Curated Hotel: Island Paradise at Zoetry Villa Rolandi on Isla Mujeres
Following two flights and one taxi ride to the water’s edge, Scott and I were whisked away on a private yacht to Zoetry Villa Rolandi.
Island Paradise at Zoetry Villa Rolandi on the Island of Isla Mujeres:
Isla Mujeres is a jewel of an island just a leisurely yacht ride from Cancun in the Mexican Caribbean. The waters of the Bahia de Mujeres (Bay of Women) shimmer in the sunlight with aqua to turquoise shades and appear luminescent at sunset with rose gold and blue tones.
Isla Mujeres is simply sublime.
Following two flights and one taxi ride to the water's edge, Scott and I were whisked away on a private yacht to Zoetry Villa Rolandi.
Charming Alexander, an Isla Mujeres 4th generation native and concierge of the yacht, served champagne.
We arrived at Zoetry Villa Rolandi just 30 minutes after leaving Cancun...
and following our private concierge check-in, we were in the pool 15 minutes later.
#islandparadise
Zoetry Villa Rolandi is an intimate island-style resort, composed of only 35 oceanfront suites. Our suite looked over the pool with the white sand beach just a few steps below.
The view from our balcony.
There are 2 infinity-edged pools, a world-class Thalasso spa, two gourmet restaurants, a free concierge yacht service, and a lovely stretch of beach at Zoetry Villa Rolandi.
Isla Mujeres boasts some gorgeous sunsets, like this one over the infinity-edged pool to the sea.
It also has some of the best beaches in the Caribbean.
The sand was like sugar.
If you dare leave the lounge chair or hammock,
golf carts are available for rent and are great for a day-trip around the island.
We discovered a casual beachy spot for lunch with live music. Definitely feeling like a local here.
After a few hours of exploring the island, you will likely be longing to get back to that pool and lounge chair.
In your suite, a fruit plate and a daily bottle of champagne await you. The chocolate covered strawberries were a gift for us as members of Unlimited Vacation Club.
Evenings at Zoetry Villa Rolandi are filled with twinkling lights, decadent gourmet dining, and sublime sips. The service, even poolside at the intimate Le Metissage French-Mexican fusion cuisine, was impeccable.
This spot, Casa Rolandi, was perfect for breakfast, although we often ordered breakfast delivered en suite. Zoetry resorts are luxury all-inclusive vacations, and they always have 24 hour room service, as well as a free laundry service, a nice perk after a day of travel.
Just look at that view!
Cheers to a sunny escape to Isla Mujeres!
Contact us at Curated Travel to book your luxury all-inclusive getaway.
Cooking Class: Ceviche from Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita and a Surprise Meet Up!
Are you in the mood for something fresh, healthy and easy to make? Scott and I learned to make one of our favorite go-to summer dishes on our recent trip to Riviera Maya. We took a cooking class with chef Nicholas at Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita. At the last second, I flipped on the video camera on my phone to capture the experience. I'll also share the recipe at the bottom of the post.
Are you in the mood for something fresh, healthy and easy to make? Scott and I learned to make one of our favorite go-to summer dishes on our recent trip to Riviera Maya. We took a cooking class with chef Nicholas at Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita. At the last second, I flipped on the video camera on my phone to capture the experience. I'll also share the recipe at the bottom of the post.
All the ingredients were carefully chopped and prepared by Chef Nicolas. The friendly staff, including Fermin, started the class by serving chilled white wine. Pour yourself a glass of chilled sauvignon blanc, sit back and join me for a few moments at the cooking class as we make ceviche for the first time.
Here's Scott diving in!
It's fun to serve just about anything in a martini glass!
friends-cooking-class-zoetry
These are more of the fun folks we met at Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita. Rosemary and Rolando, in straw hats, were great. We also ended up in a sweat lodge with them at the spa -- but that's a whole different story. With Facebook these days it is so easy to stay friends with people we meet while traveling. That is a huge plus for social media in my book.
