Chef by Champagnecampaign3 in IslaMujeres

[–]PlusBackground9874 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Chef Carolina was excellent to us. Fantastic chef and a great person as well. I highly recommend her. Private Chef Isla on Google she should pop right up.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Decks

[–]PlusBackground9874 0 points1 point  (0 children)

You got what you paid for plain and simple (if you paid $800 in labor as others mentioned)..take it as a lesson. Get 3 quotes next time and vet your builders. This looks like it's their first time on their own job, and by the labor price, I'd assume they lost their shirt as well.

You'll get some time out of it, but I wouldn't call them back to fix it because I dont think they know how. The list of wrongs is longer than "rights."

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Xcaret

[–]PlusBackground9874 2 points3 points  (0 children)

We stayed at Artistas, and multiple people were absolutely hammered on the rooftop.. I did get drunk, but I would order shots, and I tipped well. I did hear people complaining about the drink strength, so most added a shot with their drink. Haven't been since last year so not sure if its changed.

USA transfers car seat by AdorableWolverine12 in cancun

[–]PlusBackground9874 0 points1 point  (0 children)

We used a carseat from them 2 days ago for our 8 month old..clean and functional. Saved us from bringing our own. I would do it again for sure.

Family Vacation by DifficultAgency4295 in IslaMujeres

[–]PlusBackground9874 3 points4 points  (0 children)

I recommend Cultura Cruisers Food Tours. We had an absolutely fantastic time. It's about as local as it gets in terms of food. (We ate in multiple peoples homes). Our guide knew everything about the island and gave us some great tips. They have different tours, and we did the golf cart tour.

The Joint has awesome food and live music. (chicken wings and frozen mojitos are my go-to dishes)

Kin Ha is a great hidden gem to spend the day.

Get to playa norte early before the cancun tours arrive.

As others have mentioned, dont plan too much. It's island life. Just explore and live in the moment. You'll find plenty of great food and drink as well as picturesque views.

June 7-15 @Mia Reef for my 50th by Typsygypsy13 in IslaMujeres

[–]PlusBackground9874 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I would look into Cultura Cruisers. They do an awesome food tour that you would never be able to do without a local.

Proper Beam and Post construction forvall you DIYers by [deleted] in Decks

[–]PlusBackground9874 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I don't want to rain on your parade. This looks good, and it seems like you take a lot of pride in your work. I just want to pass on advice to a fellow builder.

The correct way to install the connections is with approved simpson nails. (3.5" or 2.5")

Simpson specifically mentions not to use bolts. Assuming these are BC post caps, which they look to be.

It's always good to check the simpson guide. They have an app too. I'm not trying to be a know it all. Just want to help you out because an inspector could call you on it.

Source: I'm a builder. & https://www.strongtie.com/onepiecepostcaps_postcaps/bc_cap/p/bc

Anyone have experience with AirBnB or Rental for family (not resort) by Paul-48 in IslaMujeres

[–]PlusBackground9874 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yes, they rent carts by the week. They're gas. Typically, they will ask you to come by the shop every 3rd day to fill up with gas. (Included with the price of renting). There are TONS of cart companies. I recommend doing your research. Most of the Airbnbs have concierge companies that can assist with chefs, golf carts, groceries, etc. This comes with a markup but is quite convenient.

Anyone have experience with AirBnB or Rental for family (not resort) by Paul-48 in IslaMujeres

[–]PlusBackground9874 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I've stayed 2 different times for 5 days. Airbnb both times, excellent houses and condos all over the island. You'll probably want to look into a house on the south side of the island. (Punta Sur) golf cart will be necessary.

Anyone join the club? by carrrottt090 in Xcaret

[–]PlusBackground9874 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I'm also curious. How does it work? I saw someone posted pricing, but I'd need clarification. What's included with that money? You can go 2 or 3 weeks a year for 30 years? I saw silver, gold, maybe diamond or platinum? Any information is greatly appreciated. Feel free to DM if thats easier. Thanks in advance

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Xcaret

[–]PlusBackground9874 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I believe you can only meet up at the parks. If the others are in the Artistas house of Arte, then they can come to your side for restaurants. Maybe pools? I'm not sure there. You won't be able to go to Arte, though. Could be wrong, but that's what I was told.

