There are many, many resorts lining the beaches of Cancun (one of the world’s most beautiful locales), and navigating the various options and offerings can be a daunting task. For those seeking a truly luxurious sojourn, it is well worth looking at the resorts-within-a-resort that some of the newer all-inclusive properties offer. Among them, the adults-only Royal Service section of the Paradisus Cancun Resort is a standout.
Guests have access to the property’s many amenities, including nine restaurants, seven bars, a full service YHI Spa and health club, tennis courts and a nine-hole par-3 golf course. In addition, Royal Service provides the hotel’s most discerning guests with personal butlers along with entrée to special restaurants, private pools, and preferred reservations, along with more luxurious accommodations.
There are 137 Royal Service Suites at the beachfront property, which evolved from the Gran Melia Cancun in 2012. Comprised of massive interlocking glass pyramids overlooking the bright blue ocean, it’s perfectly situated to take full advantage of the world-class seaside scenery. Light and airy with a plethora of indoor plants and flowers, it is almost like being on another planet. The resort is part of Melia’s initiative to offer even more high-end experiences with the Paradisus brand than is traditionally associated with all-inclusive resorts.
With the caliber of product bearing the Paradisus name, all-inclusive is no longer synonymous with “no extra frills.” To drive the point home, Paradisus terms the Royal Service offering “Luxeclusive” instead, and each guest is given a cell phone upon check-in, pre-programmed with his or her private butler’s number so that requests may be fulfilled day or night.
What truly sets Paradisus apart, however, is the brand’s partnership with Michelin starred chef Martin Berasategui, who has opened signature adult-only restaurants in each of Paradisus’ five destinations. Berasategui’s eponymous restaurant in Lasarte-Oria, Spain, holds an impressive three Michelin Stars. His venue at Paradisus Cancun is called Tempo by Martin Berasategui and showcases his signature take on traditional Basque cuisine. Patrons come from all parts of Cancun to sample his fare, served in a stylish setting with chic touches like Versace tableware. A tasting menu devised by Berasategui to make the most of seasonal ingredients is available with or without well-chosen wine pairings, and à la carte options are also available.
A roving sommelier is also on hand to offer a wide selection of vintages, which can be ordered to enhance a meal at any of the property’s restaurants. The special list, like the menu at Tempo, comes at an additional cost to the all-inclusive plan, though Royal Service guests get one complimentary dinner there during a seven-night stay. Other dining options at the property include Naos (buffet), Vento (Mediterranean), Bana (contemporary Asian), Market Grill (Brazilian), Mole & Tacos (modern Mexican), and Fuego (Contemporary Peruvian).
Should you still be hungry after an epicurean encounter, or just prefer to dine privately, 24-hour room service is included. The property’s bars and lounges include Avenue Bar, Red Lounge, Swim-up Bar, Cocos Beach Bar and Caribe Bar, ensuring you are never without a cocktail in hand. The interiors have all been designed with a deft hand, melding together interesting décor with perfect comfort and making the most of the architecture’s proximity to the ocean and the abundant natural light that flows in.
With Royal Service occupying its own pyramid and boasting a private pool with a café and bar, beach club and thatched-roof cabanas, there is no need to venture into the main section of the resort if prefer not to. There is easy access to the spa and health club without traversing any large public spaces. And the private lounge, a peaceful oasis, features a dedicated check-in/out station, concierges, and also features a daily continental breakfast buffet, snacks, coffee and premium beverages throughout the day. The luxury of never having to reach for your wallet during your stay can’t be underestimated.
The resort also has impressive meeting and convention facilities for groups and weddings. The property can accommodate up to 1,800 people in a reception setting or 1,100 guests in banquet service with a total of 21 break-out rooms. Paradisus Cancun has been awarded Four Diamond honors since 2006 by AAA and is the perfect pairing of exclusive service and natural beauty.
