While some may argue that ‘luxury’ and ‘family travel’ is an oxymoron, I beg to differ. Towing the kids along? Bring on the high thread count linens, the delicious food and the optional nanny services (yes please!).
When traveling as a family there are countless things to consider, from appropriate accommodations to food that will satisfy the most discerning seven-year old’s palette (not to mention mom and dad’s!).
From private villas and five-star hotels to sprawling resorts, every family will be well taken care of at the properties below:
ALL INCLUSIVE RESORTS
While foam parties and insulated travel mugs full of beer can still be spotted at all inclusives across Mexico, there are plenty of resorts which now not only cater to families – but do so in style and five-star luxury. Nothing is more relaxing (especially as a parent) than not having to make dinner.
Grand Velas Riviera Maya
This AAA Five Diamond property is sprawled across 80 acres, and never feels crowded. The Grand Velas Riviera Maya understands the challenges faced when traveling with babies, and boasts its own baby concierge (yes, really!) who provides you with everything from bottle sterilizers and baby bathtubs to strollers and teething toys. Babysitters are available for an additional charge. Kids and teens clubs (catering to ages 4-12 and 12-18 respectively) offer mom and dad the perfect chance for some alone time by the pool, and attentive pool and beach concierges ensure guests want for nothing.
Stay: In the Ambassador two-bedroom ocean view family suite. At 2,540 square feet there’s room for the whole family to spread out in utter luxury.
Finest Playa Mujeres
Located 20 minutes from downtown Cancun but a world away from the hustle and bustle, Finest Playa Mujeres takes being kid-friendly to the next level. Not only do the usual amenities apply (baby monitor, bottle sterilizer, high chair, crib etc) but homemade purees can be made to order for your tiny travelers. Looking to relax with your mini-me? Even the spa at Finest Playa Mujeres is kid-friendly, offering mini-massages and fruit scrubs for your youngest family members. Two kids clubs and a teen club (for ages 3-6, 7-11 and 12-15) will keep your kiddos entertained, and if not – there’s always the mini theatre, kids plaza and kids pool with waterpark. Sound like kids as far as the eye can see? Exhausted parents – fret not. Hide out in one of 12 gourmet restaurants or 15 bars and lounges while CPR certified babysitters look after your most precious cargo (additional fees apply).
Stay: In the Finest Club Imperial Suite with Private Pool. This 2,500 square foot suite is steps to the beach, and the private pool and garden (combined with 24-hour gourmet room service) mean you never have to leave.
HOTELS
Fairmont Mayakoba
Offering the kind of five-star service that Fairmont Hotels and Resorts is famous for, Fairmont Mayakoba does not disappoint. Despite its proximity to Playa del Carmen, Fairmont Mayakoba feels a world away – set amidst 240 acres of tropical rainforest complete with canals and local wildlife that the kids will love. With most buildings set back from the beach, Fairmont Mayakoba aims to maintain the integrity and preservation of its eco-system, and this is reflected in the thoughtful layout of the buildings. For parents who want to leave their wallets tucked in their room safe, the optional all-inclusive package is the way to go. Fairmont’s AI package includes unlimited dining and beverage service at 3 of their restaurants and 5 of their bars. Kids will love the waterslide at the main pool, and the excursions throughout the property led by the Discovery Club (ages 4-6) and Adventure Club (ages 7-12). For older kids (and mom and dad) there are complimentary bikes perfect for exploring.
Stay: In the El Camaleon Presidential Suite. One of only eight suites on the property, this beachfront oasis lives up to its name. Guests can spread out over the suite’s 2,500 square feet, take a dip in the private pool and enjoy exclusive butler service.
Hotel Esencia
Situated between Playa Del Carmen and Tulum, Hotel Esencia offers families an intimate getaway. Be prepared for staff to know your name, and whatever you do – take full advantage of the ‘Nanny on Call’ program, offering two hours of complimentary babysitting so mom and dad can visit the spa or restaurant. At Hotel Esencia it’s the small touches that make the biggest impact – evident in the samples of local small-batch Casa Dragones tequila left for guests in their rooms. With multi-lingual nannies (and a chef willing to make baby food to order) even the youngest guests are thoughtfully taken care of.
Stay: In the Presidential Bungalow. Physically independent from Hotel Esencia (but sharing in all of the hotel’s amenities, services and hospitality) the Presidential Bungalow comes complete with 120 feet of private beachfront, your own palapas and butler service.
PRIVATE VILLAS
If you want to really feel at home in Mexico’s Caribbean, look no further than a private villa. With endless options, families can choose anything from tranquil beach-front estates to eco-friendly abodes set amongst palm trees and crystal clear enotes.
Stay: At the Hacienda del Mar villa, featuring 7 bedrooms and two separate casitas spread over 16,000 square feet of oceanfront property. Included is daily maid service, a personal butler, a gourmet chef and daily concierge service.