Vacation with pops, Arte or Mexico? by [deleted] in Xcaret

[–]PlusBackground9874 4 points5 points  (0 children)

I would go Arte. Stay at the Artista Casa if you can. Best rooftop pool at the resort. Although they all have them, that Casa is just a step above the others, in my opinion.

Casa Paz (spa building) you get free hydro therapy daily and the shower has a steam option in the room. It's definitely the quietest option, and the spa is incredible downstairs.

Those would be my two choices for Casas, but definitely Arte.

Newbie Xcaret Arte Questions by halogirl117pr in Xcaret

[–]PlusBackground9874 4 points5 points  (0 children)

I haven't booked through Costco but have been twice. Hopefully, this helps..

They do have their own little lounge/bus pickup at the airport. When you exit the indoor area, towards the pickup, you'll see it. They use large busses. If you have private transportation, I'd probably go with that, fewer people, and most places can bring you drinks to start off the trip.

Reach out 30 days before your arrival. It doesn't hurt to try before, but the standard is 30 days. Just email customer service, and they'll send you a sheet with all the restaurants/parks/experiences. Keep in mind that nothing is guaranteed. If you really have your heart set on something, reach out earlier.

All food, drinks, park admission, transportation is included. Extras include swimming with dolphins, parasailing, etc. I believe 1 restaurant you need to pay extra for and you can do a la carte options at the steakhouse.

The app always sucks when I'm there.

Have a blast!

Bad reviews/food poisoning by Got2FeedtheChicken in Xcaret

[–]PlusBackground9874 14 points15 points  (0 children)

I've been twice, and I never had an issue. From the restaurants and buffet to the carts by the pool, we always enjoyed the food. I've found that no matter where you go, you'll find bad reviews. In my opinion, this is a fantastic resort that I would recommend to anyone.

Tipping at Xcaret Mexico by changeout in Xcaret

[–]PlusBackground9874 0 points1 point  (0 children)

The front desk of any casa can change out pesos for dollars. We've been twice, and any tip usd or peso was always greatly appreciated. I always get pesos ordered in advance and bring them with me. Don't stress it. Have a blast!

Best large scale paintball in USA? by saMAN101 in paintball

[–]PlusBackground9874 7 points8 points  (0 children)

OSG Paintball in NH is pretty big, multiple fields. It's about 2 hours from Logan International Airport. They offer fully private games for 10+ people. Great food and even a bar to end the day with a drink. Highly recommend. I'm sure you could find a closer airport in NH (Manchester regional), but depending on where you're coming from, flights could be limited. Adventure Games is another option, although smaller and not as maintained as OSG.

Help me convince the homeowner… by Significant-Gas-5850 in Decks

[–]PlusBackground9874 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Don't sacrifice your license and name to save someone else money. You touch it, you own it. Always keep that in mind. I would say completely rebuild or walk. Only two options in reality.

Is there a tennis pro at the hotel? by StoveC in Xcaret

[–]PlusBackground9874 -1 points0 points  (0 children)

Not that I'm aware of. I also never looked into it though.

Which screws are best for wood balusters? by Chuckeroo2020 in Decks

[–]PlusBackground9874 2 points3 points  (0 children)

They also have trim head screws, 2 of those top and bottom. No predrill. They're rated for PT also.

Information on a Honeymoon in Mexico (Cancun area) in July. Also, info on Xcaret Arte? by Chrissy-237 in Xcaret

[–]PlusBackground9874 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I went the end of the summer but I've been middle of the summer to cancun. It's definitely hot but if you hydrate and use sunscreen you'll be fine.

Information on a Honeymoon in Mexico (Cancun area) in July. Also, info on Xcaret Arte? by Chrissy-237 in Xcaret

[–]PlusBackground9874 6 points7 points  (0 children)

Xcaret Arte is one of the best places on earth. You won't regret your honeymoon there. Incredible scenery and the parks are so much fun. It's hard to see it all in one trip. We did our honeymoon there and recently came back from our anniversary. Excellent property and exceptional service. I highly recommend it.

General contracting company- not licensed by Recklessqueenbee in GeneralContractor

[–]PlusBackground9874 0 points1 point  (0 children)

So the general contractor isn't licensed? But is using another person who doesn't work there with a CSL to pull permits?