How much for two weeks in the Mexican sun?

Where: Cancún, Mexico

When: October 11th-25th

With the tour operator Ebookers has a fortnight in the Mexican resort of Cancún in October for just under €3,000. The deal will see us stay at Omni Cancun Hotel Villas, a place described as "the perfect Mexico resort destination". We can look forward to "pristine beaches, majestic lagoon sunsets, spectacular ocean views and unparalleled service". If the description of the place is to be believed (and who are we to doubt it?), it is awash with cascading pools and palm-filled gardens, and there are three "entertaining restaurants", four "unique watering holes" a gym and a spa. Less believably, the hotel promises to "surround you with the spirit and tradition of the Mayan culture". Flights with US Airways leave Dublin on Saturday, October 11th at 2.35pm. There's a stopover in Philadelphia before we arrive in Cancún at 9.46pm local time. On the return leg we leave Cancún at 11.35am and, with the same stopover, get back to Dublin at 7.55am the following day.

How much? €2,835.98

On our own The best rate we can get for an identical room at the Omni - one that overlooks the lagoon - is $2,366 plus taxes of $283. Based on last week's exchange rates, that means the room will cost a hefty €1,717. We try to book from Dublin to Cancún, also with US Airways. We can't beat eBookers, and the cheapest fare we can find is $3,061, which, when converted, is €1,983. So we look elsewhere. After spending an age on the web and checking airlines, the best we can do are flights from Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport with KLM, which cost €1,853 all told. We still have to get to Amsterdam. Aer Lingus flights will cost €20 each way - and once taxes, charges and fees are added, the price climbs to €307. So the US Airways option is cheaper.

How much?€3,570

Saving made through tour operator€734.02