**Dave & Tim Mexico 2023**

[Cscottrun]

Originally Posted by dmbolp

Last year we just booked a separate Moon Palace room, and were renting bikes when the CID bike tour was starting, they told us to just come along with them for free

How did you go to the shows then?

[dmbolp]

Originally Posted by Cscottrun

How did you go to the shows then?

Buddy had a Presidential suite with view from his balcony; his crew went into the shows, my wife and I and some of his other friends watched from his balcony. Didn't know he was going, ran into him at the pool, was only expecting to see/listen from the Sunrise pool area. He probably had the worst of the Presidential Suites, bottom floor furthest away, and Sunrise pool was maybe only 20 yards further back. But sound was great. Could have easily went over his balcony glass wall and would have been in, but didn't. Full bar in all the rooms.

https://youtu.be/aKeonJai5qE

[dmbolp]

Several Sunrise Ocean View rooms had an even better view of stage, maybe more to the outside. That's what we were actually hoping for, but our regular Sunrise Reservation got screwed up, they didn't even want to let us in, finally got ahold of management who put us in a Nizuc room.

[MidwestGirl]

Originally Posted by facelessman

Haha! My girlfriend is the same way. She will be down with this because its the beach, not Las Vegas and going to UFC Fights lmao.



For the vets who have gone, opinion on best hotel to stay at and how many days do you all recommend?

Nizuc and sunrise are both great/
Ocean view or standard room
6 days is perfect

Originally Posted by ISawTheBridge10

How’s the pricing compared to last year? Looking at the packages today, I don’t recall them being quite as pricey. May just be misremembering.

It’s increased

Originally Posted by Cscottrun

Thanks! Also, with respect to the payment plan, is there an added fee for utilizing it instead of paying it all up front or is it the same price?

There is a fee I think it was $50 in the past but I’m sure that’s increased

Originally Posted by prokid123

Just about have my wife convinced to go. She isn't a huge Dave fan (but tolerates). However, she loves the beach and traveling and getting out of the cold, dark Chicago winter. Couple questions:

1. Touched upon a bit here, but is the Grand "worth it"? Think we are eyeing the Grand Presidential Suite for 2 OR the Nizuc Governor Suite Ocean View Shard Terrace for 2. Both obviously seem great but wondering if being 'closer' to the action at Nizuc is better. We aren't big partiers but do like to drink. With the Grand, I like the sound of "premium food and beverage options" and perhaps more "private" pools.

2. What are the 'hot' packages that will go quickest on Tuesday?

3. The venue itself, are there any seating options? As part of the non-Dave fan thing, my wife likes to sit and relax for about half the show. The FAQ isn't clear ("no assigned seating in the venue" but "ample seating around the venue"). If we want to be near seats, are we going to be far from the stage and hamper the experience?


Thanks in advance.

The swim up and ocean view rooms tend to go first.
Unless you want a bit more quiet/privacy abs isolation I don’t think the Grand is worth it. I’ve heard the food is better, but you miss a lot of dinners due to the shows. Food is good at the other properties too. My friend did a governors suite last year and imo I felt it lot of money for what they got. But, we are never in our rooms.

However only certain buildings have governors suites. I think the ones at nizuc are up on the roof with the shards terrace and jacuzzis for post show. Don’t quote me on that…. But those were pretty sweet if that’s the case.

People bring in blankets and sit. I have several friends that hang in the back where they setup up lounge chairs couches etc and they have screens. Then of course you get the sound.

Originally Posted by surferbrad87

I am not a vet but I was looking to do that last year and some rooms opened up about a week or so before the event but that may have been due to covid cancels. Who knows.

Anything is possible but I’m guessing there were way more rooms last year due to COVID cancellations

Originally Posted by ISawTheBridge10

I'm with you and on top of that my wife can't stand indoor concerts. She'd much rather spend 9 grand on D&T Cancun trip than do 2 nights at MSG.

Mexico over MSG every day

But I also don’t like arenas

Originally Posted by Cobo

Ok, I'm seriously considering this time.



Is is possible to do this not being a Warehouse member?



Also, I would be solo. Do people going solo ever pool together to get a room at a cheaper rate? Basically, what are my options if I go solo?

We have a roommate matching thread in the fb group and lots of people end up going in with roommates to make it more affordable. And no you don’t need to be a WH member

Originally Posted by Cscottrun

Someone in my group has gone before and she'll be getting the early presale code through the WH. She'll be on a flight during the on sale. Can she just give me the pre-sale code and I can use it on my own? Or is it linked to her WH account? Does anyone know how that works?