In the background of this shot, I'm introducing myself to the famed Mexican architect Carlos Gosselin, who designed Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita. He lives part time at Zoetry, and a number of guests, including my husband, had seen him during our stay. I woke up on this morning and announced to Scott, "I'm going to meet the architect today". I wanted to tell him how impressed I am with this magnificent resort. As I shot the video of the cooking class, I turned my video around to get a glimpse of the resort (about 6 minutes in) and he was the shadowy figure walking just a couple of feet behind me. It was a fun moment and such a surprise! As soon as the class was over I raced over to meet him and he was just as elegant and charming as I expected.
Zoetry grouper ceviche
Ingredients
1 kg diced fresh grouper or mild white fish
8 lemons (the juice)
1 red onion in julianne
1 chopped mango
½ chopped papaya
1 chopped cucumber
Basil
Coriander
Mint
Salt
Dried oregano
Olive oil
Tortilla chips
Procedure
Place grouper, lemon juice, oregano, salt and olive oil in a bowl and let it rest for at least 15·20 min
Add the rest of ingredients
Serve with tortilla chips
Scott recreated this dish at home with fresh ingredients from the farmer's market in Chico. We devoured it so quickly that I didn't get any shots of his finished product. Ceviche is also delicious served with guacamole.
For more on our trip to Riviera Maya:
A Sunny Escape to Tulum and Akumal
Have you ever made ceviche?
Date Night: A Sunset Sail in a Tropical Paradise
For the final evening of our vacation in Riviera Maya, we chose a sunset sail at our resort, Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita. The turquoise waters, gentle tropical breezes, friendly service, bubbly champagne and new friends made it the best way to usher in the evening.
For the final evening of our vacation in Riviera Maya, we chose a sunset sail at our resort, Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita. The turquoise waters, gentle tropical breezes, friendly service, bubbly champagne and new friends made it the best way to usher in the evening.
I always love being on--or near--the water and this sailing adventure reminded me just how much I enjoy sailing. It had been years since I'd been out on a sailboat. I'm holding Scott's glass here so that he could take the photo. I promise--I wasn't drinking two glasses of champagne at once! ;)
My sailor, also enjoying his bubbly.
There were a few other couples on this sunset sail, like Jenny and Tyler--a fun couple from Virginia--celebrating their honeymoon.
I had to laugh when I realized how my Rachel Roy top caught wind in this sailing adventure. It definitely had a mind of its own. I've enjoyed wearing this halter top all season but perhaps it's a bit more stylish on dry land.
Cheers to our last night at Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita--we can't wait to return!!
A Sunny Escape to Tulum & Lunch on the Beach in Akumal
Along with pristine beaches and turquoise Caribbean seas, Riviera Maya is also famous for the archaeological site at Tulum. This ancient Mayan fortress city and port, built late in the 13th century--during the post-classic period-- was known for trading in jade and turquoise from the seaside location. The city is surrounded by walls of limestone on three sides and is nestled next to a beautiful beach
Along with pristine beaches and turquoise Caribbean seas, Riviera Maya is also famous for the archaeological site at Tulum. This ancient Mayan fortress city and port, built late in the 13th century--during the post-classic period-- was known for trading in jade and turquoise from the seaside location. The city is surrounded by walls of limestone on three sides and is nestled next to a beautiful beach. Scott and I had planned a day trip to explore the beauty of Tulum and Akumal. We rented a car at Secrets Silversands and headed out.
This is the iconic view of the Castillo, castle, with ancient limestone walls juxtaposed against the turquoise and blues of the sky and sea.
I would definitely recommend wearing your swimsuit under your clothing in warm weather. A number of fellow tourists stripped down and took a swim from the beach here. They ended up looking much more refreshed than I did. It was hot and steamy on this day in July. Walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and swimsuit are definitely recommended for a visit to Tulum.
The beauty of this place is memorable.
After leaving Tulum we drove through colorful Akumal.
We worked up quite an appetite hiking around the ruins so Scott had an eagle eye out for someplace fun for lunch...
and he definitely found it--La Buena Vida-- on the beach!
This spot, with tables, bean bags and hammocks on the beach was perfect for a relaxing, casual lunch.
For the more adventurous among us you can even dine in a tree top table.
margaritas in the sand
It doesn't get much more relaxed than this...fish tacos, guacamole, and margaritas from your lounge chair on the sand.
