Mad about Mayakoba: The ideal weekend beach retreat

It's been over 10 years since my last visit to Riviera Maya. The last time I was here, there was no Mayakoba, the eco-tourism development now comprised of beaches, lagoons, a championship golf course, and the Fairmont, Rosewood, Banyan Tree, and soon, Andaz luxury hotels. What a stunning spot to relax in a beachfront suite steps from the sand. The sister property to Las Ventanas al Paraiso (another one of my Mexican favorites), Rosewood Mayakoba has blown me away on every level from the attention to detail in the suites, to the incredible friendliness of the staff from the bellmen to the butler to the housekeepers all the way up to the top. General Manager Graeme Davis sets a fantastic example for his team, and it's obvious they all truly enjoy their surroundings and their jobs. It makes for a very peaceful vibe that extends throughout the property from the Sense Spa to Punta Bonita poolside restaurant.

It always impresses me when a luxury hotel takes the time to customize the suite with welcome amenities they know their guests will appreciate. In my case, I was welcomed with a tray of freshly cut veggies and fruit along with freshly squeezed "green" juice. There was also a selection of CDs that matched my musical preferences, a yoga mat and, at turn down each evening, dark chocolate (my favorite) was in my suite for me to enjoy. It's clear this luxury hotel did some homework on me, and it makes me super-confident that they will do the same for my high-end clients who notice these small details as much as I do (the monogrammed beach bag and pillow cases were also an amazing touch!).

My favorite accommodations at Rosewood Mayakoba are the Beachfront Suites with private deck, plunge pool and direct access to the beach (it's an easy walk down the beach to the pool and restaurant). The décor of dark woods, light stone, leather and woven textured fabrics complemented by subtle Mexican artwork is comfortable and modern. I also loved the spacious bi-level oceanview suite with rooftop hot tub. Getting around the property by bicycle is one option, or you can cruise around the lagoon by boat or hop aboard the golf carts that regularly criss-cross the property which straddles the lagoon on one side and fronts the beach on the other.

For those partial to crystal clear ocean water and powder soft white sand, a weekend (or longer!) in a beachfront suite should be on your "must do" list. It's easy enough to get to Mayakoba with nonstop flights to nearby Cancun from LA, San Francisco, Chicago, Houston, Dallas, Miami, Atlanta, New York to name a few key gateways. And, if you're looking to bring your family and/or travel with a few couples and enjoy total privacy, the resort's brand new (opening this November) Casa Loma (below) is the perfect option. A full kitchen, multiple outdoor decks, private pool, dedicated chef and nanny, and four full bedrooms plus spacious living areas as well as your own boat and golf cart take it to the next level of luxury at Rosewood Mayakoba.

All of our Virtuoso clients will of course enjoy the daily delicious breakfast buffet (complete with authentic Mexican specialties), a $100 Spa credit, and priority upgrades and early check in/late check out on request. For more details or to book your upcoming stay, contact Stacy@elitetravelinternational.com.