You can use her code

Originally Posted by surferbrad87

Also, package prices dropped a week or 2 before the event as well but again probably due to people cancelling due to rise in covid cases and didn't want to go so you may not want to depend on that.

This was certainly due to COVID. Once they allowed people to cancel and the previous testing requirements… I estimate maybe 25-30% +++ cancelled and took the refund

Originally Posted by sheman10

Did Nizuc Ocean View this year. Next year is ~$500 more per person for the same package

Yep. Definitely a jump but not so much $$ to dissuade the regulars I don’t think

[MidwestGirl]

Originally Posted by mandy18

Last year, we tried to sit there for a minute and they stopped us.











I wouldn’t walk. N2 we walked post show to Nizuc and stayed there for a bit. When it was time to leave for the Grand, we found a shuttle and took it the rest of the way.



FWIW, plan what places and room types you want, but last year, I wasn’t able to buy until the Warehouse presale and the alumni presale wiped out every room type we wanted. The only options left at that point was the Grand.

But I also feel like they didn’t put Nizuc on sale immediately. I could be wrong, but I thought that opened after the general public on sale.

For some reason they didn’t add nizuc until the regular onsale last year.

Originally Posted by gck105

I always thought that during these events that the resort was exclusive to the concert goers. That's kind of disappointing. Looks like the Sunrise might be, at least for now you can't book any rooms during those dates. I checked the Nizuc, and you can book it. The concert package has essentially doubled the cost for the hotel based on the prices showing.

Thinking about this for an anniversary trip, but having a hard time swallowing that much for a concert(s). I've paid a lot to see Dave over the years, but never that much. It is basically a $3000 up charge. Curious what makes it "worth it" for those who enjoyed it?

$500 per person per night for the concerts portion. Considering what people shell out for premium tickets or overpay for TM platinum…. It’s a completely unique concert experience. There are hundreds of people that return every year and save all year to make it happen. While there may be 5,000 attendees it feels intimate. The sound is great. You get SO many unique songs over 3 days. We’ve always had fun guests too. Last year our waiter was bringing us bottles of champagne and tequila shots up to our spot in the crowd and we were maybe 10 people back. The food at the shows and the setup and art installation and sand sculptures. It’s just incredibly unique. Let me find some videos I posted of the venue

Originally Posted by dmbredsox36

I'm so close to pulling the trigger and doing this -- I'd be riding solo, so I'm nervous if it's going to be awkward for me, but this has been a bucket list item since the trips began, and I'm at a point where it's just, 'Screw it, let's go.'

Just do it. You’ll meet so many new DMB friends!

Originally Posted by SeminolePride77

Follow up to my earlier question about the differences in the resorts. How far of a walk is it from the grand to the venue? Are we talking 10 minutes? 30?



Really torn here. Sunrise seems to be the best option for the parties and venue but The Grand seems to be the better resort overall. Do I want to sell one kidney or two to pay for this? Decisions decisions.

Unless you really want the best or want a place to chill I don’t think the grand is worth it

Originally Posted by jubes02

Yes, there are definitely vegan/vegetarian options. I can't remember the exact details but I recall talking to one of the hotel concierge type people and I think the owner might be a vegetarian or something so he makes sure his hotels have plenty of options. You should call or email the resort for more details. My fiance is a non-drinker and we were so impressed with how they catered to her with all sorts of n/a drinks. They really make it "all inclusive" for everyone. Another example is every time you order food or go into a restaurant they screen everyone and ask what you are allergic to etc. and they take it very seriously. We were super impressed!

There are a ton of discussions on this in the phish group and consensus is they are pretty accommodating. My friends that go ate all vegetarians (but they do eat cheese….) and they have no issues. Even at the shows last year they had vegan samosas, vegetarian Lo menu etc

Originally Posted by SeminolePride77

One more question for the show veterans-are any of vegetarian or vegan and if so how are the food options for plant based people at Sunrise and, if you know, The Grand?



Thanks again to everyone whose replies to my questions!

Originally Posted by landsharkbam

Thanks for the details! The main concern I have with nizuc is being able to lounge at the pool. I’m a big lounger, it’s my best trait but I don’t wanna get up early to reserve a spot. I do like the idea of easy access to all the fun stuff though

Honestly I would lean sunrise. Way more pool chairs and a much larger pool. Nizuc pool is tiny

Originally Posted by sheman10

For each set of packages on the website, click on "room description." They have pictures of the rooms.



