The Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya opens December 12 in the Mexican Caribbean, north of Playa del Carmen. The hotel’s 214 rooms are in 28 buildings and, true to Mayakoba’s other hotels, overlook lagoons, mangroves and the golf course; some overlook the Caribbean. All have terraces or balconies; 41 suites have private plunge pools. And minibars have a wide array of offerings, including local artisan beer and tea.
The entire resort sits on 590 acres, with oceanfront, mangrove and lagoon settings. This is the Andaz brand’s first foray into Mexico, and true to its ethos, Andaz says it is embracing its surrounding natural elements. This means that the resort melds in well with its tropical environment. For example, a circular water feature and oculus in the main lobby are inspired by Mayakoba’s cenotes, which are underground reservoirs of water.
There are four dining venues. If you’re trying out Casa Amate, the Latin American restaurant, we hear that Beef Pachamanca, a Peruvian dish, is the recommended option. (Think beef cooked in a clay plate over hot stones with green peas, baby corn, sweet potato and potato over creamy corn).
Guests will have access to the Naum Spa, which has six treatment rooms and treats guests using Mayan methods. We hear the vibe is designed to fit with the jungle setting and that the resort also has a 24-hour gym. Details were still being worked out at press time, but we did learn that products for the treatments will be from locally sourced ingredients. Complementing the serenity of the spa are three pools, of which one is next to a secluded beach.
There are some neat Andaz touches to the new resort. A local photographer will provide photo and video shoots to guests in various settings on property. Lessons on how to speak the Mayan language will be on tap, as will a Tacology class aimed at showing you how to prepare tacos. Fancy a fun bar scene? Olla Ceviche and Olla Taco will serve up locally crafted beer and tequila tastings, live entertainment and a DJ.
Book the resort, which is located 40 minutes from Cancun International Airport, at least six months out for the festive season if you’re seeking a specific room type, and for the period between November and April.