Afloat in Panama’s Gulf of Chiriqui is Isla Palenque, a 400-acre, all-inclusive private-island resort that promises visitors a back-to-nature break from everyday stress. Here are five reasons you should consider adding it to your list this winter.

It isn’t easy to get to

This sounds counterintuitive but bear with me. Because sometimes, when you really need to get away, a two-hour non-stop flight just isn’t enough distance from the real world to totally detach and relax. 

From the U.S. East Coast, it takes a lot more effort to reach this vacation nirvana. Coming from Miami, I took a three-hour Copa Airlines flight into Panama City (where I chose to overnight, but you don’t have to) and then an hour-long flight to the city of David. From there it was another hour’s drive to Boca Chica, on the gulf of Chiriqui, where we boarded Isla Palenque’s launch for the 15-minute ride to the resort.

But trust me when I tell you that the moment I stepped onto the pier (where a retinue of the island’s staff were waiting to meet us); took in the sight of spindly palm trees sprouting from the black-sand beach; and then a hearty swig of a fruity welcome cocktail, the hours it took to get there were forgotten. Not only did I instantly feel as if I was a world away from the realities of my day-to-day, I took comfort in the fact that I really was!

You’ll have your own casita

Tucked into the tropical greenery that borders Isla Palenque’s beach are eight thatch-roofed, a-frame villas, each named for authors who wrote books about islands, and one of which you’ll call your own. Simply yet comfortably appointed (with low-slung wood furniture handmade on property) and blissfully air-conditioned, these are the digs Robinson Crusoe would have built if he had better tools and supplies. 

For me, the highlight was the outdoor bathroom (bathing al fresco is my jam) with two showers; double sinks; and, in the garden, a cast-iron soaking tub. I’ve no problem with answering the call of nature in … well … nature. But if flashlight-lit nighttime bathroom runs aren’t your thing, better stop drinking early in the evening, because the toilet’s outside, too.

You’ll get a window on wildlife

If, like me, your experience with wildlife is mostly limited to watching it on TV, you’re in for a treat. Secreted within Palenque’s tropical forest are all manner of animals and birds that screech and hoot in the night, and the waters surrounding the island teem with marine species. Catfish, snook, jack and roosterfish are plentiful, and you’re practically guaranteed to come back from a fishing trip with a decent haul. 

From August through October, humpback whales and their calves can be spotted about a 30-minute boat ride from the resort, and guests with eagle eyes (and a good measure of luck) will see them breeching during private or group whale watching tours. (Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, too). 

On land, armadillos, anteaters, and raccoons shuffle about in the undergrowth beyond the resort (which occupies only a tiny part of the island). And you can get up close and personal with them on (included) hikes led by Isla Palenque’s experience coordinator, José Chavarria. But it was the howler monkeys that caught my attention quickest. 

You hear them most in the early morning and evening, barking loudly and insistently like disgruntled dogs on your doorstep, although they may be as far as three miles away. The primates sound huge but, if you manage to see one, you realize that they’re actually quite small—about the size of cat—with big personalities and even bigger vocal cords. Brings earplugs or prepare to wake up early!

The food is superb

I expected fresh fruit and fish, of course. But on an island this isolated from the mainland, I certainly didn’t expect the variety I enjoyed on my four-day trip. The island’s chefs—all local talents—wowed us with Panamanian dishes that were inventively prepared and beautifully presented, taking advantage of the bounty from the resort’s own kitchen garden and micro farm. 

From “Palenque Benedict” (poached eggs with homemade jerky and sofrito hollandaise on tortillas) to chilled beetroot soup with yogurt foam and orange zest to seafood rice with sofrito, cream and gouda cheese, every meal was a delight. Gluten-free and vegetarian options were plentiful and desserts irresistible. I devoured my weight in soursop sorbet and don’t feel even a tiny bit guilty.

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword

At Isla Palenque, they walk the talk when it comes to sustainability, and the resort is remarkably self-sufficient. On the culinary front, 95 percent of the F&B is either farmed on grown on property (tours of the garden are welcome), the only exceptions being olive oil, wine, and scotch. Toiletries are locally made, and straws are fashioned from the hollow stems of papaya plants, also grown at the resort. 

The staff of 40 people is 99 percent Panamanian, many of them from the local area. And the roster of included activities—from jewelry making to rum tasting and Panamanian cooking to guided hikes that reveal relics from more than 2,000 years ago-–acknowledge and celebrate the country’s unique culture and traditions. 

The result: A vacation at Isla Palenque is one you can feel good about, because while you’re enjoying your stay, the community is reaping tangible benefits from it, too.

The post Five Reasons to Make Isla Palenque Your Next Private Island Getaway appeared first on Islands.

As much as it pains me to admit, margaritas and piña coladas aren’t exactly fireside cocktails that’ll help warm your cold extremities and/or cockles, nor do they pair well with toasted marshmallows and grandma’s peppermint bark. Instead, as we watch the snow fall and listen to the soothing holiday ballads of Andy Williams and Michael Bublé, or get in the present-wrapping mood while watching Love Actually or Die Hard for the sixth trillionth time, we need a cocktail that captures the essence of the colder months while also, maybe, making us shout, “Hot damn!”

Fortunately, while we also spend these evenings longing for holiday travel and the spoils of our favorite resorts, some of our favorite hotels and destinations were kind enough to share their favorite winter seasonal cocktails. Sipping these delicious concoctions with loved ones is the next best thing to being on the beach.

Bourbon Pumpkin Smash

The Place: Westgate Cocoa Beach Resort, Cocoa Beach, FL

Cocktail Ingredients:

• 1 oz pumpkin spice syrup
• 2 oz Buffalo Trace bourbon
• 0.25 oz lemon juice
• 4 oz soda water
• Lemon wedges

Pumpkin Spice Simple Syrup Ingredients:

• 8 oz pumpkin puree
• 1 cup water (more as needed)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 0.5 tsp pumpkin pie spice

How to Make It:

To make the simple syrup, add pumpkin puree, water, sugar and pumpkin pie spice to a small saucepan. Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Once the syrup is boiling and smooth, remove from heat and cover.

Let sit for 15 minutes.

Strain the pumpkin mixture in an airtight container. Let cool completely before making the cocktail. Syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add pumpkin spice syrup, bourbon and lemon juice for the cocktail. Shake well. Fill rimmed rocks glass with ice. Strain the cocktail into the glass. Top with soda water. Give the cocktail one final stir and serve.

Demon Seal

The Place: Bar 1903, Tallahassee, FL

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Bacoo 12-year rum
• 0.75 oz maple chai spiced syrup
• 0.5 oz allspice dram
• 3 drops citric acid
• 1 cinnamon stick

How to Make It:

Stir rum, maple chai spiced syrup, allspice dram and citric acid together, then pour onto a hand-cut king ice cube. Next, smoke the cinnamon stick and add to the drink—quickly covering the glass to capture inside. When presenting the cocktail, remove the covering and cinnamon stick.

