riviera maya – stray with rae

Eight Things to Do at Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya

December 7, 2016February 28, 2018 by Michelle Rae, posted in Slumber

I recently stayed at the Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya, an all-inclusive resort from the world famous brand. While it may not have been an obvious choice of resort for me personally, I have to say that I had a great time. My short stay there actually changed my mind about the brand.

I’m happy to report that I would definitely stay at an all-inclusive Hard Rock Hotel again given the chance. Not only is the property stunning and elegant, but it also offers a number of features you’d be hard pressed to find in other all-inclusive resorts in Cancun and Riviera Maya.

If you’re looking for awesome things to do in Riviera Maya, Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya will probably have you covered for at least 3 days of your visit. That’s because the hotel offers so much eight things you should definitely experience when staying at the Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya:

Stay in a Deluxe Platinum Sky Terrace at Heaven

If you’re not traveling with kids, Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya’s adults-only section, aptly called Heaven, is definitely the way to go. It’s quieter, more relaxing and less chaotic. Have a bigger budget? Then splurging on a Deluxe Platinum Sky Terrace suite is the way to go. This two-floor suite comes with the luxurious furnishings and amenities plus a private rooftop (second floor) with a big Jacuzzi. A dip in a private hot tub under that stars, anyone? Have the staff set it up for you, and bring up some drinks from your in-room stash!

Note: this room option is also available on the family-friendly Hacienda side.

Stay Active and Attend a LES MILLS Fitness Class

Working out may be the last thing in your mind when you’re staying at an all-inclusive resort like Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya. But trust me when I tell you that the LES MILLS classes that the resort has on offer for its guests are worth experiencing. They currently have 13 different fitness classes available. And they’re all pretty awesome as LES MILLS integrates a motivating pop music soundtrack with every workout, making them fun to do. And their instructors are very positive and inspiring. BODYCOMBAT (a kickboxing type workout) is a particular favorite of mine, but they have everything from BODYFLOW (a Yoga, Tai Chi and Pilates inspired workout) to BODYJAM (a dance and cardio BJ workout). This means that there are options for every taste and level. So don’t forget to pack your workout clothes or buy the super comfy LES MILLS+REEBOK ones.

Join a Paddle Boarding Tour

Exploring coves and lagoons must be at the top of your list of things to do in Riviera Maya. And Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya’s beach is essentially divided into several different naturally protected coves. And the waters in each of these coves are so calm that they feel like they’re manmade pools. So they’re great for paddle boarding, and perfect for those who have never done the sport before and want to learn. The all-inclusive resort only currently offers paddle boarding through a guided tour on certain days every week. But it’s worth doing. Check their current paddle boarding tour schedule and make sure to register in advance.

Go Sailing and Wine Tasting at Sunset

Partnering with popular excursion company Riviera Maya Adventures, Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya offers guests a sailing cruise as part of their excursion packages. We opted for something a little different and instead went at sunset and did a little wine tasting. On our version of the excursion (which isn’t currently offered to guests) we got to do a Mexican-style wine and cheese (and charcuterie) pairing with the hotel’s very own sommelier. We got to sample different Mexican wines whilst enjoying lovely views of the sunset. And you might even get a glimpse of passing rays and sea lions. We did!

Reconnect with Yourself in a Temazcal

Temazcal is an Igloo-shaped sauna-type lodge that’s traditionally used in many parts of Mexico. It’s supposed to have physical and spiritual healing benefits, and used by people to get away from the outside world and just reconnect with with one’s self. It’s become a trend, in fact, and one of the more Mayan-related things to do in Riviera Maya. Today, many resorts have started to open Temazcal experiences to their guests, Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya including. At the resort, an actual shaman is with you throughout the whole ritual, which involves several steps, including a Mayan blessing ceremony with amber. It’s a unique and cathartic spa treatment that every person should experience at least once.

Warning: If you’re extremely claustrophobic or have certain medical conditions, this might not be the experience for you.

Get the Rhythm and Motion Massage at the Rock Spa

I opted for an aromatherapy message at the Rock Spa, and there wasn’t really anything special about it. However, the other ladies that I went with chose to do Hard Rock brand’s signature Synchronicity Massage, which is part of their Rhythm and Motion offering. A very unique spa menu, Rhythm and Motion is the world’s first fully immersive music-centric spa menu utilizing amplified vibrations produced by several rock and pop songs and couples them with different massage pressures and patterns that change with the rhythm. While this may not sound very relaxing, it’s apparently quite calming and effective. And, as it is something different, it’s definitely worth a try.

