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PARAISO DE LA BONITA |
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CANCUN, MEXICO
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Resorts along Mexico's Riviera Maya - the sandy stretch south of Cancun - usually fall into two categories: mega all-inclusives or boho B&Bs. But over the past few years a
new breed of retreat has emerged: the chic, secluded hideaway, of which the latest
example is Paraiso de la Bonita. Just 30 minutes' drive from Cancun airport along a rainforested dirt road, the Paraiso sits squarely on the Caribbean Sea and features 90 beach-facing suites. At its centre is a Balinese-style pavilion housing a library, two restaurants and gift shops, which wraps around a massive freeform swimming pool and a terrace manned by personable staff who will throw in free Spanish lessons with each Margarita. The general manager, Hector de Galard (formerly of Amanresorts) is striving to achieve new levels of hotel service in Mexico and it's working, with cool towels and cooler drinks never more than a smile away. The hotel's thalassotherapy spa, the first of its kind in Mexico, offers European, Asian and Mayan treatments; there is also a stylish saltwater pool, steam room and Jacuzzis. Although the gym is small, snorkelling, hiking and golf are all available. Paraiso's real stars are a sizzling sun, sandy beach, cool pools and smiling staff.
WHEN TO GO
In March for the summer solstice, when thousands of revelling locals converge on the nearby Chichen Itza Mayan ruins for a day of spiritual celebration
WHICH ROOM TO BOOK
All rooms have large beds, deep-soak bathtubs and outdoor terraces. Ground-floor ones have plunge pools
CONTACT
Paraiso de la Bonita & Thalasso, Bahia Petenpich, Cancun, Mexico (00 52 998 872 8300; fax: 872 8301; www.paraiso-bonita.intercontinental.com). Suites from US$450
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