Villa del Mar

Papaya Playa Project is nestled on Mexico’s Caribbean Coast and offers a relaxing stay on the beach. Their focus is on promoting a holistic lifestyle and respecting nature and the local community. There are lots of initiatives in place around the idea of sustainability including solar energy, water treatment, responsible construction and community involvement.

Accommodation is a mix of cabanas, casitas and larger beach houses, perfect for large groups. The oceanfront casitas feature private plunge pools while the cabanas (there is a choice of ocean facing or jungle) have their own terraces with hammocks. The design, which is insired by nature, is simple and in keeping with the laidback vibes of the resort.

There is a restaurant and bar area as well as an outdoor spa offering massages, beauty treatments, yoga and meditation.

Situated on an 18-foot-high coral dune at the northern end of Tulum, the Villa Esprit del Mar commands breathtaking views of the sea. With 5 air-conditioned bedrooms, two of which enjoy large balconies to make the most of its position, the villa is ideal for families or groups of friends.

The villa itself is well equipped with a pool, hot tub and easy access to beach a matter of metres away. A private chef can be organised to cater all your meals and your own personal concierge is on hand to arrange professional massages, or private yoga instruction at the villa, or organise excursions around the Riviera Maya such as fishing, diving, golf and tours.

Just outside the town of Playa del Carmen, the Fairmont Mayakoba is a family-friendly resort set in a 47-acre coastal retreat of mangrove trees and lagoons, just off the Caribbean beach.

The 401 guestrooms range from those tucked into the jungle to beachfront suites, with balconies, spa bathrooms and warm touches – such as earthy-coloured throws – that prevent the decor from slipping into the white linen-clad, corporate style of other large hotels.

There are plenty of dining options, with cuisines including European and Mexican, and cooking classes for those interested in learning about the local food. There is also Mexican craft beer tasting available, which you can sample with tapas.

The Fairmont also features a spa, five pools – one for children with a water slide and another infinity-edge pool just for adults – a beach, and an 18-hole golf course. Mayakoba is very close to Playa and other attractions of the Yucatan Peninsula, such as Chichen Itza and the ruins of Tulum, which can be visited as day-trips.

Firmly on everyone’s ‘hot list’ this year, and tucked into a secluded area north of Playa del Carmen, approaching Cancun (15-minutes from the airport too) in Punta Nizuc, this resort feels a world away from the busy hotel strip just to the north of it.

NIZUC’s architect Alejandro Escudero has designed a hotel that is open and airy (with 109 pools no less) as opposed to building up, like many of the high rise business hotels have done further up the coastline. This has a more positive and easing effect on you, where you feel more connected to the ocean, space and nature surrounding the hotel. Combining sophisticated and organic furnishings throughout, it’s informal yet intrinsically elegant.

The resort’s collection of spacious suites come with the expected level of modern amenities and luxury with outdoor verandas and most come with sweeping ocean views too.

As well three infinity pools, NIZUC spreads its service onto two swimmable white-sanded beaches, offering plenty of water based activities too. Six restaurants spoil you for choice in terms of where to dine every day; the Chef’s Table, Mediterranean at Terra Nostra, Far Eastern delicacies at Indochine, contemporary Mexican at Ramona’s, surf and turf at La Punta Grill, refreshing Peruvian creations at Ni, and substantial breakfasts at Café La Playa.

Apart from eating, there is the all-important and vast NIZUC ESPA Spa where you should also treat yourself to their extensive and first class menu of experiences. Choose from another boundless menu, the activities one, for cultural excursions, active pursuits and events.