ADVERTORIAL • May 2019

The Mexican haven your family won’t want to leave

Struggling to decide on a family holiday that’ll keep everyone happy? The search is finally over with this all-inclusive Mexican paradise that’s perfect for adults and kids alike. Be warned – after entering the golden gates of Grand Velas Riviera Maya, you might find it’s not just the kids throwing a tantrum to stay...

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Life’s a beach

Sitting on Mexico’s most easterly coast, lush Yucatán jungle providing the backdrop for the azures and white sands of the Caribbean Sea, lies a paradise haven for all the family. Just 35 minutes from Cancun International Airport, Grand Velas Riviera Maya entertains guests with a wealth of activities, from volleyball and football, to kayaking and snorkelling for families seeking offshore action. The hotel can even arrange (for a fee) a swimming session with playful dolphins – a memory maker no one will soon forget – and bike tours to create those special bonding moments. 

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Family fusion

After all that excitement you’re bound to work up an appetite, but you won’t be stuck for choice with the resort’s eight restaurants spanning tastes and flavours across the continents. There’s Parisian chic cuisine at fine dining powerhouse Piaf and exquisite Italian-inspired dishes at Lucca, while AAA Four Diamond award-winning restaurant Frida (inspired by its namesake artist) is a homage to all things Mexican. For more relaxed, alfresco fare stop by buffet restaurant Azul to nibble tacos, quesadillas, empanadas and more. When it comes time for a cocktail, a further six venues, including sports and karaoke bars, are on hand to serve premium branded beverages to a thirsty crowd.

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Balancing act

One too many margaritas later, it’s time for a detox – something you can find at the resort’s award-winning Spa and Wellness Centre. With 42 dedicated suites each dedicated to bringing you a holistic and rejuvenating experience, this tranquil sanctuary is a pelagic palace of health and serenity. Unique therapies, inspired by the surrounding nature and the ancient Mayans, include the Maya Water Ceremony and a cornucopia of massages, treatments, facials and couples sessions designed to help get you back to you. Struggling to get the kids off their phones? Or simply want to shut out the noise of the digital world? Try the hotels’ digital detox programme and surrender your devices for the duration of your stay. You’ll be surprised how in tune with yourself you’ll feel once you’re given them back. 

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Recharge the batteries

With ocean views, a restocked mini bar, private plunge pool right on your porch (if you’re in one of the 90 Grand Class Suites, that is) and 24-hour, in-suite service (you could even opt for a private butler if you wish), it’ll be hard to leave the room with this much comfort all around. The resort’s modern suites, all exquisitely furnished with Jacuzzi bathtub, wifi and plasma TV, are designed to turn your holiday into a family utopia, where the only alarm you’ll be waking up to is the soft sound of the breaking waves. 

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Child’s play

Grand Velas takes childcare to new heights as the Kids’ Club sets imaginations alight with board games, arts and crafts, Xbox and Wii consoles to name but a few. For children too young for the club, the Baby Concierge is always on hand to ensure that even the youngest family members are happy, with nannies available to book to give parents that extra bit of breathing room. Young adults and kids over 12 will be eager to fly the nest as the Teens’ Club’s (open with the Kids’ Club until 11pm so parents can reclaim those precious evenings) is kitted out with the latest gadgets; arcade games; billiards table; private cubicles with 40” LED TVs, Xbox and PlayStations; seating with built-in speakers; plus a bespoke bar serving snacks, soft drinks and mocktails. They won’t want to grow up too fast here.

This article has been tagged Advertorial, Hotels