Devil’s Addition

The Place: High West Distillery, Park City, UT

Ingredients:

• 1 oz High West Double Rye!
• 0.5 oz Tanqueray 10
• 0.25 oz Cocchi Americano
• 1 oz matcha simple syrup
• 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
• 0.75 oz fresh pineapple juice
• 2 drops of hops tincture
• Fever Tree Soda Water

How to Make It:

Add all ingredients into a cocktail shaker except the soda water and shake until chilled. Strain into a Collins glass with ice and top off with soda water.

Edge Bourbon S’more

The Place: Edge Steakhouse, Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Bookers High Proof Bourbon
• 0.75 oz Baileys
• 0.5 oz butterscotch liqueur
• 0.25 oz salted caramel
• Vanilla bourbon popcorn, marshmallow and chocolate syrup for garnish

How to Make It:

In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon, Bailey’s, butterscotch liqueur and salted caramel. Shake then pour over ice. Garnish with a skewer of vanilla bourbon popcorn and a marshmallow, then drizzle with chocolate syrup.

Ember Old Fashioned

The Place: Beau Nash, Hotel Crescent Court, Dallas, TX

Orange Spiced Syrup Ingredients:

• 4 oz of grade A pure maple syrup
• 0.25 oz fresh squeezed orange juice
• 3 sliced orange wheels
• 1 dash cloves
• 1 dash cinnamon
• 1 tsp brown sugar

Cocktail Ingredients:

• 2 oz Garrison Brothers Small Batch Bourbon
• 1/3 oz orange spiced syrup, cooled
• 2 dashes orange bitters
• 1 bruleed orange wheel, garnish
• 1 cinnamon stick, garnish
• 1 star anise, garnish

How to Make It:

To make the orange spiced syrup, add all ingredients into a pot and cook for 10 minutes until syrup begins to boil. Let cool for 5 minutes.

Once the syrup is ready, then fill shaker glass with ice and blend bourbon, cooled orange spiced syrup and orange bitters, stir thoroughly. Fill old fashioned glass with a single large ice block pour bourbon and spiced syrup blend over and garnish with cinnamon, orange wheel and star anise.

Harvest Martini

The Place: Pelican Grand Beach Resort, Fort Lauderdale, FL

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Sobieski Vanilla Vodka
• 2 oz Bailey’s Irish Cream
• 2 oz of Monin pumpkin spice syrup
• Dash cinnamon

How to Make It:

Combine vodka, Irish cream and pumpkin spice syrup in a cocktail shaker. Shake and strain into a martini glass. Top with dash of cinnamon for garnish.

Merry Merry Bloody Mary

The Place: Ta-boo Bistro and Bar, The Palm Beaches

Ingredients:

• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1 cup ice cubes
• 1.5 fluid oz jigger of vodka
• 0.75 cup spicy tomato-vegetable juice cocktail
• 2 dashes Worcestershire sauce
• 1 dash hot pepper sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 stalk celery

How to Make It:

Salt the rim of a tall glass. To do so, pour salt onto a small place, then moisten the rim of a glass on a damp towel and begin to press into the salt. Fill the glass with cubes of ice.

In a cocktail mixer filled with ice, combine vodka, Worcestershire sauce, vegetable juice, hot pepper sauce, and salt and pepper. Shake vigorously and strain into glass. Garnish with choice of accoutrement, such as purple baby carrots, celery stalks, etc.

The Old Voice

The Place: Rattlesnake Bar, The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Heaven’s Door Custom Blended Whiskey
• 0.75 oz Alessio Vermouth Chinato
• 0.25 oz maple syrup
• 3 dashes angostura bitters
• 2 dashes orange bitters

How to Make It:

Stir all ingredients with ice and then strain with a Hawthorne strainer into an old fashioned glass with one large whiskey cube.

Pumpkin Spice Martini

The Place: Zocca Cuisine D’Italia, The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio, TX

Ingredients:

• 1 oz Stoli Vanilla
• 1 oz Chocolate Godiva Liqueur
• 0.5 oz Bailey’s Irish Cream
• 1 oz pumpkin spice syrup

How to Make It:

Combine ingredients in a cocktail shaker. Shake and strain into a martini glass.

Red Hot Cinnamon

The Place: The White Heron Tea & Gifts, New Port Richey, FL

Ingredients:

• 2 cinnamon black tea bags (Driftwood Tea Company’s Cinnamon Black recommended) *If loose tea is preferred, use 1 tbsp tea for 12 oz of water
• 9 oz of water, heated to 212 degrees
• 1 oz Fireball Cinnamon Whiskey

How to Make It:

Heat water to 212 degrees F. Pour hot water into a large mug or other tea steeping vessel, add tea bags, and cover cup (to keep the tea as hot as possible).

If using loose tea, put tea into mesh steeper, steeper basket, French press or other vessel of preference. Steep tea for 5 minutes (be sure to set a timer).

Add Fireball Cinnamon Whiskey into a drinking glass. After 5 minutes, remove tea bags from water and dispose of tea bags. Add tea to glass with Fireball, mix well and enjoy.

Rum-Pum-Pum Punch

The Place: Belize, courtesy of the Belize Tourism Board

Ingredients:

• 2 cups white rum
• 1 cup coconut rum
• 2.5 cups fresh orange juice and pineapple juice
• 0.5 cup fresh lime juice
• 3 tbsp grenadine (or enough to make the punch into a pretty pink color) *Variation: skip the grenadine and opt for freshly grated nutmeg or cinnamon for a touch of seasonal flair

How to Make It:

Stir all the ingredients together in a pitcher or punch bowl, and chill before serving. Use short rocks glasses full of ice and garnish your Rum Punch with slices of orange and pineapple. This recipe yields 8-10 servings.

Tequila Milk Punch

The Place: Montage Palmetto Bluff, Bluffton, SC

Ingredients:

• 2 oz cinnamon infused blanco tequila (Cazadores is recommended)
• 0.75 oz coconut milk
• 0.75 oz heavy cream
• 0.5 oz vanilla syrup
• 0.5 oz Liquor 43
• 0.25 oz St. Elizabeth’s Allspice Dram
• Top with shaved nutmeg

How to Make It:

Mix all ingredients together in a mixing tin and serve over ice. Top off with shaved Nutmeg.

*For DIY cinnamon infused tequila, place two whole cinnamon sticks in a liter of tequila for one week. Remove cinnamon and serve.

*For DIY vanilla syrup, make a classic 2:1 simple syrup. Place one fresh vanilla bean (cut in half-long ways) in syrup for 1 week. Strain vanilla out of syrup and refrigerate.

Warm Winter Wine

The Place: Bungalows Key Largo

Ingredients:

• 2 oz red wine
• 1 oz brandy
• 5 cloves
• 2 star anise
• 1 cinnamon stick

How to Make It:

Combine all ingredients into a small saucepan. Bring the ingredients to light boil, then drain in a rocks glass, add one slice of orange and pour the cocktail mixture over the top. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.

Wonderland

The Place: Bohemian Hotel Celebration, Celebration, FL

Ingredients:

• 1 oz vanilla vodka
• 0.5 oz Frangelico
• 0.5 oz simple syrup
• 0.5 oz Kahlua
• 1 oz heavy cream
• 0.5 oz egg whites
• 0.5 tsp (pinch) nutmeg

How to Make It:

Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker and fill the shaker with ice. Shake vigorously for 30 seconds, until whites are foamed and creamy. Strain into coupe and garnish with light dusting of nutmeg.