Pay for an Over-the-Water Cabana

Hard Rock Riviera Maya has several cabanas all over the property. If you have the budget for it (as it’s not included in the all-inclusive package), it’s definitely worth renting one for the day. If you’re loaded, rent one for your whole stay. And opt for the over-the-water ones. The ones on the beach are nice, but these over-the-water ones have the perfect view of the sun rising and they have direct access to the water. They’re also great for those who love the water but are not particularly fond of sand.

Party at Club Heaven

I’m not necessarily a party or club person and I’m also not very fond of club crowds in general. But clubbing is a typical part of the experience and one of the usual things to do in Riviera Maya. And once in a while I do enjoy going to clubs and letting lose. To be honest, I actually had a lot of fun partying at Club Heaven, Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya’s onsite club. It’s famous for the indoor pool and two Jacuzzis that are set in the middle right in front of the DJ booth. This means that you can take a dip in the pool as you party or when you get too hot from dancing.

If you want to splurge, reserving a private booth for your party is definitely worth it as it can get pretty crowded. Plus, you’ll pretty much have a server constantly checking up on you to see if you need anything.

Vignettes of NEST Tulum

November 29, 2016February 28, 2018 by Michelle Rae, posted in Slumber

From its quiet sandy path that winds past its beautiful, minimalist rooms to its idyllic beach lined with comfortable beach beds and cabanas, the 9-room boutique property of NEST Tulum is simply perfection. Nestled along Tulum‘s hotel zone, it boasts wonderful rooms that boast the plushest beds, exquisite furnishing, cute Mexican accents, delicious bathroom amenities, and no TVs so guests can unplug and simply unwind. Some of them, including my Tower Two room, feature balcony views of the ocean.

It’s since become one of my favorite properties.

Keep an eye out for my review of the property on TravelPulse. In the meantime, see my photos of the property below so you have an idea of how amazing this property is.

Processed with VSCO with c2 preset

Processed with VSCO with c2 preset

Discovering Tulum

November 22, 2016February 28, 2018 by Michelle Rae, posted in North America, Wander

To say it simply, I was astounded. From my cab, I watched the scenes and the atmosphere change from decidedly mainstream and touristy to appealingly low key and bohemian. After more than an hour’s drive from Cancun, I was finally in Tulum, Mexico.

I’m almost ashamed to admit that until a few months ago, I didn’t even know that this part of Mexico existed. I don’t mean the famous ruins; I have been to those several times before. I mean the modern town of Tulum itself and its hotel zone, which runs along a beautiful, sparkling coast. Both have remained fairly hidden to most of Riviera Maya’s tourist population, which of course is part of their allure. They are, however, famous with artists as well as yogis seeking a tranquil retreat.

I came to Tulum’s hotel zone for a story: to do research on the string of bohemian, boutique hotels that apparently imbue the area. But as I sat in my cab, still uncomfortably wet from my snorkeling trip to MUSA, I was already falling in love.

Far from the polished vibe of Cancun and even Playa del Carmen, Tulum carries itself in a very unflashy, understated fashion. The locals are dressed down and get around by bikes, many of the hotels, shops and restaurants are made of wood or adobe, and most structures are only two to three floors high. And the long stretch of fine, pearly white sand beach that runs along its shallow coast is so quiet and unburdened with crowds. So despite the very chic and modern establishments that are continually setting roots there, it still boasts a very relaxed, very mellow feel, which I absolutely loved.

Although I was mainly there for work, I couldn’t quite resist mixing business with pleasure. It’s hard not to; Tulum has a way of getting people to slow down and just unwind.

Luckily, I chose the perfect hotel to do just that. With just 9 suites, NEST Tulum is one of the smallest boutique hotels in the area. This gives the hotel a feeling of homelike intimacy and exclusivity. But it also means that securing an empty beach cabana, which is my favorite part of the hotel, is much less of a struggle than if you were in a large, all-inclusive property.

I adored the rooms at this boutique hotel, of course. They are all accessible from the narrow, tree-lined, sandy path that runs through the property and leads directly to the beach. They all have this vibe of being tucked and hidden, even though some have doors that face a more communal area. They all have gorgeous, minimalist bathrooms and the most comfortable beds. Plus, each one has its own personality and is furnished uniquely with local Mexican products such as the beautiful fabrics that the owner has collected from his travels all over Mexico. (I especially adored my 2nd floor Tower Two room, which afforded the perfect view of the SUPER MOON and easy access to the rooftop.)

