OT - looking for an inexpensive condo/hotel in cozumel/playa del carmen

[riu girl]

We (2 adults, 2 kids) are tentatively planning on going to the cozumel/playa del carmen area for three weeks (Chirstmas/New Years 2007 or 2008).

For week one (week prior to Christmas) the rates are quite good and we will book into a 5 star all inclusive (Riu Tequila) but for weeks two and three (over Christmas and New Years) the rates will be MUCH higher due to the holiday and we will not be able to afford an all inclusive resort for this time period.

So we are considering renting a one bedroom condo or a tourist class hotel (with a full kitchen) for this two week period.
So far I have looked at vrbo and vacation rentals and have found a few options.

I was wondering if anyone had any recommendations on how to locate a safe, clean one bedroom condo/efficiency within walking distance to a beach (we will not have a rental car) in either cozumel or the playa del carmen area? We would prefer an on site pool but these units seems quite pricey so we could forgo the pool if need be.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Lewisc]

http://www.playa.info/

is a great source of information.

 

[Big V]

http://mytravelboard4.com/playa/

 

[riu girl]

Wow, checked out both of those sites. They are great. My head is just swimming with all of the info. Its going to a heck of a trip to plan, thats for sure.
Thanks for the info.