Has anybody stayed at El Dorado Royale near Playa del Carmen?

For the extra money, is it worth it?

I haven't stayed at that particular resort but below is a link to a site where your fellow travellers post resort reviews and trip reports. I've always found it very helpful.

Yes, I've been there and about 6 others in the area. The Royal is small and quiet in comparision to the larger Resorts more typical to this area. This is great for romantic couples that plan on being mainly to themselves the whole time there are there.

However if you like activities, social interaction and entertainment from the resort (not just your partner) then I would prefer a larger more active resort.

The spa at the Royale is great and the food is very nice. The problem we had with the food was that even at lunch you had to go sit down, wait for a waiter, order off the menu, wait 20 minutes, then eat. This would kill an hour or more in the middle of your day. I prefer the lunch buffet where you can walk up, load up, eat up and leave in 15-20 minutes. Plus if you don't like what's on your plate - it's easy to go get something else.

I recommend the Riu properties, especially one of the two Riu Palace locations.

Or for a great Value try the Riu Tequila, the best deal around. They have the best buffets of any of the chains down there. Lots of fresh things and always hot fish and meats comming off the grill. Great Bars and pool areas are a bonus!

We haven't stayed at the El Dorado Royale, but have been to the Iberostar Quetzal, and Iberostar Beaches resorts. We prefer the Quetzal over the Beaches because it has the best beach around. It is family oriented also, so if you would like a romantic get away, I would try an Adults only resort.