The Haven Riviera Cancun is a resort that has been on my radar for quite some time; however, the price point (when I’ve checked) resulted in a “no bueno” vote when it came to booking.  If anyone sees any great deals for this resort please let me know, I’d love to jump on the chance!  Here’s what I believe to be the resort’s selling points:

• adults-only
• chic, contemporary architecture
• good food, top-shelf alcohol included
• relaxing atmosphere.  This is NOT a party resort.
• beautiful pools with lots of poolside loungers/day beds
• swim-up bar
• beachfront location
• attentive service everywhere at the resort, not just for upgraded guests

It’s biggest flaw–the beach.  This resort is located in an area within the Riviera Maya which historically has a lesser quality beach with murkier ocean waters.  That’s not to say it’s always sub-standard, but guests who are beach lovers should be aware that this may not give you a good idea of the glorious beach areas which the Riviera Maya does have to offer.

Since I love a good swim-up room, this resort has some great choices.  One can either choose a Jr. Suite Swim-Out Partial Ocean View (these rooms are located adjacent to the round pool on the ground floor), or an upgraded Serenity Club Jr. Suite Swim-Out Oceanfront–these rooms are beachfront and have the bed situated so that you have ocean views from there.  Also, the Serenity Club swim-up rooms appear to be on non-ground floors so that you get a better view (ground floor swim-ups often have views of trees and foliage but rarely an ocean view).  One thing I did notice is that the actual video footage of Serenity Club swim-ups don’t show a balcony Jacuzzi, but the resort website claims they do…..hmmm, probably an error on their website.

When I stay at an all-inclusive I typically like to upgrade and see pretty much everything a resort can offer its guests.  Booking a Serenity Club room will get you the following additional services and amenities:

• free use of the spa’s hydrotherapy circuit
• separate lounge area with its own bar and snack service.  This is where you also check-in/out
• butler service
• you can personalize your in-room mini-bar requests
• additional a la carte breakfast option overlooking the pool or beach
• separate beach area with its own butler service
• pillow menu (like your pillows a bit softer?  There’s a perfect pillow for you)
• aromatherapy menu for your room
• weekly Manager cocktail reception invitation
• evening treats
• 10% discount (spa treatments, room upgrades, etc.)
• daily newspaper
• complimentary greens fees at nearby El Tinto golf course

I found two separate videos–one which shows the Serenity Club swim-up ocean view, and the other which shows in detail a typical suite’s amenities.  The Serenity Club video’s audio is not stellar quality, but it does show the view, that’s why I included it.  The other is clearly explained by a travel agent.  Enjoy!  Would you stay here in a swim-up suite?