By Alexia Gonzalez, Freelance Contributor
Are your clients seeking an adults-only haven? UNICO 20 ̊87 ̊Hotel Riviera Maya not only removes children from the equation, but also offers an elevated experience designed for the sophisticated traveller seeking to connect with the culture and cuisine of the Mexican Caribbean.
A retreat which redefines the traditional notion of the “all-inclusive,” UNICO 20 ̊87 ̊provides an experience rich with locally inspired amenities and distinguished by luxe accommodations. From the moment you arrive at the lobby, you’re greeted by a calming signature scent and a sense of place combining the traditions of old Mexico with today’s trends.
Swim-up rooms at UNICO 20 °87 ° Hotel Riviera Maya. (Photo Credit: Alexia Gonzalez)
A Devotion to Location and Culture
Located about 40 minutes from CUN, a half-hour from Playa Del Carmen, and about 20 minutes from Tulum, UNICO 20 ̊87 ̊is a different style of all-inclusive, marked by relaxed luxury. From its very name -- 20 ̊N 87 ̊is its geographical location -- every aspect of the hotel embraces the local, from hotel elements to spa treatments and curated experiences, providing guests a profound connection to the surrounding region.
With an arsenal of local experts, guides, artisans, and specialists, the hotel aims to showcase the true essence of the Riviera Maya
UNICO 20 °87 ° Hotel Riviera Maya was gloriously decorated for Dia de Los Muertos. (Photo Credit: Alexia Gonzalez)
Authentic Experience During the Dia de Los Muertos Celebration
During TravelPulse Canada’s stay, we were fortunate to catch some of the hotel’s Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) festivities. A vibrant and deeply rooted Mexican celebration that honours departed loved ones, . Originating from ancient Aztec traditions, Dia de los Muertos is a Mexican holiday observed annually from October 31 to November 2. Contrary to its name, this is not a somber occasion, but rather a joyous and life-affirming holiday that embraces the circle of life and death.
UNICO 20 ̊87 ̊ reflected this with an elaborate ofrenda, or altar, set in the lobby and adorned with photographs, favourite foods, drinks, and cherished possessions of the departed. Families create these offerings in their homes and at grave sites to welcome and honour the spirits. The authentic and inspired decorations added a unique and culturally rich ambiance to the experience.
Locally Inspired Design + Lavish Accommodations
The property features 448 lavishly appointed guestrooms with predominantly ocean views. Accommodations include options with semi-private swim-up pools on the ground floor and outdoor hydro spa tubs on higher levels. Fusing modern design and locally inspired art and décor, UNICO 20 ̊87 ̊evokes a unique aesthetic which seamlessly blends coastal rustic and modern elements.
A Culinary Journey
Dining at UNICO 20°87° is not a singular experience, but rather a multi-sensory adventure, with five unique experiences available, along with 24/7 in-room dining. Locally-sourced ingredients are a staple at every restaurant and bar, which range from elevated fine dining to casual poolside offerings. There’s also a wide range of healthy options as well as vegetarian and vegan dishes available at each restaurant.
Each restaurant offered a unique vibe and delicious cuisine. Cueva Siete was my favourite, offering deliciously elevated Mexican cuisine. To more closely connect with the culinary innovations of modern Mexican cuisine, the resort has implemented a rotating chef program.
Lula Martin del Campo, Unico's newest celebrity chef. (photo via Unico 20 87 Hotel Riviera Maya) (Photo Credit: (photo via Unico 20 87 Hotel Riviera Maya))
We got to try Chef Lula's menu – the first female chef in the hotel’s program. Her menu prioritizes preventing the extinction of authentic Mexican ingredients such as beans, corn and grains. Embracing the local art and culture, Chef Lula aims to carry the region’s authenticity into her dishes by implementing her interpretation of the many different textures and flavours.
Coastal Italian cuisine and fresh pasta takes the stage at Mi Carisa, while Mura House boasts Japanese a la carte cuisine and Hibachi dining. 20.87 Restaurant—the hotel's casual beachside venue -- shifts throughout the day: from a bountifully diverse a la carte breakfast menu, with fresh juices, eggs and Mexican pastries, to a classic grill offering in the evenings, with choice cuts of steak and fish.
Cafe Inez is UNICO 20°87°’s own take on European café culture, offering healthy eats, smoothies, juices, coffee, tea and baked goods in the morning -- they have the most delicious oatmeal and chia pudding. Later, the menu transitions to sandwiches, paninis and meal-sized salads for lunch, dinner and late into the night.
The author enjoys breakfast at UNICO 20 °87 ° Hotel Riviera Maya. (Photo Credit: Alexia Gonzalez)
Immersive Experiences + Flexible Programming
UNICO 20 ̊87 ̊ adopts a "no-itinerary-necessary" approach, encouraging guests to indulge in on-property culturally inspired experiences. From mixology classes and cooking sessions with local flavours to live demonstrations by musicians and painters, the hotel offers a diverse range of programming for a truly immersive stay. Curated excursions are offered at a discounted all-inclusive rate, including a tour of the nearby cenotes, or a visit to nearby Mayan Ruins.
But you really don’t have to leave the property to feel a sense of culture or vacation excitement. From pop-up pool parties with live music and tequila tastings, to cooking and art classes and artisanal chocolate making, there is no shortage of fun on or off-property.
Dance The Night Away
Meticulously crafted cocktails and a selection of top shelf spirits can be found at both lounges while the café sports a variety of juice creations. The energy shifts as the evening darkens to night with live performances, late-night snacks, and one-of-a-kind programming.
Palmera Lounge hearkens back to the Cuban clubs of the 40s with expertly crafted cocktails, bright, inviting design, boisterous live entertainment, and a cigar bar. Bar Balam is UNICO 20°87°’s day through night cocktail bar, calling to mind the mystique of hidden-door cocktail dens of yore. You can also take the party back to your room after a visit to La Botella wine store.
UNICO 20 °87 ° Hotel Riviera Maya has everything for a relaxing vacation. (Photo Credit: Alexia Gonzalez)
Local Host Service + Personalized Assistance
All rooms feature an anfitrión -- a local host -- to provide personalized services like a butler would, including handling all reservations, assisting with planning on and off-property activities, as well as dry cleaning and transportation. However, your local host service goes beyond traditional butler service, offering an insider guide to the local scene.
Unwind and Indulge at Essencia Spa
The dreamy full-service Essencia Spa and beauty salon caters to body, mind, and spirit through a range of luxury spa treatments and locally inspired beauty rituals. A fully equipped hydrotherapy facility and a wide variety of natural ingredients help create an immersive and ultra-relaxing environment.
UNICO 20 ̊87 ̊ Hotel Riviera Maya stands as a testament to redefined luxury, cultural immersion, and personalized service. A stay at this exclusive adults-only retreat promises a journey into the soul of the Riviera Maya, offering an experience both indulgent and authentically Mexican.
Topics From This Article to Explore
