AMA Insider Winter 2018/ Under 55 | Page 43

For LandLubbers If you want a Mexican getaway, but prefer to keep your feet firmly planted on land, check out these new resorts SECRETS ThE ViNE For a vacation-and-learn experience, this food-and- wine-focused resort in Cancun offers Sommelier- led wine tastings of some of the world’s finest vintages, served alongside world-class cuisine. PLAYA DEL CARMEN EAST CozuMEL EAST COZUMEL This island off the coast of Riviera Maya is a major cruise port and a key stop on Eastern Mexico routes. It also boasts the world’s second-largest bar- rier reef, making it an underwater playground for divers and snorkellers. If you’re not scuba certified but want to dive deeper than the surface, try the Jules Verne-inspired helmet diving. Walk along the ocean floor and get nose-to-gill with tropical fish—all without getting your hair wet. PLAYA DEL CARMEN Once a humble fishing village, Cancun’s neighbour to the south is today a vibrant coastal community for those craving culture over tequila shots. Honour Playa’s aquatic roots and charter a half- day fishing trip to reel in native grouper, sailfish and tuna. To dive a little deeper, go cenote hopping. Swim and snorkel in the natural underground reservoirs, which ancient Mayans revered as sacred sites. EAST GRAND SiRENiS MATLALi hiLLS RESORT & SPA Nestled between the majestic Sierra Madre Mountains and Riviera Nayarit’s coastline, this new eco-friendly boutique resort is perfect for family vacationers and romance- seeking couples alike. TULUM Book a morning excursion and start your day in Tulum with a morning stroll through the 13th-century ruins of Zamá, the only coastal city of the ancient Mayan civilization. Don’t leave without taking a dip and snorkel in the turquoise waters beneath the cliff- top ruins. If you prefer to relax, treat yourself to an Aztec chakra massage at Yäan Wellness Energy Spa, one of several health retreats lining Tulum’s white-sand beaches. » SUNSCAPE STAR CANCUN This all-new, all ocean- view family resort is slated to open in April. The beachfront property is situated along the Caribbean Sea, and features four pools, water sports and an adults-only Sun Club rooftop pool. AMA InsIder WInter 2018 43