FAQ’s

Welcome to Villa Vidorra! Below are answers to many questions frequently asked by our guests. Please feel free to forward or share this information with other guests who will be staying at the villa. Should you have any additional questions please don’t hesitate asking. We are at your service.

What should I pack?

You don’t need much! Guests sometimes pack a lot but end up using very little. Bathing suit, sunglasses, light breathable clothing, suntan lotion, sun hat, sandals or flip flops, cover up or shawl for ladies. Also for ladies, we suggest one or two casual sun dresses or skirts if you like to dress up for dinner. Or if you want to buy something while here there are many small boutique shops with amazing finds you will only see in Tulum. It’s not a bad idea to bring one pair of comfortable rubber soled shoes for climbing Mayan ruins, walking around the rocky northern point of the bay, or a day of shopping in Tulum. We also recommend bringing a pair of light weight water shoes if you want to adventure around the point or plan on going on any excursions into the jungle or cenotes. Don’t forget your phone charger!

Tip – After you finish packing…..wait a day and unpack half of what you packed and leave it behind. You’ll be happy you did and will not miss it!

Music

We have a plug in for music at the villa. The interior great room downstairs and the pool area have speakers. We have a wire that plugs into a standard size jack in your phone. If your phone does not have a plug in jack you can connect to the Bluetooth receiver. Pandora and some other streaming music apps are not available in Mexico. Please consider loading your playlist onto your phone before you leave home or create a Youtube play list that you can play using the internet at the villa.

Which airport do we fly into? How far is it from Villa Vidorra?

You will be flying into Cancun, Mexico, airport and then traveling south on highway 307 for about 1 hour and 15 min. to get to Villa Vidorra.

Do I need a passport?

Yes, you will need a passport to visit Villa Vidorra. All air and sea travelers to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, South America and all

Caribbean bases will be required to have a valid passport. Additionally you will need to show passports for all land crossings to Canada and Mexico. Be sure to apply for your passport early and give yourself plenty of time. Sometimes the passport offices can take longer than you think to process your passport application. Children traveling with just one parent may need notarized permission from the other parent to leave the United States. Children and babies will also need passports so please plan ahead

Arrival in Mexico:

On your flight to Mexico the flight attendants will give you an immigration form to fill out. Complete this form on the flight and be prepared to hand it to the immigration official at the Cancun airport. The immigration official will then give you a stamped visa. Hold on to this stamped visa and do not lose it. You will next grab your luggage off the carusel and head through customs. Sometimes there will be a station where you press a button. There is a light that will turn green or red. If it’s green you can continue through customs to your transport or rental car. If it is red they may check your bags but don’t be worried as it doesn’t take long and they are usually only looking for quantities of items people are trying to resell in Mexico.

Do we need to rent a vehicle?

We recommend renting a vehicle but private and public transport from the airport is also available. Villa Vidorra is located on the beautiful beach of Soliman Bay and it is about one mile off of the main highway. Having a rental vehicle will allow you to have the freedom to go exploring. There is so much to see that is off the main route of the shuttles and buses in the area that you won’t want to miss! If you’d prefer not renting a vehicle please let us know and we are happy to assist in securing ground transport to/from the airport for you. Keep in mind that after you arrive at the villa, you have the option of always renting a car in nearby Tulum. Or staff can also call a cab for you and your party should you want to go somewhere. Feel free to jump in the car with our head chef if you would like to visit the grocery store or make a stop or two of your own along the way.

Is it safe to drive in Mexico?

Yes, it’s really not much different from driving in the United States or Canada. As long as you adhere to the speed limits and traffic rules you should have no problems. One thing you should be aware of are the large speed bumps called “Topas”. These large speed bumps are located on the main highways as a means of forcing drivers to slow down. They can sometimes sneak up on you if you’re not paying attention. They’re most always marked with signage to give you warning however.

Does Villa Vidorra have cribs or high chairs for babies?

Yes, the villa is equipped with two high chairs and two cribs for babies.

Can I get a schematic of the bed layout?

