November is now upon us, and with it comes colder and shorter days. We wrap ourselves in down jackets and scarves, and the thought on all of ours mind is the same – “We want summer back!”
How do white-sand beaches and rolling turquoise waves sound? Exotic Mayan ruins nestled in the balmy jungles? Or perhaps a glistening nightlife alive with the energy you’d be hard-pressed to find on any freezing November evening? Let us whisk you away to the Mexican state of Quintana Roo.
The name Quintana Roo might be foreign to most travelers, evoking images of kangaroos before a prime vacation spot. But this gem of a region nestled along the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula is fast becoming one of the hottest vacation spots. This region is home to the cities of Cancun, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos and Riviera Maya, each boasting a unique character.
The general region boasts an average high of 84 degrees Fahrenheit in November, and if that doesn’t tempt you, the sheer range of activities in the region surely will; lounging on the beach, swimming, sailing, scuba diving, hiking, cave and ruin tours, parasailing, golfing, horseback riding, shopping, dining… There’s more than enough to keep you going for a week (or more!).
Before you get packing, however, there is one major point to consider – where should you stay? The answer will lie partly in what you’re hoping to experience during your Mexican getaway. Without any further ado, let us introduce you to some of the finest resorts in the region…
The Resorts of Cancun
Cancun is renowned for being one of the prime vacation getaways in Mexico. The city’s rich and vibrant nightlife is one of the draws, but Cancun is so much more than just the party scene. The Westin Lagunamar Ocean Resort is the perfect locale to experience all that Cancun has to offer to visitors. Situated along Cancun’s Kukulcan Boulevard, you’ll have access to a wealth of unique shopping opportunities. There’s no shortage of dining opportunities either – waterfront restaurants line the coast for a side of breathtaking scenery with your dinner. Perhaps after a day of travel you just feel like kicking back on the beach? At the Westin Lagunamar, the beach is right in your backyard. An expansive pool lies almost flush against the ocean for when you’d prefer a freshwater dip. If your focus is sun-soaked relaxation and lots of it, there’s no better choice than this gorgeous Starwood property.
The quintet of Royal resorts also present the perfect location for your Cancun vacation. Also situated along Kukulcan Boulevard, the Royal resorts encompass The Royal Cancun, The Royal Caribbean, The Royal Islander, The Royal Mayan and The Royal Sands. While all five resorts are separate properties, they are located extremely closely to one another and allow guests of any resort to use the amenities of the other four. This is a perk you’ll learn to love – the Royal resorts are all equipped with swimming pools, tennis courts and fitness centers. Additionally, each resort offers programs so guests can experience all Cancun has to offer. The Royal Islander, for example, offers an on-site activities program with excursions to some of the most exciting islands and pyramids in the region. We encourage you to check out the RedWeek resort pages to see which Royal resort is the best fit for you, but you can be assured all five come packed with plenty to keep your Cancun trip exciting!
The Resorts of Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen is another favorite locale for resort developers and it’s not hard to see why – this gorgeous city situated alongside the crystalline waters of the ocean is surrounded by countless opportunities for adventure! After a day of scuba diving or scouting out ancient caves, we don’t blame you for wanting to return to one of the most luxurious resorts Playa del Carmen has to offer –The Grand Luxxe Riviera Maya. Exhausted by all your adventures? Unwind after your hectic day with a trip to the on-site Brio Spa. Offering a vast array of massages, body scrubs and facials, you’re sure to find the perfect way to pamper yourself. The Brio Spa also houses a fitness center and beauty salon to ensure you look your best all trip long. Additionally, the Grand Luxxe Riviera Maya boasts nearly a dozen unique dining opportunities ranging from formal-casual affairs to cafes. No matter what your taste, you’re bound to find the perfect sustenance to fuel your vacation.
The Royal Haciendas is also a fantastic choice if you want to stay busy. This Royal resort is located right in the midst of plenty of fantastic opportunities. The gorgeous island of Cozumel, considered the scuba diving capital of Mexico, is just a short ferry ride away. You’re also a mere five minutes away from Playa del Carmen proper, and the ancient cities of Tulum and Coba are nearby for your exploration. This is all providing, of course, you’ll even want to leave the resort! Each room is host to a spacious balcony with an ocean view and whirlpool tub and we can promise a great time whether you’re out and about or unwinding back in your room.
It’s clear why the Quintana Roo region makes such a spectacular getaway – it’s the perfect blend of exotic intrigue mixed with with luxury and relaxation. Surely by now you’re itching to plan your personal getaway from the cold and bitter winter that’s coming far too fast. Remember to check out our resort reviews to get the scoop on what other owners favorite experiences of each resort were! Perhaps you’ve traveled the region yourself? Let us know in the comments what you found exciting!