Unless the package says "ocean view", you're not going to get an ocean view.



No shuttle, I think our walk to the venue from the southern end of Nizuc was 15-20 minutes, but we'd usually be able to catch a ride on the way.



Sunrise, even on the far southern end will be 10 minutes tops.

I had an ocean view from sunrise last year with a standard room

But just for lucky, no guarantee
And it was a view, not w full ocean front

Originally Posted by SeminolePride77

Someone just commented on a question I asked on the Warehouse boards about the different resorts that all of the pool parties and events, other than the concerts, are at nizuc, not sunrise. I thought all of the gatherings and parties would be at sunrise and the sunrise pools.



Can anyone confirm what that person said or is he mistaken?

They have been at Nizuc both years for D+T and they have a permanent stage setup there. I think for Hootie, there were less attendees and most were in sunrise, so they did a stage over there. I would expect it to be at Nizuc for Dave.

Originally Posted by groogrux27

if my wife and i are planning to go with another couple:

1. are there room types that have separate bedrooms but connected living areas?
2. is there a way to get 2 separate rooms but have them be right by each other?

Originally Posted by prokid123

Really appreciate the help. This is really informative. I think the lack of ocean view/front rooms all but knocks the Grand out for us. Having that ocean view when you first wake up is basically a necessity whenever we travel to the Caribbean, Mexico and the like. One option could be the Presidential Suite, which then gives access to the Grand. Although if we are at Sunrise, how often will we really want to make the long hike over to Grand just for better food/drink? Tough call.



For the venue, how 'crowded' does the general admission get towards the middle and back? In other words, if we were hanging near the middle-ish and my wife wanted to go sit/chill for a while, is it a hassle getting back? Super specific question, I know. Just a unique setting and my wife has quite a few questions. ha

If you stay at sunrise I doubt you’ll go over to the Grand much.

Getting back is easy unless you’re in the front middle. Just find a waiter and follow them back. The crowd tends to part for the servers

Originally Posted by groogrux27

besides the concerts themselves, what other benefits are there to that booking through CID / Livenation? I saw something about a bike ride, but is that it? are there other excursions / activities that are included?

The concerts
And being guaranteed a room

Last yeah a bunch of phish wooks booked moon palace but when they arrived it was oversold and they moved them to sun palace…. (I think a building flooded or something, so they were short rooms)

They did NOT book through CID.

Originally Posted by bonesmcgee

Alright... think this is the year finally. Bus captain on a beach

Well hey there!! Woot woot!!

[MidwestGirl]

Originally Posted by gck105

I always thought that during these events that the resort was exclusive to the concert goers. That's kind of disappointing. Looks like the Sunrise might be, at least for now you can't book any rooms during those dates. I checked the Nizuc, and you can book it. The concert package has essentially doubled the cost for the hotel based on the prices showing.

Thinking about this for an anniversary trip, but having a hard time swallowing that much for a concert(s). I've paid a lot to see Dave over the years, but never that much. It is basically a $3000 up charge. Curious what makes it "worth it" for those who enjoyed it?

Some videos of the venue

https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTRABHAk4/?k=1

https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTRABpFVU/?k=1

Arriving

https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTRABpFVU/?k=1

Pool scene at sunrise (Thursday before the shows)

https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTRABUuGu/?k=1

Friday morning at Sunrise pool

https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTRABugUA/?k=1

[aircavmike]

How seamless is the process from airport to resort? It says the resort is 15 mins away and the process from landing, going through customs, shuttle and checking in can be anywhere from 1.5 hours to 4. Anyone have any insight on that?

[lilant420]

Originally Posted by illinifan

You've always been an idiot TROLL. I've been the last 3 years. CID has always provided excellent customer service. LN not so much. Go back to your bridge

Oh that's right, you were that dude in the onesie w/ your bf.

[sheman10]

Originally Posted by aircavmike

How seamless is the process from airport to resort? It says the resort is 15 mins away and the process from landing, going through customs, shuttle and checking in can be anywhere from 1.5 hours to 4. Anyone have any insight on that?

This year immigration was a nightmare when we showed up. Thousands of people trying to get thru. I don't know if it was due to Rona, staff shortages, or just bad timing. Previous years, it wasn't bad at all.

