Destination Spotlight | Riviera Maya – A Destination of Healing Experiences

The locals see Riviera Maya as a spiritual destination where you can energize, relieve your daily stress, and reconnect with your loved ones. During times of uncertainty, when unexpected events impact their lives, there are various ways in which we reconnect with the wonders of mother nature to gain energy, heal and find balance.

 

Temazcal

Temazcal, meaning “house of hot stones,” is a group ceremony where participants enter a sweat lodge similar to an igloo-shaped hut where they experience high temperatures through hot stones and water to release tensions and toxins, and to purify their souls. It also clears skin and aids blood flow.

According to the scientific journal Age and Ageing, the Temazcal practice can also help decrease the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Tip: Forget about your makeup because the steam will take it all off. Once you complete the ceremony, you will feel your skin and your body differently as the ceremony includes aromatherapy with healing plants allowing your mind to reach optimal clarity.

Cenotes (Sinkholes)

“Cenote” is derived from the Yucatec Mayan word “dz’onot,” which is used to indicate where water is accessible.

There are over 6,000 cenotes in the Yucatan peninsula, and most of us locals, as well as tourists, go swimming in them because they are rich in nutrients with an excellent source of minerals, vitamins, and protein that nourish the body. When traveling to Riviera Maya, we suggest visiting the Cenote Ik Kil, in Chichen Itza, not far from the ruins, Cenote Dos Ojos in Tulum, and the Grand Cenote.

Tip: If you are getting married in Riviera Maya, visit a cenote during a full moon and ask to receive a blessing of cenote water to pray for thankfulness and harmony in your marriage.

Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza is not just another archeological place; it is a wonder of the world. The Pyramid of Kukulkan, the 80-foot stone, is set where the sun creates shadows down the steps of the pyramid resembling a snake descending. This event drags big crowds during the March and September equinox.

For those who have traveled the world connecting to sacred spiritual places, Chichen Itza is a magical place where many ask for humanity and for individuals who struggle in life.

Tip: We suggest visiting Chichen Itza during the equinox as some people say the sacred energy expands and contracts then. And, they claim that is when you can manifest incredible healing or well-being for others.

Mayakoba

When visiting the Riviera Maya, make sure to visit Mayakoba. Enjoy family dinners at our El Puerto overlooking the waterways. Enjoy yacht charters and catamaran tours. Go snorkeling and kayaking in the Caribbean Sea. Shop in downtown Playa del Carmen for that perfect souvenir. A vacation in Mayakoba comes naturally!

Destination Spotlight | The Out Islands of The Bahamas

With more than 700 islands and cays, reefs, beaches, parks, botanical gardens and churches, The Bahamas offers endless options for families, couples, friends, and even multi-generation groups.

Picture sapphire-blue skies, turquoise water, pure white or pink-sand beaches, endless activities, and the beautiful, warm Bahamian people – the perfect setting for your dream tropical vacation. So, what are you waiting for? The uniqueness and seclusion of The Bahamas’ Out Islands await you.

The Abacos

The Abacos are a group of islands and cays that form a 120-mile long chain stretching over 650 square miles. It’s best known as one of the world’s top boating and sailing destinations and are also known for their incredibly scenic locations. Great Abaco Island and Little Abaco serve as the ‘mainland.’ Marsh Harbor is the lively downtown area, Treasure Cay boasts miles of pristine beaches, including one of the top 10 beaches in the world, and Elbow Cay and Green Turtle Cay are old English loyalist settlements where you will find beautiful preserved colonial architecture with a touch of Bahamian pastels.

Eleuthera

Intimate and naturally beautiful with secluded pink-sand beaches – Eleuthera is the perfect Bahamian island for a romantic getaway. It’s an island of casual sophistication, well-developed resorts, rocky bluffs, and massive coral reefs that make it ideal for photo opportunities. It was once ranked as “The Best Island in the Caribbean” by Travel & Leisure magazine, and at one time, it was the capital of The Bahamas.

Image Credit: The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism and Aviation

Long Island

Breathtaking cliffs, brilliant coral reefs, and serene beaches – Long Island is home to it all. Dramatic cliffs tower over the eastern shore while the island’s western shore is a bit more tranquil. Here, you will find soft pink and-white sand beaches that gradually slip into peaceful turquoise waters. Long Island is also home to “Dean’s Blue Hole”, the deepest blue hole in the world.

Exuma

You will not find a more adventurous place in the Bahamas than Exuma. Miles of gorgeous beaches offer picture-postcard shots with turquoise waters reaching over the horizon behind you. Numerous cays, charming churches, and several cultural sites provide endless possibilities for travelers. But, perhaps the number one thing on travelers’ to-do lists while visiting Exuma is swimming with the pigs, an experience you will never forget.

Image Credit: The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism and Aviation

Bimini

Known for big-game fishing, uncrowded beaches, and partying nightlife, Bimini is one of the livelier Out Islands. It’s comprised of two islands – North and South Bimini – and is only a little over 50 miles from Miami. You can actually take a two-hour ferry from Miami to Bimini or a short 30-minute flight making it incredibly accessible. Bimini has only recently hit tourists’ radars, so it’s a great destination for a long weekend in a lavish tropical setting.

Image Credit: The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism and Aviation