Page 25 - Flipbook

Playa has long been known as the top place on the Riviera Maya for food. An hour south of Cancun, Playa serves up a booming restaurant scene that lures chefs and dinners alike. Take a stroll along Fifth Avenue, Playa’s pedestrian-only main street (also known as La Quinta), where you’ll find most restaurants or venture a few blocks off Fifth for no-fills authentic Mexican dining experiences. Try La Exquisita de la 38 (Calle 38), for the best tacos in town ($13). Two of our favourite luxurious resorts in Playa include:
The Grand Velas R. Maya Ambassador: This all-inclusive resort nestled between sea and jungle is winning more awards than we can count. There’s a Zen environment for those seeking utter relaxation and an oceanfront section for the ultimate in privacy.
El Dorado Royale Spa Resort:
Voted one of the top 100 hotels in the world by Conde Nast, this adult-only hotel is the perfect spot for celebrating a special anniversary. Laze away the days in a hammock or a hot tub built for two, or eat your way around the seven restaurants.
entice. As well as eight swimming pools and a spa, there’s a full fitness centre, entertainment centre and activities ranging from cocktail classes to aerobics and beach volleyball.
ISLA MUJERES
Isla Mujeres leads the way when it comes to relaxation. It’s a slow-paced island where not much goes on, apart from the odd hatching of turtles at the local sanctuary. With crushed coral beaches and excellent snorkelling, Isla Mujeres is the place to head for a quiet meander.
Beyond the sugar-soft beaches, there’s not much to do on Isla Mujeres except to enjoy the chilled island life. Isla Contoy, a nature reserve, is definitely worth a visit, to experience the pristine unspoilt beaches and solitude. You can also swim with dolphins and visit the turtle sanctuary.
For the ultimate luxuries stay opt for Isla Mujeres Hotel Palace: This all-inclusive resort puts the lux in luxury. Reached via boat, this small and personal hotel offers intimacy and seclusion with sunset views over the ocean.
PUERTO
MORELOS
EXPLORE THE
Situated on the Yucatan Peninsula, a mere 24 km south of Cancun, Puerto Morelos still retains old-world charm and quaintness. The soft sands and gentle waves draw visitors, especially families.
YUCATAN
The coral reef is the biggest attraction in the area, making it a mecca for divers. There are many underwater caves brimming with fish, and because it’s a protected area the coral is undamaged.
There’s a great local artisan’s co-op at Hunab Ku Market where you can find beautifully handcrafted hammocks, textiles, ceramics and jewellery.
Style meets luxury at Secrets Silversands Riviera Cancún by UVC. Enjoy the serene environment and astonishing amenities in this hip yet sophisticated resort perched on the Mayan coast. It offers plenty to entertain and
Though it might be impossible to tear you away from your poolside lounger for longer than it takes for a sunset stroll along the beach, there’s much to explore in this part of the world. Spectacular scenery and centuries of culture lay just a stone’s throw away.
Frequently used by directors as the backdrop for sunscreen advertisements, Tulum has been wowing visitors for decades with its blisteringly white sands, turquoise sea and dramatic backdrop of Mayan ruins. Another very popular site is Chichen Itza ($8 entry), site of the Kukulkan Pyramid and Mayan observatory.
Puerto Morelos Did we mention the food?
ENDLESS VACATION 23