THE FACTS ABOUT HOTEL SECRETO

Mexico

Isla Mujeres is only a 40-minute ride from Cancun, but it feels a world away from Mexico's most famous beachfront strip. On this island there are no big resorts, no partying college kids, no over-watered golf courses just miles of sand, rainforest, underwater caves and now a stylish, contemporary hotel, the Secreto. Located 10 minutes from Isla Mujeres' main dock, the hotel is hidden from view along a semi-residential, seafront street. An angular building, with white walls and towering glass windows, it houses an impressive collection of colourful local art. The nine bedrooms are simply decorated, with natural-stone floors and canopied beds and they all have CD players and cable TV. The infinity pool seems to flow straight into the sea and the adjacent ocean-front lounge serves as a cocktail and chill-out zone for the Secreto's mostly European guests. There is no restaurant, but deliveries can be arranged from one of its nearby sister hotels. Owner Scott Boyan treats his 10 members of staff like family and it's a feeling that extends to the guests. He can arrange scuba and fishing trips on the Secreto's private boat, as well as hikes through the jungle and motor-scooter hire for further exploration. WHEN TO GO The period between US Thanksgiving (last week in November) and Christmas is the quietest WHICH ROOM TO BOOK Any of the top-floor rooms for prime sea views CONTACT Hotel Secreto, Punta Norte, Isla Mujeres, Mexico (00 52 998 877 1039; fax: 877 1048; www.hotelsecreto.com). Doubles from US$125