The post 14 Unique Holiday Cocktails for the Cold Winter Months appeared first on Islands.

It’s no great exaggeration to say that resorts in the Dominican Republic have, throughout the years, greatly evolved the all-inclusive concept. Some travelers might even say this island does it better than any other destination in the Caribbean, because so many of these properties have been designed, for all the right reasons, to not only provide guests with everything they could ever want in a vacation, but also keep them on-site and coming back for more, year after year.

Obviously, there’s a competitive element to the creativity, generosity, and luxury, but it is also very much about pride. You will rarely, if ever, hear management at a Dominican all-inclusive resort invoke my favorite meme and say, “This is fine.” Things are always changing for the better, because terms like “as is” and “same old, same old” have no meaning here. 

These are kingdoms intended to make every visitor feel like royalty, and that’s why the only thing missing from the guest experience at the magnificent Hard Rock Punta Cana is a crown on your head. (But if you ask for it, I bet they’ll deliver.) With new deigns and features, this beloved all-inclusive hot spot is better than ever, and, after our recent visit, these are just some of the reasons why.

The Modern Look

No matter where you travel, anywhere in the world, certain hotel and resort brands have built-in expectations just from name recognition. Hard Rock is undoubtedly one of them, and the Punta Cana property is so massive and spectacular in style and substance, it feels like it is the company’s headquarters. It isn’t, of course; it’s owned and operated by the AIC Hotel Group, which has a knack for exceeding expectations at all properties.

So, what do you expect from a Hard Rock resort? Lots of purple and gold, and plenty of outfits and instruments owned and used by some of the most legendary and beloved music artists ever, right? That’s certainly how it used to be in Punta Cana. Now, though, after extensive renovations, this is a property that pays tribute to the surrounding majesty and natural beauty, boasting Caribbean colors and accents everywhere from the suites to the new-look restaurants.

The result of this transformation is made even more magnificent when you consider just how large Hard Rock Punta Cana is. We’re talking 1,775 rooms and suites, 60,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, and what feels like several miles of retail along Lifestyle Boulevard, all of which is set on more than 120 acres. What I’m saying is, bring a pair of comfortable shoes.

The Size

Jokes aside, this place is massive. After checking in, my first impression of the main lobby and expansive hallways packed with retail and dining options was that it was like staying in a mall. Not just any mall, though. Like, the Mall of the Americas on steroids. But then you step outside and quickly realize this is no mall. Hard Rock Punta Cana is like its own city, with golf carts zipping from one building to the next as if they’re dodging rush hour traffic. Just walking from the main building to the beach felt like a hike across the island.

The problem with size is often that it comes at the expense of quality. Cram as much as you can into one building and surround it all with bright lights, loud noises, and Tommy Lee’s astronaut suit from that one Motley Crue tour, and everyone will simply think it’s amazing, right? That’s not the case here, especially not with the renovations and new offerings. Whereas some all-inclusive resorts are a Smash Mouth cover band, this one is U2 headlining for the Beatles (or Billie Eilish for Taylor Swift, for our younger readers).

The Variety 

Let’s start with the food, just as I always do during the actual visit. In addition to a new look for the rooms, the Market Food Fall received an unbelievable makeover, adding fresh Caribbean style to an eatery that celebrates the creativity of international cuisine. Mexican, Italian, Japanese, American—the pickiest eaters will reign supreme in this establishment, so parents and children alike will especially be relieved by the variety. But more adventurous foodies will still be thrilled to choose from a variety of more focused restaurants, including Bistro Med, Ciao, and the Ipanema Brazilian House, as well as the must-visit Montserrat Manor, where the 40-oz. porterhouse might say it’s for two people, but every rock star loves a good dare.

When the fork goes down, a new challenge arises. It goes without saying that there are amazing pools here—13 to be exact—and this resort rests on one of the best stretches of sand anywhere on the island. Any guest’s first instinct might be to head straight to the pool(s) or grab a spot on the beach, but Hard Rock Punta Cana makes it difficult to even step outside. 

On Lifestyle Boulevard, it’s easy to be distracted by the bevvy of activities that most of us would never imagine existing on a Caribbean island. Laser Tag, mini bowling, wine tastings with painting classes, an escape room—is this a resort or a theme park? That’s a rhetorical question, because it feels like both. And thanks to that creativity and variety, this property truly offers a little bit of something for everyone.

The Group Thing

That said, unlike some resorts that focus on romance, adventure, or family fun, Hard Rock Punta Cana is like a Choose Your Own Adventure experience. The first question I always ask is, “Who is this place for?” and the answer here is truly anyone and everyone. In fact, I was surprised that at least four friends reached out and told me they were married here (thanks for the invites, guys). Two couples I know honeymooned here, and three friends hosted their bachelor and bachelorette parties at the same property where I saw toddlers try to bowl for the first time.

A lot of places have casinos, and many have golf courses. Most resorts have a good, if not great, spa and plenty more have the pools and beaches to inspire almost cultish guest loyalty. However, only the greatest combine it all and provide a multi-tiered experience of entertainment that keeps everyone happy without causing exhaustion. After all, we all need to have some energy left over when we get back to the suite.

Get your minds out of the gutter—I’m trying to keep this rated PG.

The Little Things

Great resorts do everything right, but the best experiences are always caused by the one little thing that pushes it all over the top. Here, that’s the “Sound of Your Stay” amenity that is one of the most unique for any property in the Caribbean, let alone the Dominican Republic. Musically inclined or even just curious guests can stop by the concierge desk in the main lobby (not to be confused with the group lobby that threw me off every time) and request special items like a turntable with headphones and some seriously essential vinyl for in-room listening sessions.

But every guest will want to throw the devil horns in the air when they choose from one of 20 styles of Fender guitar to play in the privacy of their own suites. I know, my first thought was also, “Who wants to be next door to a wannabe Slash?” The guitars also come with over-ear headphones, and there’s even a channel for beginner lessons, so there’s an actual educational component to it.

Just don’t spend too long trying to learn “Freebird.” There’s an entire city’s worth of action to appreciate beyond the room door.

The post 5 Things We Absolutely Love about the All-inclusive Awesomeness at Hard Rock Punta Cana appeared first on Islands.

When it comes to planning the ultimate Hawaii vacation, there are several factors that play a significant role in choosing the right resort. For starters, you’re going to want to visit for a week, maybe five days, but ultimately nothing less. Second, families and small groups will have members with different tastes and culinary preferences—picky eaters, to the layman—so the dining options must offer variety and creativity. Finally, and probably most importantly, it needs to be affordable.

Fortunately, Hilton Waikoloa Village is on top of the game when it comes to recognizing these facts. It’s no wonder why this Hawaii resort’s “Inclusive Sale” is so popular, as it covers the basics of a great Hawaii getaway and allows for guests to kick back and enjoy everything just a little bit more, since there’s so much less to worry about. 