Once you get thru that, you walk outside and there are CID folks that point you to where the shuttle buses are. Once on the shuttle, it's about 15 minutes to the resort. This year, we again had bad luck with that. There was a traffic jam due to an accident and it took more like an hour.

2020 was a breeze. 2022 was pretty bad. Hopefully it's better next year

[berniebrewer]

Sorry for the 100% newb question… is there really no option to just buy the tickets for the shows? With the Hilton offered as an option the point cost is super low by comparison.

[dmbolp]

Originally Posted by berniebrewer

Sorry for the 100% newb question… is there really no option to just buy the tickets for the shows? With the Hilton offered as an option the point cost is super low by comparison.

No Show-Only option

[Cscottrun]

Originally Posted by aircavmike

How seamless is the process from airport to resort? It says the resort is 15 mins away and the process from landing, going through customs, shuttle and checking in can be anywhere from 1.5 hours to 4. Anyone have any insight on that?

Worst case scenario with the shuttle, there are plenty of cab services (that are safe) and readily available right at the exit of the airport. It will be inexpensive for a 15 minute ride. So cheap, and safe, in fact, that if there is a line for shuttle service when I arrive, I'd seriously consider just taking my own transportation.

But last time I was in Mexico (in October 2021, it wasn't bad at all) and I doubt that this concert would influence things. It's just dependent on day you arrive and timing.

[sheman10]

Originally Posted by Cscottrun

Worst case scenario with the shuttle, there are plenty of cab services (that are safe) and readily available right at the exit of the airport. It will be inexpensive for a 15 minute ride. So cheap, and safe, in fact, that if there is a line for shuttle service when I arrive, I'd seriously consider just taking my own transportation.

But last time I was in Mexico (in October 2021, it wasn't bad at all) and I doubt that this concert would influence things. It's just dependent on day you arrive and timing.

We've never had to wait more than 5 minutes to get on a shuttle. They have a clipboard where they look you up, they tag your bags so they end up in the right spot, and then tell you which shuttle to get on. Pretty easy process

[Cscottrun]

Originally Posted by sheman10

We've never had to wait more than 5 minutes to get on a shuttle. They have a clipboard where they look you up, they tag your bags so they end up in the right spot, and then tell you which shuttle to get on. Pretty easy process

Ok, good to know!

[MidwestGirl]

Originally Posted by sheman10

We've never had to wait more than 5 minutes to get on a shuttle. They have a clipboard where they look you up, they tag your bags so they end up in the right spot, and then tell you which shuttle to get on. Pretty easy process

Originally Posted by Cscottrun

Worst case scenario with the shuttle, there are plenty of cab services (that are safe) and readily available right at the exit of the airport. It will be inexpensive for a 15 minute ride. So cheap, and safe, in fact, that if there is a line for shuttle service when I arrive, I'd seriously consider just taking my own transportation.

But last time I was in Mexico (in October 2021, it wasn't bad at all) and I doubt that this concert would influence things. It's just dependent on day you arrive and timing.

This. The shuttle is a breeze and part of the fun. They come on the bus with beers for sale, people are excited and handing out swag etc.

I’m very much a get me to the resort right away type person but shuttle is fine.

Last year there was a horrific accident and that 15 mins ride took an hour. That happened on two occasions. Google maps was solid red. Fingers crossed that doesn’t happen this year.

[Cscottrun]

So anyone have experience using someone else’s code? There’s a big warning that you can only use your own code.

[gck105]

Originally Posted by illinifan

Anyone else find it unprofessional that there's been no statement from CID or LN regarding who's organizing this thing? Returning people shelling out this kind of money should have some kind of reassurance in the hospitality. New people too for that matter.

They posted on the Facebook page that the company is Playa Luna Presents and that they are the same company that has done it for the last 8 years of events in Mexico.

[sheman10]

Originally Posted by Cscottrun

So anyone have experience using someone else’s code? There’s a big warning that you can only use your own code.

No experience with it personally. They certainly tell you not to do it but I also think they can't or won't enforce it and people have done it in the past. Do it at your own risk I guess???

[sheman10]

Originally Posted by gck105

They posted on the Facebook page that the company is Playa Luna Presents and that they are the same company that has done it for the last 8 years of events in Mexico.

