Not all all-inclusive resorts are equal. I have experienced many all-inclusive resorts, but this one is by far my favorite. If I could have stolen the bed and brought it on an airplane, I 100 percent would have. They didn’t skip over a single detail when they designed this resort.
Grand Velas was built by Eduardo Vela Ruiz, founder of Velas Resorts, in 1989 with brother Juan Vela, vice president of Velas Resorts, by his side. And today, the latter still heads up the group. Since the first all-inclusive opened, six more have developed throughout Mexico.
These all-inclusive resorts are nothing like I have seen before. They are pure luxury, from the tiniest detail of folding a towel to the extravagant architecture. While most may think that all-inclusive resorts are too expensive, I beg to differ. Just like any vacation you plan, the little expenses add up, from food, drinks, buying the appropriate beach toys, and the random trips because you forgot something else at the store. When you choose an all-inclusive resort, you have everything you need in one location. The stress of planning out each day disappears because you have access to eat whenever you want, and you don’t have to go anywhere because you have everything you need at the resort.
The staff at Grand Velas Riviera Maya is so amazing. Upon our arrival, we were greeted by all staff services that would be assisting us for the week. We stayed in Grand Class, and our beachfront room included our own plunge pool on our balcony. The room was very large with plenty of space to lounge around or work, which we made use of because being the boss means you never get a full vacation; there is always something that has to be done. Throughout our stay, we explored the property, tried out the pools, and tested the pretty blue ocean water.
This little piece of heaven in Cancun offers three unique experiences. There is one area for adults, which includes private plunge pools and stunning sunsets. Another area focuses on relaxation, offering you an experience to be in the jungle with the flora and fauna. Finally, there’s an area for family fun. I can promise you each area didn’t disappoint. Since we stayed in the Grand Class, I enjoyed my quiet time with my husband, but I look forward to coming back with my children.
The Ambassador had everything a family needs to enjoy their stay. They even have a Baby Concierge who can provide guests with cribs, bouncy seats, high chairs, bottles, bottle warmers, bottle sterilizers, baby bathtubs, strollers, and even teepees for the younger ones who don’t need a crib. They offer kids and teen clubs to keep the younger crowd entertained, and they host daily activities so the kiddos are not stuck doing the same things each day. If you are looking for a night out or a lunch alone with the adults, they even offer babysitting.
We dined at almost all of the restaurants. Maybe if we had stayed another two days, we could have gotten to them all. The breakfast buffet every morning was amazing. There were so many fresh options, and the amazing wait staff made sure we had everything we needed. I think my husband’s favorite was the daily omelets that he didn’t have to make. He still says that Cancun ruined him because he hasn’t found another omelet that compares. For lunch, we would order from the poolside, usually nachos or quesadillas, nothing too fancy as we lounged around enjoying all the nature and views.
Our first dinner was at Frida, the Mexican restaurant. We had tableside margaritas made, along with guacamole made right in front of us. I used to think my cousin made the best guacamole from scratch, but I hate to say that this one is giving him a run for his money, or guac in this case. My husband was brave enough to try crickets and even ants with his guac. We also enjoyed Piaf, Lucca, Chaka and Sin Lin, all unique experiences with amazing food. All restaurants even accommodated my gluten-free lifestyle. I don’t think I could pick a favorite because they were each unique in their own way.
Finally, we have the Spa. I don’t think anything can beat that experience. It started with a quick rinse in a shower, maybe like a minute at most, followed by a sauna that smelled of cinnamon. The next room was cold, like an igloo. My senses were definitely heightened. From there, I went to a steam room that smelled of eucalyptus, followed by another quick rinse that went from cold to hot. I thought this was the end, but then I was led to another room to exfoliate before the Water Ceremony. The Experience Sensation Pool was large, and I was told what path to follow. There were six stations in the massive pool from the waterfalls to the pebble walkway and the water bubbles. Once this was complete, it was time for the hot tub followed by the cold plunge. Finally, the massage was to die for. Once I was done, I was at peace for the rest of the day. I think we even ordered room service because I was so relaxed I didn’t want to get dressed for dinner!
I can’t wait to visit the other six resorts that the Velas brothers have! This incredible experience is perfect for your next trip away with your special someone, a girl’s trip, or even a family trip!
