By Jeannette Hummel
Riviera Maya, Mexico has become one of the world’s top wellness destinations. And when you catch a glimpse at the Grand Velas Riviera Maya, one of the area’s most impressive hotels just minutes outside of Playa del Carmen, you’ll know why.
Set on 205 acres of pristine jungle and mangroves, with the finest white sand beach in the Riviera Maya, the AAA Five Diamond Grand Velas Riviera Maya is an ultra-luxury, all-inclusive resort. Eight restaurants, including five gourmet offerings, present a tour of Mexico, Europe and Asia. Who needs a round-the-world plane flight when you can just make a quick jaunt to Mexico for the world’s best food?
The $15 million Grand Velas Spa is the region’s largest spa sanctuary at more than 90,000 square feet. This calming Eden is known for its authentic Mexican treatments, offerings from around world and signature seven-step water journey. You also get access to a 24-hour personal butler concierge, 24/7 in-suite service, three swimming pools, two fitness centres, water sports and more.
So what does your spa experience look like? Guests enter on the spa’s top floor, at the Balinese-inspired lobby. They’re then led through a plant-filled courtyard to amply staffed lounges and changing areas where they are given slippers, robes and organic herbal tea by Tea Forte.
A wooden bridge that overlooks the Water Lounge below leads to the 40 spa treatment rooms and marks the transition from public to private spa areas. Dark hardwood furnishings, shallow water-filled bowls that float deep red hibiscus flowers and colorful Mexican and Balinese wall stencils give the spa a modern, international feel.
Tailored for each guest by spa concierges, the resort’s four, five and seven-day Spa Experiences range from Nature, Mayan, Ayurvedic and Tao sensorial journeys, and include Purifying, Renewal and Beautifying rituals. Featuring a selection of spa treatments, wraps, hydrotherapy circuits, in-suite bath rituals, gourmet spa cuisine, cooking classes and personal training, the programs are complemented by meditation, yoga and Pilates, bike and kayak tours, beach and garden walks, eco and snorkel tours, as well as numerous other activity options.
Guests receive luxurious spa treatments and amenities that range from aromatherapy products, bath products and spa robes, to healthy refreshments, low-calorie snacks, fresh fruit daily and relaxation music.
Are you ready to pack your bags?
Jeanette Hummel is the founder of FitGirl Travels, a wellness travel blog sharing the fun journey to a happier, healthier you.
