Mexico's Riviera Maya is Booming

By Terena Thyne Eisner | October 16, 2008 |

Like Acapulco in the ’70s, the Riviera Maya has become the place to be in Mexico. Where the gentle blue waters of the Caribbean coast of Mexico meet the jungles and ruins of the Yucatan, the Riviera Maya is the ultimate getaway. There are numerous resorts lining this popular coastline south of Cancun, but the Rosewood Mayakoba has raised the standards for luxury. Located in the gated beachside community of Mayakoba, Rosewood Mayakoba is the second luxury property to open in this new development (The Banyan Tree and Viceroy are slated to open later this year).

This eco-minded resort sits on a mile-long arc of powder white sands and inviting turquoise water. 128 freestanding villas, complete with plunge pools and either lagoon or ocean views, offer guests the ultimate in understated luxury. Enormous round sunken limestone bathtubs, private patios, and private butlers are de rigueur. The resort is built along canals that stretch from the interior of the mangrove jungle to the ocean, and guests navigate the turquoise green water corridors in electric boats.

If you tire of lounging poolside, visit the ancient ruins throughout the Yucatan. Tulum is about a two hour drive south of the resort and is the only Mayan ruin that sits right on the coast, perched high upon a cliff. You can even join the locals for a swim in the warm waters below after a tour.

Back at the resort, check out the Sense spa and indulge in treatments like the Mayakoba Ancient Massage or try a soothing facial using indigenous ingredients made from local plants such as aloe and agave cactus. For those who enjoy steam rooms, definitely book a Temazcal. This ancient cleansing ritual is lead by a shaman who uses heated coals and various medicinal plants to purify the mind and body. But be warned that it is not for the faint of heart, or for anyone who is claustrophobic.

When night falls, head to the resorts’ agave azul raw bar for a taste from its massive tequila library. Or venture south to Playa del Carmen where there are a variety of lively bars and restaurants situated on the beach.

What To Do

Visit the Mayan ruins of Tulum; have dinner in the beach town of Playa del Carmen; play a round of golf on the resort’s 18-hole Greg Norman course; snorkel in underwater caves; or book a treatment at the Rosewood’s Sense spa, which occupies its own little island.