The Sandos Playacar hotel is under scrutiny for allegedly concealing a large-scale food poisoning incident affecting both guests and staff. The incident came to light last Friday when visitors demanded a refund and, upon refusal, alerted local authorities. It is believed the incident took place approximately six days prior.

While no guests or staff were hospitalized, many experienced vomiting and diarrhea for three days. No medical examinations were conducted. By the time the Federal Commission for Protection Against Health Risks (Cofepris) arrived, any spoiled or contaminated food had been discarded. The only action taken was the imposition of a minor penalty, as confirmed by the responding authorities.

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The hotel's management reportedly told guests they had contracted a bacteria unique to Playa del Carmen, presumably to avoid causing alarm. However, when rescue teams arrived last Friday, they identified the illness as a gastrointestinal infection likely caused by the consumption of spoiled food, poor food preparation, or unhygienic kitchen conditions. Due to the time elapsed, any evidence had been removed.

Guests reported that the hotel suggested they see a local doctor for a check-up. If they wanted further examinations or medication, each individual was asked to pay an additional $150. To appease guests, Sandos Playacar arranged for a private ambulance, whose paramedics stated that hospital transport was unnecessary, thus downplaying the incident.

Guests began seeking assistance from authorities via social media when their requests for refunds were denied. Upon their arrival, the hotel's private security denied them entry. Only after some tourists came forward to testify were rescue teams, emergency services, and elements of the Tourist Police allowed access.

Health authorities found no anomalies upon their entry. They ordered a work stoppage for an inspection and imposed a small fine. In the absence of action from the authorities, guests have launched a campaign warning others against staying at the hotel. Some have claimed this is not the first instance of food poisoning at the resort.

Testimonies

Numerous complaints on social media paint a grim picture. One guest wrote, “Poisoning, do not recommend.” Another shared, “The resort is very nice and has great potential. The food seems good, but my baby is very ill; first, he got an enterovirus, then the tests show salmonella, two types of e. coli and sapovirus… We notified the hotel, who were already aware and acknowledged that they had a problem with the food, but did nothing for the people at the moment. DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS PLACE… they exposed the health of my baby and many children and adults at the expense of making money, knowing they have a serious health problem. I hope they can be punished and closed."