I don’t think I’ve ever seen anyone look this blissed out. The man practically floats out of the spa at Grand Residences Riviera Cancun, making his way back towards the infinity pool and the white sand beach. He doesn’t seem to have a care in the world. I want that look. I need that look! Perusing the spa’s extensive menu, I simplify my choice: could I have what he had?
The spectacular treatment turns out to be the Lomi-Lomi massage. Based on ancient Hawaiian philosophy and healing techniques, this massage works the body and relaxes the mind. An hour later the kink in my neck has disappeared, the knots are gone from my back, and I have the exact same blissed-out look on my face. It lasts my entire stay at Grand Residences Riviera Cancun.
This five-star resort is on a quiet beach in the fishing village of Puerto Morelos, which is between Cancun and Playa del Carmen. Puerto Morelos has a handful of hotels sprinkled along its seemingly endless white sand beach. The best is Grand Residences Riviera Cancun.
The hotel is aptly named. The all-suite accommodations are equipped and decorated like a real home, so you don’t feel like you’re in an anonymous hotel room. Although … I can’t think of too many homes I’ve been in that have the special services Grand Residences offers, like magical replenishments of treats and Bulgari amenities, and evening turndown service with gifts of tiny alebrijes folk art sculptures.
My grand one-bedroom suite has a full kitchen, laundry, dining table for eight, living room, large bedroom, and a balcony which has chaises longues, another dining table for eight, and a jetted tub. My bathroom has two walk-in closets, his- and hers- sink areas, a shower room, separate toilet room, and another jetted tub.
Grand Residences Riviera Cancun currently has 144 of these suites, from junior in size to immense ones with four bedrooms. Some have their own private pool. They’re laid out in a handful of low buildings clustered around central courtyards with sunken mangrove gardens, a lap pool, kids club, restaurants, and an immense tiered infinity pool overlooking the beach. Two buildings sit right on the beach.
While you can cook for yourself in-room, dining at Grand Residences is exceptional. Meals can be purchased à la carte or on an all-inclusive basis. One restaurant specializes in authentic Mexican and Mayan dishes, another has a menu which changes throughout the week. In the lobby, there’s an espresso bar and a patio for afternoon tea, complete with finger sandwiches and pastries. At the beach, have lunch with your feet in the sand or try a tequila tasting.
The town of Puerto Morelos is a short drive away, though it’s easy to drive to Cancun or Playa del Carmen too. I highly recommend Puerto Morelos’ Tulaka Diving for a reef-conscious way to explore the underwater world of the Mayan Riviera, whether by snorkel or scuba. The waters off Puerto Morelos have been protected by the Puerto Morelos Reef National Park since 1998, so the reef and sea life are in excellent condition. I saw colourful fish, an abundance of sea fans and even a sleeping 1.5m nurse shark (which are not dangerous at all to humans).
Grand Residences Riviera Cancun is ideal for couples, families (kids under 12 stay for free, and can enjoy the kids club), and for special events like weddings. As a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, you can be assured that your stay will be just about perfect.
From US$328 for two-person occupancy, inclusive of roundtrip airport transfer, wifi, and many treats. Kids under 12 stay free. Bed and breakfast and all-inclusive packages available too.
– Lovely staff who are always attuned to whatever you might need
– Gorgeous white sand beach and several pools
– Have I mentioned the Lomi Lomi massage at the spa?!
– Though there’s occasional live music in the evenings, Grand Residences isn’t the right hotel for those looking to party
Johanna Read
Contributing Editor
The St John is fabulously located right in the heart of Valletta, within a stone’s throw of quirky wine bars, al fresco dining, leafy squares and historic buildings.
The foyer is simply beautiful, with large vases of colourful blooms and neutral toned decor. The space is flooded with light, from the internal glass ceiling, the magnificent chandeliers and clever use of large mirrors. This boutique gem has been intriguingly designed throughout, with open staircases, secluded courtyards and internal windows to combat any dark corners associated with a 17th-century building on a narrow street. The 21 rooms (comfort, superior or 2-room suites for families) are surprisingly modern and very comfortable, making full use of hi-tech features such as internet TV, a digital light-controlling console and a top-of-the-range coffee machine.
The breakfast buffet is an informal affair in the next-door hipster bar, the ‘Cheeky Monkey’, which has an evening menu and is a trendy stop for a crepe or a craft beer.
The 24-hour reception offers friendly help whatever you need. There are currently limited hotels in Valletta. This has to be one of the best for location, friendliness and uber-stylish comfort.
Travelling around the city from the St John could not be easier, walking or by boat. Whichever direction you wander you’ll find views across the water to the Three Cities on the opposite side of the harbour and to the immense cruise ships which majestically glide into the sunset.