Curated Hotel: The Exquisite Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita in Riviera Maya
The final stop on our summer getaway to Riviera Maya was unforgettable. We started with an enjoyable week at Secrets Silversands, then made our way to Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita for five days. This oceanfront boutique hotel is one of the most luxurious travel experiences ever for us. With just 90 suites, and all-inclusive luxury, we felt completely pampered. As we had hoped, this was the perfect spot to celebrate our 15th wedding anniversary.
Getaway to Zoetry in Riviera Maya
The final stop on our summer getaway to Riviera Maya was unforgettable. We started with an enjoyable week at Secrets Silversands, then made our way to Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita for five days. This oceanfront boutique hotel is one of the most luxurious travel experiences ever for us. With just 90 suites and all-inclusive luxury, we felt completely pampered. As we had hoped, this was the perfect spot to celebrate our 15th wedding anniversary.
Following our concierge check-in it was just a short walk, through lush foliage on a stone path, to our top floor suite, named 'Dadra', with sweeping views of the sea.
The balcony was overlooking the beach and sea...
as was this picturesque blue one off the bedroom.
There are no room numbers at Zoetry. Each suite is named after a place the Mexican architect, Carlos Gosselin, visited with his beloved wife. I had the pleasure of meeting the charming Mr. Gosselin, who still lives at Zoetry part of the year, and sharing my appreciation of his designs and attention to detail. The suites and grounds are filled with his extensive collection of art pieces and sculptures from his travels. Much more than decor, you feel a museum quality to the spaces--and yet it is all supremely comfortable.
I'm thinking I could live here...
forever!
I was so enamored with the suite that I shot a quick video tour:
It was definitely time to chill in the beautiful pool.
We discovered that you don't carry a towel at Zoetry. Towels are brought by staff and arranged--perfectly tucked in--on the loungers for you. The service at Zoetry is incredible and staff is warm and friendly, always responding to requests with, "It is my pleasure." This is handsome Pablo, one of our favorite guys poolside!
Back at the suite, there were some sublime moments of relaxation. The room service menu is gourmet, and the suite is so welcoming that some guests dine en-suite for their entire visit. A daily bottle of champagne is also delivered. Cheers! We may have been tempted to stay in the suite more often, but we made some lovely friends while visiting at Zoetry. With a resort so small it's easy to meet friends from all over the world and stay in touch through Facebook.
Cheers to 15 years of marriage (and yes, it did feel like the entire trip was one big celebration;).
Isn't that the point of vacation and a getaway to Riviera Maya?
The beach loungers make for a perfect daytime spot or catching the colors of the sea and sky at dusk after a walk.
Zoetry is a small boutique hotel, yet the dining options are incredible. From beach side mesquite grill at El Chiringuito--where Scott tried to 'set the night on fire'--to the excellence of fusion style at La Canoa with Cusine de los Soles--to a romantic wine cellar gourmet dinner for two to celebrate our anniversary; we had one of the best culinary experiences of our lives at Zoetry.
A few instagram shots...
We also indulged in spa and water treatments at the Thalassotherapy spa at Zoetry. The options for healthy, restorative treatments--based on health through water-- are endless. From sunset sailing cruises to cooking classes to cigar rolling and yoga, there is always something to do at Zoetry Pariaso de la Bonita...or you can choose to do nothing at all. I look forward to posting more of our adventures at this amazing place and our time at Secrets Silversands. Here's a sneak peek at our sunset sail and a cooking class.
If you--or someone love-- are looking for an unforgettable travel experience (and discounts),
I have some ideas for you here.
Curated Hotel: Chic and Stylish Secrets Silversands in Riviera Cancun
The second stop on our 15th wedding anniversary trip was Secrets Silversands resort--nestled beside the turquoise seas of the Caribbean in Riviera Cancun. Our getaway started with a celebratory walk down memory lane in San Francisco and we were looking forward to a week of relaxation at the beach.
The second stop on our 15th wedding anniversary trip was Secrets Silversands resort--nestled beside the turquoise seas of the Caribbean in Riviera Cancun. Our getaway started with a celebratory walk down memory lane in San Francisco and we were looking forward to a week of relaxation at the beach.
Upon checking into our suite in the preferred club we were excited to see this view of the beach and preferred club pool.
Our suite was very spacious, including a living area, desk, table for two and a private terrace with a daybed.