The Deal: Start the day with a perfect breakfast at Nui, before heading out to the stunning lagoon or beyond. Families will love the inclusion of activities like lei-making and ukulele lessons, and even daily one-hour paddleboard and water tricycle rentals. But we don’t blame anyone who wants to spend their time (a minimum of four nights is required) at the Kohala Pool, where drinks are included, before enjoying dinner at Nui Italian, Kona Tap Room, or Kamuela Provision Company (guests can upgrade to the outdoor chef’s menu for $50, too). General seating for the Legends of Hawaii Luau is also included, but reservations must be made in advance.

The Time: … is running out. Everyone should be elated that this deal was extended through July 31, but that means it’s time to book now. The great news is the deal is valid for stays through May 31, 2023. Rates start at $595 per night.

The post Last Call for Hilton Waikoloa Village’s Inclusive Sale appeared first on Islands.

If you’ve been paying attention to major resort openings the past few years, you might have noticed that Club Med is having a serious moment all around the world (if your response is still “Club Who?” may we suggest you consult this primer).

Canada welcomed its first Club Med, the Club Med Quebec Charlevoix, in 2021. A new Club Med all-inclusive ski resort (the only one, so far, in the U.S.) is opening in Snowbasin, Utah, in 2024 (we can’t wait for that—even group ski lessons get wrapped into the all-inclusive experience here). 

And the brand recently made a triumphant return to Spain this May with the opening of the Club Med Magna Marbella, along Andalusia’s storied Mediterranean coast. It’s been more than 20 years since Club Med opened its first Spanish resort, but this is also the place where it all began for this storied brand. So, this opening is drawing a lot of attention as people wait to see how the concept will take off along the country’s legendary Costa del Sol. 

And so far, it’s all systems go for fun in the sun as travel to Spain (and Europe in general) has boomed back this summer.

The four Trident (read: four-star), family-friendly property is terraced into the hills overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and is an ideal jumping-off point for touring famed Andalusian cities like Malaga, Ronda, Granada, Cordoba, and Marbella, with views of the Sierra Blanca range all around. You’ll have to tear yourself away from the resort first, however, which is never easy with all the amenities Club Med wraps into its all-inclusive rates. 

Traveling as a family? Club Med Magna Marbella offers parents major respite with included kids clubs for ages four through 17. And the brand owns this niche so well, just don’t be surprised if your kids want to stay playing with their new friends all day.

Unlimited water and land sports—including golf, tennis, and even flying trapeze lessons, aerial fitness lessons in a hammock, float fit HIIT classes and more—are also wrapped into the rates at the Spain resort. And when it comes to eating, the culinary offerings are another area where Club Med goes above and beyond any ordinary fare you’d expect from an all-inclusive property. Think regular appearances of items like foie gras and lobster at the buffet and croissants and pain au chocolate as authentic as anything from a French baker.

The post Spain’s New Club Med Resort Will Have You Planning a European Escape appeared first on Islands.

For more than 10 years, the late Gordon “Butch” Stewart dreamed of opening a Sandals property on Curaçao. Who could blame him? Wiser travelers have kept the C in the ABC Islands a big secret for years, but it was only a matter of time before the rest of the world took notice. And it turned out that the only thing stopping the Caribbean’s most recognizable resort brand from starting the party sooner was land. As in, where would it go?

The answer, as many of us learned two years ago, was the Santa Barbara Beach and Golf Resort, which Sandals eventually took over and spent 2021 renovating and upgrading. And when it came time to officially open its doors on June 1, 2022, Curaçao not only became the seventh island in the brand’s portfolio, but also a sample of what’s to come for this iconic brand.

Few people have been as celebrated for their vision and creativity in tropical hospitality as Butch Stewart, so it’s no surprise that the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. His son Adam has taken the lead as Sandals Resorts Executive Chairman, and it’s clear that he not only shares his father’s enthusiasm for innovation, but he also views Curaçao as a place for new beginnings. “Every time we come to Curaçao, we fall more in love with this destination,” the younger Stewart told us during the recent grand opening of his empire’s 16^th property, and it was evident through every step of the festivities that he meant it.

Sandals Royal Curaçao formally rolled out the red carpet several weeks after opening, and immensely loyal guests traveled from all over the world for arguably the most exciting party in the Caribbean this year. Joining Adam in a chorus of glorious praise for this project was a Who’s Who of the island’s most recognizable names and faces. Also, the Blue Man Group, because there simply ain’t no party like a Curaçao party, especially when it’s on a Sandals property. A miniature Carnival celebration even broke out, which was truly a sight to behold, since the island hasn’t hosted its most epic event in two years.

“Our vision for the Sandals Royal Curaçao experience was inspired just as much by the island’s

natural beauty and colorful culture, as it was by our guests and the many ways they can engage

with this amazing destination,” Adam said on June 1, as the first wave of guests marveled at the design and new concepts featured at this sprawling resort. But as we chatted on the day before the spectacular welcome party, he teased at something even bigger ahead.

“Our purpose is to share the four corners of the Caribbean with the rest of the world,” he explained. As we witnessed firsthand the excellence of the company’s debut property in the Dutch Caribbean, it was clearly working. Devout Sandals guests are immensely loyal travelers with a tendency to stick with an island or resort out of familiarity and consistent expectations. Those who answered the call to visit Sandals Royal Curaçao and enjoy this island for the first time were blown away by what they found.

That was very fitting for an event that was all about “firsts.”

Introducing Sandals 2.0

The one phrase that came up more than any other over the course of four days was “labor of love.” Just as Butch sought to bring a resort to Curaçao, Adam and his team have been eager to finally use this chance to answer the most important question any company can ask: “What’s next?”

Calling this a test run would be an understatement, because everything guests experienced during both openings of Sandals Royal Curaçao is likely here to stay. If anything, certain elements will be enhanced or fine-tuned—after all, there are always hiccups and bumps in the road during these occasions. It’s just that this time it felt like there was an extreme eagerness to impress, as if everyone had been aching to unveil the new concepts and changes to the Sandals concept.

“Sandals 2.0,” as Adam called it, was developed as an opportunity to see what the company can do better in terms of its “island-first” approach. “Every single aspect of hospitality will be reviewed,” he declared prior to unveiling new-look uniforms that are as stylish and indicative of Curaçao’s culture as they are functional for that tropical heat (and those delightful ocean breezes). Certainly, he meant that in terms of what will be available and can be expected at the resort, but our favorite part of Sandals 2.0 is what’s happening away from this 3,000-acre property.

The ”Island Inclusive” concept is proof positive that Sandals wants to showcase the destinations now more than ever. For the first time in the brand’s history, the all-inclusive dining options are broadened to include restaurants in Willemstad’s colorful neighborhoods. I cannot stress enough how creative the culinary scene has become on this island, so giving guests the opportunity to borrow one of the resort’s Mini Coopers or hop on a shuttle and visit local restaurants and bars—like the phenomenal Sal, The Kitchen, and BKLYN, which is arguably the coolest spot on the island, if not beyond—is a gift and a blessing.

On Property is Always on Point

Adam and his team clearly knew how creative this island is when they embarked on this journey, because the new accommodations and amenities showcased at this property are right in line with Curaçao’s emergence. Sandals has always been about firsts, dating all the way back to when Butch invented the swim-up bar, but the debut concepts at Sandals Royal Curaçao are certain to make first-time guests reconsider their loyalties. 

