We flew to Cancun on Southeast Airlines with Apple Vacations. So far so good --- a cheap 4 day stay in early December. Everything was low key - flight quite relaxed as a matter of fact, so relaxed that there was little service. Eat something before you fly, or bring something to nosh on.

Once at the airport, shedding winter clothes, a snaking line to pass Mexican customs. Then, find the bags, rush out into the sun. First sustenance --- a Corona! Joy! Airport transfers were via a 12 passenger van, but we didn't have to wait too long. The Royal Solaris is one of the closest on hotel row.

At the hotel we were shepherded to a room (which we later learned became on of the ritzy reservation only evening restaurants) where we were given sugary drinks, heard our only 'membership benefits' talk and introduced to our 'service person'.

Our room wasn't ready, but we didn't care. We needed food. We went right to poolside/ocean view buffet, grabbed plates and the first thing we saw was iceberg lettuce. My heart dropped. First impressions are not always correct, however. The food at 'Rosmarinus' was delightful - simple grilled fish and meat, excellent fresh salsa, real tortillas, green chilies. At each meal a specialty - fajitas or carved meats...my advice is to stick with the Mexican food - we were really disappointed later in the week when we made reservations, dressed up, and visited the Marco Polo - awful chicken smothered in Kraft American cheese...canned 3 bean salad at the salad bar - don't bother.

I'm still not quite sure of the names of the two towers at the Royal Solaris. All I know is looking from the beach up at the buildings the 'Aztec' pyramidal structure on the right was where we stayed. The room was perfectly fine; large, clean (a balcony would have been nicer). The 'Aztec' Tower had a better pool (with gorgeous swim up bar) and a happening' smoked mirror loud disco-type bar. The more Spanish hacienda hotel annex (on the left when looking up from the beach) seemed to cater more to families with young kids. Much prettier -- more wood trim, wicker furniture, ceiling fans - quieter.

We didn't do much during our 4 day stay. The sun was strong and good. The drinks were strong and good. Although there was never a line at any of the bars (service was superb all around) the biggest disappointment was - no waiter service either on the beach or at the pool. We didn't let that cramp our style. But -- a word of advice -- those potato chip loungers on the beach are comfortable, but impossible to get out of. Get 2 drinks each on every trip to the bar.

OK - Diana. Better late than never. I'm off to London tomorrow. Don't expect a review of the trip --although if you want a theatre review of The Tempest... I'll call

Thanks, Annie 2/1/03