Recalibrate With R&R

Let’s face it, stress levels are high these days, so if you find yourself slamming on your horn the minute the traffic light turns green, it’s time to take some well-needed time off and head to The Ritz-Carlton, Cancun.

While Cancun rode on autopilot for years as one of the top party destinations of the world (in large part thanks to planeloads of inebriated college students spending their parents’ money over Spring Break), rest assured the experience that awaits you at The Ritz-Carlton, Cancun is the exact opposite of that. 

A quick 20-minute ride from the Cancun airport, the hotel is close to tourist attractions like the Mayan ruins of Chichén Itzá — for those yearning to explore — and is on the famed Hotel Zone resplendent with rowdy nightlife, should you be so inclined to relive days of youthful abandon. But, with multiple opportunities for restorative pampering, luxury amenities paired with exceptional hospitality, it’s highly plausible you will spend your time inside the comforting embrace of the hotel and never want to leave.

After all, what better pied-à-terre than one of the 363 guestrooms (48 suites) overlooking the turquoise Caribbean Sea?

Each come with floor-to-ceiling windows and a private balcony, should you crave an alfresco feel. Then there's the extraordinary Ritz-Carlton Club Level offering exquisite food paired with top tier service.

If you are wondering why the Ritz-Carlton, Cancun received Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Hotel award as well as the Five Diamond AAA, start with the cuisine. For those who relish the fine dining experience, Fantino, boasting Mediterranean flavors, beckons with dishes like Foie Gras Torchon, Valrhona chocolate marbling, honey and orange foam and red berries gastrique, Tortelloni filled with gorgonzola mousse, arugula pesto, grape tomatoes and Cornish Hen with chickpea, tagine marination, green olives and dehydrated lemon. The elegant Club Grill offers a selection of dishes with a European flair, such as filet mignon or one of several ethereal soufflés. At Casitas, the only restaurant in Cancun located on the beach, guests dine under the stars while being serenaded by the sea. Head to the terrace or, for a more intimate feel, a private cabana transformed into your very own dining alcove on the beach. Enjoy the fresh market seafood platter, shrimp tacos or barbecue short ribs. Grab a seat at The Sushi Bar for inventive maki or head to El Café Mexicano to enjoy a traditional Mexican breakfast or lunch. Tequila connoisseurs must visit the D-Lounge, where over 100 varieties of the beloved spirit await to be discovered. Of course, for those who refuse to get out of their bathing suits, Caribe Bar and Grill is where to go to grab a meal featuring fresh salads, pizzas and plenty of tropical cocktails.

Curious to learn? Don an apron and get to work at the property’s top-of-the-line Culinary Center which offers cooking classes that culminate with a shared meal at the chef’s table.

Visit the spa for services inspired by ancient Mayan traditions. Whether it be a warm stone massage or a volcanic red clay body wrap, treatments, paired with the tranquil environment (be sure to check out the serene relaxation gardens and secluded terraces) promise you’ll leave refreshed and revitalized. Spa guests can also enjoy access to an assortment of luxury amenities, including aromatherapy showers and steam rooms, soothing whirlpools and invigorating plunge pools.

With a comprehensive fitness room and a premier tennis center, one really has no excuse to overlook exercising. However, between the aforementioned suite and dining options, private beach palapas and two pools, it’s quite tempting to spend the day lounging in luxury instead. After all, it’s your holiday.

The Ritz-Carlton Cancun is located at Rertorno del Rey #36, Zona Hotelera, Cancun. For more information, call 877-240-2492 or visit ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/mexico/cancun.