In August of this year, my husband and I celebrated our 36th anniversary.  We wanted to celebrate with a short vacation – just the two of us – but didn’t want the congestion of people or chaos that sometimes comes with a cruise voyage or popular beach-style atmosphere.   Some friends of ours had previously stayed at a resort in Cancun, so while it was not well-known, decided to give it a try. 

Excellence Riviera Cancun is an all-inclusive resort located in the heart of Cancun. Though it’s not as well-known as Sandals or Beaches, it was equally delightful, restful, and beautiful. The resort is situated just south of Cancun in the famous Riviera Maya area, a secluded location just a few minutes from the fishing town of Puerto Morelos, known for its beaches and seafood.

The moment we arrived, we were struck by the pristine landscape and grounds. The hacienda-style rooms were comfortable and beautifully accommodated the view of the blue waters of the Caribbean. The resort had six pools available as well as a first-class spa. What’s more, the crowds were minimal, making the whole experience even more enjoyable.

The beach was home to our own private hut, and the staff were extremely attentive to our every need. We were pleased to find that we didn’t need to wander outside the resort for entertainment, as there were plenty of activities and beautiful restaurants that overlooked the beach and pool areas.

The food experience was outstanding.  From American to Italian – high-end to a breakfast buffet with specialty stations, each meal was prepared to our request and in great detail.  Cocktails were available throughout the resort and prepared by the staff to our requests and certainly did not disappoint. 

One thing to note for those traveling into the Cancun area is the airport. It’s very congested, so make sure you have pre-arranged your transportation. Also, if you have asthma – as I do – it’s a good idea to let the staff know in advance so that they can ensure your room accommodates the moisture from the Caribbean air. They will also provide you with a dehumidifier in your room for comfort.

Overall, we had a fantastic time at Excellence Riviera Cancun, and we highly recommend it to anyone looking for a relaxing and enjoyable vacation on Mexico’s Caribbean coast.