Iberostar all inclusive resorts - Riviera Maya, MX
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When Iberostar reached out to offer an invitation to stay at their new all inclusive resort- Iberostar Selection Riviera Cancun and tour that resort as well as the 5 Iberostar properties further south in Riviera Maya at the Paraiso complex, I jumped at the opportunity! As an award winning travel agent, I have sold Iberostar resorts extensively, but had not yet actually experienced one in person. Now, I feel extremely proficient in what these 6 resorts can offer travelers, and which is the right fit for particular needs. Having "boots on the ground" experience is how serious travel agents can differentiate themselves from online booking engines, while providing superior customer service!
All of the properties featured below are all-inclusive. That means that your meals, drinks, entertainment day and night, and some fun activities including non motorized watersports are part of your package price.
Upgrades, such as spa services, snorkeling/diving, and excursions are additional.
Servers welcome gratuities, although this is also part of your package price and additional tipping is not required.
The travel - from Eugene, OR (EUG), I had single connection flights to and from CUN, which made travel relatively painless. Yes, it was a long day, and I was the last agent to arrive on site (most were from the Midwest and had really quick non stops... CLE - you got it easy! Maybe we'll get those here someday!). On the return, I completed US customs in Denver (super simple) before returning home around 9pm.
Iberostar Selection Riviera Cancun - an easy 20 minute airport transfer, this property was opened as Iberostar just over 6 months ago. Service was friendly, drinks were fantastic, and all rooms feature large soaking tubs. This resort is family friendly, and offers a sunny kids splash pad area in addition to 3 large main swimming pool areas. As is pretty typical for the area, the beach left something to be desired.
Families - there are nice ground floor family suites, which include some baby/toddler amenities such as small bathtub and changing station in the room, and have easy access to the pool and splash pad. The kids club area is pretty well stocked with toys and an activity schedule. Kids under 4 can attend with a parent, giving a nice shady option for fun to the smaller set.
Paraiso complex - The next day we were taken 20 minutes south to Iberostar's Paraiso complex, which houses 5 resorts - Waves Beach, Waves Del Mar, Selection Lindo, Selection Maya Suites, and JOIA. Also on site in this sprawling gated resort complex is the Iberostar golf course. Guests can arrange unlimited daily golf at a rock bottom rate, making this an attractive spot for golfers.
2 bedroom suites are offered at the family properties, although they are high demand, so be sure to reach out to book these suites early!
Unique features of the complex include an on site cenote (for looking only), and an intact mangrove forest separating the beach from the resort. The mangroves are essential to the health of the beach and water, and also provide an opportunity for viewing wildlife.
The resorts are tiered for visiting privileges and amenities. The huge draw for families in this complex is the amazing waterpark. Seriously stunning with multiple waterslides, a lazy river, a wave pool, zero entry pool, fantastic splash pad area with pirate ship, this waterpark is included with stays at Lindo, Maya, and JOIA. Day passes are required for guests at the Waves resorts.
Selection resorts also include room service from 11am-11pm, as well as access to indoor (air conditioned) dining. But for clients who don't need these bells and whistles, the Waves properties offer hacienda styled accommodations in lush landscaping. These resorts also have a cabana lined pool that is nearly the length of the complex, quite impressive!
JOIA - Iberostar's adults only luxe resort brand JOIA is quite stunning. It offers a higher end experience away from the sights and sounds of the family resorts (although guests can visit the other properties and waterpark as they wish). The resort was very peaceful, although the spaces felt very large and cavernous. Special touches such as beach totes, upgraded mini bar amenities, and suncreen stations around the pool give the resort a luxury feel. Music at the pool was classic rock - Bon Jovi, Pink Floyd, etc. The golf course is right out front, making this a home run for golf enthusiasts!
The entry is a spectacular conservatory, which I'm sure is even more amazing in the evening when the candles are lit. We were also served a welcome (non alcoholic) cocktail upon arrival and greeted with a cool towel. Nice touch!
Each of these resorts has something to offer for the right traveler. Which one is right for you? Get in touch and I will be happy to assess your needs and provide a custom quote.
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