The Vibe
Stepping into the lobby of UNICO 20°87° Riviera Maya in Mexico, is like walking into an eclectic, elevated, tropical beach haven with Mexican influences. Dozens of intricate ironwork lamps hang from the ceiling, giving a nod to its Mexican roots. Shuttered windows behind the reception area infuse a tropical vibe, and overstuffed plush couches offer guests a ‘stay awhile’ seating option. A wall divides the lobby from the bar, where brass lamps replace the iron fixtures and brown leather couches replace plush ones. It’s a design-lover’s paradise and an Instagrammer’s haven. The resort is best suited for couples and groups of all ages. It has a slightly younger vibe due to the activities offered (i.e., weekly pool parties), but elderly guests will also be comfortable there.
How I Felt
Refreshed.
Between the kind staff, the fun guests and the vast array of activities available, I returned from my stay at UNICO quite refreshed. The staff went above and beyond to make every experience, from changing the scent in my room to ordering a drink at the pool bar, such a personal, memorable and genuine feeling. The guests at the hotel were all there to have fun and relax, and it really showed in how they treated one another. Although we were all strangers, we instantly bonded because we were all at the resort seeking the same refreshed feeling. The activities offered were a balanced mixture of enjoyment, relaxation and exertion, and each day ended with us feeling satisfied with what we experienced and accomplished that day.
The Digs
I stayed in a beautiful Alcoba Ocean View King room that was incredibly spacious. A hydro spa tub on the balcony was lovely to soak in while watching the sunset. The room’s design incorporated natural elements such as exposed wooden beams, a natural wooden headboard and bedframe and a tree trunk coffee table. The bathroom had two sinks with a sliding door to allow a full view of the bedroom while getting ready. Two of my favorite options in the room were the aromatherapy diffuser and scent menu as well and a pillow menu. Did I mention the bed and pillows were like sleeping on cloud nine?
The Agenda
My stay overlapped with the resort’s frequent wellness week, which allowed me to take various wellness workshops that ranged from fitness classes to sound bath sessions. I stayed on the property the entire time as the resort is all-inclusive and has a lot to offer. While I was at UNICO, I took an aqua spin class, a paddleboard yoga class, breathwork and meditation classes and I participated in the weekly pool party. The resort also offers complimentary monogramming on straw hats provided by the resort.
The Eats
I enjoyed dining at Cueva Siete the most because the restaurant pays homage to Yucatecan culture and Mexican flavors, and their dishes were not just flavorful, but inspiring! Their seafood was delicious, but the highlight of the meal was the restaurant’s special Kahlua on fire drink. I also loved breakfast and lunch at 20.87. Breakfast is a buffet, while lunch is à la carte. I popped into Inez Café often for their delicious smoothies and avocado toasts. Everyone with dietary restrictions is given a card with their name, a unique code and their dietary restriction. It is to be handed to the waiter at each restaurant before dining.
Why I Would Go Back
I’d go back for many reasons. It’s not often that you’re able to test out a variety of unusual workouts, eat good food and relax all in one place, within minutes walking distance from each other.
Latifah Al-Hazzà
comments