Why Book Direct
Booking directly gives you the same villas you see on Airbnb and VRBO without the added platform fees.
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Better PricingDirect bookings are typically 10% lower than Airbnb or VRBO since platform service fees are removed.
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Direct CommunicationYou communicate directly with us before and during your stay. No platform middleman.
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Clear, Upfront PricingAll rates, taxes, and fees shown before you book. No surprises at checkout.
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Trusted HostingWe have hosted guests in Playacar Phase 1 for over 10 years across 13 villas. Featured in Conde Nast Traveler.
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Same Properties, Same ExperienceThese are the exact same villas listed on Airbnb and VRBO. You are simply booking direct with us.
Found one of our villas on another platform? Book it here directly for 10% less.
Reservation process
How do I book a villa?+
Select your dates on the property page and follow the booking steps. If you have questions before booking, you can message us directly and we will help you choose the best fit.
What is the payment schedule?+
A 50% deposit secures your dates. The remaining balance is due 90 days before arrival. If your stay is within 90 days of booking, 100% is due at the time of reservation.
Is there a security deposit?+
Yes. Every stay requires a refundable security deposit or a non-refundable liability-waiver fee covering eligible incidents up to a defined amount. Confirm your villa’s amount, coverage limit and exclusions before booking. A secure payment link is provided after booking, and charges will appear as Smiles Properties on your statement.
Why not book through Airbnb or VRBO?+
Booking direct saves you the platform fees, typically 10% or more. You get the same villa, direct communication with our team, and no middleman before or during your stay.
Is it safe to book directly with you?+
Yes. We have been hosting for over 10 years and are a verified Superhost on Airbnb and VRBO. Payments are processed securely and you have direct access to our team throughout your stay. Villas of Playa del Carmen was featured in Conde Nast Traveler.
About the villas
How close are the villas to the beach?+
All villas are in
Playacar Phase 1, a private gated beachfront community. The beach is typically a 1 to 2 minute walk from the front door.
What makes your villas different?+
Our homes are designed for groups: spacious layouts, private pools, and walkable access to the beach and 5th Avenue. You get the privacy of a home with a professional hosting team available throughout your stay.
Is Playa del Carmen safe?+
Yes. Quintana Roo carries the same Level 2 State Department advisory as France or Italy. Playacar is one of the safest neighborhoods in the city, gated with 24-hour security at the entrance.
Full safety guide here.
What is included with the stay?+
Each villa includes a private pool, fully equipped kitchen, high-speed Wi-Fi, and on-site support during your stay. Additional services like private chefs, transportation, and in-villa experiences are available on request, see vendor cards below.
Getting here and getting in
What time is check-in and check-out?+
Check-in is at 5:00 PM for guests who booked through Airbnb, VRBO, or Booking.com. Direct booking guests may check in between 1:00 and 3:00 PM subject to availability. Check-out is 11:00 AM for all guests.
How does self check-in work?+
All properties are self check-in. After completing your guest portal and required deposit or liability-waiver payment, you will receive entry instructions including your lockbox or keypad code and property-specific notes.
How do I get from Cancun Airport to the villa?+
The airport is approximately 45 minutes away. We recommend Pablo for airport transfers, who handles groups of 4 to 20 people:
WhatsApp +52 984 150 9680. Professional transfers also available at
etransfers.com. The InDrive app works great once you arrive.
Can I bring my pet?+
Yes, with advance notice. The pet fee is $40 USD per pet per night, with 25% refundable provided no damage. Pets must be disclosed before arrival.
Is there parking at the villa?+
Yes. Most villas have on-site or street parking within the gated community. City parking is metered if driving around town.
These are the partners we use for our own guests. Mention you are staying with us for any host discounts.