With 351 rooms and suites available, guests won’t be disappointed with the variety. They might sweat a little, however, from the stress of committing. After all, every room from the Subi Premium to the Amante One Bedroom Oceanview Butler Royal Suite will provide comfort and subtle luxuries, but to see the Kurason Island Poolside Butler Bungalows and Awa Seaside Butler Bungalows in person is to realize that love at first sight is real. 

It always comes down to personal preference, though, and there’s no wrong decision here, because every accommodation was designed to spoil. Still, it’s acceptable to be jealous of another guest’s bungalow.

And while the Island Inclusive might be my personal favorite, that’s not to say the new dining options here aren’t great enough to make guests wonder why they’d need to go anywhere else. The resort offers eight restaurants, with seven of them being brand new to Sandals, and Vincent and Aolos are undoubtedly highlights. The clear favorite among guests, though, seemed to be the trio of beachside food trucks that are serving great burgers, mouth-watering bao buns, and mango margaritas so sweet that even golfers want to grab a few to go before they start a round at neighboring Old Quarry.

The cherry on top of the firsts emerging from this resort is the elevated, bi-level Dos Awa Infinity Pool, which was a massive hit based on the number of guests who flocked to it each morning—and rarely left until dinner time. 

A Focus on the Island

As this “labor of love” came to fruition, Adam and his team never lost focus on the relationship with Curaçao and her people. Sandals notably provides an incredible number of jobs across seven islands, and that will increase as Adam fulfills his goals of covering the four corners of the Caribbean. But he believes there is more to be done, and that’s where the Sandals Foundation excels.

On Curaçao, the brand’s philanthropic effort has teamed with the Netherlands’ AFC Ajax franchise to support and promote Future Goals, an incredible, impressive endeavor that uses a variety of plastic waste, including fishing nets and water and soda bottles, to create soccer goals to be used by local youth teams. Additionally, the crew here also produces retail items like keychains, trophies and medals, and even little sea turtle toys that kids will absolutely love.

Efforts like these hardly get the spotlight they deserve since we’re usually so excited to take a dip in the infinity pool or get a delicious cut of meat at Butch’s Chop House. Chances are most guests will come and go without even learning about what’s being made from trash on Curaçao or how many kids are receiving free dental work in Jamaica, but what matters is it’s happening.

While people danced and toasted champagne as fireworks exploded above the first of its kind bi-level infinity pool, Adam Stewart, undoubtedly grinning ear-to-ear, had to know that this weekend of firsts was living up to every ambitious hope he, his father, and the rest of their family and company had for when this day would inevitably come. It’s only the beginning at Sandals Royal Curaçao, but it’s safe to say that this is the first of many amazing years ahead.

The post Sandals Finally Comes to Curaçao—and the Party was Absolutely Out of this World appeared first on Islands.

Loyal fans of some hotel chains often face a dilemma when planning a vacation to a tropical destination: stay true to their preferred brand, select an à la carte package and pay-as-they-go, or be lured by other chains and independent properties offering enticing all-inclusive packages. Now, devotees of one popular company can have the best of both worlds.

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest hotel franchisor, recently unveiled its first all-inclusive resort brand, Wyndham Alltra, which is also a strategic alliance with Playa Hotels & Resorts, a leader in all-inclusive resorts throughout Mexico and the Caribbean. Wyndham Alltra currently has locations in Cancun and Playa del Carmen; the former is a family-friendly property, while the latter is adults-only. (The name “Alltra” is short for “All-Inclusive Travel for All,” a reference to the concept’s appeal in the upper-midscale category of resorts, offering an outstanding experience and a great value.)

I recently spent a few days at the Wyndham Alltra Cancun All-Inclusive Resort, located 20 minutes from the airport in the heart of the city’s Hotel Zone. Here are some things to know if you want to book your own AI Wyndham getaway in Cancun:

Accommodations

The 458 accommodations are decorated in a palette of whites, neutrals, and turquoise that matches the water just outside your door. They are divided into several categories: standard room, junior suite with private balcony and hammock, beachfront walkout junior with a terrace with direct beach access and cabana, and premium junior suite with private balcony and hammock and access to VIP suite. 

All rooms include WiFi to stay connected, complimentary drinks and snacks in the minibar, room service, flat-screen HDTV, coffee and tea maker, safe, hair dryer, bathrobes, and deluxe bath products. Guests can upgrade to a swim-up suite with a semi-private infinity pool, or a master or presidential suite with separate bedrooms and access to the VIP lounge.

My vote is to book a room category that includes access to that lounge, which offers snacks and light fare throughout the day and a well-stocked bar cart with top shelf spirits, syrups, bitters, and mixers as well as fresh fruit, herbs, and garnishes. It’s a great little respite for a light breakfast or lunch before or after hitting the pool or beach, or for a pre- or post-dinner cocktail. 

I was really impressed by the elevated menu of craft cocktails, like the Smoke Anana with mezcal, lemon juice, grilled pineapple, and serrano chili garnish, and the Waba Passion, with mezcal, agave, guava, and grapefruit juice, topped with sparkling water. I even collaborated with the bartender on a few original creations: a freshly muddled strawberry basil mojito and a gin and tonic made with Mexican gin infused with orange, ginger, and honey, topped with a splash of Campari and garnished with star fruit and basil. He was even nice enough to bring out a bowl of fried, salted, smoky crickets—Mexico’s perfect bar snack that’s way more addictive than mixed nuts.

Beach and Poolscape

The resort is blessed with an absolutely stunning white sand beach that’s neither rocky nor overtaken with sargassum, the brown seaweed that floats on the surface and collects at the shoreline that’s a major problem for some Mexican beaches. Not sure if luck, maintenance, or a combination of the two accounts for the lack of it here; either way it made for great swimming, wading and walking on the beach. 

However, the Wyndham Alltra Cancun is one of those resorts where you have to stake claim to your beach chairs before breakfast if you want to secure a spot—especially one with a thatched palapa. Cabanas are available to rent and include a cooler with water, a bottle of bubbly, and snacks like guac, salsa, and chips; since it’s all-inclusive you can also order whatever drinks you’d like delivered to your beachside abode, and grab lunch at one of the buffets and enjoy it surfside. 

If you don’t have a cabana or a beach umbrella, escape the searing midday sun for a bit at Las Olas Bar, where you can sway on a hanging wicker chair and sip a classic, pineapple or cucumber mojito, or a Riviera Maya, with rum, melon liqueur, strawberry pulp, and orange juice.

The main poolscape is very roomy—I didn’t have trouble snagging a chair here no matter the time of day, and the water was warm and enjoyable. There isn’t a swim bar, but Agave Bar is located right next to the water to quench your thirst with a spritzer or frozen libation. Kids will enjoy splashing and whooshing down the slides at the pirate ship pool nearby. (There is also a Kids’ Club where the younger set is entertained inside and outside while parents can get some me time, and a game room for tweens and teens.)

