My FAM Trip to Cancun & the Riviera Maya
I recently had the chance to visit Cancun and the Riviera Maya on a FAM trip, touring a variety of all-inclusive resorts and experiencing the destination firsthand. As a travel advisor, there's no better way to learn about a destination than seeing it for yourself. While pictures online are helpful, nothing compares to walking the resorts, trying the food, exploring the grounds, and getting a feel for the overall atmosphere.
One thing that really surprised me was how different every resort was. Before the trip, I expected many of them to feel similar, but that wasn't the case at all. Each resort had something unique about it, whether it was the room designs, pool areas, dining options, entertainment, or overall vibe. While there were some similarities between brands and the general all-inclusive concept, every property had its own personality. With so many resorts in the area, it makes sense that each one tries to stand out and offer a different experience for travelers.
That variety is what makes Cancun and the Riviera Maya such a great destination. There truly is a resort for every type of traveler. Resorts like Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya, Secrets Playa Blanca, and El Dorado Maroma are perfect for couples looking to relax, unwind, and enjoy a quieter atmosphere. On the other hand, properties such as Royalton Riviera Cancun, RIU Latino, and Ocean Allure are great for friend groups, bachelor and bachelorette trips, or anyone looking for a more lively vacation with lots of entertainment and nightlife. Family-friendly resorts like Barceló Maya Palace and Majestic Mirage offer something for everyone, making them great options for families and multi-generational trips.
Throughout the trip, I picked up a few tips that can help travelers get the most out of their vacation. One thing I learned is that the "best" resort isn't always the most expensive one. The right resort is the one that matches your travel style and what you're hoping to get out of your trip. Another tip is to pay attention to where your resort is located. Some resorts are farther down the Riviera Maya, which can mean a longer transfer from the airport. Lastly, don't overlook dining reservations. While most food is included, some of the most popular restaurants can fill up quickly, so it's worth planning ahead.
Dining was one of my favorite aspects of the resorts. At almost every property we visited, all meals and drinks were included. The biggest difference wasn't what was included, but whether reservations were needed. Most buffets, casual restaurants, and several specialty restaurants did not require reservations. However, teppanyaki tables, steakhouses, and some Italian restaurants often did. These restaurants were usually a little more upscale and sometimes had dress codes. Nothing too formal, but generally the resorts wanted guests to avoid swimwear and overly casual attire.
Transportation is another thing to consider when booking an all-inclusive vacation. Many packages include airport transfers, which makes getting to and from your resort easy. However, a private transfer can be worth the extra cost, especially if you're traveling with family, a small group, or staying farther south in the Riviera Maya. Shared transfers are typically larger buses and may make several stops before arriving at your resort, which can add extra travel time.
One of the highlights of the trip was an incredible swimming with the whale shark's excursion with Cancun Adventures. The crew was extremely knowledgeable, and our guide, Jose, made the experience even better. He spoke three languages, shared so much information, and was genuinely kind and welcoming throughout the excursion. It ended up being one of the most memorable experiences of the entire trip and was a great reminder that there's so much more to do in the area than simply enjoy the resort.
After visiting so many properties, it's easy to see why all-inclusive vacations are so popular. They're a great option for groups because everyone can budget ahead of time and avoid worrying about every meal, drink, or activity. They also make it easy to relax since so much is included right at the resort. Whether you're traveling as a couple, with friends, or as a family, all-inclusive resorts offer convenience, value, and plenty of options to keep everyone happy.
Of course, there are a few things to keep in mind. Because resorts offer so much on-site, some travelers may spend less time exploring the local culture, restaurants, and attractions outside the resort. For travelers who enjoy getting out and seeing more of the destination, I always recommend adding an excursion or two to get the best of both worlds.
My trip to Cancun and the Riviera Maya showed me just how much variety there is in this destination. No two resorts are exactly alike, and finding the right fit can make all the difference in your vacation experience. Having toured these properties myself, I'm excited to help my clients find the perfect resort for their travel style and make their next getaway as stress-free and memorable as possible.
Taylor Naugle
Travel Advisor