Paraiso de la Bonita – Riviera Maya, Mexico

It has been said that a man will do anything for the love of a woman; even build her a paradise to celebrate her beauty. So was the beginning of Paraiso de la Bonita or “the paradise of a beautiful woman.” The owner, a famous architect, had traveled all over the world with his lovely wife collecting items and ideas, without her knowledge, for this resort. They had traveled to the Mediterranean, India, Africa, Bali, China and the Caribbean, just to name a few. The fusion of different cultures, tastes, fabrics, and colors would create an atmosphere like none other in the world. He began construction and added little touches everywhere that would remind them of their life together and surprised her with this amazing gift! This would forever be her paradise on the Riviera Maya where others could come to further cultivate their own love and romance. I began my journey to this intimate resort at the Cancun International Airport. Knowing only a few words of Spanish I was worried about how well I would be able to communicate with others. My mind was put to rest immediately when I was met at the airport by the nicest man from Paraiso de la Bonita. I was impressed from the start at their attention to detail. They picked me up in a Lincoln Navigator and had a music menu available for my trip. My driver spoke beautiful English and we had a wonderful conversation on the 10 minute drive to the hotel. As we drove through the gate to enter the property I was overwhelmed by the tropical beauty and peacefulness that surrounded it and this was only the beginning!

After a friendly, seamless check-in, I entered into my private oasis, “Mikonos” and melted into relaxation in the giant open stone shower. Slipping into complete bliss I found myself moment’s later sipping martinis in the Library Bar with Lionel Alvarez, the General Manager. Chef Fabrice Guisset, a phenomenal culinary artist, joined us as we sampled some of his masterpieces. Enticing our palettes further, we dined in La Conoa that candlelight evening. The cuisine blended the tastes of the Mediterranean, Morocco, and India with a hint of the flavors of the South of France and Mexico. Every course was exquisite, but my senses where thoroughly stimulated when the Chef sent out an assortment of ALL of his chocolate desserts because he knew I loved chocolate. Completely relaxed from the smooth wines chosen by their sommelier from La Cava, their famous wine cellar and the music of the Mariachi band, I drifted into peaceful sleep back in Mikonos.

Gently awakened by the sound of the ocean, I stepped out onto my balcony overlooking the endless blue landscape. The crisp smell of salt air would accompany me as I walked to the beautiful restaurant, Kaax where I enjoyed hot breads and pastries, freshly squeezed mango juice and a colorful fruit plate in the patio. After invigorating my senses, a facial at the Thalasso Center was the perfect getaway. The Thalassotherapy spa at Paraiso de la Bonita is the only one of its kind in North America. The Spa Therapist customized the treatment based upon my skin’s needs and it was by far the best facial I have ever received! My skin felt hydrated and rejuvenated and there was no irritation. My entire body felt at peace and I was ecstatic about what was next to come. Classic Custom Vacations had arranged for a van to pick me up at the hotel to take me to the “Swim with the Dolphins” excursion. The afternoon was a once in a lifetime experience that included petting, playing, and talking with the dolphins. Pictures and videos were taken that were available for purchase. The interaction that took place with these amazing mammals is one that I will never forget. Later that evening I enjoyed the nightlife and shopping in Playa Carman, and took in the local flavor of Mexico.

Still reeling from all of the amazing events of the following day, I returned to the Thalasso Spa for the “Baineotherapy” treatment. The serenity and beauty of the spa welcomes you each time you enter. The treatment room contained a large computerized hydro-massage tub which they filled with microblasted seaweed and seawater. The temperature in the tub was heavenly and as you are sinking into a delightful calm, they pour the wonderful aromatic oils of lavender into the water to soften your senses. Need I say more? Thinking the day could not get any better, I was informed that I would be having lunch on La Bonita, the private yacht under the command of Captain Sergio Sanchez. The 50-foot luxury catamaran is a stunning vessel with 3 ornate cabins and pristine dining areas and decks. It is available for daytime, and intimate overnight excursions for guests who want to visit the coral reefs or just have a romantic dinner in the middle of the ocean. Lunch was phenomenal with a menu that included shrimp, fresh guacamole, salmon, and other delightful delicacies. Laying out on the front of the yacht on suspended “hammocks” gave the sensation of floating over the blue waters of the Mexican Caribbean.

Feeling already a sense of spiritual calm, we arrived back at the beach to discover the “Temazcali” or the “Spiritual Mayan Sauna” led by Alejandro their Shaman and his assistant. Entering the hut, you are seated along the wall with water flowing behind you. Coals are brought in and placed in the center and then herbal enhanced water is poured on top to create the most amazing steam. All five elements of nature are included in the ritual along with chants and prayer. The heat is intense but pouring water over your head will keep you cool. Following the relaxation ceremony your body and soul feel refreshed which ends with a dive into the ocean to close your body’s pores and complete the process.

Completely relaxed and famished, I met Isabel Menéndez for dinner at Kaax. Isabel is in charge of group events and wedding coordinating. We had a great time laughing and talking about all of the amazing options that are available at Paraiso de la Bonita for destination weddings and honeymoons. The Staff at Paraiso de la Bonita are the kindest, most hospitable, charming people you will find at any resort. Throughout my stay, the littlest details, such as a gorgeous seashell on my bed every night with flowers sprinkled on my bed showed the love that these people truly have for their guests. Be MESMERIZED, RELAXED and AMAZED when you stay here, but most importantly is the fact that you have been to this amazing Paradise.

To gain more information about this beautiful boutique resort, visit http://www.paraisodelabonita.com