LR
Travel Report
Rejuvenating Riviera Maya Retreat
©Zöetry Paraiso de la Bonita Resort
Zöetry Paraiso de la Bonita Resort
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fter ultimate indulgences at the Cancun Wine & Food festival, we were ready for some healthy rejuvenation, and Riviera Maya’s Zöetry Paraiso de la Bonita was the ideal choice. This boutique luxury all-inclusive AAA Five Diamond resort is ensconced between a mangrove forest and a gentle sea cresting a marine life preserve. The focus there is on wellness, with many guest enrichment programs including yoga, organic gardens, and health-conscious menus. But though this is the spot to really recharge in tranquility and beauty, that doesn’t mean you have to go without luxury. Their Endless Privileges® program ensures you have constant access to top shelf spirits, a la carte gourmet food and 24/7 room service, plus a welcome bottle of fine tequila! It’s up to you how much you want to indulge… or not! We found our suite with its private plunge pool and spacious patio daybed the perfect spot to rejuvenate by the sea. And we found the opulent interior homier than “hotel” – especially the heavenly huge sunken stone tub and walk-in rain
shower with a tropical garden beside it. And the lush grounds outside were always full of interesting creatures – iguanas, tropical birds, and even meandering peacocks! One could be content to lounge around the stunning pools, or chill on a plush Bali bed with beach service by the sea, but there are also active pastimes for those so inclined. We opted for a lovely snorkel tour just off shore, and there are also tennis courts on site. And if the Thalasso Spa with its pampering treatments and abundant whirlpools doesn’t leave you feeling absolutely transcendental, then you can also go on a spiritual cleansing journey via a temazcal (sweat lodge) led by an authentic Mayan shaman. Many celebs have stayed there to partake of their mind, body and spirit programs, including Dustin Hoffman, Ricky Martin and Heidi Klum, to name a few, but you need not be famous to receive the royal treatment at this resort. The service, fare, and luxe surroundings are sure to make everyone feel like they are on an exclusive VIP getaway. Visit www.zoetryresorts.com/paraiso . SUSAN CAMPBELL
-- LuxuryReportMagazine.com