While many travelers rave about the convenience of packaged tropical vacations, plenty of couples looking for a romantic getaway argue these cookie-cutter properties lack the authenticity of an independently planned trip. Preset itineraries and menus crafted for tourists offer a sense of security for some but also prohibit visitors from truly exploring their destination.
Opened in March, UNICO 20˚87˚ Hotel Riviera Maya broke the mold with custom-designed holidays encouraging guests to experience all Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula has to offer. With unique off-property excursions and personal butler service — not to mention unlimited meals from some of Mexico’s top-rated chefs –- UNICO is quickly becoming our favorite all-inclusive resort for couples who can’t stand all-inclusive vacations. Read on to find out why, and for those who want firsthand experience, here’s a Travelzoo member-exlclusive deal with guaranteed upgrade.
The adults-only, private beach is free of crying babies and organized kids activities, leaving plenty of real estate for catching rays on the sand or romping in the waves.
Beyond the buffet, guests can indulge with unlimited meals and drinks at five restaurants and six bars, including Cueva Siete (Seven Caves) serving Yucatan flavors prepared by a “Top Chef Mexico” competitor.
Mystical native themed cocktails are made with indigenous fruit and mezcal at Bar Balam (which means “jaguar” in Mayan language).
The hotel is an elegant exhibit of modern Mexico with local artwork, patterned upholstery and handcrafted details displayed throughout.
Grown up in-room amenities include custom-scented toiletries, cocktail kits and cozy robes and slippers.
All accommodations are stocked with Mexican candies, traditional snacks, wines from the Guadalupe region and two straw hats that can be hand painted.
Each room has a private patio with a plunge pool or spa tub big enough for two and perfect for skinny dipping any time of day.
Couples who sweat together stay together — all visitors have the choice of fitness classes including outdoor yoga and cross training.
Competitive pairs can face off on the tennis and basketball courts or spend the day sailing catamarans or cruising the coast on paddleboards.
All three pools on the property have swim-up bars; sun worshipers can order drinks to their lounge chairs and cabanas.
The concierge can arrange tours of Tulum’s ancient ruins and swimming excursions with dolphins.
Squad-ready suites sleep up to six and are the perfect pads for bachelor and bachelorette parties.
After a day at the beach, guests can soothe sun-weary skin with complimentary spa treatments.
Guests ready to take the plunge are guided on swimming tours of the nearby cenotes.
Off of the sand, visitors can take Mayan cooking courses and mixology classes.
A personal butler is available 24 hours a day to unpack luggage, offer insider knowledge on the destination or send Champagne to the room, day or night.
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