I would go with your friend's account then, because I have no idea what the radio dude's expectations were. I'd trust your friend's perspective over some guy on the radio.
I loved the Bitter End Yacht Club . Depending on the season, you can get a 7 night all-inclusive package for $3255, not including airfare. On the 7-night package, scuba is extra, three 2-tank dives will cost you $225 per person.
During our honeymoon, we stayed at the Moon Palace, just south of Cancun. Far enough away from Cancun that you get that peaceful isolation, but close enough (30 mins) to go into town to have some fun. www.palaceresorts.com We stayed 5 days and 4 nights for about $2,200 back in 2001. All the rooms have an ocean view, had a jaccuzi in it and the view was breathtaking: Also included the "jungle tour". You get to drive these little 2 person speedboats out to the reef and go scuba diving. Biggest rush Ive ever had. You also get to "play" for free at their other resorts up and down the Yucatan peninsula. We rented a Jeep and visited the Spa Palace one day (package included a free message). Place was gourgeous! We found that places like Sandals were much more expensive than this place.
This is an interesting all-inclusive resort.... http://www.cat69.com Not sure if you'd be able to take your wife there though.....
Greatest place I ever went for tropical all-inclusive vacation: www.elnidoresorts.com miniloc island. amazing.
