh) and relaxing (double duh). So....
1) Mexico or Hawaii in mid October? (Fiance has never been to hawaii, but large hotels are ugh...)
2) Mexico - I really can't decide btwn Ikal Del Mar (love it but unheated pool? and so far from ruins?), La Casa Que Canta (looks great but no beach), El Tamarindo or Las Alamandas (room quality?). Also caribbean better than pacific for swimming?
3) Hawaii - Maui followed by Big Island? Ritz Maui, Hotel hana Maui? Big Island Four Seasons or Kona Village? Or just stay in one place.
Any thoughts?!?!?! I've done so much research I can't think straight anymore. Thank you all so much! Anything would be greatly appreciated. I love my fiance and really want to have a wonderful time.

Little_Man

All I can say is that I'm one of the few fodorites who much prefers Mexico to Hawaii! I just love the feeling of relaxation I immediately get once in Mexico, and don't feel the same in Hawaii, (island fever? too American?) but obviously many others feel the exact opposite!
And you're choosing the right hotels in Mexico! I prefer the Carribean over the Pacific, but any of those places would be fantastic!
The only thing I'd be careful about is the time of year...that is the rainy season on the Riviera Maya, so check up on the weather.

heenan

I understand that at Ikal del Mar, guests can request that their pools be heated up. We are going there in June, and will find out then.

pepper131

We were at Ikal one year in April - honestly - the pool was just fine - both of them - that is not a deal breaker.

daisee

I think Kona Village is amazing. It is so far removed from anything else, and doesn't have that 'hotel' atmosphere. It's one of my favorite hotels, and no hassle with 'where to eat'