I also appreciated the amazing food from their newly opened restaurant. NEST Tulum’s restaurant may be tiny. But it also serves the most delicious breakfast—guests get to pick between two options, both of which are complimentary—that you get to enjoy outdoors next to the beach as you listen to the sounds of the lapping waves. More importantly, they make fantastic shrimp ceviche, amazing margaritas and to die for tacos. These I made a point of feasting on right on the beach.

Which brings me back to my original point: NEST Tulum’s beach cabanas are my favorite part of the property. It’s there where I spent much of my short time in Tulum, when I wasn’t working that is. And I got to unwind and spend some time alone while indulging on food, watching the sun rise and set, and taking glorious naps.

Borrowing a bike from the hotel, I did manage to explore the hotel zone for a little bit. I realized that it was not only lined with boutique hotels and restaurants, but also teeming with spas, yoga retreats, bicycle rental shops and artisanal shops. I did a bit of shopping, waved to a few locals along the way, and even made friends with an adorable puppy who decided he was going to follow me the rest of the way.

Regrettably, I only had a day and a half to spend in Tulum. Leaving it certainly wasn’t easy. Not just because it was nice to unwind and not do anything for once, but also because there are still a lot of things to see and do there. But at least I managed to squeeze in another nap on the beach, and I did make a promise to come back someday soon.

Hotel Review: The Royal Playa del Carmen, Dressed Down Yet Elegant

May 28, 2016February 28, 2018 by Michelle Rae, posted in Slumber

A tranquil courtyard, green and decorated here and there with unusual metal sculptures, led arriving guests from The Royal Playa del Carmen‘s enormous lobby to the pools and the beach beyond. Standing there, it’s quite easy to fully appreciate the resort’s allure. Six or so elegantly beautiful Mexican hacienda-style structures, painted white for a more modern flair, rise above you in their modest grandness, their doric columns and intricate iron railing balconies both intimate and inviting.

Processed with VSCO with c3 preset — The Royal Playa del Carmen

Courtyard at The Royal Playa del Carmen

The Royal Playa del Carmen

Back in the courtyard, two paths on the opposite sides lead to the pool area, where two big pools sit, busy with guests enjoying their fruity cocktails and flanked with at least two hot tubs, possibly a couple hundred lounge chairs and several curtained cabanas, all arranged in a very appealing way. From here, you can hear the sounds of the waves as they kiss the beach, the famous Playa del Carmen beach, that lay just a few steps beyond.

DSCF4317 — View from my hotel suite at The Royal Playa del Carmen

DSCF4316 — View from my hotel suite at The Royal Playa del Carmen

I was almost sad to leave the brilliant blue waters of Cancun behind, which was where I was until an hour earlier. But walking onto that serene, cream-colored beach and seeing that familiar turquoise waters of the Riviera Maya again after so many months, I am reminded of why I prefer it over Cancun’s partying ways.

It was here where, a little over a year ago, I fell in love with the Yucatan Peninsula and this unfailingly intriguing country. Having a smaller budget then, I made do with a cheap-ish studio apartment that turned out to be more expensive than its actually worth. Picture rough sheets, no air conditioning to take shelter from the tropical heat, a ceiling fan that sounded as if it was about to fly off its base any minute to shred me to bits in my sleep, and the occasional roach in the tiny bathroom that, judging from their gigantic size, could also possibly murder me during slumber. The only good thing that AirBnB find had going for it, in fact, was that it was just a short stroll from Playa’s main tourist strip.

This time around, I find myself, with incredible relief, surrounded in luxury. With over 500 upscale rooms, the all-inclusive Royal Playa del Carmen is an adults-only, beachfront property whose well-appointed suites boasts a massive bathroom, a Jacuzzi, and at times, a private plunge pool. It comes, undeniably, with palatial elegance, from its architecture down to the excellent service, but that elegance is also somehow charmingly subdued. It is, in other words, posh without being stuffy and superior, upscale but sincerely friendly. It’s one of the many things I love about it.

I also love its abundance of delightful surprises that you’ll truly be hard-pressed to find in other properties, let alone in an all-inclusive one. Consider, for example, its quiet pool area–a gorgeous hidden gem that you wouldn’t know existed until either somebody told you or you just happened to discover it while getting lost in the resort’s expansive grounds. Consider nearby the onsite coffee shop–an unusual thing for an all-inclusive property–that serves proper lattes and is always ready with plates of cookies and muffins for afternoon indulging.

Consider also the spa, whose bamboo-enclosed outdoor massage area may just be as glorious as those ones on the beach, the 24-hour snack bar where you can grab delicious snacks as well as good wine and cerveza any time of the day, the balcony hammocks that you wouldn’t have to fight anyone for, the pool concierge who is ready to lend a hand when you’ve run out of sunscreen, and even the friendly stray cats the staff has kindly allowed to stay on property for guests to dote on.

