THE FACTS ABOUT THE WESTIN REGINA RESORT CANCUN

Mexico Yucatan

Between the beach and the Nichupté lagoon, at the southernmost point of Cancún's hotel zone, the Westin Regina stands slightly removed from the dozens of other resorts that line the strip. Designed by Mexican architect Ricardo Legorreta, it comprises three minimalist buildings characterised by large public spaces, simple shapes and bright colours. Shafts of sunlight accentuate the cobalt blue and fuchsia of the walls, which are punctured by openings that frame ocean views. The 293 bedrooms are simple and functional, with views of either the coast (and its stretch of hotels) or the mangrove-backed lagoon. Only rooms on the sixth floor have balconies. Although its design is strikingly different from other hotels in Cancún, the Westin attracts a similar clientele. The hotel is busy with package tourists, mainly from the USA but also from Mexico and Europe - young parents with toddlers, older couples and their teenage children - all enjoying the sunshine and splashing around in each of the five swimming pools. You may hear Eminem pulsating from speakers tied to palm trees. A family resort where most guests opt for the all-inclusive deal, the Westin has two restaurants, three bars, a fitness centre, shops, a kids' club, business amenities, tennis courts, outdoor whirlpools, a water-sports centre and a travel agency. A shuttle bus operates between the Westin and its sister Sheraton hotel a few kilometres down the strip. CONTACT The Westin Regina Resort Cancún, Boulevard Kukulcán Km 20, Cancún (00 52 998 848 7400; fax: 885 0666; www.westin.com). Doubles from US$189