Located in the heart of the Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen has so many amazing resort choices from ultra luxury all inclusives, peaceful luxurious resorts outside of town and hip boutique hotels in the heart of the action. These are my recommendations as there’s a little something for everyone.
For me, when I close my eyes at night and dream about heaven on earth, this is exactly the place that comes to my mind. Located on the best strip of beach in all of Riviera Maya, Maroma Resort & Spa is my absolute favorite resort in Mexico to just go to relax. Technically it’s north of the Playa del Carmen city limits and it comes with a pretty price tag, but there’s something to be said about the serenity of simple luxury done to perfection, from the most amazing beds and linens available to the locally grown and inspired cuisine as well as the spacious lounge areas on the beach. I’m already counting down the days to my return, although it’s almost a year away. My favorite detail of my stay at this once private hacienda turned luxury resort, falling asleep on my balcony terrace hammock while listening to the waves crash below.
Paradisus Playa del Carmen – La Perla
Accomplishing another scenario to perfection, that of the chic party scene, the Paradisus Playa del Carmen La Perla is the only luxury all-inclusive resort located in the downtown that really pulls this image off well. Whether you’re with a group of friends on a fun filled getaway or perhaps an over the top but elegant bachelorette party, I can’t think of a better place to stay. Here you’ll find a beautiful and relaxing poolside and beach area as well as a rejuvenating spa and gym complex even offering yoga sessions for the daytime, yet after sunset, many great restaurants, bars and lounges, right on property for a glamorous night out. It’s also ideally located for nights out on the town after a few early evening cocktails at the resort. Apart from the cutting edge designed guest rooms and common spaces, the true highlight of this property is the feeling you receive throughout your stay, that you’re in an elegant, yet fun loving environment. I can only say, cheers to that!
Downtown Playa del Carmen is known for it’s trendy boutique hotels and Hotel Deseo is the epitomy of this concept. The simple, modern lines and white flowy linens of the guest rooms do make you feel like your in a dream sequence, starkly contrasting with the life outside on Qunita Avenida. If you desire to be in the heart of it all, this is the place for you. The rooftop pool and bar area is not to be missed as well, for sunbathing or some evening drinks and people watching before heading out on the town. As part of Grupo Habita, Mexico’s leading luxury boutique hotel group, Hotel Deseo is all about design, where good things come in small packages.
The perfect combination of modern elegance meets Zen could only be found at an ultra luxury all-inclusive resort such as Grand Velas. It’s partially due to the décor of this expansive property but even more so attributed to the spacious layout and kind yet unobtrusive staff that maintain Grand Velas’ tranquil aura. Some of the best cuisine can be found here on property, as it’s home to Cocina de Autor, one of Riviera Maya’s top restaurants, as well as the spa at Grand Velas, being one of the most award winning spas in Mexico. With all of these attributes, you may find it hard to leave the property, but in case you choose to venture out a few nights, which is highly recommended, the resort offers one way transportation to downtown, about 15 minutes away, and then you can catch a taxi return at your leisure.
http://rivieramaya.grandvelas.com
If family travel or your need to accommodate friends and family members with children is part of your travel plans, yet you don’t want to sacrifice an inch of luxury details, then Azul Fives is the perfect retreat. Most of the already ample suites and villas can be combined to create your own home away from home, perfect for a very high end family reunion or a get together of a large group of friends. However, in no way should you be scared off by the words “family friendly”, as Azul Fives maintains it’s modern and luxury appeal in every detail throughout. An amazing part of this “Gourmet Inclusive” resort is that the suites have their own luxury kitchens allowing for you to reserve a private chef dinner in the intimacy of your own villa. The property also features a fantastic array of gourmet restaurants, yet, when you do want to venture out, you’re less than a 10 minute cab from downtown Playa del Carmen.
http://www.karismahotels.com/resort/azul-fives-hotel-karisma
Jetsetter Gypsy 