Here, in brief, are the upsides and downsides of each of these resort destinations if you are unsure where to stay between these three must-see destinations on the Mexican east coast.

Cancun

Located just a short cab ride from the international airport, Cancun’s hotel zone is more for vacationers looking to be in the heart of the action. Here, clubs and nightclubs swarm and multiply, to the delight of partygoers on a budget – and in little clothes.

In fact, the hotels dotting the Cancun peninsula cater to a young, pretty crowd that likes to party without a tomorrow (though not exclusively, as there are also some grand luxury and family hotels). Many of the hotels host DJs, dancers and big shows to appeal to this particular clientele that is prone to all kinds of excess.

Moreover, Cancun has been the cash cow of Mexico’s tourism industry for over 40 years and exercises little subtlety when it comes to enticing tourists and vacationers to squander their pesos on Americanized experiences. Thus, the temptations (stores, restaurants, clubs, casinos, etc.) are multiple and numerous throughout the hotel zone.

Upsides of Cancun

• Impossible to get bored
• Lots of entertainment
• Proximity to department stores and nightclubs
• Numerous restaurants outside of resorts

Downsides of Cancun

• Little authenticity
• Crowds can sometimes be too much
• Proximity to potential cartel problems
• Crowded beaches

Cozumel

Just off the coast of Playa del Carmen is a vast island of 477 square kilometers called Cozumel (“land of the swallows” in Yucatecan Mayan) where it is good to take your time, ideally with both feet in the crystal clear water. The atmosphere is insular and relaxed, especially because the hotels are much smaller than elsewhere in the state of Quintana Roo. It is therefore an ideal destination for vacationers who prefer resorts and crowds on a human scale.

A small paradise on earth, Cozumel was even officially recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016 as a biosphere reserve. No wonder, then, that Cozumel is the best place for scuba diving in the world according to Jacques Cousteau since he set foot there – or rather, flippers! – in 1961. That’s mainly because of the current, which is far more peaceful than elsewhere on the continental coast, and the presence of the second largest coral reef in the world.

Good to know: Cozumel’s hotels are all, with a few exceptions, on the west coast facing the Riviera Maya, making it one of the only places in the region to enjoy the sunsets.

Upsides of Cozumel

• Away from big tourist areas
• Pristine beaches
• Diving sites

Downsides of Cozumel

• Island access can be complex
• Very few of the best resorts in Mexico are located on the island
• Hotel infrastructure is often outdated and has not stood the test of time
• Lots of mass-market tourist marketing aimed at day cruisers; Cozumel is a big cruise destination

Riviera Maya

Known around the world for its long stretches of white sand, turquoise waters and exclusive resorts, the Riviera Maya is for vacationers who demand the best in dining, facilities, service and amenities. Simply put, Riviera Maya has some of the best resorts in Mexico. This includes world-class spas, children’s centers with specialized educators, 5 Diamond restaurants and suites larger than the homes of most travelers who stay there.

Another factor that favors the Riviera Maya over Cancun and Cozumel is the array of day trip options. From Mayan ruins such as Tulum to the many cenotes and spectacular dive sites, it’s possible to complement long periods of idleness with a day or two in the heart of Mexican culture.

Upsides of Riviera Maya

• Ultra-secure hotels
• State-of-the-art technology and design
• Quiet and spacious beaches

Downsides of Riviera Maya

• Higher rates
• Large resorts that can be difficult to navigate
• Challenging access to stores and restaurants outside the hotel complex

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As one of the best-preserved Maya sites in Mexico, Tulum is a must-see, bucket-list-worthy kind of destination. Basically, it’s just one of those places you HAVE to see in a lifetime, because believe it or not, Mexico has a lot more to offer than just luxury resorts (although they don’t hurt, I’ll say that) and guacamole.

The history of Tulum, Mexico

Nestled deep in the Yucatan peninsula, with its ancient temples overlooking the stunningly turquoise Caribbean Sea, this is indeed one of the most popular attractions in the country and not just for its jaw-dropping 700 years of history but also for the dramatic 39-foot-high cliffs alongside it.

