Soon2b2010,
You have to be careful about getting prices from people because you have to make sure that you compare apples to apples. Now depending upon where you live it could be the higher prices are due to the airfare or booking the trip later and all that was available was higher priced rooms. Our company books Dreams Tulum all the time, actually Dreams Resorts is one of our biggest sellers for destination wedding couples to the Caribbean and Mexico. We do so because they have lower rates and excellent destination wedding packages, however we do advise the bridal couples to have their guests book ASAP because these resorts sell out fast. I had a wedding this past Spring where the resort was sold out by the end of September already.
Depending upon the resort they have a limited amount of lower priced rooms, in some cases it could be only 5 - 14 rooms. What we do is ask the bridal couple if there is someone that my benefit from the lower priced rooms or if they want their wedding party in there or family members. We give a choice that way if they have the special priced rooms the bridal couple can give a choice to guests who might not be able to afford some.
Now I have to say $2500per person is very high. Maybe it was during a holiday, or high season or something else. But it does no good to assume. Ask! Go back to them as ask what room style they had or did they have a view of something. Then you can honestly compare to see if this resort is right for you.
Plus by 2010 they should have their new Dreams Resort open. They could be providing some excellent intro rates.
As for finding something cheaper there is the Grand Sirenes, Grand Sunset Princess, Gran Bahia and the Palladium Resorts. All of them offer lower rates. We have used them over the years with great success. You might pay a bit more for the wedding package but your guests will have a lower priced room.
I hope this helps! Best wishes on your special day!
Lindsay
Certified Destination Wedding Specialist
President of the Destination Wedding Association