InterContinental Presidente Cancun Resort by IHG: What to Know B…

The InterContinental Presidente Cancun Resort by IHG sits on one of the widest and calmest stretches of beach in the Hotel Zone, a significant advantage for swimming and enjoying the turquoise water without strong currents. While the resort is modern and well-appointed, it operates on a European Plan, meaning meals and drinks are not included in the room rate; this is a key distinction from the many all-inclusive options nearby and influences your daily budget.

The resort's two pools offer distinct vibes: one is more active with a swim-up bar, the other is a quieter, more reflective space. Expect a diverse international clientele, with a notable presence of American and Canadian visitors, alongside Mexican families. Finally, while the resort feels secluded, it is only a short taxi or bus ride to shopping centers like Plaza Las Americas or the lively Mercado 28, offering a balance of tranquility and accessibility.

The sweet spot for visiting Cancun, and specifically the InterContinental Presidente Cancun Resort by IHG, is from December through April. During these months, the weather is consistently warm and dry, with comfortable humidity levels and minimal rainfall. This period avoids the peak hurricane season, which officially runs from June to November, with the highest risk in September and October.

While the resort maintains its beach well, sargassum seaweed can be an issue, particularly from April to August, though daily clean-up efforts are standard. Avoiding major holiday weeks like Christmas, New Year's, and Spring Break will ensure fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere, aligning with the resort's generally calm disposition.

Traveling in late April or early May can offer a good balance of pleasant weather and lighter crowds before the summer heat and sargassum season fully set in.

For the InterContinental Presidente Cancun Resort by IHG, comparing direct booking through IHG's website with major Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) like Expedia or Booking. com is always wise. IHG Rewards members often receive exclusive rates and perks, so if you're a frequent guest, this route can be advantageous.

Pay close attention to cancellation policies; many rates offer free cancellation up to 72 hours before arrival, but non-refundable rates, while cheaper, lock you in. Deposits are typically not required for standard bookings, with the full amount charged upon check-in or a few days prior, depending on the rate.

Always confirm what is included in your room rate beyond the room itself, such as resort fees or breakfast, as these can add up quickly. Reading recent reviews for any last-minute changes in resort policy or amenities is also a good habit before finalizing your reservation.

While taxis are readily available outside the InterContinental Presidente Cancun Resort by IHG, the local R1 and R2 bus lines run frequently along the Hotel Zone strip, offering a much more economical way to get around. They are safe and easy to navigate, costing a flat rate in pesos.

For authentic Mexican food beyond the resort, venture to Mercado 28 in downtown Cancun; it's a bustling market with numerous small eateries serving cochinita pibil and other regional specialties. Don't overlook the resort's beachside service; while not always advertised heavily, you can often order light bites and drinks directly to your lounge chair.

Finally, consider booking excursions like Chichén Itzá or Xcaret Park through reputable tour operators in town rather than exclusively through the hotel concierge, as prices can sometimes be more competitive.

One frequent oversight is underestimating the cost of food and drinks at the InterContinental Presidente Cancun Resort by IHG, given its European Plan structure. Budgeting for these expenses separately is crucial. Another mistake is relying solely on hotel-arranged transportation for airport transfers or excursions; comparing prices with pre-booked private transfers or local buses can save a significant amount.

Many travelers also neglect to bring enough small bills for tipping, which is customary for bellhops, housekeepers, and servers; having pesos and small denomination US dollars on hand is helpful. Don't assume all water is potable outside the resort; stick to bottled water to avoid stomach issues.

Finally, attempting to see too many major attractions like Tulum and Xel-Há in a single day can lead to exhaustion; prioritize and allow ample travel time between sites.

Getting from Cancun International Airport (CUN) to the InterContinental Presidente Cancun Resort by IHG is straightforward. The most common and convenient option is a pre-booked private transfer, which costs approximately 60-80 USD one-way and gets you directly to the resort without stops.

Shared shuttles are a more budget-friendly alternative, typically 20-30 USD per person, but involve multiple stops at other hotels. Taxis are readily available at the airport, but it's essential to agree on the fare before getting in, as prices can be inflated without negotiation; expect to pay around 50-70 USD.

Public buses do not serve the airport directly to the Hotel Zone, so they are not a practical option for arriving guests with luggage. The journey usually takes between 25-40 minutes, depending on traffic.

A realistic daily budget for a couple staying at the InterContinental Presidente Cancun Resort by IHG, beyond the room rate, could range from 150-300 USD. This accounts for the European Plan model. Expect to spend 80-150 USD on meals and drinks per day, depending on whether you dine exclusively at the resort or venture out.

Cocktails at the pool bar might be 12-18 USD each, while a main course at a resort restaurant could be 25-40 USD. Taxis for short trips along the Hotel Zone typically cost 10-20 USD. A day trip to an archaeological site like Chichén Itzá or an eco-park such as Xcaret Park can add 100-150 USD per person, including transport and entrance fees.

Budget an additional 20-40 USD for tips and miscellaneous expenses like sunscreen or small souvenirs.