It’s the sort of tiny Caribbean island where everybody gets around by golf cart. The vibe is relaxed, the pace is slow, the water is sparkling and the food is all about fresh seafood and cold beer.
On land, you can venture out to the Mayan ruins at Punta Sur. Below the water, you can explore one of the world’s only underwater sculpture parks. And somehow, this less-than-two-square-mile island is just a short ferry ride off the Caribbean coast of Cancun.
This is Isla Mujeres, and it’s one of those charming, laid-back little islands you imagine on cold winter days. And now the island has a major new place to stay: Almare, a new adults-only all-inclusive that’s part of Marriott’s Luxury Collection.
The new resort officially welcomed its first guests this weekend, Caribbean Journal has confirmed.
Most importantly, it’s a luxury all-inclusive that fits right into the Isla Mujeres vibe: just 109 rooms, all suites. The feel is intimate and boutiquey, with earthy hues, thatched roofs and palm trees everywhere.
The aesthetic is a blend of of modern Caribbean cool and design notes from the Yucatan.
There’s a serious spa called Alma, with a lovely outdoor plunge pool, a wide range of treatments (including an Ayurvedic menu) and a state-of-the-art fitness center, too.
The rooms are sleek and thoughtful; think crisply-designed bathrooms, a furniture made from natural materials and large balconies with sweeping views. You can choose from a standard king or two-double room to two-level suites with their own private plunge pools.
What about the dining program? You can choose from seven different concepts: when you walk in, there’s a lobby bar, or you can try the tiki-focused rum bar called The Breeze. The star is almost certainly BOGA, an eatery that will take you on immersive journey into the flavors of the Mayan coast, joined by the Mexican-Mediterranean fusion spot called Seasalt. In the morning, you can find a classic cafe for local coffee and juices. In another cool touch, there’s even a food truck for things like smoothies and quick bites all throughout the day.
The central pool, anchored by a large thatched-roof pool bar, is the centerpiece of the resort.
But this is a place that’s also all about exploring the details of Isla Mujeres: snorkeling, beach-hopping, taking afternoon bike rides around town.
It’s the essence of the modern all-inclusive a place that’s equally tailored for staying in or getting out.
So what about the cost?
Right now, you can book a standard king room at Almare for $632 per night (down to $600 if you’re a Marriott Bonvoy member).
And how do you get to Isla Mujeres? Just book a flight to Cancun (here’s how on Google Flights) and arrange a direct transfer with the hotel, which typically means ground transportation to one of several marinas and a transfer right to the hotel’s marina.
For more, visit Almare.
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