Held annually on May 5, Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican army’s victory over France in the Battle of Pueblo. Today, the holiday is most popular not in Mexico but in the US, where it has become a day to celebrate the culture and cuisine of our southern neighbor.
In honor of Cinco de Mayo, I’m highlighting properties that showcase the captivating beauty of Mexico. A popular travel destination, there is always a reason to go back, whether to make new discoveries or revisit old favorites. From the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea on the east to the Gulf of California and Pacific Ocean on the west, Mexico has stunning incentive destinations from coast to coast. A mix of modern and charming, tried and true, there’s still always something new!
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All In on All-Inclusives
Mexico is known for all-inclusive resorts, but today’s all-inclusives are nothing like you may remember from the past. Their popularity has skyrocketed recently, and for good reason. In addition to their sunny and easily accessible locations, knowing the full cost upfront is a major benefit when budgeting and planning. With an abundance of options to choose from, you can style a program that allows for a nice blend of togetherness and freedom of choice, and having a wide variety of on-property dining and activities to choose from means minimal transfers are required.
However, not every all-inclusive resort is created equal, and your group deserves the best of the best, which brings me to the properties below. These all-inclusives celebrate the always popular yet always evolving Mexico… and may have a few surprises waiting, too!
Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Secrets Moxché Playa del Carmen and Secrets Impressions Moxché
Secrets Moxché Playa del Carmen is all about location, location, location! In the heart of the Riviera Maya overlooking the Caribbean Sea, the adults-only resort is located within Corasol (formerly Gran Coral), a gated residential community with an 18-hole golf course designed by Hall of Famer Nick Price. Secrets continues to impress with their steadfast service and amenities, and the wait is finally over for this new gem.
Its doors opened in April 2022, offering a total of 485 suites, seven glistening pools, and three manmade cenotes, which are deep-water wells unique to the Yucatán. Of course, there’s also the beach with powdery white sand and turquoise waters—perfect for snorkeling, diving, and more. For more relaxing pursuits, visit the luxurious full-service spa with 16 treatment rooms and a temazcal, a traditional Mexican sweat lodge.
For elite groups looking for the next level, head to Secrets Impressions Moxché, a resort-within-a-resort on the same property that provides an elevated experience with impeccable style and sophistication. Scheduled to open in August 2022, there are 189 suites with larger rooms, larger terraces, and private pools. Some other benefits? In addition to full access to all services and amenities at Secrets Moxché Playa del Carmen, you’ll also enjoy a private building, a private signature restaurant, enhanced and upgraded dining options, and a rooftop function space overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Oh, and I almost forgot: bragging rights, of course!
Nayarit, Mexico
Naviva, A Four Seasons Resort and Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita
If you’re looking for something more unique than the traditional all-inclusive experience, head to Naviva, A Four Seasons Resort. This property within Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita is also a resort-within-a-resort… or would campsite-within-a-resort be more accurate? 15 luxury tents are being pitched in the lush forests of the Riviera Nayarit, guaranteeing breathtaking sunsets every night. This sylvan enclave is slated to open late 2022. Due to the size, this will not be an option for every group, but it could certainly be considered for elite retreats or board meetings—or maybe even for top performers of a larger group staying at the main resort.
Keep in mind that this is still Four Seasons, so it’s not your average camping trip. The experience is highly personalized with each guest being paired with a personal guide who creates a tailor-made itinerary. The curated wellness and culinary offerings are designed to reflect the culture and character of Mexico—a true celebration of the beautiful country. There is inspiration in every direction at this escape that erases the boundary between the indoors and the outdoors while still offering all the comforts of the most luxurious resort.
While Naviva’s “mother resort” isn’t all-inclusive, I would be remiss not to mention Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita. This tropical paradise on the Pacific has 177 rooms and suites and offers endless entertainment on land—how about a chance to blend your own tequila?—although with two secluded beaches, two pools, and a lazy river, you may never want to leave the water.
Contributor
Mary Enke, CIS
Sr. Destination & Experience Design Lead
Meetings & Incentives Worldwide, Inc.
