GRAN SAHARA, Playa del Carmen

The hotel sits in the heart of Playa del Carmen, two blocks from the vibrant Fifth Avenue and three blocks from the beach. The ADO International Bus Station is 1 km away, and the Maritime Terminal is 2 km away. Quinta Alegria Shopping Mall is 700 metres away, and Walmart is one block away. The area provides easy walking access to numerous restaurants, shops, and entertainment, while being quiet enough for rest. Cancun International Airport is 55 km from the property, with a paid shuttle service available.

Accommodation ranges from double to family rooms and a suite. Each room is air-conditioned and includes a private bathroom with a bath or shower, a flat-screen TV, a fridge, a wardrobe, and a safe deposit box. Certain rooms add a balcony. Rooms are described as spacious but basic, with comfortable beds and good shower pressure. Some rooms may be older or show wear, and noise from the street can be an issue for rooms facing the road, so a room on the rooftop side or higher floor is preferable. The property also offers trouser presses and soundproof rooms.

Breakfast is not served on site but is provided via vouchers for Mr. Waffle (traditional and Mediterranean) and Los Huastequitos (Mexican cuisine), both open daily from 07:30-11:30 (Sundays 08:00-11:30). The breakfast is a simple continental buffet or a Mexican plate, sufficient for a morning meal. Several other dining options are within a short walk, including Smokehouse BBQ, Taqueria Arandas, La Cazota Grill, Kaxapa Factory, and Carboncitos, all within 0.5 km.

The rooftop pool is open all year from 10:00 to 20:00, offering a pleasant space to relax with sun loungers and rocking chairs. The pool area is a highlight for many, especially for its central but quiet location. Additional leisure activities available nearby include golf (within 3 km), fishing, snorkelling, and walking tours. The hotel does not have a gym or spa.

The hotel provides free Wi-Fi throughout, free private parking (accessible, parking garage) but reservation is needed and availability is not guaranteed. The 24-hour front desk offers concierge service, private check-in/out, currency exchange, and tour desk. Luggage storage is available for 150 MXN/day. A paid airport shuttle is available to Cancun Airport, with one-way costs around 1200-1400 MXN (or $70 USD) depending on time and party size. Daily housekeeping is free, but towel replacement and room cleanliness may be inconsistent. Safety features include 24-hour security, CCTV in common areas, key access, and safety deposit boxes (extra charge). The hotel is non-smoking throughout and has allergy-free and soundproof rooms. Family rooms, cots for children under 2, and pet allowance with fees are available.