I’ve stayed at some great resorts in my day, but Grand Velas Riviera Maya remains one of the most beautiful all-inclusives I’ve ever seen. From the world-renowned spa (voted by Forbes as one of the 30 most luxurious spas in the world), to its acclaimed dining at Cocina de Autor, this resort epitomizes what a luxury vacation should be.
While I’m not a spa person, I do appreciate beautiful and relaxing spaces–the hydrotherapy circuit at the SE Spa would be one of my favorite places to unwind. For those who go all out and get individual spa treatments, expect the incorporation of ingredients and healing treatments which draw from the Mayan culture. I am also impressed with the spa’s commitment to providing spa services for people with cancer–SE Spa has been certified by Wellness for Cancer to provide personalized service for those with any type of cancer.
If you’re not familiar with the resort, Grand Velas consists of three different resort sections: the Zen Grand Experience (the least expensive option), the Ambassador Experience where many families stay, and the Grand Class Experience which is the adults-only section of the resort. Each suite in the Grand Class section has a large amount of space (over 1,000 sq. feet) and a terrace/balcony plunge pool. That’s my kind of suite from which to enjoy my vacation.
Take a couple of minutes to look at the video below. It is a combination of drone footage and shots of the resort. What do you think? Ever tried the spa? Would you stay here?
No I wouldn’t stay here !
#1 Resort requires restaurant reservations. We WILL NOT stay at a resort that requires reservations. Dealbreaker for us.
#2 To high end for our taste. Don’t want to listen to people talk about their business back home and how their kids are top of their class at Harvard while on vacation.
Randy: Have you been to high end resorts where that is the topic of conversation? The first time I went to Live Aqua there were couples judging people at the main pool and talking about them behind their backs, but that is the most tacky I’ve encountered. As far as the reservations, I hear you on that one, it can be very frustrating to stand in line to make dinner reservations while on vacay. That’s why I like to upgrade at resorts where a private concierge or butler service can make a quick call for me.
We went to Secrets Akumal last April and the snob factor was high. We decided to never go to such a high end resort again. We LOVED the resort and the staff was great. Probably our own fault for staying at a resort that was out of our league but the deal we got from Costco was to good to pass up. We have always made lots of friends and socialized at every resort we have stayed at but that wasn’t happening at Secrets Akumal. I understand it’s a couples resort for romance and such but geez.
I remember talking with a guy at the swim up bar and he asked me what I did. I told him that I worked at the Post Office and he just turned his back to me and started talking to other people and ignored me. Definitely an eye opener. Anyway we decided in the future to stay at 3 and 4 star resorts which we did in November by going to the Hard Rock Vallarta and the vibe and fun factor from the other guests was such a treat. At Secrets I felt like Larry the Cable Guy attempting to have fun around a bunch of high society types. My own fault I guess. Should have stayed in my lane.
Such a shame. Can’t help other people’s attitudes, just be you.