When considering Mexico resorts, many potential visitors automatically think choices are limited to cookie-cutter all-inclusives. That’s not the case at Nizuc Resort & Spa, a luxury property right outside of Cancun’s popular Hotel Zone that opened in March as one of the Las Brisas’ elite hotels.
Despite months of pre-opening advertising in travel publications, Nizuc’s eventual debut was rather quiet and continues to stay just under the radar. It’s easy to bypass the 274-suite resort — it was originally built to be a hidden retreat for Mexico’s president.
Upon entering Nizuc’s doors, it’s a breathtaking scene. The Asian-style property, designed by the Aman group, offers a view straight to the Caribbean Sea. Guests are immediately assigned a butler for their stay and led to their luxury suite. The butler is devoted to his duties and will explain that he can do everything from unpacking your suitcase (and repacking) to making all your dinner, spa and excursion reservations. If this isn’t a service your client has ever experienced, this is a perfect opportunity to encourage them to try it out. It’s amazing how quickly I came to rely on the resort’s attentive staff.
The benefit of being just outside the Hotel Zone is that older clients will escape the frenzy of the region and have a truly laid-back experience. Guests will not find noise or forced pool activities at Nizuc. There are two major swimming sections: One is a free-for-all with a swim-up bar and an infinity edge that offers a truly magnificent view. The other is at the smaller, adults-only section, tucked away behind the mangroves, where the pool is smaller, and the atmosphere is truly tranquil. There’s easy access to the beach as well. It’s the best of both words.
There are plenty of other ways to spend the day besides lounging, however. Activities are tailor-made to your temperament. If snorkeling is your desire, walk right off the beach into the gentle, warm waters of the fish-filled reef. If your client is a foodie, she will appreciate the six on-site restaurants as well as the wine-tasting classes, taught by a knowledgeable sommelier.
Speaking of food, clients won’t find a lot of generic guacamole, tortilla chips and quesadilla fare traditionally passed off at other resorts. Instead, a host of ceviche and lots of slow-cooked meats will be served at the Peruvian-style Ni restaurant. But Gourmet Mexican and Mediterranean cuisine are on the menu at Nizuc’s other two restaurants, Ramona and Terra Nostra.
Unlike some all-inclusives, everything is top shelf here, from the Fiji water and handmade chocolates at turndown to the cigars in the Havana Lounge, so expect prices to reflect this deluxe product, which can start at $380 per night, in the low season. However, there is an Endless Indulgence package, which includes accommodations, meals, beverages, drinks, taxes and resort fees and begins at $1,083 per night. For those who are looking for a sophisticated side of Cancun, this resort is worth the splurge.
The Details
Nizuc Resort & Spawww.nizuc.com