Aura Spa

Aura Spa offers a selection of massages, facials, body treatments, and salon services. It also includes a hydrotherapy circuit with contrasting water temperatures, a steam bath, sauna, and outdoor tub. If you are looking for the ultimate in relaxation, book the 80-minute Blend Massage, a “greatest hits” of all their techniques: Swedish, Shiatsu, deep tissue, and hot stone. Stay after your treatment to linger in the outdoor coed jacuzzi.

Food and Beverage

With more than 10 restaurants and bars, you’re sure to find something for everyone. Depending on the length of your stay, however, you may need to strategize your dinner choices. Casa de Rosa serves authentic Mexican cuisine; signature dishes include lobster posole with meaty chunks of succulent shellfish, and mahi mahi served in a local preparation with tomatoes, peppers and herbs. The most interesting dessert was sweet corn cake served with corn ice cream and caramel corn, but I also couldn’t pass up a slice of cream-soaked tres leches cake. 

The real showstopper was the tableside preparation of Mayan Coffee, sure to make every guest envious. The drink mixed Tequila and amaretto with coffee, topped with tequila poured down a flaming grapefruit peel onto freshly whipped cream. It wasn’t just a fancy parlor trick, either: the drink definitely picked up citrus flavor from the oils. It’s a must-order.

Viaggio serves pasta and Italian specialties in a black, white, and red dining room complete with a vintage Alfa Romeo. At Sunset is a newer dining concept, billed as a healthier option and open for lunch and dinner. Though, since the menu is heavy on salads and sandwiches, it makes it better suited for the former. They do a mean Greek Salad, grilled steak with vegetables and seared salmon, and if you have a sweet tooth fear not, there are plenty of desserts on the menu.

Ventanas is an all-day buffet, a great spot to start any adventure with chilaquiles, made-to-order omelets, freshly pressed juices, or pastries, or pop in for a midday repas of tacos, guacamole, grilled shrimp, or quesadillas. (Azul is the other buffet with a much smaller selection, which becomes an Asian-inspired restaurant at dinnertime.)

The grab-and-go spots on property are also worth a visit. Cafe Mexico is open 24 hours for hot and cold coffee and tea beverages, sandwiches, and pastries. Cravings is a tucked-away spot for ice cream, donuts, and other indulgences. And The Dog House is a poolside cart for a quick lunch when you don’t want to leave your lounge chair. 

After dinner, head to the sleek KAA Bar & Lounge in the lobby for a nightcap and music. The beverage selections throughout the property are pretty standard, and you can upgrade to top shelf spirits if that’s your preference. At the restaurants and bars, you’ll find a white, red, rosé, and sometimes bubbly wine; other glasses and bottles are available for purchase. The resort would do well to add more included wine options, especially those made in Mexico. 

Overall Impression

If the location or layout of these resorts seems familiar to anyone, these properties were formerly Panama Jack Resorts, relaunched last December in time for the holiday season. One truly cool element is in the lobby, where dozens of pieces of vintage luggage are tucked into shelves underneath the check-in desk. While the overall hotel design works, there are a few areas that seemed a bit dated or in need of a refresh, including Azul. 

But none of that takes away from the enjoyment of a sojourn here. The Wyndham Alltra Cancun is located on a gorgeous stretch of beach, with a sprawling poolscape, diverse restaurants and ample watering holes to grab that round of Margaritas. Wyndham fans will appreciate getting points through the company’s Rewards Loyalty Program, and each guest will like the value and experience of this affordable all-inclusive property in Mexico’s fun zone.

The post Wyndham’s First All-Inclusive Resorts Make a Big Splash in Mexico appeared first on Islands.

Even for couples who love to travel, planning a destination wedding can be overwhelming. 

First, you have to decide on a place that appeals to you and your most cherished guests. Then there are the logistics of navigating all the usual wedding planning—only in a location that you most likely can’t just visit every weekend for an in-person inspection.

When you’re ready to go big—and you want it to go off without a hitch (except for getting hitched, of course)—Namale Fiji Resort and Spa ticks all the boxes for a bucket list destination wedding in what’s easily one of the most spectacular tropical locales in the world. 

Picture this: a former coconut plantation turned boutique luxury resort sprawling across 525 acres, and it’s all lapped by the deep blue ocean along Fiji’s north coast as your backdrop for photos, celebrating and making memories with family and friends that will last a lifetime, for the happy couple and everyone else, too

Don’t believe us? Here are three reasons to choose this resort:

Incredible outdoor adventures for your guests

Your wedding is of course the main event gathering everyone in celebration. But your guests who came this far to fete are surely going to want to get out and enjoy some of the most incredible nature experiences in the South Pacific while they’re in Fiji, too. 

Among the many adventures they can have during their stay are scuba diving atop the colorful coral reefs of the Koro Sea (Fiji is the soft coral capital of the world, and the colors look like something from a Froot Loops box), hiking through virgin rainforest to hidden waterfalls, and learning about local Fijian culture during a traditional kava ceremony. 

Range of accommodations for an intimate or grand affair

When the resort first opened, it offered just a single vacation home for guests to enjoy. Today, it’s a sprawling all-inclusive with 22 private luxury bures and villas, a 10,000-sq. ft. spa overlooking the Koro Sea, and two fabulous restaurants. Whether you’re hosting an intimate affair with just your immediate family or looking to invite quite a few more faces, there’s space for everyone to spread out in their own private piece of paradise here. 

Wedding packages for every sort of celebration 

If you require help arranging a full-service wedding or need something more customizable—a group wedding package to host a crowd or something more intimate, like a vow renewal ceremony—Namale takes the lead on planning your day. 

Among the amenities at your service are the resort’s wedding concierge and a range of wedding packages to deliver everything from bespoke bouquets brimming with tropical local flowers and flower archways to church ministers or civil servants. They’ll even serenade the couple with a ukulele if you like. Basically, if you can dream it for your big day, they can bring it to life here. 

The post Three Reasons Namale Fiji Resort and Spa is an Amazing Pick for Your Destination Wedding appeared first on Islands.

We’ve all had that thought: “I could stay here forever.” The hallmark of a great resort is making guests wish they never had to leave, that they could forward their mail and tell their bosses they’ll be working on island time from here on out. Are we serious about it? Sadly, no. But now Club Med is giving one lucky “employee” the chance to try it. At least for the next 12 months.

The iconic resort brand recently posted the dreamiest dream job anyone could imagine, or rather the “Ultimate Green Job.” Earlier this month, Club Med laid out its new social responsibility commitments, vowing to implement more eco-conscious efforts at properties throughout the Caribbean, Mexico, and Canada. For example, guests at Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda can now enjoy Beyond Meat with their dining options, and Club Med Cancún is leading the charge to eliminate single use plastic products by providing guests with glass bottles.

The lucky candidate who lands the Ultimate Green Job will play an important role in overseeing these changes (and more) at eight Club Med resorts, all while calling Club Med Punta Cana a home office. Hopping from property to property, this employee will learn about the brand’s plans for new food waste management systems, partnerships and efforts for protecting native species, and encouraging guests to participate in special activities like turtle releases and beach cleanups. 

It’s not all work, though. Obviously, the urge to partake in tropical activities will be through the roof, so there will be plenty of time to enjoy the awesome amenities and adventures at each Club Med property. It’ll just feel a lot more satisfying this way. 
Click here to apply.