If that's the case, CID got bought out by LN and they still have the same people in place

[aircavmike]

Anyone ever do a Mayan temple trip? Saw in the one group someone asked what time those trips ended. Ppl said you’re back in time for the show, but does that mean you literally get back and have enough time to get to venue for when Dave and Tim come on?
Just wondering how close they cut it

[sheman10]

Originally Posted by aircavmike

Anyone ever do a Mayan temple trip? Saw in the one group someone asked what time those trips ended. Ppl said you’re back in time for the show, but does that mean you literally get back and have enough time to get to venue for when Dave and Tim come on?
Just wondering how close they cut it

I don't remember the times exactly, but you're back with plenty of time. Back on site by 4 I'll guess

[lilant420]

Originally Posted by aircavmike

Anyone ever do a Mayan temple trip? Saw in the one group someone asked what time those trips ended. Ppl said you’re back in time for the show, but does that mean you literally get back and have enough time to get to venue for when Dave and Tim come on?
Just wondering how close they cut it

I think you'd be better off staying at the resort but that's just me.

[sheman10]

Originally Posted by lilant420

I think you'd be better off staying at the resort but that's just me.

We did a "natural" water park once several years ago. It was fun. We had a good time but we decided that was it for excursions from then on

[MidwestGirl]

Originally Posted by lilant420

I think you'd be better off staying at the resort but that's just me.

Originally Posted by aircavmike

Anyone ever do a Mayan temple trip? Saw in the one group someone asked what time those trips ended. Ppl said you’re back in time for the show, but does that mean you literally get back and have enough time to get to venue for when Dave and Tim come on?
Just wondering how close they cut it

Honestly those make me super nervous because you just never know if there’s going to be an accident or something and get delayed. I feel like it’s a bit safer booking through cid when the entire excursion is show attendees, as they have an obligation to make sure you’re back… Vs an outside company… but it’s a pretty far trip so risky imo.

Also the preshow pool scene is half the fun and what you’re paying for. If this is something you’re super interested in I would just come a day early or leave a day late, and book a cheaper hotel then book through another company or hire a driver. Just my two cents.

[jasonc]

Newb question so apologies if it’s been asked…has anyone bought in the past and then not been able to attend? Anyone successfully transferred to someone else.

[TheQuietStorm86]

Does anyone have any experience with the Hilton or the Golf Course? Trying to figure this out before tomorrow. Thanks.

[sheman10]

Originally Posted by jasonc

Newb question so apologies if it’s been asked…has anyone bought in the past and then not been able to attend? Anyone successfully transferred to someone else.

They allowed refunds this year due to Rona, but previous years it's quite rare.

Pre-Rona it was a hard no-refunds/non-transferable policy but for 2019 we bought but then my wife got pregnant (can't go cuz of Zika, these f'n viruses, amiright?!?!). We asked CID, they said no. We asked Warehouse, we provided proof from the Dr, they granted the exemption/refund.

My point is, it wasn't easy by design (and I don't blame them). I assume it'll be back to being pretty difficult in these "post-pandemic" times

[MidwestGirl]

Originally Posted by TheQuietStorm86

Does anyone have any experience with the Hilton or the Golf Course? Trying to figure this out before tomorrow. Thanks.

Hilton is a brand new resort. It has never been offered before.
I’ve heard from colleagues it’s nice but I would stay onsite.

[MidwestGirl]

Originally Posted by TheQuietStorm86

Does anyone have any experience with the Hilton or the Golf Course? Trying to figure this out before tomorrow. Thanks.

If you want something more chill and quiet the golf course could be an option. I’ve heard good things. I think some rooms even included a golf cart? It is a hike from the stage area. Not walkable. But there are shuttles and golf carts.

[MidwestGirl]

Originally Posted by jasonc

Newb question so apologies if it’s been asked…has anyone bought in the past and then not been able to attend? Anyone successfully transferred to someone else.

Originally Posted by sheman10

They allowed refunds this year due to Rona, but previous years it's quite rare.



Pre-Rona it was a hard no-refunds/non-transferable policy but for 2019 we bought but then my wife got pregnant (can't go cuz of Zika, these f'n viruses, amiright?!?!). We asked CID, they said no. We asked Warehouse, we provided proof from the Dr, they granted the exemption/refund.



My point is, it wasn't easy by design (and I don't blame them). I assume it'll be back to being pretty difficult in these "post-pandemic" times

All of this.

If you’re state allows I would purchase cancel for any reason trip insurance. They have made it pretty difficult for some people to get out of packages in the past. Others have gotten approval to transfer with a doctors note etc.