Mexican Luxury Nestled in a Beachside Jungle

(390 Reviews)
98% Recommended

Pam MacIntyre

Maple Grove, MN

Australia & New Zealand Specialist

New Zealand

In all my years as a Travel Professional, with curiosity I've asked several the question "What are your must see countries?"  I was hard pressed to find one that did not list New Zealand!  I mean who wouldn't wa...

New Zealand

In all my years as a Travel Professional, with curiosity I've asked several the question "What are your must see countries?"  I was hard pressed to find one that did not list New Zealand!  I mean who wouldn't want to experience this majestic part of the world? 

Recently I was able to explore several areas of this amazing country, being fortunate in visiting both the North & South Island. What I love is New Zealand can be mellow or action-packed, yet it will still always be epic!

From the endless national parks, dynamic Maori culture, to experiencing the sounds aboard a yacht while gazing upon dolphins. And let’s not forget about laying witness to the majestic beauty of a sperm whale off the coast of Kaikoura. 

Wait, did you say you enjoy wine?  They have some of THE best in the world....how do I know?  Because how could I go all the way to New Zealand and not visit a winery or two. New Zealand offers the deliciousness of Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnays, Pinot Noir, Merlot and many more! 

I really could go on and on, but no need if you're reading this you already KNOW you want to explore this part of the world. I would love to help you create the best version of New Zealand for you! 

Australia

Let me start by saying, I have been wanting to go to Australia since I was a child. Why you ask? Well to pet a kangaroo of course! And I did! Not only did I pet kangaroos, but I fed 4 simultaneously! It was a childhood dream come true, and I cannot wait to go back and repeat the experience. 

I was in Sydney during the spectacular International lights and music festival, Vivid Sydney. It was their 10th year, and all I've got to say is WOW! Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought Australia would be so perfect to visit during their winter season. Although being from Minnesota it was more like our fall temperatures. So again, perfect! It was extra special to experience VIVID Sydney and see the iconic Sydney Opera House light up.  If you travel during this time of year, it truly is a must see.

The Blue Mountains region of Australia was truly lovely to walk amongst. Then headed to Hunter Valley (to locals known as "The Hunter") where wine in this region was flowing plentifully and was quite delicious!

After making a visit to Australia I now understand why many choose to go there for 2 - 4 weeks on a vacation. It's truly hard to grasp the sheer size of Australia until you have been there yourself. To give you an idea, think about the USA. Sydney would be in Florida; Cairns (Great Barrier Reef) would be in Maine; Uluru (Ayers Rock) would be in Kansas; Melbourne would be New Orleans; and Perth would be Los Angeles.

If you're looking to visit the world's largest Great Barrier Reef, immerse yourself in Aboriginal communities, swim with whale sharks or gaze upon the Uluru (Ayers Rock) the possibilities really are endless in Australia! 

Together we'll create your dream trip to Australia that you'll remember for the rest of your days! 

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Pam MacIntyre

Can Be Reached At

1-763-231-8893

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Viceroy Riviera Maya Pool Deck

Viceroy Riviera Maya is a luxurious beachside jungle resort that I’ve been anxious to visit since they opened. Having had lots of positive feedback from their sister resort Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort in St. Lucia.  Finally, my boyfriend and I were able to gaze upon this gem for ourselves! Upon arrival you immediately see the beautiful open lobby area and I felt instantly relaxed. I knew before I even stepped out of the car, I was going to love this place! Exploring the tropical grounds I felt a luxuriously rustic & natural vibe. It reminded us of places we've stayed in the jungles of Belize & Costa Rica. Within minutes you found yourself on a gorgeous white sand beach.

We partook in their Mayan Blessing performed by their Shaman which was a special spiritual experience. We both felt it helped set the tone of the vacation mindset. To continue that vibe we headed to the Wayak Spa. I’m not always big on spas but this one was quite lovely, relaxing & quaint. Their outdoor treatment rooms surrounded by jungle & waterfalls really stood out. When you add their locally grown organic herbs & aromatherapy selection a visit is essential! 

The resort was a combination of the lush vegetation and boutique style. There are 41 residential-style private villas sprinkled throughout the property which gives it a secluded, private & exclusive vibe. Right from the butler service down to the rope you can put across your pathway leading to your villa indicating "Do Not Disturb" makes you feel like a VIP.  

While we didn't have the pleasure of staying here this time around, we were able to enjoy the evening while experiencing their Antojeria Night (Mexican Dinner Night). This features their chef's interpretation of the most traditional Mexican street food inspired by his upbringings in Mexico City and travels to Veracruz, San Miguel de Allende, and Oaxaca. Dining under the stars while gazing at the ocean, we simply loved the ambiance.  The food was so flavorful! The churros are a MUST!

There are 2 restaurants & a bar, all covered open air atmosphere. They offer a few dinner theme nights which are Mexican, Pasta n’ Pizza and Grill night (Subject to change) The bar & restaurant above the bar are particularly enjoyable with the ocean breeze. For those rainy/windy nights, they do have wind breaker screens to allow continued enjoyment of these venues. After dinner we ventured over to the bar and I must say being able to hear the ocean waves, while talking the night away sipping on your favorite beverage. We could have sat there for hours! No matter if you want to enjoy a cup of coffee n' Baileys or the nightcap of your choice ... you can with the bar being open from 7am to 11pm. (Subject to change)

Key Villa Notes:

• Each villa has a private pool that can be heated to guests preference


• Each villa has a private patio with a hammock


• Villas have either 1 king or 2 Queen Beds (Queens are a rarity in Mexico)


• All feature indoor/outdoor showers that are fully private with lush greenery


• Villas range from 1,000 to 2,500 sq. ft. including the patio


• Most villas offer Jungle View, outside of 2 oceanfront villas & 1 Two-Level Ocean View Villa. (Early booking is important for an Ocean View Option)


• Room service from 7am to 11pm (Additional Fees apply and vary depending on the plan you've chosen) 

One thing that really stood out was their personalized service and attention to detail which was evident in all aspects. We spoke with a few of the guests and were impressed to hear all but one was a repeat guest ... one having been there 4 times! That speaks volumes for a resort with return guests. While this resort is not Adults Only, the minimum age is 12+. They offer either a Breakfast Plan, All Inclusive Plan or an All Inclusive Premium Beverage Plan. 

This property has been around since 2001 ... it originally opened as Ikal Del Mar, it then changed hands over to The Tides in 2007. Then the Viceroy in 2011. I touch on the history because it was the 2nd resort to open in the Riviera Maya.  This is significant because any original area property holds the prime real estate and this resort without a doubt has a beautiful piece of land. 

Side Note: You'll have no issues with beach vendors and enough pool/beach chairs for all guests.  

Looking for an All Inclusive resort with a boutique feel this just may be the right choice for you. The Viceroy is genuinely a unique property unlike any other I've experienced in the Riviera Maya. This Authentic Mexican feel resort is for those looking for quality time in pure relaxation. They're also focused in sustainable & wellness travel. While Viceroy is not for everyone, for the right traveler this is beyond perfect.  

This may just be the hidden paradise you've been looking for!