Yes, we would be happy to provide you with a bed layout in each of the bedrooms so you can better plan who sleeps where before your arrival. Just ask for this.

Is it safe to eat the fruits and vegetables?

Yes, fruits and vegetables from this area are safe to eat. Our kitchen staff use a common and safe disinfectant made for washing food on all fruits and vegitables.

How do I get Mexican pesos?

It’s best to get pesos after you’ve arrived in Mexico rather than buying them in your country of origin. ATM machines are the best source of pesos once in Mexico. An ATM machine is located after you get through customs in the airport. There are also other banks just off the main highway in Playa del Carmen. The exchange rates are typically most favorable at ATM’s, you can get any amount of pesos up to about $500usd worth, and they’re open 24 hours a day. We strongly suggest you contact your bank before leaving on your vacation and notify them that you’ll be travelling to Mexico. Sometimes banks will flag unusual activity made outside your country of origin and freeze your account. Keep in mind that if you take ground transport from the airport, your driver can always take you to an ATM on the way to the villa.

If you want to exchange US dollars; banks and currency exchange kiosks are the best options. Denominations of $20usd and $50usd are best for these transactions. Please note that exchange rates are usually unfavorable at these locations and there cannot be any writing or tears on the bills.

Can I use my Credit Card in Mexico?

You can most likely pay for any excursions or restaurant bills with a credit card, but any expenses within the villa should be paid for in cash, pesos or US dollars (groceries, massages, tips, etc). No personal checks accepted anywhere in Mexico.

If you plan on using your bank card while in Mexico, please notify your bank before you leave or else your card could be denied. All in-house expenses are paid in cash. Groceries that the chef shops for should be reimbursed in pesos. Massages and/or yoga, and gratuities can be in either US dollars or pesos.

Is there someone who can cook for us?

A private chef is included in your stay at Villa Vidorra, leave the meals up to us! The only added expense to you is groceries and a transport fee for their delivery. Your private chef will discuss and review the week’s menu with you and your party upon arrival at the villa. He and his team will purchase and transport all groceries needed for a nominal fee of $70 US dollars per 7 days. In addition to your private chef and his team comes your own private bartender. Your job is to relax and have fun, leave the rest to us!

The kitchen staff is provided to you 7 days/week with exception of the bartender. If you would like to have the services of your bartend on Sunday (if you are staying 7 days) the cost will be $75 US dollars payable directly to the bartender on day of service.

Note: Please keep in mind that the kitchen staff do not live on site, and that they work at the villa no more than 12 hours a day. They also must grocery shop after the evening meal, so we ask that your evening dinner be served around 6:00PM or 6:30PM.

Does Villa Vidorra have air conditioning?

Yes, Villa Vidorra has separate air conditioning units in each bedroom only. Since the villa is located directly on the beach most guests find the natural breeze off the ocean sufficient for keeping the temperature cool. The ceiling fans are also great to help keep the air moving. Please keep in mind that for any air conditioning to be effective all windows, doors, or louvers must be closed and sealed tightly.

We ask that you please turn OFF the A/C in the morning when you leave your bedroom. Also, when the maid makes up your bedroom and finds if ON, she is instructed to turn it OFF.

Is the property safe and secure?

The Yucatan Peninsula and Mexican state of Quintana Roo is extremely safe from crime. Unlike a few of the northern border states that have had problems in the past the state of Quintana Roo continues to be a tourist destination safe for all visitors.

The property is very private. It’s gated and is located very close to our security outpost which is manned 24/7 for your convenience and peace of mind. The majority of parties who stay at Villa Vidorra are families with kids. In fact, not only is the property very private but the bay itself is very private. The security station more or less restricts access to people other than guests, workers, and owners. There are really no day beach goers and most days you feel like you have the whole bay to yourself.

Does Villa Vidorra have safes for any valuables we bring?

Yes, each bedroom is equipped with an oversized safe that can accommodate up to a 17 inch laptop. Each safe is anchored directly into concrete. Though petty theft is nearly unheard of along Soliman Bay, it’s always a good precaution and recommended by us to securely store all valuables in safes when not needed.

Does Villa Vidorra have a pool?

