Escape a world away with quick access to an international airport? Yes, it’s possible. Chris and I have made a handful of trips to get away from the grey and dreary winter weather in the Midwest. One of our most favorite destinations to soak in the sun is hands-down: Nizuc Resort and Spa.
Phenomenal food, PGA-rated golfing for Chris, and a spa that feels as though it’s been designed by God himself, this special spot in Cancun has received countless accolades including being named “Top 100 Hotels in the World 2018” by Travel + Leisure.
Flying in to the Cancun International Airport, you’re really just moments away from being able to completely relax and submerge yourself in the laid back atmosphere of this pristine resort. Sparkling ocean waters, immaculate sanded beaches, and regionally influenced modern architecture are the building blocks to this jaw-dropping health and wellness haven. Each corner offering a new adventure or reprieve from daily chaos and a chance for romance!
Activities at Nizuc
Chris and I planned this adults-only getaway just before Valentine’s Day so naturally we wanted to add just a bit of adventure, romance, and relaxation to our itinerary. Eager to hit the links he’d fawned over for quite some time, Chris explored the holes at El Camaleon Mayakoba Golf Course. This special locale was the site of the first PGA Tour event to be held outside of the United States and Canada.
I loved the vast amount of ways to get outside and get active while staying here. Don’t get me wrong, a few hours by the pool is phenomenal, but I love to make the most out of my trips by sampling from activities I’d have a hard time finding anywhere else. At Nizuc I found ZAYAK outings, stand up paddle boarding, and seaside yoga were on the menu! We both loved the fitness center and group class offerings. I opted for personalized sessions with Israel, a certified personal trainer, as I enjoy learning from a variety of professionals and I heard wonderful things about this facility.
Unique Finds at Nizuc
Cigar rolling, tequila tasting at the Havana Lounge, sushi making… all of these fun activities are available where you’re able to enhance your knowledge about some of your most favorite things. I adored the Havana Lounge vibe and the endless knowledge from the Tequila master, and learning from Chef Alicia Padilla about the best in sushi was a huge highlight of my trip.
Accommodations at Nizuc Resort and Spa
Of course, the room and bathroom were immaculate – but it’s hard to compete with the natural and exotic beauty found outside the villa walls. Attached to our villa was a private veranda that was nestled next to an exquisite dipping pool – a great place to sit, sip, and listen to birds calling. A charming seating area was arranged on the patio giving you the perfect place to kick back and breathe, taking in the moments and landscape before you.
That something extra we found in our room is what really set our stay apart from others we have had – every evening fresh flower petals would be arranged in a different way! Some greeting us at the door and trailing to the bed, some filled the inviting warmth of a freshly drawn bath. It felt like our honeymoon all over again!
Outside of the room, on the veranda I just mentioned – was what Chris and I referred to as the “mailbox,” you could access this drop box from your side of the private veranda and the staff could find it from theirs. Each morning we were greeted with freshly baked pastries and piping hot coffee – as if cupid’s little helpers were working to set the tone for an incredible day and night for us!
Dining Out at Nizuc
When we weren’t enjoying the luxe accommodations of our room and we weren’t exploring the gorgeous sea, jungle, or spa, we were probably dining out. Nizuc Resort and Spa shares six special dining experiences with guests. Each restaurant adds a piece to the culinary puzzle making it possible for you to satiate just about any craving. Chris and I both like to dine with health in mind but we are known to indulge a bit on vacation – especially on once in a lifetime tastes like homemade fare and rare foods. Each restaurant we visited offered freshly caught seafood, sweeping views of the ocean and majestic grounds and greenery.
Here are my favorite foodie finds at Nizuc (I look forward to being able to try more again!)
Ramona: Kale Salad, Tuna Carnitas, Mayan Octopus
La Punta Grill & Lounge: Fish Aguachile, Grilled Salmon, Goat Cheese and Strawberry Salad
Indochine: Papaya Salad, Tikka Masala Lobster, Indochine Fusion
The Spa at Nizuc Resort and Spa
ESPA products (a favorite of mine) are an integral player in most of the treatments offered at the Spa at Nizuc. Though I cherished my massage treatments and facial during my stay, by far my most favorite feature of this spa is the Thermal Experience. The Thermal Experience is an orchestration of varied water pressures, plunges, and steam all in varied but calculated temperatures.
Another unique feature I found at this spa is the “Be Mindful” series of treatments spanning over three days. This special series includes the Thermal Experience among other rituals, and helps you get a grasp on the moment – and your health.
I opted for the ESPA Facial and Feel Perfect Massage in addition to the Silk Effect Salt & Oil Scrub. The personalized ESPA Facial focuses on your skin’s needs, and I customized the Feel Perfect Massage to focus on my back, neck, and feet. Towards the end of our stay I indulged in the Silk Effect Salt and Oil Scrub after a deep tissue massage. This Mayan-inspired signature therapy uses a heavenly blend of sea salts and oils to thoroughly massage, exfoliate, and hydrate your skin.
More Spa Finds I Adore
I always think it’s notable to share when a spa offers something significant to the culture it stemmed from. The Nizuc Resort and Spa has a variety of traditional Mayan treatments including the use of pure agave and cacao in treatments. The NIZUC Renewal, as described on their website, is “Inspired by the Mayan’s use of healing stones and herbs, this treatment will soothe the mind and cocoon the body in pure relaxation. The treatment begins with the purification of the skin using natural sea salts and pure Mexican agave. The body is massaged with warm gemstones revered by the Mayan’s for their healing properties. The treatment concludes with a meditative scalp massage.”
I’ve been traveling to Mexico my entire life, and my expectations for my trips are always far exceeded! Nizuc Resort and Spa’s wellness options and memorable activities have truly enhanced my life well beyond my special time spent there and I look forward to returning.
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