Photo courtesy Banyan Tree Mayakoba
The Riviera Maya set to flourish as one of Mexico’s top luxury travel destinations
The Mexican Caribbean region, including Riviera Maya, is poised to benefit from a new awareness campaign focusing on luxury tourism. Spearheaded by the Quintana Roo Tourism Promotion Council (CPTQ), this exciting new initiative aims to place the region firmly at the forefront of indulgent travel experiences in Mexico and the Caribbean.
The CPTQ’s new “Luxury Experience by Mexican Caribbean” campaign highlights personalized well-being, refined dining, and tailored activities, positioning Quintana Roo’s travel destinations, including the Mayan Riviera, as essential must-visits for those seeking an elevated escape. Highlights of the new messaging include areas related to improved access, award-winning hospitality, and distinctive cultural offerings, all of which are transforming the Mexican Caribbean coast into a sought-after luxury travel destination.
“Luxury is a deeply personal experience,” says Andrés Martínez, Director of CPTQ. “Each of our destinations offers travelers the freedom to define luxury on their own terms, whether it’s the luxury of time, exclusivity or extraordinary experiences.”
Luxury Travel in The Mexican Caribbean
Whether it’s enjoying gorgeous beaches, exploring historic cultural treasures, staying in luxurious accommodations, or even indulging in cutting-edge wellness treatments, the options are as varied as they are distinctive. And there’s certainly no shortage of exquisite places to stay, particularly in the Riviera Maya. Notable among them are renowned luxury brand names like Atelier Playa Mujeres and Banyan Tree Mayakoba to chic boutique hotels and resorts like NEST Tulum.
The region’s status as a luxury destination was also recently solidified when 18 hotels received MICHELIN Keys for their exceptional service and innovative concepts, including Hotel Esencia in Tulum, recognized with Three Keys for its beachfront bungalows and organic spa.
Culinary Excellence and Unforgettable Dining
The Riviera Maya’s culinary scene has also gained international recognition for its blend of tradition and modern innovation. Earlier this year, the region celebrated its first MICHELIN stars, awarded to Cocina de Autor Riviera Maya and HA’, to name but a couple of restaurants offering inventive menus that highlight local flavors alongside global techniques.
Arca in Tulum, ranked among Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants, has drawn deserved attention with dishes like tamarind-glazed bone marrow and chili butter prawns. The bar scene has also reached new heights, with Arca earning a place on North America’s 50 Best Bars list, showcasing the region’s expanding reputation in the world of fine dining and craft cocktails.
Visitors looking to experience luxury travel in the Mexican Caribbean can also pair their meals with a range of tailored experiences from private yacht charters to curated cenote tours and guided excursions exploring Mayan heritage. Companies like YachtLife and Riviera Maya Catamarans provide exclusive sailing adventures, while Xcaret Yachts offers private tours on sleek Vanquish vessels. For underwater exploration, Cozumel presents a premier diving destination with over 40 sites, complemented by visits from high-end cruise lines like Seabourn and Ritz-Carlton Yachts.
New Frontiers in Travel Accessibility
Quintana Roo is also expanding its reach with improved infrastructure, ensuring a seamless travel experience for visitors. The new Tulum International Airport and the soon-to-open Tren Maya provide easy access to destinations beyond the well-known hubs of Cancún and Tulum. These developments allow travelers to discover quieter locales such as Puerto Morelos or immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Bacalar, and as connectivity improves, the region’s diverse appeal will become even more accessible to luxury travelers from across the globe.
Shopping enthusiasts will find plenty of options, from high-end boutiques at La Isla Shopping Village, home to high-end stores like the Tiffany & Co. Cancún Boutique, to the Grand Outlet Riviera Maya.
Coupled with award-winning hotels, acclaimed dining, and curated experiences, Quintana Roo and the Riviera Maya provide something for every kind of traveler seeking refinement and leisure. Find out more about this exciting new era of luxury travel in the Mexican Caribbean at mexicancaribbean.travel.
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Bryan Dearsley is a luxury lifestyles writer, a prolific traveler, and a Co-Founder of the Riley network of luxury lifestyle websites.