Yes! The most beautiful pool on Soliman Bay. The deepest part of the pool is only about 5 feet deep. There are seats and steps built for sitting and an island in part of the pool with local tropical plants. Of course, parents are always required to be with children around the pool since there is no lifeguard, but it is a great place to have a refreshing dip between ocean swims or just hang out.

What’s the beach like? Is it safe for kids?

Villa Vidorra sits on a beautiful white sand beach made from the coral reefs in the area. Soliman Bay is a large but relatively shallow bay that has a very gradual slope at the shore, so it is very safe for kids. There is a short section of sea grass just at the water’s edge that is very important for the ecosystem and to keep the sand in place. In the sea grass are trails and pools that are wonderful for very small children to play safely in the water.

How private is Villa Vidorra?

Very Private! The villa was positioned on the property to help maximize privacy. The entire property, except for the beachfront is walled and gated with palms and plants adding to the privacy. Occasionally other guests from other homes will walk the beach in front of Villa Vidorra, just as our guests do. It is very quiet and peaceful on the bay even during high season.

Where are the closest golf courses and tennis courts?

Just 10 minutes to the north of us on highway 307 is a world class 27 hole Robert Trent Jones II signature golf course at Bahia Principe. Currently only offering 18 holes. Please let us know if you would like help in setting up a tee time. About 15 minutes further north is Puerto Adventuras which has both a golf course and tennis courts. Playa del Carmen and Cancun both have numerous golf courses including PGA tour stop Mayakoba.

Is the gratuity and tax included in the price of the rental?

A federal resort tax was included in your payment for the reservation so no additional taxes need to be paid. Gratuities for Villa Vidorra staff are not included however.

The staff at Villa Vidorra prides themselves on making your stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. If you feel you have received exceptional service we welcome you to leave gratuities for our staff. Gratuities account for a significant portion of our staff’s income and are greatly appreciated. That being said, there are no expectations and for no reason should you feel pressure to leave a tip, but it is customary to do so. To help keep you informed and as a guideline we suggest the following tips. Also, for guests convenience, envelopes are set out on the last day. Any tips given to staff can be in the form of US or Mexican currency.

Head Chef $200 – $300 usd Weekly
Assistant Chef $150 – $250 usd Weekly
Prep Cook/Dishwasher $125 – $200 usd Weekly
Bartender $200 usd – $300 usd Weekly
Caretaker/Butler $100-$200 usd Weekly
Maid $200 – $300 usd Weekly (for large groups there will be an assistant maid)

How can we get our clothes washed?

There is a laundry facility on the property, but only for housekeeping needs and not for guests to use. If you have laundry, please ask your maid if she can wash it for you in between the other laundry that she has to do for the villa. There is a charge of $8 usd per load (wash, dry, fold). She will present you with a bill at the end of your stay. Sometimes with large groups she gets very busy, but will try to service your laundry as timely as possible.

How early can we arrive at the villa and when do we need to depart by?

As we may have guests departing the day of your arrival it takes time to make everything perfect before we can welcome you. We ask that you arrive no earlier than 3PM. For the same reason of preparation for the next guests we ask that guests depart by 11AM. Please keep this in mind when you make your flight arrangements.

Is there internet at Villa Vidorra?

The property has very good internet throughout the villa and outdoors. Sometimes it’s difficult to transmit wifi throughout a structure in Mexico because everything is constructed of concrete. We’ve installed two wireless routers both upstairs and downstairs to make sure we have a strong signal everywhere. We’ve also installed a very strong commercial grade wifi repeater outside by the pool area. It’s hardwired with CAT6 Ethernet and allows for good internet access on the beach and all along the ocean side of the villa.. Password is “paradise”

Can I have an Event at Villa Vidorra?

If you desire the villa to be used for any event such as weddings, receptions, DJ parties, music events, for profit gatherings, large parties, or large gatherings or functions please contact the owner for approval and to coordinate. An event fee may apply.

What is a cenote?

