The beautiful thing about Mexico (besides the electric blue waters and white sand beaches, of course) is that there's a resort for every preference. From family-friendly, to a romantic getaway, or a nice blend of the two, whichever trip you're seeking out can be found in the marvelous Mexican landscape.
We spent time at Banyan Tree Mayakoba and were astounded by the beautiful details influenced by the Thai culture--a country we've yet to visit, but it’s on our list! The lobby itself quite possibly makes the biggest statement with its signature tree floating on its own island in the center of the resort, dressed with beautiful crimson lanterns that illuminate the night sky and cast glowing reflections through the rippling water beneath.
This Asian influence can also be seen within the resort's accommodations. With titles like 'Bliss', 'Serenity', and 'Spa', you can tell Banyan Tree's villas (along with Banyan Tree's resort altogether) provide guests a sanctuary for relaxation and luxury. Every villa offers guests their own private pool with varying views, from the magnificent Mayakoba canals to the vibrant greens of the El Camaleon golf course (Chris’ personal favorite).
On par with the theme of relaxation, Banyan Tree's spa, The Rainforest, offers an experience suited perfectly for the climate: a hydrothermal facility using heat and humidity to detox the body. Take a dip in the vitality pool, indulge in the aroma steam room, or unwind in the Finnish sauna--better yet, pair any of these with a Thai, Indian, Chinese, or Balinese massage by one of their master therapists and you'll come out revitalized!
We enjoyed dinner at both Saffron and Cello while at Banyan Tree, both memorable experiences with outstanding cuisine. Cello is their Italian-inspired restaurant overlooking the beautiful lagoons. With an entire wall of the restaurant open to the outdoors, we were serenaded by the sweet sounds of nature and surrounded by the Caribbean breeze. Chris and I began with the burrata salad as we deliberated over what to order for dinner (note: there is no wrong choice when ordering at Cello!). I enjoyed the fresh sea bass special with homemade linguine pasta and clams in a lemon olive oil sauce, while Chris dined on the oso buclinguineo and risotto.
Something to note: Guests at any of the surrounding resorts can book reservations at Banyan Tree's restaurants. In fact, those who dine at Saffron, Cello, or any of the other incredible restaurants Banyan Tree offers are picked up by a duffy boat at their private boat dock, float peacefully by the villas, through the lagoon, and straight to the restaurant (and did we mention offer a lovely cheese platter and champagne toast along the way?).
The following evening we dined at Saffron, an intimate setting featuring an authentic yet contemporary Thai cuisine. We shared the Khong Wang Ruam, two crisp rice noodle wrapped prawns, grilled chicken breast satay, fried floppy sea bass rice noodle rolls and pomelo prawn salad, as well as the Goong Sarong Buer Tod, a crisp rice noodle wrapped prawn, fried betal leaf and sweet mango chili sauce to prime our palates. Fried calamari, summer rolls, spring rolls, and crispy shrimp are also must-haves for those who want to truly experience everything the Thai cuisine has to offer. We rounded out our meal with the shrimp pad Thai, which Chris enjoyed, while I had the green curry grilled prawns--to die for!
We recommend experiencing firsthand the best of Asian and Mexican culture at Banyan Tree's AAA Five Diamond luxury beach resort the next time you book your Caribbean getaway (and you never know--you may see us there when you go)!
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BENEFITS OF BOOKING WITH WELL INSPIRED TRAVELS:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Breakfast credit for two per bedroom daily ($50 maximum per person, per day, excludes alcohol)
$100 USD Resort/Hotel credit to be utilized during stay
Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
