Once a hidden gem, the Riviera Maya, located just south of the bustling city of Cancun, Mexico, is now a growing scene with resorts and condos being developed left and right. Although the area is evolving, finding spots that offer intimacy, romance and luxury is still a breeze.
Recently I visited the adults-only, all-inclusive El Dorado Royale, A Spa Resort (eldoradosparesorts.com) with my boyfriend. It won the 2008 Traveller’s Choice Award from Trip Advisor for “Best for Romance – Caribbean” and let me say it’s a well-deserved win. After a chartered flight via Skyservice, courtesy of Signature Vacations, we arrived at the El Dorado and were happily greeted with a warm hello followed by complimentary glasses of sparkling wine.
There are 605 suites available, which cover over one-and-a-half kilometres of the secluded Punta Brava Beach, and all feature top-notch amenities. But if you can, upgrade to a casita. The casitas are located in a separate area of the resort, but it’s well worth the short hike to the main lobby (or you can opt for a shuttle, there are stops throughout the resort). Each casita features high ceilings, an oversized balcony with an ocean view, an indoor Jacuzzi and “Aguas del Amor,” a romantic outdoor shower.
What’s special about all-inclusive here is that it’s “Gourmet Inclusive.” This translates to seven à la carte restaurants—from fondue to Asian—unlimited premium alcoholic beverages, 24-hour room service, and 13 bars including swim-up. House wine is complimentary, but if you’re look for a finer bottle, a diverse list accompanies your dinner menu.
Breakfast is the only time when buffet is an option, but à la carte is still available for those looking for something from the kitchen. The Health Bar was a definite favourite, offering yummy smoothies, wraps and salads—a great afternoon snack stop.
Two things not to be missed include a candlelit dinner on the beach and an oceanside massage, both of which are included in the honeymoon and wedding package. With your feet in the sand, the ocean waves hitting the shore, and a live musician serenading you, it’s hard to imagine the private dining booth you’re sitting in is a beachside hut by day. A four-course seafood feast is on the menu, but the chefs are more than accommodating if something is not to your liking. Now is an excellent time to try a bottle off the wine list, which we did.
If the sun and sand isn’t enough, the oceanside couple’s massage will surely put you into relaxation mode. Sunrise with a mimosa or at night with the stars, you can choose your perfect time for a rub down. Afterwards, retreat back to the shore, where you can laze in a sun-covered beach bed while a “beach butler” comes to offer towels, refreshments and tanning products.
For those wanting to wed in the Riviera, you’ll find it easy to make arrangements with the help of Rafaela Lantingua, Weddings Manager for Lomas Travel. Originally from Canada, she has organized hundreds of weddings and can help you with every last detail.
Tip: Not all resorts allow couples to exchange vows on the beach (this resort does), so check that detail beforehand. You don’t want to be disappointed come your W-day.
The El Dorado Royale only allows adults, and no exception will be made for weddings. So if you have pint-sized relatives you’d like to attend, consider the more intimate El Dorado Maroma, which is adjacent to a kid-friendly resort. You can celebrate beachside, but come evening you and your mister can retreat to the 72-suite boutique resort for ultimate seclusion.
Everything from water sports to nightly entertainment is at your fingertips at the El Dorado Royale. Although there’s arguably enough to do on-site, there is also much more to explore outside, including ecological parks, Mayan ruins and the Great Barrier Reef. For more information on excursions in the area visit lomas-travel.com.
If you’re dreaming of a destination wedding, the Riviera Maya is the perfect spot to tie the knot. Check out our Destination Guide to find out how to plan your day.
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Posted by Jayme on September 26, 2008 at 12:17 p.m.
I have to agree with everything that this article has to say as I went there on my honeymoon and it was well worth the money! We loved every minute and plan to go back for an anniversary some time!
Posted by Natalia on September 29, 2008 at 9:30 a.m.
I agree as well!!!! My husband and I went to the El Dorado Royale on our honeymoon and stayed in the casitas!!!! Best 2 weeks of our lives!!! I definitely recommend this resort to everyone!!!!
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