Here’s another all-inclusive optional resort to highlight–Grand Residences Riviera Cancun near Puerto Morelos in the Riviera Maya.  This one is an all-inclusive optional surprise since it’s a member of the Leading Hotels of the World.  Most highly acclaimed resorts in this area of Mexico are totally outside the all-inclusive market, were originally an all-inclusive resort, or have fully moved over to the all-inclusive market.  If you want to know its specific location, it is just south of the Puerto Morelos Marina and Now Jade resort with easy access to excursions leaving from the marina.

Since this resort is a Royal resort (Royal Resorts are major timeshare properties), expect condo-like/apartment-like accommodations, many with full kitchens and built-in washers and dryers.  This particular property has only 144 suites, so while it is on the small side it has a lot to offer.  Here’s some of its major amenities:

• very nice pool area with adults-only section complete with swim-up bar, family pool closer to the beach with a shallow children’s section, and a separate lap pool.
• two on-site restaurants (buffet for breakfast and lunch which turns into an a la carte for dinner, and a Mexican a la carte restaurant.  There is a poolside area which serves lunch as well.  Since this resort is part of the Royal Resorts family, guests can also access restaurants at the other Royal resorts (transportation to Cancun resorts is an extra cost).
• vegan and vegetarian food options
• three on-site bars
• 24-hr. room service
• on-site market if you forgot anything or want to buy some snacks or liquor for your room
• on-site spa and gym
• many classes offered including cooking and mixology classes, yoga, even a bicycle ride into Puerto Morelos is offered
• Kids Club
• the resort even has cribs, high chairs, and other baby gear upon request
• in-room amenities such as a welcome bottle of Mezcal, Bvlgari toiletries (the green one is my favorite–I actually hoarded them at Finest Playa Mujeres just so I could get more, lol), welcome fruit plate, pillow menu, personalized cookies for kids, the list goes on and on
• afternoon high tea
• Evian facial spray is available poolside and on the beach–a sign of a high class resort

And now for the one negative–the decor is such that you’d never know you were in Mexico.  If that isn’t a deal breaker then rush to book this resort!  It’s a keeper.  Remember to look for the all-inclusive option when booking or you will get accommodation-only prices.

Below is a short video so that you can get an idea of what the resort is like.  What do you think?  Would you book this resort?