Tranquility. It enrobes you upon your arrival at Banyan Tree Mayakoba, and is an integral part of your stay. Opened in 2009 to award-winning acclaim, this Asian-influenced sanctuary is currently ranked best hotel in the Mexican Riviera Maya and Playa del Carmen on TripAdvisor.com. Just 40 minutes from Cancun, the resort community is accessed by guests only, and a sense of peacefulness pervades the private villas and townhomes snuggled within a carefully maintained ecosystem of dunes, mangroves and freshwater lagoons.

Banyan Tree delights in pampering the senses, especially the “sixth sense” – romance. Your villa includes your own negative-edge pool, outdoor bath, hot tub and an abundance of places to bask in gentle breezes. The intuitive staff is friendly and discreet, the stunning grounds immaculate, the gourmet restaurants, exceptional.

Exchange vows on the beach against the Caribbean sunset in a traditional Mayan ceremony overseen by a Shaman. Renew your commitment on a moonlit terrace, even in your own villa under a canopy of stars. Romance Manager, Yvonne Suñer Beltrán, is ready to make your beautiful dreams a stunning reality. Ask about her “Romance Book,” filled with hundreds of sensuous indulgences for your wedding, and throughout your stay. There’s nothing quite like a rose petal bath under the moonlight surrounded by twinkling candles. Or arrange an in-villa barbecue and let the staff create a feast and then discreetly retire while you dine.

INDULGE

One of Condé Nast Traveler’s Hot List Spas 2010, the Banyan Tree Spa Mayakoba is your destination for physical, mental and spiritual renewal. An award-winning blend of Asian therapies, massages and body treatments inspired by traditional Asian healing disciplines. Don’t miss: The Rainforest. Designed for one person or couple, you’ll experience eight different hydrothermal therapy experiences including Rain Walk, Aroma Steam Chamber, Finnish Sauna, Rasul, Brine Cavern, Ice Fountain, Experience Showers and Vitality Pool.

EAT

Playa del Carmen is bursting with dance clubs, boutique shopping and eclectic restaurants. In the heart of the bustle is John Gray’s Place, a sophisticated, welcoming bistro, named one of Conde Nast Traveler’s ‘Hot Tables’ in 2005. California native John Gray owns four restaurants in the Riviera Maya, and has a devoted following of celebrities, world-renowned chefs, foodies and locals. Not to be missed.

PLAY

Tulum and Tankah Eco-Park
Your certified guide will lead your tour of the only archeological site in the Mayan Riviera located right on the sea. Then hike, zip-line, jeep and swim your way through the lush Mayan jungle. Pick-up can be arranged right from Banyan Tree Mayakoba. Reservations required.