The Fairmont brand is known for its impeccable service, refined amenities and highly personalized guest experiences. The company opened its first property in Canada in 1929, and has since expanded globally with properties located in prime destinations like Bermuda, New York, Toronto and Singapore. In the luxury travel segment, Fairmont’s presence is less prominent. Fairmont recently introduced a new brand called All Inclusive Luxury that targets the millennial market by combining all-inclusive pricing with upscale services and luxury accommodations in prime locations. This review focuses on one of their first properties to adopt this new strategy — Fairmont Mayakoba in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. Let’s see whether or not this newest brand from Fairmont resonates with travelers looking for an upscale all-inclusive experience.
Awards and Recognition
The Fairmont Mayakoba has been recognized as one of the Top 10 Resorts in Mexico by Condé Nast Traveler and one of the Top 20 Hotels in Mexico by Travel + Leisure. The hotel has also been named one of the Top 10 Resorts in the Riviera Maya by Travel + Leisure, Top 5 All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico by Travel + Leisure, Top 10 Luxury Resorts in Mexico by Travel + Leisure, Top 10 Staycation Resorts in Mexico by Travel + Leisure, Top 10 Resorts for Romance in Mexico by Travel + Leisure and Top 15 Hotels in the Riviera Maya by TripAdvisor. The hotel has also been awarded TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence in 2018, 2017, 2016 and 2015. Finally, the Fairmont Mayakoba is a member of the Virtuoso luxury travel program.
Best season to visit
The Fairmont Mayakoba is open year round, and weather in Playa del Carmen is generally pleasant year round. However, it is worth noting that the months between June and September are the rainiest months in the region. Hotel occupancy is at its highest during spring break, summer and around Christmas. Although the hotel does not impose a peak season surcharge, it is important to note that the hotel’s occupancy rate is likely to be at its highest during this time.
Rooms & Services Available
Amenitites
The Fairmont Mayakoba has a wide array of guest activities and amenities that cater to the needs of all travelers. Land-based activities include beach volleyball, yoga, tai chi and scuba diving. Water-based activities include snorkeling, kayaking, sailing and fishing. The hotel also has a fitness center, two tennis courts and a jogging path. The Fairmont Mayakoba has a wide array of dining options at its two onsite restaurants — Sea and Earth, and Mayakoba. Sea and Earth is a modern, refined dining experience that serves authentic Mediterranean and Asian cuisine. Mayakoba serves contemporary Mexican food and also features a tequila-tasting program. Guests can also choose to dine at one of the many nearby dining options, including El Paraiso, La Palapa and La Casa del Maestro.
The Good
The Fairmont Mayakoba has a phenomenal beachfront location that offers guests access to a wide array of water-based activities. Furthermore, the hotel has a wide range of dining options, a fitness center and tennis courts. In addition, the hotel offers a wide array of guest activities, including yoga and scuba diving. The hotel has a strong focus on sustainability, and it has been certified as a Fair Trade Certified™ Hotel by Fair Trade Certified. Each year the hotel hosts a beach clean-up event to raise awareness about the importance of keeping our beaches clean. Finally, the hotel has a strong focus on providing personalized guest experiences through its “Your Way” approach to service.
The Not-So-Good
While the Fairmont Mayakoba has a lot to offer, guests should keep in mind that this hotel is neither a beach resort nor an all-inclusive beach resort. It is an upscale all-inclusive resort located outside of the beach area. The hotel is not a family-friendly destination, and it does not have child-friendly amenities. Furthermore, it is not located within walking distance to the beach.
Getting there
The Fairmont Mayakoba is located on the Caribbean coast of the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. The nearest major airport is Cancun International Airport, located about 83 miles away. Alternatively, travelers can fly to Cozumel International Airport, located about 70 miles away. Taxis are available from both airports. Alternatively, travelers can take a van from the airport to the hotel. The hotel also offers a shuttle service from both airports. Alternatively, guests can take a van or drive themselves. Driving from Cancun to Playa del Carmen takes approximately 2 hours and driving from Cozumel to Playa del Carmen takes approximately 1 hour.
Bottom line
The Fairmont Mayakoba is one of the first properties to adopt the All Inclusive Luxury strategy. The hotel has a phenomenal beachfront location and a strong focus on sustainability. Furthermore, the hotel has a wide range of dining options, a fitness center and tennis courts. In addition, the hotel offers a wide array of guest activities, including yoga and scuba diving. The hotel has a strong focus on providing personalized guest experiences through its “Your Way” approach to service. Overall, the Fairmont Mayakoba is an excellent choice for travelers looking for a luxury all-inclusive experience.
