Mexico: Mayakoba & Playa del Carmen
I love Mexico. I’ve been to three different parts of the country and I love them all for different reasons. My new favorite location is an area just south of Cancun, called Mayakoba.
The Makakoba Resorts
The Makakoba region refers to a span of about 5km of resorts and beaches along the Caribbean coastline, as well as the nearest town - Playa del Carmen. All three luxury resorts in Mayakoba are pretty exceptional
Fairmont Mayakoba (generally the cheapest of the three and the most family friendly)
Rosewood Mayakoba (ultimately, my absolute favourite)
I found the The Banyan Tree Mayakoba to be rich with Thai culture from your check in experience to the layout and zen-ness of the villas. The Rosewood Mayakoba was rich with local Mayan culture and is simply one of the sexiest and most romantic looking places I’ve ever been to. However, all three provide lush botanical surroundings.
A few more notes on the area -
Exchange your money chunk by chunk at the front desk of Fairmont (you’ll need your passport) as they give a good rate and it’s more convenient than trying to find a place in Playa del Carmen or Cancun.
Try Ambasciata d'Italia on the main strip in Playa del Carmen for really fresh pasta and a charming boutique vibe.
Try Casa del Lago at the Rosewood Mayakoba for an Italian Mexican fusion dining experience. It has a really romantic atmosphere, overlooking their pool and soft lighting.For both boutique and name brand shopping, head to the main strip in Playa del Carmen.
My favourite boutique shop, and a must visit for fashionistas is called Narcisa. The staff were super friendly and personable and they have the cutest and sexiest curation of clothing, shoes and accessories.
Keep your eye out for turtles, birds and Coatis (a central and south american version of the raccoon) - there are a ton of them in this area.
If you like golf, make sure to book a tee time at the Pete Dye course at the Iberostar resort. Immaculate conditions, lush and almost surreal-like fairways and greens that look more like green waves than grass.
Locals dressed in traditional Mayan gear, on the main strip of Playa del Carmen.
One of the two main pools at the Fairmont Mayakoba.
The main pool and view from the Italian Mexican fusion restaurant at the Rosewood Mayakoba.
The Fairmont Mayakoba grounds.
The Coati, a central and south american racoon like creature.
Pete Dye golf course.