From US$190 including breakfast
– Steps away from bustling pedestrianised streets
– Quiet and stylish space
– Thoughtful in-room extra features
– City on street parking only
– No parking immediately near hotel
– Limited tables in the Cheeky Monkey bar/ bistro
Chris & Hannah
Directors
Tucked incongruously between adjacent buildings, the Palazzo Capua is an oasis of historic tranquillity nestled within Malta’s lively and trendy Sliema district.
The Palazzo itself was built 200 years ago as a luxury residence and still retains an elegant glamour with its impressive colonnades, sweeping staircase, wide verandas and intricate styling.
The hotel is quiet, with only five suites on the first floor and a conference facility on ground level. The reception is at the Victoria Hotel next door, but the lack of bustle adds to its tranquil charm, as when you close the main doors behind you it does feel like you have the place to yourselves.
Four of the five suites have a bedroom mezzanine, with a comfortable living space ideally separate from where you sleep. Generous balconies are perfect for soaking up the warm evening atmosphere.
The Palazzo shares facilities with the Victoria next door, which is more traditional in style and decor. You can breakfast in the busy Copperfield’s restaurant, or grab a drink in the bar (authentically themed as a British pub). Themed buffet nights are offered in both the Victoria and its sister hotel, the Palace, which is distinct in character again, being much more modern and sleek, with a five-star rating. There are a further five dining and drinking options within the two hotels for use by Palazzo guests.
The wow factor of the Victoria and Palace hotels, again which benefits Palazzo guests, is the interconnected seventh-floor leisure club. The indoor pool is a welcome addition offseason. But its the outdoor infinity pool with simply incredible views across the cityscape which will make you want to grab a cocktail and your camera and stay a while.
Heading out, you are very close to wander along the bustling promenade, cool off in one of the coastal stone pools, browse the shopping malls (many familiar UK brands) or try out the varied Maltese and international menus.
From US$140 including breakfast
– Reasonably-priced underground parking
– Quiet and spacious
– Private, luxury atmosphere
– Facilities located in adjacent hotels a short walk away
Chris & Hannah
Directors
The Solmar brand is coveted by those in the know. Solmar has a handful of hotels in and around Cabo San Lucas. My stay is at Grand Solmar Land’s End, but I get a quick peek at the spectacular rooftop pools and incredible city and harbour views of The Ridge at Playa Grande, and also see the almost-endless beach where Grand Solmar at Rancho San Lucas will open in December 2017.
Grand Solmar Land’s End is the utmost in tranquillity and exclusiveness, thanks to its location as the last hotel on Playa Solmar. It’s right before the towering rocks at the tip of Land’s End that form Cabo San Lucas’ famous El Arco. The area is secluded and quiet, except for the crashing of the powerful waves rolling northward from the nearest land point — Antarctica.
I’m thrilled to be upgraded to a two-bedroom penthouse suite, complete with tv room, great room with full kitchen, dining table for eight, and couches next to glass doors leading out to a balcony that stretches half the width of the building. The spectacular view includes desert gardens, two restaurants, places to lounge, and several meandering pools, including an infinity pool overlooking the sandy beach and deep blue Pacific. Further along the beach east toward El Arco are more infinity pools, restaurants and the spa. Westward is the sunset infinity pool and spa cabanas overlooking the pounding surf.
All of Grand Solmar’s rooms are suites and can accommodate four or more comfortably. Even the smallest rooms are 68 square-metres and have a king bed, fold-down queen murphy bed, dining table for four, kitchen, and spacious balcony.
Though the resort is at capacity during my visit, it feels almost empty, thanks to the spacious design, excellent service, and the variety of pools, decks, restaurants and nooks and crannies. One of my favourite spots to eat is the sushi restaurant nestled against the towering rocks of Mount Solmar, complete with waterfall. I’m also partial to the quiet infinity pool near Las Brisas restaurant which also has a view of Cabo San Lucas’s brilliant red sunsets. I also enjoyed my lunch at the main pool, sitting at an in-water table in the shade with views of the sea, eating Solmar’s excellent ceviche.
Meal plans are available for those who wish to enjoy everything Grand Solmar has to offer. Downtown Cabo San Lucas with its variety of bars, restaurants and shops is a short walk away. Guests can cook in-room if they choose as well.
Grand studios from $497 US, plus optional meal plan.
Sleeping with my patio door open and listening to the waves as I drift off to sleep.
Luxurious pampering at the spa.
Solmar’s cuisine, especially their ceviche, beef tacos and the heavenly chocolate tamal.
The ocean at Solmar Beach is just for watching (you can often see whales in the winter!), but it’s too rough for swimming.
Johanna Read
Contributing Editor