And I love the food, the delicious fares of Brazilian, Asian Fusion, Spanish, Mediterranean, Caribbean, and French Mexican type cuisines that you can indulge in, guilt-free because you are, after all, on vacation. And because it’s hard to stay at this resort and not indulge. The sheer loveliness of it, whether bathed in sunshine or swathed in dusky blue, will make anyone drop their guard and simply revel in anything and everything.

Conchas and cappuccino for breakfast

Salad and cheese plate at the Brazilian restaurant at The Royal Playa del Carmen

Though most of all, I love that it’s one of those places where you, without meaning to, just automatically drop your shoulders, straighten your spine and walk as if you’re wearing a thousand dollar dress. But really you know no one will look down their noses at you if you’re sweating through your cheap, Target-bought top after just getting back from exploring the ruins of Tulum under that sweltering, unforgiving midday sun.

Or when, on your last day, you just happen to take a slip on an oversized sandbag while you were walking on a neighboring beach (because why wouldn’t you?), and you’re walking back to your suite all gross, your legs sandy and your bottom algae-covered.

Ten Important Things to Know When Traveling to Mexico

December 28, 2015February 28, 2018 by Michelle Rae, posted in North America, Travel Tips, Wander

The enchanting land south of the border is one of the best destinations you’ll ever explore in your life. But like any other destination, there are things you must keep in mind during your visit to Mexico to guarantee your health and safety as well as to avoid unfortunate incidents that might ruin your vacation.

We’ve been to and explored different parts of this beautiful country now, and we’ve learned quite a few things during those visits that we’d like to share with you. Here are some important things you should keep in mind when traveling to Mexico.

Plan out (and book, if possible) your transportation before you go. Unlike in first world countries, finding transportation in most parts of Mexico does not come easy. Public transportation, even in big cities like Cancun, while extensive, is not as modern and easy to figure out. And in some places, driving is not recommended for tourists. Do a lot of research before you go. Determine if it’s safe to drive a rental car around the area you’re visiting (the Riviera Maya and Puerto Vallarta are great examples) or figure out which public buses you can take to get you places and whether cabs are available for convenience. Better yet, have your hotel arrange drop offs and pick-ups for you.

Roaming plan goes a long way. Mobile service providers usually offer fairly inexpensive roaming plans that should cover you during your visit. Don’t make the same mistake we made and purchase one before your trip. It comes very handy if you’ll find yourself stuck somewhere because you missed the last bus or if there’s an emergency.

Don’t drink the water. Unless you’re staying at a resort that treats their water (Velas Vallarta, for example), don’t drink tap water in Mexico. Don’t drink it, don’t brush your teeth with it. Just don’t. It’s probably safe for the locals, but not for you. Buy bottled water from the grocery store and use that as if your life depended on it… because it probably does.

Processed with VSCOcam with f2 preset — Las Tlayudas de Playa, Playa del Carmen | Photo: Michelle Rae

IMG_3200-2 — Tlayudas from Las Tlayudas de Playa | Photo: Michelle Rae

IMG_3275-2 — Carnitas with chicharron in Playa del Carmen | Photo: Michelle Rae

Eat at local, non-touristy restaurants. Mexico has some of the best dishes we’ve ever had in our life – carnitas with chicharron as well as roasted chicken in PlayaCar, battered fish and shrimp tacos AND ceviche in Ensenada, carne asada tacos in the Riviera Maya, simply because we braved eating at local restaurants and food stands that most tourists don’t usually go to. Just make sure to do research beforehand and eat at those spots that get more traffic, so you don’t risk food poisoning. Travel and eat smart!

Our short list of Mexico restaurant recommendations to come soon!

Processed with VSCOcam with c1 preset — Local fishermen in Yelapa, Jalisco | Photo: Michelle Rae

Staircase in Downtown Puerto Vallarta | Photo: Michelle Rae

Guadalupe Valley, Baja California | Photo: Michelle Rae

Go off the beaten path. Don’t miss out on wonderful finds simply because you’re too afraid to stray just a little. Yes, some parts of Mexico are dangerous, but what most people do not realize is that the country is massive and most of it is safe, with locals who are warm, friendly and welcoming. Again, stay smart and do your research; but don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path. You’ll be rewarded with beautiful beaches, adorable small towns, and probably some of the best memories.