And while Tulum is not nearly as ancient as some of the other ruins elsewhere in Mexico — most Mayan sites date back to the 3-9th centuries — Tulum is nonetheless rather unique in that it was a particularly prosperous hub located at the centre of both coastal and land routes, as proven by the thousands of artefacts establishing beyond doubt a formerly flourishing trade with Central America.

And because of this highly strategic significance, Tulum was one of the very few walled cities in the Mayan Empire with massive 5-metres-high, 7-metres-thick limestone walls enclosing three of its sides while the natural fortress of the 11-metres tall coastline granted unobstructed views of sea-faring visitors.

At the height of the empire, Tulum was home to 1500 residents before the Spanish unceremoniously settled here in the late 16th century.

Tulum travel tips

Keep your visit to the mayan ruins of Tulum, Mexico, a memorable one by following these tips:

• Arrive before 8 a.m. to avoid waiting in line
• Bring water, snacks and sunscreen
• Wear comfortable shoes
• If your hotel doesn’t offer packages, book one that includes transportation to Tulum and admission to the archaeological site.
• Tulum is located on the east coast of Mexico, about 50 miles south of Cancun.

Between the ruins of El Palacio, served as a residence for Tulum’s most prominent citizens, the beacon that used to be the Castillo and the dozens of massive lizards roaming around freely, one could easily spend a full day on site. There really are tons of things to do in Tulum.

But for visitors that truly can’t be bothered with ancient ruins and Mayan history, there’s always the beach. Indeed, Tulum’s rugged coastline makes for perfectly dreamy patches of sand hidden in intimate coves for a quiet, picture-perfect swim.

Come on down the creaky wooden stairs leading to the sea and enjoy a refreshing, invigorating swim — just the way Mexico should be enjoyed.

There are a few coatis near the visitor centre in Tulum. They’re diurnal mammals native to South and Central America part of the Procyonids family — they’re basically Mexico’s answer to racoons.

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I went to Mexico in order to study the depths of the “affordable luxury” concept and experience the particularities of five hotels, spreading from Playa Mujeres to Riviera Maya. Here’s what I found.

Blue Diamond Riviera Maya

Blue Diamond Riviera Maya is an adults-only, modestly-sized luxury resort at just 128 rooms. A rarity in a region where most hotels go far over 500 rooms. The resort is actually part of the exclusive Small Luxury Hotels of the World association. Consequently, it’s maintained to very high standards throughout.

I was assigned a Patio Suite which was not only bigger than my apartment back home but was also equipped with its very own pool. This particular range of room also benefits from the services of a personal butler, which ended up playing a crucial role in the quality of my stay. He made dinner reservations, fetched bikes, booked spa treatments, inquired about excursions and basically executed any and all of our wishes.

Not bad, eh? In terms of layout, the suite consisted of a living room with a guest bathroom, a master bedroom, a massive bathroom with a walk-in closet and, outside, a fully private terrace, outdoor marble bathtub and pool. No doubt about it, the Blue Diamond Riviera Maya is one of the best luxury hotels in Cancun.

Located on a vast 36 acres of lush tropical jungle, it’s the kind of place where nature truly is at your doorstep. Most of the buildings are constructed along a peaceful waterway originating from the property’s very own cenote. I even became acquainted with a family of coatis as the parents escorted their offsprings on their daily scavenging expedition across the lawn and across the canal.

Contrary to many other properties along the Riviera Maya, the Blue Diamond Resort isn’t built vertically but rather horizontally. Buildings are only one or two stories high. This leaves ample room for vegetation to grow as it pleases and keeping neighbours to a minimum. The Patio Suites are part of four interconnected private courtyards with each manicured garden with a plant-based work of art at its centre overlooking a natural canal.

Zoëtry Villa Rolandi Isla Mujeres

The art of living in its purest form! This intimate adults-only property only has 35 rooms, all of which offer fabulous ocean views and Bvlgari toiletries. With its rocky sea cliffs, subtle opulence and compact layout, Villa Rolandi has a certain European flair to it, which will undoubtedly please guests familiar with the old continent. The simple fact that you can only get there by boat — the hotel is on an island, after all — is very much reminiscent of Venetian vaporettos.

