“Bing!” The seat belt sign turned off and people scrambled to their feet. I grabbed my backpack and stood in line with others waiting to get off the plane - I couldn’t contain my excitement. Inside the airport we were immediately confronted by people selling time shares and random packages, but Cathi, Hannah, and I continued on and quickly reached the outdoors. There we met Lomas, the company providing our transfers. They guided us to our van right away and loaded our luggage. The service was courteous and prompt, mindful of the fact it had recently rained. The ground was damp and the air smelled of beautiful foliage and floral scents. I turned to Hannah (it being her first time in Mexico) and said “Welcome to the wonderful Riviera Maya!”
On the way to our resort, we stopped in Cancun to see a few hotels. Cancun was much like what I remembered and expected – absolutely stunning beaches and tourquoise water, but very compact. The resorts are right next to one another and are relatively enclosed compared to resorts in the Riviera Maya. A major plus, however, is the short distance to the airport…a quick 10-20 minutes!
After seeing a few spots in Cancun, we headed down to the Riviera Maya to go to our final destination, the El Dorado Royale (EDR). When we spotted the gates for the EDR, we turned off the highway and there, looming a good 20-30 feet above us, was a wall of rainforest. It was gorgeous and definitely added to the tropical feel of the destination. The “driveway” for the EDR is very long and windy, also giving a nice touch of exclusivity – like you’re entering an enchanted place. When we arrived at the lobby, we were greeted with smiles, a cold wet towel, and a beverage. I have to say – the cold towel was my saving grace that humid afternoon. During my stay at the EDR, I experienced phenomenal service, I ate great food, I enjoyed fun activities (like riding a camel), and I left feeling completely relaxed and rejuvenated.

     Overall, the Riviera Maya was more enjoyable for me, but I feel like it really comes down to preference when deciding between Cancun or the Riviera Maya. Cancun has high-rise resorts with more of a populated feel (a little more of a “party scene”), where as resorts in the Riviera Maya are more spread out, almost giving a sense that you are in a village community. You’re around people, but there is a sense of privacy. Both places have great beaches, and both places have wonderful resorts. Just take your pick and enjoy your vacation!

    All this being said, I am absolutely in love with Mexico and wish I could go back this very moment. I’m just waiting for my time-machine to reboot….