Royal Service gets royal overhaul at Paradisus Cancun
ASHLEY ROCHEFORT
Troubling tales of unsafe shores and warnings to would-be travellers have been flooding recent newscasts about Cancun, Mexico. But on the ground, it’s a different story. The people are just as warm and welcoming as ever, the weather just as beautiful, food just as delicious, and resorts just as popular. In fact, hoteliers in Cancun are expecting record-breaking occupancy rates of 85% in 2018, marking a steady incline from 80% just two years ago. “I can’t say that Mexico is totally secure,” acknowledges Santiago Rivera, general manager, Paradisus Cancun. “But you can’t say that anywhere is totally secure. Personally, I feel safe here.” And so do the 15-20% of Canadians who make up Paradisus Cancun’s total guests, the second-largest country of origin.
The Paradisus Cancun has a commanding presence in the area. A massive 525-room luxury resort spread across five pyramid-shaped buildings, it’s the largest Paradisus brand property and one of the largest hotels in the Cancun area. The property has a fun atmosphere, excels at activities and family programming with a Kids Club open from 9 a.m–9 p.m., includes the luxurious YHI spa and expansive fitness facilities, and is all set on a beautiful stretch of beach. Over the last two years, upgrades throughout the massive hotel have included refurbished guest rooms, each with its own balcony, a renovated Royal Service section, new flooring in the pool area, and the YHI spa was renovated to add separate lounge and private cabanas, an added coffee cart and gelato bar – all while remaining open to guests.
Royal renovations
The Paradisus Cancun is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2018 with the completion of a stylish $2.6M upgrade to its signature Royal Service suites, lounge, and amenities. These royal renovations transformed 135 suites from earth tones and dark woods to sophisticated neutrals with sleek white furniture, pops of vibrant colour, and touches of sparkling metallic accents. Sensory Architects added to the ambience with soothing scents and low lighting. Every suite boasts ocean views, a new 50-inch HD TV, stocked mini fridge, premium alcohol on demand, and Nespresso machine.
As with all Paradisus properties, the Royal Service treatment gives guests a luxury experience at a rate roughly $150-200 more per night and entitles them to separate check-in services, a private lounge in the Royal Service wing with a stocked buffet and premium bar throughout the day and evening, complimentary access to the water treatments and dynamic pool at the YHI Spa, and personal butler to cater to all their needs. The Paradisus Cancun boasts a large adults-only pool area that is secluded and quiet and comes complete with private bar, Bali beds, oceanview Jacuzzi, and restaurant La Palapa.
Try the pillow menu! In addition to the mound of puffy pillows on every king-size bed, Royal Service guests can choose from a selection of three types of pillows – down, foam or soft – and a variety of soothing aromas like white tea, vanilla, lavender or eucalyptus. The warmed, lightly scented pillow is then delivered directly to the guest’s room, guaranteeing a good night’s sleep.
Enriching experiences
Royal Service guests or not, whether your clients want to do a whole lot of nothing or a little bit of everything, the Paradisus Cancun can make their dream vacation come true. For those wanting more, a program of life-enriching experiences and 24-hour wellness centre is available. From morning yoga classes to ceviche or sushi workshops or tequila tastings to poolside dance classes, there’s never a dull moment. For those wanting less, suggest spending an afternoon at Coco’s Beach Club. For just US$60 guests will enjoy a beachfront Bali bed, grilled lobster platter and bottle of Veuve or Moet. A little extra that’s well worth it. And with nine dining options like modern Mexican cuisine at Mole to Basque-inspired feasts at Tempo by Michelin star chef Martin Berasategui, guests will never be left wanting. Market Grill is a surprising standout and so is the bountiful breakfast buffet at Naos with a make-your-own Mimosa bar.
Hand over heart
No matter what attracts your client to the Paradisus Cancun – food, location, atmosphere – it’s the service that will bring them back. Every single staff encounter is a pleasant one. While that can be said about most resorts in Mexico, at Paradisus Cancun, they don’t just welcome you with a smile, they wish you well with a hand over their heart. “It’s a symbol of our sincerity,” explains Rivera. “We want to welcome you from the deepest part of our hearts.” Research shows that by placing a hand over your heart, one tends to be more honest, especially when interacting with others. It’s a simple gesture, but one that leaves guests with a genuinely warm feeling.
Become a pro Paradisus is an all-inclusive luxury hotel brand by Meliá Hotels International with nine properties in the Dominican Republic, Mexico and Cuba. Agents can become a member of the Meliá Pro Rewards program which earns you points towards free nights, spa treatments, room upgrades or luxury dining experiences. Meliá Pro members are also eligible for 25% discount on personal bookings, 10% discount on breakfasts or late 2 p.m. checkout.
