The Andaz Mayakoba Resort Should Be Your Next Journey, according to our Mexico-loving Jake Gaines. The sun, the water, and the relaxation all add up to the perfect trip close to home with its picturesque views and array of aquatic activities.
Photography courtesy of Andaz Mayakoba
CONTEMPORARY COOL
Once you hop on a quick flight, from two to three hours from most Texas cities, into Cancun, you’ll soon be on your way an hour’s drive to the serene Andaz, whisked away by a private shuttle arranged by the property. We recommend the Andaz Mayakoba in the Riviera Maya, a Hyatt concept, as your next retreat to get away from it all. Once you’re on the ocean with the breeze blowing through your hair, you’ll know what true relaxation is. The natural beauty surrounding the region is also home to an idyllic range of flora and fauna that set the tone for a relaxing adventure. Upon arriving at the grand entrance, the friendly team will greet you in front of the prominent, cenote-inspired water feature. Once given a stone to toss into the aqua element, you’re encouraged to make a wish, or intention, for the stay. I wished for serenity for the next few days, and it came true.
In most of Mexico’s resorts today, a modern sense of design and architecture helps you feel like you are somewhere special. At the Andaz, the primarily white and gray color theme of the rooms and suites blend seamlessly into the verdant growth that envelops the resort. Waking up to the exotic birds singing among the lagoon’s many haciendas is a treat. After all, Mayakoba is a 620-acre vista filled with lagoons, jungles, and beaches. Think of it as a secure gated community of luxury private residences three hotels, along with the Andaz: Rosewood, Banyan Tree, and Fairmount. The best part of this collaboration is that you can visit these other nearby resorts, enjoy their amenities, and sign it to your room at the Andaz.
You come as a tourist. You live as a local,” stated Andaz General Manager Pascal Dupuis when we caught up with him over breakfast. At the Andaz in the Riviera Maya, guests are invited to enjoy what might be considered a hidden paradise. It truly is like no other. In the jungle, yet near the ocean, it’s a place where style meets nature at an elevated level. The Andaz’s chic design reflects not only the native Mayan culture but embraces contemporary design, as well. When you arrive, you’ll find 214 guestrooms, including 41 luxury suites…so there’s an option for every visitor. In this lushly preserved mangrove environment, there’s also space for meetings and corporate events since the property offers 14,000 square feet of versatile indoor and outdoor meeting space. Want to host a unique corporate retreat here? You might get Boss of the Year if you do.
EMBRACE NATURE
Being on the ocean, the water is an important part of the resort’s attraction. Sunning on the pristine white sands of the Caribbean beach or at one of two spacious outdoor pools, the tropical vibe is ever-present. The palm trees that sway above lend themselves to the tropical paradise feel. Enjoy time alone in the water or in one of the many cabanas with beverage and food service available. For the ultimate relaxation, the 10,000-square-foot luxe Naum Wellness and Spa, with six treatment areas, can be part of your visit. Want to have one-of-a-kind experiences? This is the place to find them. You can start the day with a two-hour private boat tour that weaves through the lagoons and mangroves to truly experience the majestic beauty of the resort. The sights and sounds of Mexico’s nature, including plenty of colorful birds, are the perfect view while enjoying a five-star breakfast that is served fresh and healthy.
The five uniquely created restaurants and bars at the resort offer culinary experiences to satisfy any taste. Recently, two of its five restaurants were included in the coveted Guia Gastronomica list, which highlights the 250 best restaurants in Mexico. Dining al fresco, which I recommend at every meal at the resort, I was captivated by the substantial architectural point of view of the venue, as well as the ingenious mix of seasonings and spices that were a part of every dish. From the fresh produce to the freshly caught fish, as well as plenty of vegan options, the sky is the limit for delicious cuisine at the eateries. As General Manager Pascal Dupuis muses about the entire resort, “If you are in love with sustainability, nature, experiences, and the perfect location, then Andaz Mayakoba is the place for you.” With so much to offer, what are you waiting for?