The spa bath, with soaking tub and open stone tiled shower, is perfect for a beach vacation. The 'secret door' is for delivery of 24 room service trays without disturbing the guests. #nicetouch
The special touches-like welcome champagne, celebration banners (it was also my birthday;), and most essential-- the warmth and friendliness of the staff--keep us coming back to Secrets and Zoetry resorts.
I am always drawn to the beach, especially with these powdery sands, swaying palm trees, breezy palapas...
and private day beds.
The infinity edged pool is beautifully designed to flow under the hotel and out to the preferred club pool with views of the sea.
The colors of the Caribbean...
Evenings are just as beautiful as sunny days in a tropical paradise.
Secrets Silversands is described as livelymodernchic--and it's all that and more! At this adults only resort chill music (I'm a fan) gives the sleek, modern public spaces a relaxing vibe. There are a number of spaces for lounging and socializing at night. A selection of high-end restaurants serving global cuisine in beautifully decorated spaces or you can dine en-suite with 24 hour room service. The beach is super relaxing with friendly staff providing food and drinks. You can be as private, or as social as you like, whatever you are in the mood for at Silversands. We enjoyed a day at the luxurious Secrets Spa by Pevonia with a couple's massage, hydrotherapy session with steam rooms, a water circuit, and private outdoor cabanas. We also took a couple of day trips--including a visit to the ruins at Tulum--while staying at Secrets Silversands. I look forward to posting on that fascinating excursion as well. Our next stop will be our stay at the insanely beautiful Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita in Riviera Maya.
As members of the Unlimited Vacation Club, Scott and I are big fans of this all-inclusive luxury concept for a truly memorable vacation. If you, or someone you know, are in the mood for a luxurious tropical getaway I am happy to share our membership/discounts with you as part of the referral program. For more info here. We have referred a number of couples and they also have rave reviews of the brand like we do.
How is your summer shaping up so far?
Where have your travels taken you?
Cheers!
PS-Our #stylefocus Lifestyle Linkup goes live again on Monday, August 3rd, please join us and add a couple of your lifestyle blog post links!!
Curated Collections at my Stylemindchic Boutique!
(Look at all these new arrivals!)
Date Night at 7 Seas Los Cabos-Surf's Up!
Every now and then Scott and I stumble onto a surreal experience during our travels. This was one of those times. It was the final evening of our trip to Los Cabos, and our tradition is to do something celebratory on our last night. I tend to follow my gut instinct when making plans and when I learned of 7 Seas, with a description so intriguing, I just knew this was the place.
Date Night at 7 Seas Los Cabos-Surf's Up!
Every now and then Scott and I stumble onto a surreal experience during our travels. This was one of those times. It was the final evening of our trip to Los Cabos, and our tradition is to do something celebratory on our last night. I tend to follow my gut instinct when making plans and when I learned of 7 Seas, with a description so intriguing, I just knew this was the place.
Arriving at the Cabo Surf Hotel is a bit like a journey back in time.
It felt nostalgic---in a good way.
The hotel, restaurant and infinity-edge pool are beachside.
Cabo Surf Hotel
This is a obviously a surfer's paradise...(and the home of Mike Doyle's Surf School)
and the best place for apres-surf.
7 Seas Seafood Grille and Surf's up in Los Cabos
The 7 Seas Seafood Grille is located at the heart of the hotel, overlooking the beach.
The view from our table took our breath away...
My favorite traveling companion/husband/Scott was very pleased with my choice for dinner.
Scott selected the 'Surprise Me Chef' with a slice of tuna so thick it was reminiscent a steak.
I ordered the 'Lemon Caper Fish' which which light, fresh and flavorful.
Eduardo, Sylvia, Freddie and Ivan spoiled us with friendly, yet impeccable service, and the freshest of seafood delicacies.
It was also the quality of the light, the gentle waves lapping on the beach,
and watching the surfers, who seemed somehow from a different time.
#throwbackthursday
Stylemindchic Lifestyle and a glass of sauv blanc at 7 Seas Seafood Grille by the sea in Los Cabos
One of those surreal moments.......
captured on Instagram.
If you are in Los Cabos (San Jose del Cabo or Cabo San Lucas) I highly recommend dinner out at Seven Seas and a stay at the Cabo Surf Hotel. It's fun for families as well as a romantic dinner by the sea.