The entire Yucatan Peninsula is very unique because it is made up of limestone with underground rivers running out to the ocean. The cenotes are places where the water of these rivers is exposed at the surface. This water is very cool, clean and soft. There are beautiful cave formations created by these rivers that cave divers love to explore, as well as lots of wondrous, beautiful cenotes to swim and snorkel in.

Where is the closest grocery store and restaurants?

The town of Tulum is just 10 minutes down the highway from Villa Vidorra and Soliman Bay. There you will find large grocery stores, fruit stands, a fresh fish market, bakery, tortilla factory, internet, a laundromat, many great restaurants, and lots of wonderful gift shops. In other words, all you need and more. In Playa del Carmen, 25 min. north of us there are two large warehouse stores (Sams Club and City Club) where you can get larger quantities of brands of food familiar to you. There is also a Costco located closer to the airport in Cancun.

How far in advance should we be discussing food/beverage preferences and other details?

At Villa Vidorra we try to tailor each guests experience around their personal needs and wants. We’ve found it’s best to coordinate all details such as food and beverage preferences, booking excursions, yoga or messages two weeks out from your arrival. We’ve found that covering these details too far in advance can lead to confusion or things being missed. Two weeks from your arrival allows us plenty of time to cover all details.

The only exception to this is the coordination of transport from the airport to Villa Vidorra. If you prefer not renting vehicles and would like a driver to pick you up at the airport please let us know and we’ll be happy to help coordinate this for you.

How do groceries and meals work?

We always welcome our guests with a dinner the evening of their arrival. Your chef’s will have everything prepared and waiting for you after your day’s travel. We will coordinate with you in advance food and beverage preferences, allergies, and other. At your convenience our chef will work with you to tailor the week’s menu to your tastes. He and his staff are lots of fun and they serve great meals. We recommend dinner be served anytime between 5:00PM and 6:30PM. We do not allow our kitchen staff to work more than 12 hours during any given day. They also cannot serve multiple breakfasts, lunches, and dinners at different times. They serve 3 meals a day and provide snacks and whatever else you need during the day.

to not work the kitchen staff beyond 12 hours per day.

Your chef and team do all food and beverage buying, transport, and preparation. Many guests ask the question “how much will groceries cost”. The answer is “it depends”. Some groups will tend to go all out with special champagnes, lobster, and other more expensive food and beverage items. This higher tier of food and beverage may cost somewhere around $2000usd. A lower tier and more common price for a group of ten guests is between $1400 and $1600usd. These figures may sound like a lot but after you do the math it ends up being a very significant savings as opposed to going out for meals. Keep in mind both of these estimates are for a group of 10 people.

All pricing for groceries is direct. There is no mark up or surcharge. The only additional charge is a nominal fee of $70usd for a 7 day stay for the purchase and transport of all groceries needed for your group by the kitchen staff.

Villa Vidorra fronts payment for the first round of groceries and beverages. Villa Vidorra is then reimbursed by the guests for this first round of groceries. There after each round of groceries are paid for by guests as grocery runs are needed. Typically the chef shops once/day for fresh groceries. Receipts are always presented to guests for verification of items purchased and should be reimbursed in pesos. Please initial each receipt that the chef keeps, but if guests prefer to have a copy, we will make a copy and provide it to you the next day.

Is the drinking water safe?

We recommend not drinking the tap water even though it is purified. Villa Vidorra provides plenty of bottled water in all bathrooms, and purified bottled water for drinking in the kitchen from a dispenser in the cabinet.

Does Villa Vidorra Staff work on Sunday?

The kitchen staff at Villa Vidorra work 7 days/week, except the bartender. If you prefer the bartender to work for you on Sunday, he can be requested, but please let us know well before your arrival so arrangements can be made. His charge is $75 usd and is payable directly to him on day of service. The maid and grounds man also take their day off on Sunday.

Are there restaurants near the villa?

Villa Vidorra’s chef and team will provide you with amazing meals, but if you choose to go out and if you have rental vehicles there are some great nearby restaurants we can recommend to you. If you don’t have transporation and want to go out for a meal but not drive we recommend restaurant Pandano at hotel Jashita just a 30 second walk north along the beach from Villa Vidorra The Italian food here is delicious and consistent. The owners are Italian and have put together a great menu.

