LR
Travel Report
Hotel Cacao
W
e only had one night to explore Playa Del Carmen’s famous little seaside party town before our transfer to Cozumel by ferry, but we made the most of it. A brand new luxury boutique hotel had just opened right downtown, supposedly within walking distance to all the action. It couldn’t have been closer! The new Hotel Cacao in fact was situated right over the street’s largest and loudest party bar, but once inside the lobby we were transported to an entirely different world. The serene feeling begins the second you set foot toward reception. A soothing water wall flanks a calming lily pond pool, replete with ancient dugout canoe. It’s like walking into a tropical forest. Around the corner you are met by a stunning, vibrant and massive wall mural, a creation by a talented Brazilian artist named Kobra. It’s complex and impressive. The mural sets the scene for the inner courtyard dining area – open-air save for some sail-like white triangles above that form a semi-canopied skylight effect. Everything for their new NIBS restaurant has been locally sourced, from the building materials to the menu items. We didn’t dine there, though, as we wanted to head out into the pandemonium in the streets! We ate at a lively touristy spot on the strip – kitschy, yes, with its mariachi bands and giant margaritas, but great fun. Our room was fresh and modern, and so new you could still smell fresh paint. They call this hotel “hippie chic,” but the only thing “hippie” we encountered were the two
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©Hotel Cacao
Playa Del Carmen’s New Urban Oasis
Volkswagon Beetle halves covered entirely in colorful seashells. They were painted by designer Tommy Hilfiger! I would opt to call it Zen chic. Only the third floor was open to guests then, but they should fill up fast once completed, as its location is ideal. And the rooftop oasis infinity pool, bar and lounge right in the urban heart of Playa del Carmen is bound to be a big draw. It’s absolutely gorgeous and also hosts an air-conditioned fitness center looking out to the sea. Visit: www.HotelCacao.com.mx susan campbell Twitter: @suectravel