In Part 2 of 2 of our Riviera Maya trip report, Stephanie Farr lets us on in some villa secrets - like where you can stay and not see another soul, the best villas for the sleek and modern or those that want to host a BBQ by the sea.  Simply put, there’s a villa in the Riviera Maya for everyone; read on to find yours…

You don’t have the luxury of checking out all of our villas before deciding where to spend your vacation. That’s why we’re here or, more specifically, Stephanie was there. Our intrepid manager voyaged up and down the Riviera Maya, sampling villas along the way - lucky her - and is back to report on the well-researched findings.

For People Who Want Peace
The Riviera Maya as a whole is a generally zenned-out kind of place. But for that extra dose of relaxation, nothing can beat Casa Nalum (left). This palapa home sits on a thin ribbon of sandy land in the Sian Kaan, a nature reserve on the southern edge of the Riviera Maya. It’s unlikely you’ll see anyone else lolling around, besides your group and the massage therapist.

For a Little Bit of Urban Chic in Mexico
Most Mexican architecture is a gorgeous, but consistent formula of natural materials, lots of palapas and bursts of color. If you want something a little more sleek and modern, Aqua Villa (above) is it. This five-bedroom villa in Playa del Carmen is all bright white and more pop-art than palapa. The hospitality of its full-staff is pure Mexico, though.

For Snorkelers ‘Round the World
Stay anywhere in the Riviera Maya and you’re doing just fine, but avid snorkelers will be blown away by Casa Caleta (left). This comfortable, fully-staffed home is just a two minute walk from Yal-ku Lagoon, Akumal’s famous network of pools, streams and caves where marine life teems.

Other villas in the area: Zen del Mar; Casa del Sol Naciente 

For Small-Town Feel and Big-Time Views
While most of the Riviera Maya throbs with activity (great, if that’s what you’re looking for), Isla Mujeres is a little reminder of the area as it was a few decades ago. The riviera’s same gorgeous beaches and turquoise waters are complemented here by clapboard houses in juicy Caribbean colors and a notable absence of cars. You have 360 degree views of the action from Castillo del Candelabro’s (above) huge terrace and outdoor BBQ area.

If you’re interested in seeing Riviera Maya for yourself, contact us at 1-877-953-7400 or E-Mail