About a fifteen minute walk to Soliman Bay’s entrance is Oscar and Lalo’s. Nestled into the jungles edge is a wonderful little restaurant with a great atmosphere, large menu, and very good food. This restaurant can provide you with transportation to and from the restaurant if needed.

If you don’t have a vehicle and want to visit options other than those listed above a taxi can be hired to get you there.

How can I arrange for a Baby Sitter to help look after our children?

The villa has a listing of excellent baby sitters who we recommend. Please ask well in advance. We will assist in making the arrangements.

Who should we contact if we’re interested in yoga or massages?

Villa Vidorra can provide guests with a yoga professional and/or masseuse’s right to the villa. About two weeks prior to your arrival, and as we go through all other details, please let us know that you would like one of these services and we can schedule this for you. If you decide you would like massages after arriving to the villa just let the owner’s know. We can usually accommodate most requests even with short notice.

Who should we contact if we want to go on a local excursion?

We have a couple of preferred vendors that we have vetted who have consistently created great experiences for our guests. Tours of the ruins, deep sea fishing, diving with whale sharks and swimming in cenotes are just a few of the fun activities that are offered. If you are interested in going on an excursion please let us know and we will put you in touch with our preferred vendors who can pick you up in front of Villa Vidorra.

Can we mail items to the villa prior to arrival?

Though it’s possible to mail items into Mexico we strongly discourage it for several reasons. There is no mail delivery directly to the villa. Instead any packages would have to be mailed to a UPS or FedEx processing center in Playa del Carmen for pick up. The only other option would be to receive packages at a local restaurant adjacent to Soliman Bay on the highway. The delivery time is typically two to three weeks and always very expensive not to mention the usual complications.

Are there pool and beach toys for kids and adults?

We have many pool and beach toys for kids and some for adults also. There is an assortment of little rakes, shovels, buckets, beach balls, and other for little kids. There are also some water wings and other fun things for little kids to float with. We also have air mats and water noodles for adults to lay on and float with. Please keep in mind the above water toys constantly break and pop so we can’t guarantee what will be there during your stay. If there is something specific you’d like during your stay please bring it with you.

Does the villa have kayaks or SUP’s for guests use?

Yes, there are three stand up paddle boards for guests to use in the bay. There are also three sit on top kayaks. These are really popular with guests and lots of fun for exercise and exploring the bay.

Is there snorkel equipment?

Yes, the villa has snorkel equipment for your use. You can choose to bring your own or use what is at the villa. If you own your own equipment at least consider bringing your own mask and snorkel. You will always be assured of the best fit when you bring your own gear. There are some water shoes available and life vests for little kids through adult sizes.

Please keep in mind that when snorkeling in the bay it’s important not to stand on the coral heads in the reef. Touching or using coral to stand on destroys the sensitive marine ecosystem sea life in the bay depend on to survive.

Is fishing allowed on Soliman Bay?

No, fishing by line or spear is forbidden on Soliman Bay for various reasons. Lost fishhooks create a danger to others who swim in the bay. In addition, preservation of the sea life in Soliman Bay is important not only for helping keep a natural balance within the ecosystem but also to help keep the snorkeling/diving/water experiences for others amazing.

Can we collect shells to take home?

Please take only a picture. A pretty shell or piece of coral deserves to remain where it lay. Most guests like to return with mementos of their vacation, but picture in your mind what the beach and local area would look like if the group before you had taken what you are about to put in your pocket. Thank you for understanding!

The Mexico factor:

Our goal at Villa Vidorra is to create the best and most memorable experience possible for our guests. Inherent with Mexico and the local area however are things which are not within our control. We’ve discovered that people and services here are not always as reliable as you might find in your home country. Things sometimes occur that are unexpected. One example of this may be a short outage of Internet by our internet provider, a taxi driver that’s late, particularly windy/humid/ or hot weather. In any case we always put forth great energy to mitigate any unpleasant surprises but feel it’s best to acknowledge this possibility.