While I have already covered the Overwater Palafitos at EDM in a prior suite review post, I thought I’d highlight a less expensive alternative if you are thinking about booking this resort.  Let’s face it, you could drop some very serious cash here ($1600-$2500 USD p/night for two at the palafitos–that’s rack rate), but there are some very lovely rooms at EDM that won’t drain your bank account to that extent.

In case you’ve forgotten, El Dorado Maroma is a smaller, adults-only resort located in the Riviera Maya.  Grounds are lush with the resort doing an excellent job of blending in with its tropical environment; however, what makes this resort feel so special and romantic to couples can interfere with balcony views.  (Try to request top floor rooms when booking to see over the dense foliage/flora).  This is a Karisma resort, so you know that the food is excellent with fresh ingredients.

This resort offers three pools–each with a swim-up bar, six restaurants (an astronomical amount given the resort only has 157 guest rooms), five bars (two separate bars in addition to the swim-up bars), a spa, and a Marina next door so access to motorized water equipment is very accessible.  FYI:  If you are into massages, book one on the beach in the resort’s special structure built just for that purpose

One of the resort’s selling points is that it is located on a great beach–Maroma Beach has been listed as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world according to Travel Channel beach rankings.  Reason enough to book this resort on that merit alone.

I’m highlighting the Private Pool Suite (it used to be called an Infinity Pool Suite).  These suites are located on floors 2, 3, and 4–request the 4th floor for the best view.  Here’s what makes this suite special:

• balcony has a day bed, some smaller chairs, and small plunge pool.  (El Dorado Casitas Royale also has a similar suite category, EDM’s is on a lesser scale).
• “Aguas del Amor”, or private outdoor shower.  If you are worried about the privacy factor, here’s another reason to request a higher floor.  These showers are supposed to be private, but I’ve seen some videos where complete shower privacy may be lacking in some of these suites.
• in-room Jacuzzi tub

FYI:  All guest room buildings with the exception of Villa 12 (it used to be Generations Maroma which this resort acquired) have NO elevators.  So if you get a room on the 3rd or 4th floor, you will have to count on getting some extra exercise.  Those with mobility problems should take note.

Below is a short video of this suite category.  As you can see in the video, this guest’s suite is located behind a building with lots of flora and palms to partially block her view.  If you don’t mind that factor in your idea of a perfect vacation, you don’t have to be on the 4th floor to enjoy your stay.

What do you think?