Turn it up or tune out
At two Mexican hotels, Tom Duffy can live like a rock star or choose a slower tempo
Rock down to Mexico’s Riviera Maya, where lush scenery meets luxury resorts – and you can live like an A-lister. From the bright lights of party resort Cancun to Tulum and its famous Mayan ruins, this 75-mile stretch of Caribbean coast dazzles with fine sandy beaches, crashing waves and a jungle backdrop.
Select one of the many all-inclusive hotels dotted along the shore if you simply want somewhere to sip cocktails and lie in the sun.
But if you like hotels that suit your style or personality, you will be used to digging through the detail when it comes to picking your perfect stay.
This time the work has been done for you…
If you want a resort that’s full-on fun, where you can turn the dial up to max and let loose, the Hard Rock Riviera Maya is way out in front for wow-factor. A neon palace of unapologetic decadence for lazy days, glamorous nights and endless refills, this is the place to pose like a rock star – and be treated like one.
Split into two halves, there is the adults-only Heaven hotel and the family-friendly Hacienda.
Whatever room grade you choose, it will feel like you got lucky with the penthouse.
At Heaven the decor is bold and sexy, with giant beds, studded headboards, mood lighting, egg-shaped spa baths and chandeliers made from gold microphones. There are dual music listening stations, hammocks and swim-up pools with submerged loungers. Some come with their own personal assistant, and one features rock star memorabilia from Poison frontman Bret Michaels.
The Hacienda offers the same
luxury features, but the style is smart, with a colour palette of mahogany and terracotta. Interconnecting rooms give you space, and there are stairs up to seaview terraces with hot tubs and outdoor bars.
Soaking up the Mexican sunshine is a priority here and there are lots of ways to do it. Chill in your own private hot tub on your balcony, bob around in the main pool with swim-up bar, waterslide and Jacuzzis. There’s also a kids’ pool, splash park and scuba pool.
Wade out into the natural sea cove for a calm wild-swimming experience. Book a Balinese bed and get chilled wine, snacks and waiter service.
Dancing and drinking are favourite pastimes of the rocking guests and you can sip cocktails and enjoy sea views at the Martini bar. The head barman told me that Mexicans tend to drink tequila and its cousin mezcal neat, or with a pinch of salt and a little lime, so who was I to argue with that?
At Club Heaven, DJS spin classic disco tunes after dark.
Kids get their own club – Roxity – where they can enjoy beach parties and dance contests and take part in games, races, art and magic.
And this being a Hard Rock hotel, budding musicians can live out their dreams by forming their own jam band, recording a track in a studio or mixing at the decks, which is all part of the all-inclusive experience.
Holidaying here is like having your own PA. Ask for almost anything and staff will make it happen.
Fancy sailing off on a yacht to see wild dolphins? Done.
This part of the Mexican Caribbean is well-known for its biodiversity, so I jumped aboard a boat that cruised out to one of the best spots for wildlife.
Snorkel mask and flippers firmly on, I glided through the warm waters surrounded by every colour of exotic marine life. Then it was off into the darkness to swim inside a mysterious limestone cavern studded with stalactites, the ideal ending to a magical trip. Or so I thought…
Right on cue, on the return journey the heavens opened and everyone out on deck got drenched in the warm Caribbean rain – an even better finale!
Like any rock star living a pampered life, every food craving is at your fingertips and my top choice of holiday indulgence is always a steak.
Step forward Toro steakhouse, where your cut of choice will be chargrilled to perfection. Sushi and teppanyaki are on offer at Asian hot spot Zen, discover fiery local flavours at Frida, or just go big at the buffet, pig out on pizza, try Thai, or order in.
As you make your way around the resort, be prepared to say “hola” to the locals – these could be a trio of