Five ways Allison and Deb at The Divine Destination Collection mingle pampering with transformation.
1. Smart Indulgence
Our hotels were spectacular, but did not insulate us from local culture. Rather, they illuminated it—like the herb talk at the Belmond Maroma Resort & Spa that revealed Mayan secrets of herbal medicine.
2. Access Not Just Excess
Our temazcal experience, a Mayan sweat lodge of sorts, was not simply a polished recreation, but the real thing, two hours deep into the jungle—complete with a tender greetings by local Mayan children in traditional dress, our own Shaman (a lady) and Warrior Protector. The candlelight swim in the private nearby cenote afterward was dreamlike. And later the chance to learn how to make traditional dishes from an award-winning chef.
3. Authenticity and Expert Insight
Our spiritual guides for the week shared their passion for their culture at every turn. And even though red-haired Allison looked more likely to be an expert guide in Donegal than the Yucatán, her flawless Spanish and local knowledge from years of living in Mexico gave us a true insider's perspective.
4. Whimsy
Isn't it true—it's the little things, the bits of lateral creativity, are the things we remember. I mean drinks on this stunning beach would have been enough, but the wade and wine bar was simple indulgence. Appetizers on a sunset cruise through the lush mangroves... and on.
5. Attention to Detail
With Deb and Allison both from the relentlessly demanding world of meetings and special events planning, no detail was overlooked, including a formal warrior dance as we dined in a cenote cave for our final evening.
P.S. Never heard of AeroMexico? Take note. A modern high-tech fleet with superb service and, wait for it—free alcohol and meals!
