Mexico! Sun, sea, sand all are essential elements of the ideal beach holiday. Our spotlight on Mexico reveals the destination ticks those boxes and many, many more. The Travel Concept’s co-owner Tracy is still buzzing from her recent trip to the Central American country. She shares a few highlights.

Simply put, I loved Mexico. Miles of stunning beaches that could rival some of the best in the world, the fascinating history and culture of the Mayans to explore, exotic and awe-inspiring wildlife encounters, great food and service, plus the odd tequila shot... What’s not to love! I’ve put together a few of my favourite resorts, hotels and activities to help inspire you to plan your own Mexican adventure. 

Where to stay

Escencia

Formerly an Italian Duchess’s seafront home, this hotel (a member of the ‘Small Luxury Hotels of the World’) is bijou and private. There are just nine rooms in the main house, the rest of the accommodation takes the form of cottages dotted around the grounds. Authentically Mexican in style, these minimalist, thatched (palapas) rooms have native wood furnishings and are set in jungle-like landscaping. Escencia is no ordinary hotel. There are no room numbers, guests find their own way via quirky paths marked with stones. The nature-based Spa has a kitchen at its heart and all the herbs used in treatments are grown on site.  This is a really peaceful and beautifully done hotel with the most amazing beach, plus a lovely pool area. Escencia feels almost like a retreat - think beach holiday meets healing spa!

 

Maroma   

Originally a coconut plantation, this 65 room resort is tranquil and relaxing. There are no TVs in guest rooms, but there is a TV lounge with wi-fi if you need a break from the beautiful spa or a yoga or tai chi class. Maroma really feels Mexican. Whitewashed interiors, tequila tasting sessions and traditional board games give a real flavour of the country, and that’s before you even try the food. The hotel’s new chef produces some excellent authentic cuisine and was named Mexican Chef of the Year in 2010.  I loved this hotel! I really did feel I was in Mexico and the standard of service and attention to detail was excellent.

 

Zoetry Paraiso De La Bonita, Riviera Maya 

This hotel was designed and built by the current owner for his wife (they still spend six months of the year at their own suite there). This ensures it very much has a homely feel , with personal artefacts collected by the well travelled owners dotted around the hotel.   A member of the ‘leading small hotels of the world’, the hotel’s 90 oceanfront suites all have different themes (think Mexican, African, Indian, Mediterranean). Zoetry Paraiso don’t offer all inclusive – they call it endless privileges as so much is included - from thalassa spa experiences to catamaran cruises to international phone calls!  This very pretty hotel offers amazing value for money, a stunning beach, gorgeous, candle-lit pool area. It really is something special. 

 

Mayacoba

is an area which was originally underground caves. When they opened it all up, they discovered a series of waterways.  The complex has a very eco feel and the hotels are very keen to promote this. Mayacoba has 3 distinct ecosystems of jungle, mangrove and stunning white powder sands, all connected by a series of lagoons.  Add to this a luxury 18 hole Greg Norman championship golf course and the option to use the restaurants and spas of any of the three of the hotels in the complex, regardless of which one you’re staying in, and you have a lovely destination!  

 

Rosewood

is a striking property with 132 suites. Stylish and individual, the accommodation has a real mix of nature and luxury. After the boat transfer to your room, while away a few hours in the perfect tranquillity of your sun terrace or stargaze from the bath through your very own skylight. The spa is based on its own island offering a range of treatments.

 

Fairmont

is far more extensive, with 401 Mexican style rooms, from the three bedroom presidential suite to the Cassita suites which have plunge pools on the roof! This resort is great for families – there’s a kids club and six pools, including one just for grown ups.  They also offer eco tours around the waterways. We saw some amazing wildlife from unusual birds to a baby crocodile sunning himself on a rock, even a few turtles.  I also had possibly the best massage I’ve ever had at their spa. Have a look at the non sting bees that they look after at the spa they offer a range of treatments with their honey! Food was fantastic from the extensive breakfast buffet to fine dining in the evening. They also offer an all inclusive option at this hotel, meaning you get great value for money. 

 

What to do

Visit the historic ruins of Chitchen Itza, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Take a trip to Tulum, the ancient ruins of a Mayan village (go early in the morning as it can get quite busy. Get the most out of the beauty of the place when there aren’t too many people!)

Have a Dolphin encounter. There are numerous swimming with dolphins sites.  I visited the Xel-ha water park, which offers dolphin encounters, snorkelling, zip wire and a lazy river. It’s a really great day out. Snorkel The Mayan reef is the second largest in the world offering the ideal opportunity for unrivalled diving and snorkelling experiences. 

Try tequila! Tequila is to Mexico what Whisky is to Scotland – there are local variations and different flavours, so try a few unusual ones.   

With direct BA flights (Virgin will be offering a direct route from 2012), Mexico is an extremely accessible and impressive holiday option. Temperatures are good year-round, ranging from balmy to baking! There’s a resort for everyone – from small boutique hotels to large modern complexes. And with friendly welcoming people and excellent service, you’ve got to think Mexico for your next beach holiday. 

 

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