Rosewood Mayakoba

This resort is, not unexpectedly, a complete paradise. But what is exquisitely special is the warmth and inclusion of the staff. If you are lucky enough to arrive on a beautiful day, like we did, you'll take a short boat ride along the small river to meet your butler who will accompany you to your suite. Our primary butler was Gaby. She attended to our every need -- from making our reservations to small surprises. She worked seamlessly with the other members of the team to arrange transportation, too. Our suite was impeccable. The most gorgeous, toes-in-sand view of the ocean, a plunge pool, and daily beach set up, always ready for us. Our beach attendants were perfectly attentive. We enjoyed complimentary snacks each day from cucumber with tamarind to churros and caramel. Beach menu and service were similarly impeccable. The spa has a remarkable river view with welcoming staff and an assortment of offerings. A 90 minute massage is the perfect start to a stay! There is no end to the dining options as you can pick from Rosewood's offerings or the adjacent properties. The primary breakfast spot is a highlight of the property. Like many of the other options, it offers a gorgeous pool and river view. We had amazing service here from the hostess to the servers each charming in their own right. The Continental breakfast is excellent, but don't miss the menu offerings either. My spouse and I argue over which dish is the best, but do your best to try them all! The Heuvos Divorciados is delicious but the traditional pancakes are also just right on a rainy day. For dinner on property, one highlight was Agave Azul. It offers sushi but so much more plus a fantastic river view. You can also dine at Zapote Bar and enjoy live music and inspired, fresh cuisine. Truly a not-to-be missed adventure is La Ceiba Garden and Kitchen, a community dinner offered Wednesday and Saturday in the stunning greenhouse. The scenery is beautiful, but what is most remarkable is the way in which the staff (we were hosted by Sylvia whose enthusiasm and warmth are absolutely contagious) folds you into the moment and welcomes your visit to the culture of the evening. It is truly a sensory experience -- fresh herbs scenting the air, a fire pit in the distance, the chef (Jonathan Alvarado! I hope to enjoy his meals again soon), sous chefs, hostess and other attendants circulating and sharing their enthusiasm for the cuisine and culture they are sharing, the musicians strumming and meeting the moment of the celebration. If all of that wasn't enough, we were lucky enough to have our dinner on the night that wine importer Mary Taylor was visiting, offering her wines, and sharing her own story. It is appropriately adults only but goodness it was a shining star experience. The beach does have sand whales in the distance but the water in October was warm and clear, very little seaweed, and a perfect ripple to the ocean. We are beach, not pool, people but both

Wow, Wow, wow, and Wow—the service here is over the top perfect. There are smiles galore and a "whatever you need" attitude. You will not want to leave. After Check-in, you are escorted to a cute little boat and taken to your room, where a butler is waiting on the patio for you. The rooms are large and comfortable with great amenities. The food is top-notch. I can't wait to return!!!