Thanks to its unique location on the Isla Mujeres littoral, Zoëtry Villa Rolandi possesses a modest but private beach with calm, translucent waters and stone-free sand. Truly one of the best beaches in eastern Mexico.

Grand Velas Riviera Maya

The reputation of this commended 5* complex largely precedes it. It was recently awarded five AAA Diamonds — and its extraordinary attributes continue to seduce luxury aficionados. Grand Velas Riviera Maya stands out not only by the quality of its installations but also its sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere.

The resort employs a myriad of acclaimed chefs including a Maître Cuisinier de France at Restaurant Piaf, who unquestionably serves some of the best dishes outside of France along with delectable wine pairings.

The complex consists of three spectacular pavilions for a grand total of 529 immense rooms. The Grand Class for adults (90 rooms in three categories, each equipped with a private terrace and pool) is first. Then comes the Ambassador for families (195 in six categories, equipped with child-and-baby-friendly amenities). It should be noted that both situated along the ocean. Lastly is the Zen Grand Natural View. However, it’s the most surprising of the tree as it is set in the very heart of a protected, flourishing Mayan jungle. The hotel even offers discovery tours with a zoologist, who was quick to tell guests all about the local residents, e.g. spider monkeys, jaguars, turtles and iguanas.

The 254 rooms in five categories are located on the edge of a lake with active marine and floral life. The ultimate option for an atypical stay!

Breathless Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa

This trendy adults-only chain is famous for its festive atmosphere and its younger (or at least, young at heart) clientele. This may be because of the legendary “foam parties”! The 526 chic rooms of the resort are sorted in three different complexes. Firstly, the Xcelerate for partygoers. Secondly, the Xhale for tranquil luxury. Thirdly, the Allure for guests wanting to experience a bit of both.

Food-wise, the Breathless Riviera Cancun is a Mexico luxury resort in a league of its own. With its 24/7 buffet and its no-reservation à la carte restaurants, it’s almost a rarity in the world of resorts. The hotel also owns a magnificent spa offering unparalleled views of the dense mangroves.

Because the beach is actually quite underwhelming, pools are where it’s at. Not that it’s a sinecure by any means! Over 80 rooms offer swim-out access to the architectural masterpieces that are the main pools of each complex.

El Dorado Maroma by Karisma

Although this intimate hotel — with just 120 rooms — opened its doors 20 some years ago, it’s the 30 brand new water bungalows that get all the attention nowadays. Rightfully so, though, as they are one of a kind in North America.

These palafitos offer direct access to the sea and encompass three glass floors panels, allowing guests to admire the prosperous marine life right under their feet, in addition to being located in a private area with an exclusive restaurant and spa. Moreover, Conde Nast Traveler recently ranked El Dorado Maroma’s beach of the ten best in the world. That is mostly due to its tranquil waves and bright aqua waters.

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And I wasn’t disappointed.

Blue Diamond Riviera Maya is an adults-only, modestly-sized luxury resort with just 128 rooms, a rarity in a region where most hotels go far over 500 rooms. The resort is actually part of the exclusive Small Luxury Hotels of the World association and, consequently, is maintained to very high standards throughout.

In terms of location, the resort is located about 40 minutes from Cancun’s international airport and 10 minutes from Playa del Carmen, which are both affordable by taxi. Personally, I booked my package via Air Transat’s Luxury collection and was, therefore, eligible for a private roundtrip airport transfers, which was a veritable delight.

Blue Diamond Riviera Maya: My Suite

I was assigned a Patio Suite which was not only bigger than my apartment back home but was also equipped with its very own pool. This particular range of room also benefits from the services of a personal butler, which ended up playing a crucial role in the quality of my stay. He made dinner reservations, fetched bikes, booked spa treatments, inquired about excursions and basically executed any and all of our wishes.

Not bad, eh? In terms of layout, the suite consisted of a living room with a guest bathroom, a master bedroom, a massive bathroom with a walk-in closet and, outside, a fully private terrace, outdoor marble bathtub and pool.

