The water was warm, clear and calm, just like it should be in the Riviera Maya. Mask and snorkel in place, I swam for what seemed like forever — until I ran smack into another body and remembered I wasn’t submerged in the open sea. I was actually swimming laps in a saltwater pool carved into the rocky coastline at Grand Palladium Riviera Maya Resort & Spa, one of five hotels in the Palladium Rivera Maya Complex. A day earlier, I had been sorely disappointed to find the Caribbean Sea was in a choppy, rough state, splashing water into my snorkel with every breath. I found no need to fret, however. The resort seemed equipped to predict my every need.
The Zentropia Spa, for example, was far more than a pretty place with predictable treatments. I could have spent hours every day in the hydrotherapy area’s steam room, showers, cold plunges and pool with wondrous shoulder-pounding jets, all of which are accessible by booking a spa treatment or for a minimal fee. The “secret” pool buried down a hidden jungle path was the perfect spot for afternoon cocktails and conversation, though I did wish I could try out the waterslides in the kids’ pool.
My room was located near the main pool at Grand Palladium White Sand Resort & Spa. The vibrant orange and yellow Junior Suite had a whirlpool tub in the bathroom, a stocked minibar, a couch and a balcony with a view of raccoons foraging for supper beside the jungle. Though I was perfectly comfortable and happy, I admit to envying guests staying in the waterfront Mayan Suites, complete with hammocks and outdoor showers. The resort offers a daily boat ride through the property’s canals, along with other must-do activities, including bartending classes, tequila tastings and archery lessons. Nightlife includes circus shows, karaoke for kids, choreographed performances and a disco — plus, the Ranchito Mini Club for kids between ages 4 and 12 stays open until 11 p.m.
Information on the property’s flora and fauna — such as trees, iguanas and more — is readily available. Trails led from my building to the various hotels and pools; the golf cart drivers who covered the many routes quickly became my best buddies. A train covers the main road between the properties, which made lobby bars, theaters and restaurants easily accessible.
Dining options cover cuisines from around the globe. I sampled Vietnamese spring rolls, Thai ceviche and “shaking beef” (an arugula, watercress and fillet salad) at the new Chang Thai restaurant, and more tapas and fine Spanish wine than I can possibly recall at La Lola. The breakfast buffet included all the standard items, plus a crepe and dessert station rivaling anything at lunch and dinner. Popsicle carts appeared poolside, and bartenders were masters at whipping up electric blue, red and green drinks.
The Details
Palladium Riviera Maya Complexwww.palladiumhotelgroup.com
