Ready for the ultimate family-friendly, all-inclusive experience in Mexico? Look no further than Dreams Riviera Cancun. Here are the deets from my time spent at the fabulous Puerto Morelos hotel.
The Vibe
Out of office. The resort's stunning open-air lobby set the scene for our stay at Dreams Riviera Cancun with its bright color palette, intricate woodwork, beautiful water features and abundance of comfy seating options. The space was tropical and relaxing, and after a long morning of traveling, a drink from the lobby’s cocktail menu instantly transported us into #vacationmode.
As shade-loving travelers, the lobby acted as my husband and I’s home base as we returned to the space time and time again to play card games before dinner and to seek relief from the heat between transfers and check-in.
How I Felt
Rejuvenated. Seeing as my last vacation was in October, I was in need of some major R&R. Luckily, after a few glasses of Fresca and no shortage of delicious eats, I was feeling relaxed and refreshed. We kicked off our first full day with a hot cup of Joe from the Coco Cafe and hit the beach with a good book. Then, it was off to the pool to test our Amazon floaties with a drink at the swim-up Manatees bar (sidenote, the floaties were a great success).
During our time on the beach and at the pool, the staff was more than welcoming and was always ready to hook us up with our next beverage or to direct us to the nearest towel station, bathroom, etc.
The Digs
Our room at Dreams Riviera Cancun was spacious and comfortable. We stayed in a Premium Deluxe Tropical View King and our experience lived up to the photos shown online. The room featured a supportive and large bed outfitted with tons of decorative pillows, a dual vanity, a powerful, but not too powerful shower (you know how hotel showers can be hit or miss, this was a good one) and our very own indoor jacuzzi.
While we had trouble getting through to anyone at the provided extensions, room service was available for this category of room. We also loved spending time on our patio each morning where we could catch a glimpse of the sun rising just above the surf around 6:30 a.m.
The Agenda
As mentioned above, our first day at the hotel was spent enjoying the resort’s many water-focused activities including time lounging on the beach, a dip in the pool and even my very first swim in the ocean. Never one to relax too hard (I don’t know what it is, but I like to keep busy), we did book two excursions during this trip: Xplor Fuego and a catamaran tour to Isla Mujeres.
While I really enjoyed the time we spent at the resort, quenching my thirst for adventure was definitely my favorite part of this vacation. The massive zip lines and unique layout of Xplor Fuego were truly an amazing experience that I won’t soon forget. I also decided I have a newfound appreciation for the ocean after our exciting day of sailing on the open water.
The Eats
Dreams Riviera Cancun is home to nine restaurants and six bars. That being said, it should be noted that a handful of bars and restaurants are exclusive to Preferred Club guests only. During our time at the resort, we ate and drank at eight different spots — World Cafe, Oceana, Himitsu, El Patio, Barefoot Grill and Coco Cafe for food and Manatees and Rendezvous for drinks.
Of the restaurants that we sampled, my favorite dinner spot was El Patio, the hotel’s a la carte restaurant that specializes in Mexican cuisine. Not only was the atmosphere at El Patio totally dreamy, but the food was on point with delicious and authentic flavors.
Why I Would Go Back
Something I loved about staying at Dreams Riviera Cancun was its close proximity to Cancun International Airport (CUN). While there is undoubtedly no shortage of amazing resorts to choose from further south in the Riviera Maya, the quick journey from the airport to Dreams Riviera Cancun (20 to 30 minutes, give or take) is hard to beat because let’s be honest, who wants to spend more time in the car after a long day of travel.
Pair the resort’s ideal location with its awesome amenities, tasty food and worthwhile entertainment and it's safe to say I would return to Dreams Riviera Cancun with zero hesitation.
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