Sometimes I’m a little bit of everything. Sometimes I want a vacation where I have no plans but to eat and lie by the pool all day. Sometimes I need a base to shop and be in the thick of it all. And sometimes I long for the peace and quiet and serenity of isolation.

So, when Quintana Roo invited us to Mexico for a week I knew I wanted to try it all. For me, but also for you. Here are three places I stayed on my recent visit that just may help you decided on your next visit to the Riviera Maya.

The all-inclusive indulgent mega resort

The Grand Moon Palace

Perfect for families

If you’ve never wanted to visit an all-inclusive resort I’m not sure how we can ever be friends. There’s nothing more relaxing than having every need of yours met in a gourmet and delightful way.

Our room was located in The Grand Moon Palace. A more opulent setting I can’t imagine.

Honestly, there was no reason to leave and we attempted to explore as much as we could. The grounds are huge so explore on foot or grab any number of golf carts speeding around. From water slides to the bowling club, to the gaming arcade. We even had a dance in the onsite nightclub. And relaxed by one of several pools. The pool sits directly on the beach so you get the best of both worlds.

I loved the eating choices at The Grand. We did not have long enough to try even half of them, there were so many choices. During our short stay, we got to eat at the Steakhouse, the Italian restaurant, the café, and two breakfast places, plus enjoy their delicious and prompt room service. I wish we had had time to visit the Lebanese restaurant, we didn’t, but we did get a chance to watch the belly dancers.

Did I mention the giant jacuzzi in our room? And it’s all inclusive so all that alcohol in the cupboard? Go to town.

Check prices on my favourite hotel finder here.

(Why is it my favourite hotel booking site?)

The funky, central boutique hotel

The Palm at Playa

Perfect for couples

Located on a side street off of 5th Avenue the location of The Palm at Playa was fantastic. And surprisingly quiet.

Our one-bedroom suite came with a bedroom, lounge room and a bathroom bigger than my partner’s apartment in St Kilda. The double showers were just spectacular.

The rooftop bar and pool were a delightful place to spend a warm Mexican evening.

Or a short walk from the hotel was Aldo, for an ice cream that will conquer all other ice creams.

Breakfast starts with a fruit platter

I love the shopping and dining so close to The Palm. And if you plan a day trip to Cozumel like we did it’s also an easy walk. As were the pickups for any tours like Xplore and Xichen Itza.

Check prices on my favourite hotel finder here.

The close-to-nature glamping experience

Akumal Natura Glamping

Perfect for eco-tourists

Looking to get close to nature consider your own tent surrounded by cenotes at Akumal Natura. This is any nature lovers dream spot. But beware the mosquitos are savage. Bring a strong repellent.

Camp in style with a king size bed, electricity, Wi-Fi, and even a bathroom. There is no hot water, but it will be delivered to your tent in the morning.

This place also had one of the best dinners we had during our stay in Mexico. We were surprised by the quality of food produced by one older lady cooking alone in the kitchen.

Wander down to one of the cenotes for a swim. The water was cold so we only managed to get our feet in, but was rewarded with very smooth feet after. Tiny black fishes nibble away all the dead skin on your feet. The sensation is both ticklish and creepy. But the result is natures very own pedicure spa… without the toe paint.

There’s a yoga hut for morning meditations and day lounges for all-day relaxation.

Check prices on my favourite hotel finder here.

I want to know! Which would most likely be your choice? Please comment below!

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