ARRIVAL/CHECK-IN: Upon arrival I was immediately impressed by the huge open-air lobby, allowing for beautiful views of the sprawling resort all the way to the beach. On one side, the lobby bar, Interlude, featured comfortable indoor and outdoor seating and a huge wine selection. On the other side of the lobby, the concierge greeted me warmly, directing me to the check-in area.

After offering a glass of Champagne, the desk agent discussed all the amenities and configured my phone’s WiFi before another staffer walked me to my room.

© Dreams Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort

GUEST QUARTERS: One of 500 rooms in several buildings, my second-floor room faced one of many pools. Although the queen-sized beds were extremely comfortable, I opted for the padded lounger on my private terrace for a sleep in nature a couple of nights. The terrace also held a whirlpool and other seating. A rain shower, with great pressure, was the highlight of the bathroom. Other features included a double vanity, hair dryer, steamer and additional phone. A soft robe and slippers provided extra luxurious comfort.

SERVICES/AMENITIES: More than 20 restaurants or bars offered plenty of options. My favorite, Tres Colores, served fantastic Mexican fare along with the best frozen margarita. With local and international stations, World Café is a world-class buffet. Spin proved the perfect bar to watch Sunday’s football games, with special thanks to the manager for finding the Chicago Bears game. At night it turned into a hot dance club.

When not enjoying meals, I had my pick of many pools, including the lazy river and a huge water slide. To get a little physical fun, I ventured to the basketball and volleyball courts while others played golf. I could not possibly partake in everything in my five days, but I tried.

On the last night, our group met on the secluded beach for my niece’s wedding. We could not ask for a better, more picturesque setting. Likewise, the couple’s Preferred Club Master Suite was the perfect place to celebrate their union. A spacious seating area with fantastic views surrounded a colorfully lighted dance floor.

© John Wroblewski

TOP TAKEAWAYS:

• Helpful, informative staffers were seemingly everywhere, without being intrusive. Whether giving directions or suggestions, they were invaluable.
• Since it is all-inclusive, I strongly suggest varying dining choices. As much as I loved my first choice of Tres Colores and did return there, I am glad I ventured out to many of the other options for the experience.
• Find a pool or beach area to your liking. With so many choices, you can be part of fun socializing or peaceful seclusion.
• The refreshing lack of commercialism throughout the resort promotes the feeling of getting away from it all.

DREAMS PLAYA MUJERES GOLF & SPA RESORT
Zona Continental Lote Rth-7-pm-Li
Playa Mujeres Quintana Roo, Mexico, 77400
tel 52 998 234 0300