I sometimes have to be selective when it comes to accepting trips as editor of Destination I Do, but when an invitation to Mexico and the Fairmont Mayakoba crossed my desk, I didn’t hesitate to participate. My partner got to tag along and, after months of busy work schedules and hardly seeing each other, a few days in paradise was just what the doctor ordered. (Much like enjoying your honeymoon and relaxing post destination wedding!)

Mayakoba, Mexico is truly unique. Nestled in the heart of Riviera Maya and 40 minutes from the Cancun International Airport, Mayakoba is a resort development that consists of four eco-friendly, world-class hotels, a golf course that hosts the only PGA Tour event in Mexico and a central village known as El Pueblito. The AAA-Five Diamond Fairmont Mayakoba was the first resort to be built and got prime real estate amongst the unique surroundings.

Mayakoba means “village over water” in an ancient Mayan language and it perfectly describes the community that was built amongst the Yucatan’s cenotes. Mayakoba’s developers took the massive subterranean river (cenote) and from it, carved a series of lagoons and canals that allow hotel guests to travel around and between resorts. It’s no wonder that Mayakoba is often referred to as the “Venice of the Yucatan.”

Guests of the Fairmont Mayakoba can take a romantic tour of the canals on a traditional “lancha” (covered boat). The 45 acres of the Fairmont are home to over 350 species of animals – including crocodiles and spider monkeys, so there is plenty to discover. A spin around the resort on one of the lanchas is a unique and essential opportunity for wedding couples. Also, be sure to make a pit stop at El Pueblito’s cooking school to learn how to make delicious Mexican classics like mole.

For your nuptials, El Pueblito has a charming chapel that is at the heart of the Mexican village square. Back at the Fairmont, the central lawn is surrounded by lush foliage and mangroves that would be ideal for your reception. After dining at each of the Fairmont Mayakoba’s three restaurants, I’m confident the talented culinary team could deliver a wedding meal worthy of the gorgeous setting.

Aside from the delicious food, comfortable accommodations and unique setting, it’s the service that truly makes the Fairmont Mayakoba a standout. Our visit was simply easy. Any request we had was quickly met and the outstanding staff exceeded all expectations. For example, after mentioning my love for churros to a staff member, we were gifted a surprise late-night snack of fresh churros and Mexican hot chocolate. If that doesn’t set the scene for romance, I don’t know what does!

This article was first seen in Destination I Do’s Spring/Summer 2018 Issue. You can order a copy here.