Mexico is so hot right now; in travel terms, it’s definitely having a moment. With endless sunshine, delicious food and to-die-for beaches, it’s easy to see why its the honeymoon destination du jour.
Playa del Carmen, an hour from Cancún (catch a ride with Maritur’s comfy, chauffered cars) is home the super luxe Banyan Tree Mayakoba.
The world-renowned Thai chain has an outpost on Mexico’s sunny Yucatán coast just a few miles from central Playa Del Carmen. It shares a leafy private compound with the Rosewood and Fairmont hotels, but it’s so hidden in the tropical forest you’d think you were the only people around.
Private Villas
There are no rooms or suites at Banyan Tree Mayakoba; instead all guests stay in one- or two-floor private villas and every one of them has a private pool bordered by tall fences and trees.
Besides the pools, the single floor luxury bungalows also sport outdoor bathrooms – it’s fine in Mexico where the mercury rarely drops below 23°C, even in January. Therapists from the Banyan Tree Spa can arrange candlelit baths from the exclusive spa menu (rose petal bath anyone?), allowing you to soak together under the stars.
Interiors centre on beautiful Maya inspired designs with panoramic windows and huge beds to amp up the decadence.
Each villas also has the use of free bikes to explore the complex, which you should jump on if only to visit El Pueblito, the resort's recreation of an authentic Mexican plaza complete with restaurants, boutiques, a church (in which real weddings are held) - and an art gallery!
Image from Del Sol Photography
Saffron Restaurant
With its proud Thai heritage, it’s no surprise Banyan Tree’s signature restaurant, Saffron, serves contemporary Thai cuisine. Set amid tropical mangroves, it’s difficult to imagine a more perfect setting for a romantic honeymoon supper. Dine on the wooden deck for a magical foodie experience to remember.
The Rainforest Experience
Ready to take both the most relaxing yet invigorating shower of your life? Head to the spa and book in for the 60min signature Rainforest Indulgence experience.
The hydrothermal circuit takes you through an icy Rain Walk (more pleasurable than it sounds, promise) to saunas and chambers where colour, sound and scent change to transport you from tropical storms to morning mists and spring meadow drizzle.
It’s bonkers, but brilliant - and super refreshing. Finish in the Vitality Pool where hydro-massages and hot tubs are waiting.
Banyan Tree Mayakoba
www.BanyanTree.com
www.Maritur.com
As seen in Khush Wedding Autumn 2017 KW16. Buy this issue here