For several years now, my family and I have visited Cancun during Fall Break. It's a relatively short flight from Denver (with plenty of nonstop options) and October is a great time of year to visit Mexico, IMO. Since much of the United States doesn't get a Fall Break, Cancun is less crowded than in the summer months, and not quite as hot but still feels very summery!
Needless to say, I was thrilled when I learned that Macaroni Kid's annual Silver Daisy Boondoggle would take place this year at the Azul Beach Resort Riviera Cancun. This meant I would have the opportunity to explore a new (to me) Mexico resort with 49 of my sister Macaroni Kid publishers — no hubbies, children, cleaning, or cooking allowed!
It's been a hectic year and a chaotic summer. Plus, I turned 50 a couple of months ago. I've been feeling very out of sorts so I figured a Girls Only beach vacation would be just what the doctor ordered! It definitely was... and at the same time, I couldn't help but think about how much fun it would be to hang out here with my family.
As a matter of fact, I've already booked the trip! That's right — I'm heading back with my hubby and boys this October. I've got more than a few reasons that I think Azul Beach Resort Riviera Cancun is THE perfect place for a family vacation!
It's a Tropical Paradise
As much as I love living in Colorado (hiking and biking and sledding, oh my!), nothing beats a beach vacation! Listening to the tide come in while I dig my toes in the sand simply washes my worries away! The change of scenery makes me appreciate all the beauty of the world we live in. Plus, what's more romantic than a walk on the beach at sunset with your mate?
Luxurious Accommodations
Spacious rooms with comfortable beds, giant bathtubs, and rain showerheads are just the beginning. This resort also has beachside beds and hammocks galore! With six sparkling pools, I never felt crowded, even though the resort was sold out when we visited. Plus, Azul Beach Resort offers a 2:1 guest-to-staff ratio (the best in the industry) so I experienced highly personalized service, whether I was at the pool, on the beach, or in my room.
Gourmet Inclusive = Yum!
Azul takes all-inclusive to a whole new level! The resort has five different restaurants — Italian, Caribbean, Spanish, Mexican, and World cuisine — with extensive menus using fresh, quality ingredients, including organic and gluten-free options. I dined at Spoon for breakfast and lunch most days and was so impressed by the diversity of the food displays, including a special corner just for kids and Gerber baby food warmed for your little one upon request (available from room service too!).
Family-Centered Yet Grownup-Friendly
The best thing about Azul Beach Resort is that it was designed with every member of your family in mind! All your baby gear needs are covered, from strollers and cribs to bottle sterilizers. Kids will have a blast in the Azulitos Playhouse playing games, making arts & crafts, and participating in a variety of daily programming. The Extreme Breeze Teen lounge has movies, video games, billiards, and air hockey plus outdoor activities like beach volleyball. While the kids are having fun without you, hit the adults-only pool, visit the spa, or try one of 18 different mojitos at the Mojito Lounge.
Plan Less, Play More!
A friend told me that once you are a parent, you can "go away" but you really don't get a vacation. Not true here! I usually spend hours planning the family vacation but Azul makes it so easy, from arranging transportation to and from the airport to providing daily activities from morning yoga to kayak tours to Spanish lessons. There were plenty of activities scheduled each day to keep me having fun from morning to night without ever having to leave the resort. But if you want to explore outside the resort? Just visit the concierge!
Pampering & More Pampering
Everywhere I turned, I had an opportunity to relax, but nothing compared to my time at Vassa Spa! I scheduled the Be Irresistible body scrub and massage, which was incredible. Even before my service began, I was guided through an incredible water journey with various hot and cold experiences. The spa has VIP suites for you and your mate to enjoy some pampering together, or enjoy a side-by-side massage in an open air palapa right on the beach!
One-of-a-Kind Experience at Le Chique
What I love most about traveling is getting to enjoy new and unique experiences. Le Chique is a dining experience like no other! Voted the #1 restaurant in Mexico and #34 in Latin America by Travel + Leisure's Best of the Best Gourmet Awards, my meal consisted of more than a dozen tasty bites paired with wines that complemented the gorgeous culinary creations. Although Le Chique isn't part of the all-inclusive dining options, I highly recommend adding it to your itinerary. It was as delicious as it was unforgettable!
Spending a long weekend playing and relaxing with women who really get me left me refreshed and recharged, and I can't wait to go back with my family!
What are you waiting for? Check out the Specials page for amazing limited-time offers and book your vacation too! I'll see you on the beach... or at the pool... maybe the spa!
