THE FACTS ABOUT MAROMA RESORT AND SPA

Mexico Yucatan

Set within an 80-hectare coconut plantation on Maroma Bay, 30km south of Cancún, Maroma is the former home of eco-friendly Mexican architect José Luis Moreno. After being developed as a small hotel, it was bought by the Orient-Express group in 2002. Over the past two years 31 suites, a spa and a fitness centre have been added. Although Maroma has almost doubled in size (there are 58 rooms and suites) it retains its intimate character. Ocean-front suites are located in the original two-storey casitas in the mature gardens planted with palms and hibiscus trees. The new villas have been built in a similar style, with white stucco walls and palm-thatched roofs, simple decor and rustic wooden furniture. The bedrooms are cosy rather than sumptuous; kaftans and aromatherapy kits have replaced televisions, mini-bars and modems. The bathrooms are well stocked with shampoo, insect repellent and after-sun lotion. Most of the staff live on site and have done so since the hotel was established, which makes for a friendly and relaxed atmosphere and many of the guests are regulars. Among the activities offered are dawn nature walks with resident biologist Ramón and snorkelling along the reef with his brother-in-law, Uli. CONTACT Maroma Resort and Spa, Carretera 307 Km 51 (Orient-Express reservations: 020 8604 2242; hotel fax: 00 52 998 872 8220; www.maromahotel.com). Doubles from £214 B&B