I was fortunate enough to have been offered an incredible 7-night stay to Mexico with JTA Holidays. This was my first long haul trip, so I was very much looking forward to it.
My trip began with my Virgin Atlantic flight from London Heathrow. I would highly recommend Virgin as an airline – we flew economy class and for a 10 and a half hour flight, I felt comfortable throughout. The inflight entertainment was brilliant, such a wide choice of films and series to be entertained. The staff were extremely efficient with their service, and the food on board was of great standard.
Upon arrival at Cancun airport, we were greeted with a private transfer which took us to our hotel: The Sens Cancun, where we would be staying for our first two nights. This all-inclusive, beachfront hotel is a great choice for families that are looking for a fly and flop type of holiday. There are plenty of facilities for the children, including the Kiddo Zone – an area with attractions for children supervised by experts including a Pirate and Jurassic themed splash park. A standout for the Sens Cancun is that all guests are permitted free access to all restaurants, bars and services of the Grand Oasis Palm Hotel – this family hotel neighbors the Sens.
Day three was a special one as it was my birthday! We had a very informative site inspection of our next hotel, The Pyramid Cancun Hotel. This evening, we were lucky enough to have a hosted dinner at the award winning Benazau Restaurant at the Pyramid. If you’re looking for an outstanding culinary experience with the most colourful and creative dishes, you must try the Benazau. What really stood out to me with this property was its beautiful beach which is only a few steps from the main pool area. I have never seen such white sand and crystal-clear Caribbean Sea in all my life! The facilities within the Pyramid are brilliant too – we highly enjoyed the early morning yoga classes on the beach.
While experiencing Mexico, we also had the opportunity to visit several alternative hotels within different areas of Mexico. One of these being the 5*, adult only Atelier Hotel in Playa Mujeres – this was my personal favourite of the trip. As soon as you step foot into this hotel, you instantly feel a sense of pure luxury. On the larger side, the Atelier offers 593 Suites all which overlook stunning views of the golf course and the Caribbean Sea. It also offers an upscaled service called Inspira for an even more luxurious experience – just some of these features include: personalised check in and check out with a welcome cocktail and refreshing towels, upgraded rolling bar with premium whiskey, tequila, vodka and rum within your Suite, Inspira ocean front pool: a private area with Bali beds, bars, and an exclusive pool concierge service, free hydrotherapy session at the hotels NUUP Spa, plus many more benefits. The design and decor of this hotel is what really stands out to me as it incorporates both traditional Mexican art and design alongside the marble and wood furnishings which create a modern feel throughout. If you are looking for premium accommodation with Michelin star restaurants, impeccable facilities and an innovative atmosphere, I couldn’t recommend the Atelier enough.
We were lucky enough to visit all four of the Fives Hotels while on the Riviera Maya, and we got to spend our final four nights in two of these properties. The Fives are a wonderful chain of hotels, and the aim of each resort is to embrace each of your senses with its exclusive ‘all senses inclusive concept’.
Essence at the Fives Beach:
The largest of the four, the essence provides lush open spaces along with the white sands and turquoise waters of the Caribbean. Buggy’s are also provided within the grounds of the hotel to assist in getting around as the residence-style suites are separated from the 14 restaurants, 8 bars, world-class spa, tennis courts, children’s pool and playground, and the beauty salon.
The Beachfront by the Fives:
The smallest of the four, this adult-only, boutique style hotel includes 43 rooms and 1 restaurant: Santa Sirena which offers a rustic-chic ambiance with an oceanfront setting where guests can enjoy Mexican fusion cuisine. Guests staying at the Beachfront can enjoy full access to all amenities and facilities at the Essence.
The Fives Oceanfront:
Located in the charming fishing village of Puerto Morelos, the oceanfront is a hidden gem. This accommodation was the most perfect place to finalise our jam-packed trip! Whether you are up for some drinks on the rooftop terrace, craving some hand-crafted food at the Ro Marley Beach House inspired by Bob Marley or wanting to complete a morning workout before hitting the beauty of the Caribbean beach, the Oceanfront has it all.
The Fives Downtown:
Located in the livelier resort of Playa Del Carmen, the Downtown allows guests to enjoy the vibrant nightlife and endless boutiques of the area, while feeling comfortable at home upon returning to the hotel. The rooms really stood out to me at this property – the two-bedroom presidential penthouse was no exception, including a private rooftop pool overlooking the sea. We were fortunate enough to have a hosted lunch at the hotel’s rooftop restaurant where there were live singers and countless cocktails alongside the delicious array of traditional Mexican cuisine.
We had some free time to spare one afternoon, so I made use of this and explored the local area of Playa Del Carmen. Known for its rich Mayan Culture, I witnessed a Mayan dance in the centre of the town which was very vibrant and spiritual. The city was bustling with lots of shops, bars, and restaurants with the stunning beach just across the street. Playa Del Carmen offers everything from luxury resorts to bohemian stays, blending Mexican charm with cosmopolitan flair for relaxation, adventure and partying. There really is something to suit everyone.
On our final full day, we were treated to a Catamaran tour to Isla Mujeres. If you have the chance to visit Isla Mujeres, I would highly recommend doing so. It is a beautiful island directly across the water from Cancun. We went snorkeling, visited the local markets and town, had a great time at the beach club and relaxed on the hammocks in the sea.
I would like to say a massive thank you Holiday Lounge and JTA for offering me this incredible trip. I have made memories that will last a lifetime 😊
Olivia Dainty – Lutterworth Office
