Riviera Maya is home to a wealth of luxury resorts, glittering like jewels along Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. The destination embodies the perfect international, romantic getaway: unmatched beauty that feels a world away, but is easily accessible with direct flights from most major U.S. cities.

On Sept. 1, 2016, a game-changer debuted on the scene. Karisma Hotels & Resorts unveiled Palafitos, Mexico’s first and only overwater bungalows. Part of the award-winning, all-inclusive, adults-only El Dorado Maroma resort, Palafitos (which means “stilt house” in Spanish) comprises 30 luxury beachfront bungalows hovering above the crystal sea.

From the moment you step onto the glass-floored entryway with the ocean shimmering beneath your feet, you know you’ve arrived at a one-of-a-kind romantic destination. The bungalows are spacious and entirely private, with soaring ceilings, 180-degree ocean views, and top-of-the-line amenities inside and out.

Palafitos makes sure you never have to sweat the details. Your every need is met by your dedicated on-call butler service. Day or night, your wishes are unobtrusively and expertly handled. They’ll even unpack your bags upon arrival and re-pack at the end of your stay.

SAYING “I DO”

Whether you exchange vows right on the beach or in the on-site chapel, it’s a given that your setting will be spectacular. Planning your wedding at Palafitos is surprisingly effortless with the resort’s website, which enables you to personalize everything from décor to menus to music. You can even send save-the-date announcements through the site with the click of a mouse.

For Destination I Do’s full review of El Dorado Maroma’s Palafitos and more information on Riviera Maya, Mexico, stay tuned for John Roark’s full article in our Fall/Winter 2017 issue, which hits newsstands August 8. You can also visit eldoradosparesorts.com.