How to Enjoy a Stay at the Mandarin Oriental, Riveria Maya Mexico

The Mandarin Oriental is only 30 minutes from the Cancun International Airport and close to the town of Playa del Carmen, on the Caribbean coast of Mexico. This new hotel is on 35 acres of lush jungle and waterways on the Maya Riviera. A spectacular freshwater reservoir (cenote) is situated at the center of the Mandarin Oriental Resort. It’s filled from subterranean sources and has waterways wending throughout the entire property. There is also a protected Mangrove forest which runs along the coast. Guests can paddle canoes on the canals which go through this lush forest area and the entire property.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Time and money to stay at this resort and enjoy surrounding attractions
• Passport

1. Decide what specific type of accommodations you'll want while staying at this FAB U Lous hotelThe. There are 128 villas, each featuring a private terrace or garden and secluded garden bathrooms. Some will also have an individual plunge pool. Each villa is decorated in an Asian and Maya theme using native stone and woods. 20 of these Cenote villas will offer the best views of the sunset. The Presidential suite is located right on the beach and is a great choice for families. It includes two master bedrooms, a full kitchen and a private butler. Then there are 16 “palafito” villas which are split into two level buildings set upon stilts on the lagoon. Eight on the lower level have a dock and the ones on the upper level have a sun deck or roof terrace. You will be transported to and from your private villa by golf cart or water taxi.

2. Expect marvelous food as a guest at this upscale resort. Its main restaurant, the Mandarin Oriental Signature Restaurant, offers international cuisine with Mexican accents. It has magnificent views of the lagoon and the cenote. There is also the Beach Front Restaurant and Bar offering spectacular views and options to dine inside or out. Healthy fare is available at the Spa Café and libations at the Lobby Lounge.

3. Plan time to relax in their spa. A luxurious Mayan and Asian style spa is part of the Mandarin Oriental experience. In addition to a selection of water-related therapies, they offer health-oriented cuisine at the Spa Cafe. You may also enjoy many of these services in the privacy of your own villa.

4. Allow time for swimming, water sports, and golfing. There are three swimming pools on the property and a full service gym. Of course, there are expanses of white sandy beaches and an ocean of emerald blue water. There are abundant coral reefs, ideal for snorkeling and diving. Guests will also have access to two nearby golf courses, each is about five miles from the resort.

5. There are also meeting rooms available for small groups. They have a staff to provide business services including translation. Each villa is equipped for high speed business with dual phone lines and complete connectivity. They also have a ballroom which is ideal for your wedding or special event. Their staff will be happy to work out the details with you.

6. Explore the Mayan ruins located near the resort and the unique little towns that dot the Yucatan Peninsula. You’re also close to shopping and a ferry station in Cozumel. Some of the activities you might enjoy outside of the Mandarin Oriental Resort include horseback riding, deep-sea fishing, scuba diving and eco-tours. Consider spending a day visiting the Coba Maya Ruins followed by a visit to a living Maya community who offer informed tour guides to the surrounding flaura and fauna.

7. Enjoy shopping at Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue) at Playa del Carmen This street is lined with reasonably priced shops, selling a selection of local crafts such as hammocks, ceramics, silver and gold items, as well as the locally mined amber gemstones. The concierge at the Mandarin Oriental will be happy to assist you in booking these activities and tours.

Resources

• Additional hotel information
• More Yucatan travel information