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I’ve just arrived at Hotel Xcaret Arte, and Franco Maddalozzo is showing me something few guests ever get to see: the gastronomic director of the Hoteles Xcaret is taking me on a tour of the massive system of tunnels and roads connecting the resort’s nine restaurants. Every few minutes a golf cart passes by on the way to or from one of the kitchens or storage areas, the smiling employee at the wheel stopping for a second to greet Maddalozzo. Signs on the concrete walls point out directions and distances (it’s gotta be easy to get lost down here, I’m guessing), and colorful murals painted by staff members depict the masked athletes of lucha libre, the sport of Mexican wrestling that dates back to 1863.

But as cool as this behind-the-scenes, back door tour may be, it’s nothing compared to the magic that happens at the front-of-the-house. Let’s face it: at some all-inclusive resorts, food is merely a necessary stop in between the endless rounds of margaritas. At others it takes on more of a focus, yet still gets overshadowed by shiny things like the sprawling poolscape, wide stretch of umbrella-dotted beach, spa treatments, and post-dinner entertainment. 

For tropical-bound guests who want to do more than soak up some fun in the sun though, Hotel Xcaret Arte is a place to eat and drink well. 

The 900-suite property opened its doors in July of 2021, the second location in the hotel group. (Its sister resort, Hotel Xcaret Mexico, is located right next door.) The follow-up act touts nine dining experiences, inspired and overseen by some of Mexico’s top chefs who are pioneering and furthering their respective areas of culinary expertise—and garnering accolades in the process, including Michelin stars. Around 300 employees work in all the kitchens, Maddalozzo tells me, and the entire food and beverage staff almost tops 700. 

Maddalozzo and I convene in Kibi Kibi, the Yucatan-Lebanese fusion concept under the care of chef Roberto Solis, a founder of New Yucatecan Cuisine who runs Nectar in his native Mérida. Unless you are familiar with Mexico’s regional history, this restaurant appears at first to be a fusing of two seemingly disparate cuisines. But Maddalozzo points out that after Lebanese immigrants moved to Mérida in the Yucatan in the late 1800s to commercialize their textiles, they assimilated into Mexican culture and also incorporated their own take on the local dishes. 

One example is the namesake kibi; similar to a mini empanada, it’s made by frying a mixture of meat, bulgur wheat and vegetables like cabbage and onion, then serving it on a tortilla. (Astute epicureans will note the similarity to Lebanese kibbeh in both form and ingredients.) Surprises like this that combine cultures and ingredients in both traditional and new ways, are part of the fun of dining at Arte.

But since the average stay here is five nights, you’ll need to figure out a dining strategy. And hey, if that includes booking multiple lunches or indulging in a late-night fourth meal, no judgment. Keep in mind that reservations are recommended for the à la carte restaurants, as only a limited number of tables are reserved for walk-ins. Two of the included restaurants (Encanta and Chino Poblano) offer tasting menus, which by their very nature tend to be longer, drawn-out affairs. 

While these menus can be fun for fans of molecular gastronomy or avant-garde technique, they can also be a bit esoteric or precious for those put off by overly described plates or garnishes arranged with tweezers. No matter which camp you fall into, it might be better to select just one; my vote is for Encanta, where more of the dishes hit the mark. Guests seeking the property’s most elevated dining evening can book a table at Xaak, which is not included in your stay but available as an add-on.

No matter where you choose to eat, here is some intel about the dining options I experienced, including the menu concept, design and must-try dishes:

Kibi Kibi

Concept: Yucatan-Lebanon fusion from chef Roberto Solis, creator of New Yucatecan Cuisine and founder of Nectar restaurant in his native Mérida. (Note that this restaurant is reserved exclusively for guests of Casa de los Artistas.)

Design/Vibe: The main dining room is reminiscent of a brightly-lit souk, with trifora arches, terracotta tiles, and nods to Lebanese immigrants’ textile culture like dangling oversized silk tassels, tapestries and wicker woven light fixtures. 

Can’t-Miss Dishes: Start with all the spreads slathered onto warm pitas. Silky labneh is topped with black recado, a Mayan spice blend made with ancho chiles; their take on hummus blends in pumpkin puree, topped with crunchy salted pepitas; and eggplant dip is rich and smoky. Grilled octopus is tossed with Arabian pepper vinaigrette and served atop refried tortillas called panucho, while rack of lamb is coated in za’atar seasoning. 

Definitely save room for the best rice pudding I’ve ever tried, served in three textures: traditional creamy pudding, an airy sweet cinnamon-tinged foam and a rice paper tuile. 

Tah-Xido

Concept: Contemporary Japanese including sushi and teppanyaki, overseen by chef Luis Arzapalo.

Design/Vibe: Lively communal tables helmed by hibachi chefs are the perfect place for dinner and a show. Golden wood paneling, banquettes, and chairs lend an air of warmth, and vintage Japanese bird cages hanging from the ceiling give the room a bit of whimsy. 

Can’t-Miss Dishes: Usually relegated to a snack to kill time while waiting for your sushi, the edamame here are ridiculously good, charred and tossed in citrus and shichimi togarashi, a Japanese seven-spice blend. Miso shiro soup is an explosion of umami, poured tableside over steamed fish, shiitake mushrooms, fried tofu, bok choy, and green onion. Salmon, hamachi, and bluefin tuna sashimi is super fresh and served with yuzu dipping sauce, and black cod with shiitake and seaweed salad is glazed not only in the traditional miso but also mezcal. 

The dessert bonsai tree will be the most talked-about and Instagrammable thing you order all vacation. It arrives on a platter cut from the cross section of a tree trunk, with a chocolate tree, green tea-soaked sponge cake “leaves” and hard-shell chocolate-covered “rocks.” So fun.

Mercado de San Juan

Concept: Regional Mexican cuisine curated by Juan Licerio, executive chef of Hotel Xcaret Arte.

Design/Vibe: The most beautiful buffet restaurant ever will make you think you are in the middle of a Mexican street fair no matter where your table is located. Streamered pinatas hang from the ceiling, tons of upended vases, pottery, and wicker baskets serve as light fixtures, and strings of papel picado—colorful paper sheets with cut-out details in different patterns—are strewn about. 

Can’t-Miss Dishes: You can’t go wrong any time of the day at Mercado de San Juan, but if you are craving a truly authentic Mexican breakfast, head there in the morning. You’ll find a made-to-order quesadilla station, a chef pulling apart tender lechon to be stuffed into tortillas and topped with pico de gallo and guacamole, the fixings for MYO Micheladas, an entire area of Mexican pastries like conchas, sopapillas and pan dulce, and both rojo and verde versions of chilaquiles, the breakfast version of nachos topped with crumbled queso, red onions, and cilantro. 

Pro tip: after loading up your plate with chilaquiles, carry it over to the omelet station, ask for two eggs fried over-medium, and plate them on top. 

Arenal

Concept: Comfort food with local ingredients by hotel executive chef Orlando Trejo.

