Virtuoso Best of the Best 2009 - 350
HOTEL ESENCIA Riviera Maya, Mexico Riviera Maya is home to several resorts, yet perhaps none is so in tune with its surroundings as Hotel Esencia, fronting a two-mile stretch of powdery-sand beach and crystal-clear ocean. Your room here, one of just 29, boasts a large terrace facing the sea or garden, a deep-soaking plunge pool and a private solarium. The main house, where guests gather to wine and dine, was once the home of a European duchess. Sybarites adore the Aroma spa, the first organic spa specializing in fitotherapy. Later, enjoy the locally based menu in dinner at Sal y Fuego. DISTANCE FROM CANCUN AIRpORT (CUN): vIRTUOSO AMENITy Wine tasting for two, once per stay. IN THE KNOW Reserve a second-floor Garden Suite with a private outdoor Jacuzzi creatively set in the treetops. 50 mi/80 km MANDARIN ORIENTAL RIvIERA MAyA Riviera Maya, Mexico Every guestroom at Mandarin Oriental Riviera Maya boasts a water view, be it of the sparkling sea or the sacred freshwater lake. Such inspiring vistas may lead you to be at one with yourself, and there’s no better place to start than the 25,000-square-foot resort spa. Sit awhile in the garden before your Mayaninspired ritual in a VIP Spa Suite. If you’re looking for even more personal indulgence, consider staying in a lavish Grand Selva Suite or Beachfront Casita, each with a plunge pool and private butler. Liven up any evening at the hip Mandarin Bar, sipping a signature Caribbean creation and listening to the resident musicians. DISTANCE FROM CANCUN AIRpORT (CUN): vIRTUOSO AMENITy $100 spa credit per room, once per stay. IN THE KNOW Watch the chefs work their magic from your seat overlooking the lagoon at Ambar restaurant. 350 42 mi/68 km M EX ICO, CE NT R AL AM E R I C A & S OU T H AM E R ICA MAROMA RESORT AND SpA Rivera Maya, Mexico At Maroma Resort and Spa, an Orient-Express Hotel, it’s worth indulging in an Ocean View Room, just steps from the immaculate beach and boasting mesmerizing Caribbean views from its private terrace. Venture out of your private paradise – with its sunken bathtub, original art and handpainted tilework – to explore the Yucatan jungle, the vibrant coral reefs and the myriad activities on offer at this world-class resort. Spend an afternoon at the Kinan Spa, where you can perfect your yoga poses or indulge in an open-air couple’s massage. Dine at El Sol, where local Creole cuisine is taken to new heights. DISTANCE FROM CANCUN AIRpORT (CUN): vIRTUOSO AMENITy Bottle of champagne, fresh fruit basket upon arrival, handcrafted Mexican gift and roundtrip airport transfers. IN THE KNOW At the new tequila and ceviche bar, Chef Guillermo Gomez prepares a variety of ceviche tableside, and pairs the offerings with the perfect tequilas. 20 mi/32 km