Down Mexico way
MARJORIE YUE VISITS A LUXURY HOTEL THAT’S UPPED THE ANTE FOR ALL-INCLUSIVE HOLIDAYS
THE glittering turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea lapping against dazzling white sand beaches in the heady tropical sunshine is why the Riviera Maya on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is home to a host of all-inclusive resorts.
But the opening of Unico 20°N 87°W four years ago, made Mexican waves, starting with the name – the resort’s latitude and longitude.
And it certainly is all about location for this adults-only hotel.
It has upped the stakes of the standard all-inclusive offering by embracing the local culture and cuisine, and including some selected excursions as part of the experience (25% service fee).
This ethos is reflected in the rustic yet modern distinctive Mexican decor of its 448 rooms using natural materials and featuring local artwork.
Nine out of 10 have ocean views, so you can watch the sun set or rise from either your semi-private swim-up pool or balcony spa tub.
Each room also comes with your own anfitrion (local host) to look after your needs, from preparing the spa tub to delivering the ingredients for a DIY cocktail!
Or you can always while away a happy hour navigating the menu of the extensive selection of spirits and cocktails at one of the resort’s six bars and lounges. The five fine restaurants on site cater for most global tastes. Sample Yucatan dishes at gourmet restaurant Cueva Siete which keeps its menu fresh by bringing in a guest Mexican chef. Tuck into Italian dishes at Mi Carisa, or sushi at Mura House while the 20.87 restaurant offers an international menu.
Apart from the three pools, there’s a raft of aqua-activities – from water basketball and Hobie Cat sailing to hydro-Pilates and floating yoga. You can indulge in some pampering at the holistic Esencia Wellness Centre (selected spa treatments are included in the package) complete with plunge pool and hammam bath.
Thinking outside the all-inclusive box, Unico 20°N 87°W gives guests the chance to explore beyond the resort with a range of adventures.
They include trips to mystical cenotes (limestone sinkholes), seeing the Mayan coastal site of Tulum, visiting Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and sailing to Isla Mujeres where the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea meet.
Rich in history and stunning beaches, it’s hard to leave this tropical paradise.