Allegro Cozumel

Constructed as a compound of separate Polynesian-style huts with thatched roofs, this hotel gives guests the feeling that they're actually staying in private beach villas while still being part of a larger resort complex. The palapas peppering the grounds and the open-air spaces serve to further support the beach vacation vibe. The lobby is spacious with red tile floors, high ceilings, and ivy draping down from the second level. Guests can grab anything they've forgotten in the on-site store or schedule their excursions in the main area as well. The grounds are typically tropical, which also means mosquitoes, but there is a literal bug spray fog emitted every day (which becomes sort of an event to watch). Interaction is encouraged amongst guests thanks to the organized events (for adults and kids) and nightly performances. 

Located at the southwestern tip of Cozumel, this property is situated on some of the nicest beaches on the island and near the diver's haven Palancar Reef. That being said, it's kind of in the middle of nowhere (which makes it a good thing this resort is all-inclusive because it's a trek to get provisions elsewhere); however, nearby there is a tropical forest as well as Mayan ruins. A car is needed to get to town (scooters are available for rent), which is a good distance away, though since this is an island you can really get just about anywhere in 20 minutes. 

There is a range of amenities in the 261 rooms available at the Allegro Cozumel. The Superior Rooms are pretty barebones and dated (think tube TVs) whereas Superior Premium Rooms and Suites have extra perks like flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and iPod docks. Bedspreads in all categories can be of the patterned, motel-quality variety, or white. All the rooms are simple in style with Mayan accents and tile floors (which is great for keeping sand out of the rooms, but sometimes feels yucky under the feet). The bathrooms have showers and tubs as well as cool free-standing sink basins; wall-attached hairdryers mean you can pack one less bath item. There are ceiling fans and air-conditioning. Hammocks or balconies outside every room help extend the island feel beyond the walls of the room. 

Though the beach is a huge draw, this property also has four pools: one for kids with a Pirate-themed waterpark, a quiet pool, an activities pool with the requisite swim-up bar, and a pool by the diver's area; there is also a beach-front hot tub. Food is included and the choices are basically different daily buffets or dining in the Mexican or Chinese restaurants; the latter two are more intimate dining experiences and require reservations. For the fitness minded, there is a well-stocked gym with several pieces of cardio equipment, free weights, and pulleys. There are three hard-surface tennis courts and a basketball court as well as kayaking, sailing, and windsurfing equipment. Guests are allowed to use snorkeling equipment for an hour per day gratis (but it can be rented for longer); those looking for more diving experience will appreciate the on-site dive club which not only plans excursions but offers instruction and certifications too. There is actually a full Ultimate Dive Experience that can be booked as a package and includes all kinds of perks including one boat dive daily, special dive-themed Superior Rooms, and even a dive bar (pun fully intended). There are five bars on the property; however, if your tastes run upscale, keep in mind that imported and premium liquors are not included (local brands are part of the package though).