September 9 through 16 was a magical week spent in Cancun and the Riviera Maya. The first 3 nights I stayed at THE ROYAL in Cancun in a Royal Oceanview Junior Suite. The view from the large private balcony that overlooked the Caribbean was magnificent. The first day was spent at the beach and pool area just to relax and do nothing. That evening, I had the opportunity to dine in their small, 1 seating, 16 person, specialty restaurant called Chef’s Plate. The second day was devoted to a spa day. Several hours in the spa with treatments and a healthy lunch was well deserved. Another day was for playing “tourist.” I took a bus tour to Chichen Itza for the first time in all the years I have been traveling to the area. The tour itself was nothing to write home about, but the ruins were exceptional. There was so much to see and so much history.

The second part of the stay, 4 nights, was spent at El Dorado Maroma in the Riviera Maya. It was such a warm and happy welcome from dear friends. Yes, I got a bit teary eyed. More relaxation was on the agenda for the next several days. Time was spent each day around the pool, on the beach and at the bar. I was waited on hand and foot. Long walks up and down the long beautiful beach were also relaxing moments.

September 15, my birthday, also happened to be Mexico’s official Independance Day. There was much celebration that day on many fronts. My biggest surprise was dinner. I was expecting to eat in one of the small restaurants, but instead, was lead to a private area, where dinner was served at sundown, over the water. The second time to get all teary eyed. A fantastic dinner, beautiful setting, extraordinary service and great company.

To have to leave to come back to reality was very difficult. I love the destination, but love the people more. Every time I travel to the Yucatan, I feel so welcome. I know that when I send people to resorts such as the ones I have stayed, they will be treated as kindly and warm as I have been.