Design/Vibe: Rhapsody in Blue, beachside. This is one of those places that looks gorgeous from every angle, and you just can’t soak it in enough—or take too many photos. Cobalt-colored corded knot balls hang at different lengths throughout the space, joined by hanging blue chairs whose swaying is more easily navigable while sipping cocktails rather than trying to enjoy a meal. Stylish sofas are scattered throughout, and a massive lit display case of hand-blown bowls in shades of azul, orange, and peridot lines the back wall. 

Can’t-Miss Dishes: Sweet shrimp cocktail ceviche arrives with shaved radish, red onion, avocado and microgreens, and the kitchen’s take on elotes is coated with coffee mayonnaise, chili powder and fresh cheese. Chunks of fish are coated, flash fried and served with cabbage salad to tuck into tacos, and coconut creme brûlée gets a splash of coconut milk and a garnish of fresh mango and coconut chips. 

Chino Poblano

Concept: The cuisines of Puebla and China are melded by chef Jonatán Gómez Luna of Le Chique in Riviera Maya, who’s known for a technique that combines a traditional and avant-garde approach.

Design/Vibe: A huge communal table with high-back Ming chairs runs the length of the restaurant and is situated underneath a half-pipe curved ceiling decorated with blue and white talavera tiles. But the most mesmerizing part of the room is the display case filled with animated maneki-neko, the Japanese waving cats dating back to the seventeenth century, believed to bring good luck.

Can’t-Miss Dishes: The tasting menu often gets updated; no matter what’s offered, presentation is a big deal here. The lychee margarita is a spherified, one-bite version; a wooden box slides open to reveal decadent foie gras with walnut praline; and suckling pig bao bun with mole almendrado is presented in a terra cotta pig (obviously). 

The restaurant’s signature Pekin duck arrives in a ceramic bird and is a choose-your-own-adventure situation, with corn tortillas and Chinese crepes, along with plum sauce and mole poblano. For dessert, tangy yuzu pie is deconstructed into meringues, crust crumbles, custard, and ice cream.

Encanta

Concept: Mexican cuisine with global influences from Barcelona to the Caribbean, from Michelin-starred chef Paco Méndez of restaurant Hoja Santa in Barcelona.

Design/Vibe: An ode to music, starting with wooden shelving units at the entrance that house turntables, stacks of records, and vintage radios. A huge monitor behind the u-shaped bar shows footage of Mexico’s rich cultural heritage over an authentic soundtrack, strolling musicians serenade diners with a glass bottle xylophone, and some tables overlook the live entertainment and fountain shows at the adjacent theater.

Can’t-Miss Dishes: The prix-fixe menu is ever-changing and meant to be a surprise for guests. Recent items include a deconstructed Caesar salad on a tostada, seared ribeye topped with avocado crema, and a marshmallow “worm” perched on an agave plant accompanied by a tasting of mezcal.

Here are the rest of the dining experiences at Hotel Xcaret Arte:

Cayuco

Concept: Mediterranean Mexican Cuisine by chef Franco Maddalozzo, gastronomy director at Hoteles Xcaret. 

Design/Vibe: Tropical wood accents and nods to the sea including hanging fish sculptures.

Can’t-Miss Dishes: Shrimp with guajillo chili, roasted artichokes, porcini ravioli, pozole, grilled fish baked in a mayonnaise and chili adobo marinade, and tarte tatin. 

Cantina VI.AI.PY

Concept: Oaxaca cantina from chef Alejandro Ruiz, known for promoting Oaxacan cuisine around the world.

Design/Vibe: A bar-in-the-round is situated underneath a high ceiling and tall column of bottles of agave spirits. 

Can’t-Miss Dishes: Insects tostada with grasshoppers, chicatana ants, and agave grubs; pork carnitas with salsas; ribeye tacos with wild vegetables; and banana with mezcal caramel and vanilla ice cream.

Xaak

Concept: The four-handed experience by chefs Alejandro Ruiz and Roberto Solis focuses on regional food with pre-Hispanic influences and is also inspired by Mexico’s female chefs throughout the generations.

Design/Vibe: Floral-painted Mexican pottery is set on inlaid wall shelves, tropical fish dart around an aquarium set into another wall, and diners are treated to views of the turquoise waters of a beach cove.

Can’t-Miss Dishes: Dining at Xaak is not part of the all-inclusive experience and costs $120 per person, not inclusive of beverage pairings. The eight-course prix-fixe menu was recently updated, with every member of the resort’s culinary team creating a dish. Maddalozzo’s contribution, simply titled “Vanilla, Chocolate, Coffee,” starts with ravioli made with coffee-infused dough, stuffed with beef oxtail and vanilla essence, and served with mole poblano. 

Offered and included at all the restaurants are around 12 wines by the glass. Most hail from Mexico, Spain or Latin America, like a crisp Spanish Verdejo, or a Chardonnay or red blend from Mexico’s Valle de Ensenada, letting you sip locally. Other offerings from around the world are available by the glass or bottle for an extra change from a list curated by Mexican sommelier Sandra Fernandez. 

Speaking of imbibing, spirits at Hotel Xcaret Arte are call brands and top shelf; look for the premium Tequila portfolio of Casa Dragones, and if you are a gin fan, ask your bartender for local Armónico, which nicely straddles between a London Dry and modern floral style and makes a killer G&T (especially when ordered from the swim-up bar on a hot day.) 

Many restaurants offer a welcome cocktail, which can be enjoyed with or without alcohol. And El Deseo is a speakeasy-type lounge. There isn’t a sign, so either ask to be pointed in the right direction and follow the crowds or look for the telltale taco stand parked outside the entrance. (Remind yourself to make a pitstop there on the way out for a late-night snack because the tacos and fixings bar make for a perfect way to end the evening.)

Beauty is in the Eye of the Beholder

As you might guess from the name, Hotel Xcaret Arte is influenced by local and regional artists and artisans; guests stay in a “Casa” that’s inspired by a type of art, from weaving, painting, and pottery to music and dance and literature. Clever touches in the rooms, check-in lobby, and public spaces of each Casa reflect the art for which it’s named, from wooden button doorknobs and oversized paintbrushes arranged in a giant jar to vibrant tapestries, cobalt blue and white talavera tiles and painted vihuela, the small guitar favored by Mariachi groups. 

No design element has been spared including every inch of the stone flooring and walls, which was hand-hewn during the property’s construction. 

The attention to detail is incredible and the overall effect is stunning—and worth an hour or two of meandering exploration during your stay. Each Casa has its own rooftop pool, bar, and lounge areas, and a few also have food service. (Casa de los Artistas is the most exclusive, as it includes access to the other Casas as well as Kibi Kibi restaurant.) Casa Guests can also partake in salsa dancing, textile weaving, throwing pottery, and more during the hands-on workshops offered.

All are fun diversions, if you can find the time between daydreaming about your last meal, savoring your current one, or planning where to go next, that is.

Hotel Xcaret Arte is located about a 45-minute drive from the Cancun airport. The All-Fun Inclusive concept here includes not only food and beverage, but unlimited access all their parks in Cancun and Riviera Maya: Xcaret, Xel-Há, Xplor, Xplor Fuego, Xenses, Xoximilco, Xavage, and Xenotes. Transportation airport-hotel-airport and hotel-parks-hotel is also included. 

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