ADVERTORIAL • April 2017

The Mexican hideaway that has something for everyone

Swathes of white sand and lush jungle, all fringed by the glittering Caribbean Sea… it’s little wonder the Yucatan Peninsula is a go-to destination for escapists. Hugging this stunning stretch of coastline, the all-inclusive luxury resort Grand Velas Riviera Maya has something for every type of traveller. Which one are you?

The gourmet lover

One thing you won’t do at Grand Velas Riviera Maya is go hungry. The resort is foodie paradise, with its distinctive restaurants and award-winning chefs at the helm. Adorned with accolades, Cocina de Autor has a menu that focuses on Basque, Spanish and Mexican molecular cuisine and is a popular choice with guests. There’s also the lively Mexican eatery Frida and pretty French restaurant Piaf, where the vibe is all about 1940s Parisian chic.
Club tip: Cocina de Autor and Piaf are for over-16s only. And formal attire is a must.

The family traveller

Parents, relax. Grand Velas is seriously well set up for mums and dads who want to chill while their little ones have a ball in the kids clubs. For younger ones (kids aged five to 12), Grand Velas Kids Club is open seven days a week (and until 11pm, so no need for a babysitter), and activities include pinata making, treasure hunts and theatre (under fives are also welcome if accompanied by an adult). Teens will be happy, too – their supervised club features an advanced technology sound system, dance floor, karaoke, XBox and pool table.
Club tip: If you’re travelling with an infant, make full use of the resort’s Baby Concierge who can provide families with all the comforts of home.

The luxe devotee

Rated Five Diamonds by AAA, Grand Velas neither stints on style or service. The resort – made up of 539 luxury suites – is divided into three areas: Grand Class – adults-only, which also come with private plunge pools – Ambassador and Zen, each with its own look and feel. Interiors are chic and spacious throughout: all the suites are at least 1,100 square feet in size, and come with private terrace, and 24-hour room service. There’s also a personalised butler concierge.
Club tip: As a side note to parents, the Ambassador area is conveniently located near the child-friendly infinity pool and kids’ clubs.

The outdoors enthusiast

Young and old alike will want to explore the resort’s expansive grounds, which are spread over 85 acres. There is a myriad of outdoor activities on offer, from bicycle tours to unearthing the property’s natural cenotes (sinkholes), and the pristine beach is a gift for those who like volleyball, sandcastle-building or navel-gazing. With the warm sea beckoning, kayaking, snorkelling and swimming are also the order of the day.
Club tip: Scuba diving, swimming with dolphins, catamaran and fishing trips can be organised at an extra charge.

The spa-gazer

Whether you’re with the family (but escaping for the afternoon), on a romantic break or travelling with friends, a stint in the Riviera Maya Spa is a must. Built in harmony with the surrounding jungle, the ambience here is calm yet indulgent with a clay room, ice room and experience pool. There are 42 treatment rooms and the spa menu focuses on holistic treatments, which embody traditional Mayan flavours and traditions.
Club tip: For extra helping of Zen, don’t miss the different teas on offer, which have been specially paired to treatments.

To find out more and to book your stay, visit ba.com/grandvelas

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