With its breathtaking beaches, alluring culture, welcoming people, vibrant festivals, 35 UNESCO world heritage sites and exquisite fine cuisine, there are so many reasons to visit Mexico that will enchant you. It has certainly cast its spell on me and I cannot wait to return.
At Elegant Resorts, we make sure that we know as much as possible about each stay and experience to make sure that you get the best guidance. Freshly back from my tour of some of our luxury hotels in Mexico, I'm delighted to share some information about each that will help you plan your next escape.
Nizuc Resort & Spa
Formerly a Mexican Presidential retreat,
NIZUC Resort & Spa offers luxe privacy on a 29-acre nature reserve.
With the beautifully manicured pathways, lush vegetation, ornamental pools and the beautiful sound of the birds, this property hits the senses. I felt instantly relaxed the morning after my late evening arrival. A hearty breakfast was served at Café de la Playa, which offers a varied and wide selection of delicious breakfast options, as well as inviting selections from an a la carte menu.
The hotel is ideal for couples and families looking for a quiet relaxing time away together. Younger kids can enjoy time at Winik's Kids Cub (Mayan for Little Kids). Daily activities are also offered seven days per week for all to enjoy, some complimentary. The hotel also offers a family beach and adults-only beach area, La Punta. And with 10 bars and restaurants, there is plenty of choice for everyone.
Maroma, A Belmond Hotel
The property recently underwent a substantial refurbishment, with the new design paying homage to Mexican heritage. It encompassed a nature-focussed wellness experience, fine dining with a Mexican flare, reimagined interiors and much more.
Freddy's Bar (named after one of their respected staff members) is one of the main attractions for drinks, casual lunch or dinner. The bartender was friendly and happy to chat away, and I thoroughly enjoyed my lunch of shrimp tacos and a classic margarita. For dinner though, I had a delicious Mexican seafood stew, with a fine wine pairing recommended by my waitress, under the stars at Casa Mayor.
Elsewhere at this resort, you can also find Maroma Spa by Guerlain with signature spa experiences. Here you can mix your herbs and plants to extract the oils and then learn about their therapeutic uses. The beach at Maroma, A Belmond Hotel is also stunning - it is great for enjoying a leisurely walk along the sand.
Rosewood Mayakoba
Immersed in deep green mangroves and lagoons is
Rosewood Mayakoba. Your experience begins at check-in, on the outdoor platform with a bird's eye view of the property. After this, a boat transfer takes you to your suite.
Upon arrival, I was greeted by my butler, who gave me a tour of my suite. The property also offers complimentary use of bikes to get around, but if you don't want to cycle, you can walk or wait for a buggy.
This is an expansive property, with many offerings for all to enjoy. There's the Sense Spa with ten treatment rooms, a 24-hour fitness centre, the Rosewood Explorers Kids Club offering hourly activities, boutiques, restaurants and bars, and of course, La Ceiba Garden & Kitchen, a very special communal dining experience.
Zapote Bar is a great space to hang out, and Aqui Me Quedo, Oceanfront Beach and Pool Club, is a must-do with rotating culinary experiences. It was grill night during my visit, with meats, seafood, poultry, vegetables and delectable sweets and desserts. The live band were playing away, and all the staff were warm and friendly.
Grand Class at Grand Velas Riviera Maya
Grand Class is the relaxed oceanfront property at
Grand Velas Riviera Maya. Whilst this all-inclusive resort also has two family sections: Ambassador with ocean views and Zen Grand set within the mangroves, Grand Class is the adults-only section.
The suites here are spacious and beautifully decorated, with all modern amenities. Grand Class offers 3 dining venues. The star restaurant though is Cocina de Autor, a Michelin-starred restaurant. A culinary experience for all the senses, each dish of its eight-course tasting menu was creative and beautifully presented, paired perfectly with delicious Mexican wines.
Staying in Grand Class, you have full use of Zen and Ambassador, giving you access to a further five restaurants and the Forbes-awarded SE Spa at Zen Class with 40 treatment rooms. It is very easy to walk around the three properties, but a complimentary 24-hour shuttle service is available.
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