_DSF4089-1 — Chichen Itza | Photo: Michelle Rae

Learn some Spanish. It doesn’t matter whether you’re visiting a town under the radar or staying in a resort destination – it’s very likely that you’ll come across non-English speaking locals who you’re going to have to communicate with, even if it’s for something as simple as asking for plastic utensils at a restaurant. And learning a few basic words and phrases will help a great deal.

Carry cash. Small restaurants, some shops, taxis, buses and food stands especially do not accept credit or debit cards, so do make sure to carry enough cash around. Having cash around also makes it easier to tip your servers as well as the hotel staff. (And yes, they do tip in Mexico!)

Get a fast pass when crossing the border. Driving into Mexico from the US is so easy it’s kinda eerie, but driving back is a completely different story entirely. In fact, you might spend a few hours waiting in line in your car at the border crossing station with hundreds of other cars, and that’s not at all fun. See if your hotel offers fast passes for their guests; you’ll still have to wait in line but these fast passes can get you on the “fast lane” and cut a couple of hours off your wait time.

In Baja California near the | Photo: Michelle Rae

Skip the souvenir shops and buy the more authentic products instead. Trust us, most products you’ll find at a souvenir shop in Cancun, you’ll most likely find at a different souvenir shop in Cabo. When shopping for mementos to take home, look for stores that sell the more authentic products – Catrina sculptures, locally produced coffee and indigenous artworks are a few examples.

IMG_6436-2 — Cool metal sculptures on the Malecon in Puerto Vallarta | Photo: Michelle Rae

Don’t pay to take photos with the animals. During your explorations, you’ll meet a couple of locals who will invite you to hold and take photos with an adorable lion or panther cub they happen to be carrying for a few dollars. It’s hard to resist, we know, especially if you’re an animal lover like us. However, the sad truth is these cubs are drugged to keep them tame and safe for tourists to handle, probably mistreated, and then dumped when they’re too old. We actually called a couple of animal rescue centers in the Riviera Maya the first time we encountered such activity, and they told us that some of these people are employed by drug cartels. Please, please do not support and encourage this type of activity.

Why Touristy Riviera Maya is a Must-See Paradise

May 2, 2015February 28, 2018 by Michelle Rae, posted in North America, Wander

First, head to the beach, the glistening beach, with its fine sand and its lapping, deliciously warm, blue-green waves and the occasional half-buried boulder that hides a massive iguana blissfully unconcerned with all the foot traffic around him. The beaches here, every bit as “Caribbean” as their Caribbean neighbors, almost single-handedly makes the trip worth every penny and every hour sitting in an enclosed space thousands of feet above ground.

Later, spread out and explore – the beach will be there when you get back. Upon closer look, you’ll realize there’s more to this popular vacation destination than its beaches and the overwhelming number of resorts.

Mysterious cenotes – some too deep to reach the bottom, inlets, and lagoons offer unique swimming opportunities. Well-preserved Mayan ruins, built around 1200 A.D. atop a cliff in Tulum, transport visitors back to a once glorious time. Exotic wildlife, both on land and underwater, present a chance to interact with nature. Aquatic and cultural theme parks like Xel-Ha and Xcaret provide fun recreation for both kids and adults.

And then there are the vibrant and ever friendly locals who greet you like an old friend coming home after a long absence.

Even beyond that, there’s more to experience. Venture away from the tourist spots and walk the local streets of Playa del Carmen. Have your fill of the best tacos you’ll ever have in your life. Try off-the-beaten-path eateries that serve cheap delicacies like authentic tlayudas and delicious kastacan. And, of course, brush up on your tongue-rolling Spanish.

There’s a good reason – or rather, many wonderful reasons – why families, couples, and singles, the young and the old, from many parts of the world, are drawn to this strip on the eastern shore of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. From its beautiful shores to its incredible Mayan ruins to its local haunts, the Riviera Maya is every bit a paradise.

Touristy, yes, but a paradise nonetheless.

This article originally appeared on Huffington Post.

The Riviera Maya

May 1, 2015February 28, 2018 by Michelle Rae, posted in North America, Wander

On the western side of the Caribbean, 940 miles from Cuba, is the Riviera Maya – a little piece of paradise where lush, green cliffs decorated with stunning ruins of a once great civilization meet fine, powdery sand and warm, Caribbean blue waters. A coastal corridor south of Cancun, the region is a definite tourist enclave; yet during the slow season when most people are distracted with their usual routines, here – where the simple yet continually vibrant local life is more apparent than the big resorts (that entice vacationers and promise luxuries but at a steep price) it coexists with – is where a weary soul can find respite.