Grand Velas Riviera Maya
Mexico | December 11, 2017
Mexico
LOCATION: Set in eight acres of mangroves, this all-suite resort feels
like you’re in the middle of the jungle, were it not for the magnificently well
groomed, white beachfront of Playa
del Carmen.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS: For the ultimate high-end all-inclusive,
look no further: it’s here, and there isn’t a wristband in sight. As soon as
you step inside this resort you discover what super luxury is. With infinity
pools that blend into turquoise seas, and huge fluffy towels that cover the
deep-cushioned sunloungers, this resort invites you to unwind and relax. The
spacious rooms with cream marble floors and high ceilings add to the luxury,
and let’s not forget the walk-in wardrobe, enormous hydrotherapy bath and shower
cubicle big enough for two. Little extras are important, and they’re all taken
care of – from fragrant L’Occitane en Provence toiletries to much-needed bug
spray, which comes in handy when leaving the windows open to take advantage of
the plunge pool on the terrace.
THE FACTS: Grand Velas has three ‘ambiences’: Grand Class –
90 adult-only suites; Ambassador Class – 195 family-friendly suites; and Zen
Grand Class –
254 tranquil suites set among the Mayan jungle. The resort is also home to
award-winning restaurants. Frida is Mexican with a modern twist, including
crickets in guacamole. Azul’s buffet offers everything you could want, and a
waiter will carry the plate to your table. Or you could try molecular
gastronomy at Cocina de Autor, a multi-sensory pleasure where each dish looks
like a piece of art. Other restaurants include Bistro, Chaka and Italian spot
Lucca, but my favourite was Sen Lin, serving Asian food so good you want to
give them a round of applause. Falling asleep after such amazing meals isn’t
difficult as the king-sized beds are the most comfortable you’ll ever sleep in.
And in such a tranquil setting, I defy anyone not to be out like a light.
A GOOD BASE FOR: If you can drag yourself away, there are
many things to do nearby. Recommend Xcaret Eco theme park to families and Playa
del Carmen’s 5th Avenue to shoppers. Adventurous travellers will enjoy
snorkelling and deep-sea diving. Historians should visit Tulum ruins, while
crazy party people will enjoy nightclub Coco Bongo’s entertainment.
WOW: The spa often earns a spot on lists of the world’s best. There are 42 treatments, each with the option of a hydrotherapy circuit that includes a clay room, ice room and pool. If that doesn’t calm you down, nothing will.
BOOK IT: Rates start from $786 per night
rivieramaya.grandvelas.com
Flora Ioannou