The bedroom was truly a challenge to leave in the morning. The king-size bed and the 500-thread-count linen sheets were a dream to sleep in, not to mention the blackout curtains, the leather headboard, the 42″ HD flat screen TV and Nespresso coffee machine all within arm’s reach. The adjacent bathroom was not a sinecure either. With its spacious closet, grooming area, massive countertop, double shower with rainfall showerheads as well as plush bathrobes and towels —not to mention the exquisite Bvlgari white tea toiletries— the experience was akin to that of a high-end spa. Wondering where the bathtub is? Well, if you must know, it’s located right outside the showers and overlooks the bucolic yet lively canal.

Our private terrace was every bit as delightful as it looks and we spent many hours in the pool working on our tan. We even became acquainted with a family of coatis as the parents escorted their offsprings on their daily scavenging expedition across our lawn and across the canal.

The living room area was also quite enjoyable. The only downside of having a private terrace overlooking a forest and a canal (talk about first world problems, amirite?) is the frightening quantity of bugs at night, and it was, consequently, wiser to stay indoors. Much like the rest of the suite, a great deal of thought went into the design of the room; the furniture, the ornaments and the colour scheme were all contemporary and refreshing. The area also included the restocked-daily minibar as well as a guest bathroom.

Blue Diamond Riviera Maya: The Property

Located on a vast 36 acres of lush tropical jungle, the Blue Diamond Riviera Maya is the kind of place where nature truly is at your doorstep. Most of the buildings are constructed along a peaceful waterway originating from the property’s very own cenote. Contrary to many other properties along the Riviera Maya, the Blue Diamond Resort isn’t built vertically but rather horizontally; buildings are only one or two stories high, leaving ample room for vegetation to grow as it pleases and keeping neighbours to a minimum. The Patio Suites are part of four interconnected private courtyards with each manicured garden with a plant-based work of art at its centre overlooking a natural canal.

The same logic applies to the layout of the resort, as the pavilions are not located directly along the beach but sandwiched between the water and the check-in counter, which is about two kilometres inland. My room was about halfway through, close to the main evening restaurant. I hardly ever walked all the way to the beach, though, as bikes are readily provided by the concierge and staff regularly picks up guests in golf carts to take them to where they’re going. So, in reality, there was very little walking involved.

The resort offers its guests several amenities, such as 25,000 acres of spa facilities (including a full gym and a yoga studio with daily sessions), a handful of restaurants and two rooftop bars.

Here’s something millennials will be pleased to learn: there is incredibly fast WiFi throughout the property, from the sunchairs on the beach to the restaurants and private pools in each suite.

And to top it all off, the property is lined with a stunning white sand beach unlike any other on the Riviera Maya. I’ve experienced about eight other resorts in the area and very few could boast having a beach so pristine and water so enjoyable as the Blue Diamond Riviera Maya. While seemingly modest in size, the beach can easily accommodate all guests —there are only 128 rooms on site, after all —and I had no trouble finding free sunchairs in the morning, regardless of what time is was. A rarity in the world of all-inclusive resorts!

Blue Diamond Riviera Maya: Should You Book?

I adored my stay at the Blue Diamond Riviera Maya. I was well aware I’d picked la crème de la crème as far as resorts go, and in the weeks leading up to my vacation I worried it was all going to be snob and standoffish; I truly needn’t have worried, as both the staff and the other guests were friendly and kind. Yet that doesn’t mean the service was laid-back in any way — staff was attentive and efficient, from the check-in agents to the butler, and from the waiting staff to the porters.

With just two restaurants and two bars open during my visit (early December), snack bar notwithstanding, I did find my options a little redundant after a couple of days at the resort and would’ve liked to try something else. In spite of a clear lack in variety, the food was irreproachable, although the same cannot be said about the house wine; I felt its sour, acidic taste was a poorly-disguised ploy to make guests purchase imported wine that is not part of the all-inclusive package.

My final verdict: if you’re after a luxury holiday in an adults-only, quiet resort with a beautiful beach and a tranquil nightlife, this is absolutely the place for you. I enjoyed my stay immensely.

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