It’s easy to think of Mexico as a place where rookie travelers go first, because it’s so close to the United States. But our neighbor to the south also offers an opulent world of privilege and exclusivity rivaling any five-star destination in Europe. And the best part is, Mexico is just across the Rio Grande. Here are a few secret gems we found while flying in private planes and sailing past deserted beaches.
Isla Holbox: Casa Sandra
Located just 2 feet above sea level, this tiny island off the coast of Mexico is a precious gem seemingly lost to civilization. With only 2,000 residents of Mestizo, Maya, pirate, Spanish and Cuban descent, Isla Holbox can feel like your own private island.
Each room in Casa Sandra is individually appointed with classic Mexican furnishings and original artwork painted by Sandra, the owner, who is a Cuban painter and Latin Grammy Award–winner. Privacy is the name of the game, and whatever you wish, they can make it happen. Live lobster delivered? Si! Nanny for the day? Si! In-suite massages? Si!
Casa Sandra, Calle Igualdad, Holbox Island, Q. Roo, Mexico. Starting rates are $300 per night; 52-33-3333-6116 or casasandra.com.
Punta Nizuc: Nizuc Resort & Spa
Nizuc is a delicious combination of Ibiza and Mexico mixed into a saucy, luxurious destination. This brand-new resort is classy, international and definitely super chic. The only major difference between Ibiza and Nizuc is that Nizuc has an epic Kids Club where you can leave your little ones while you chill.
The property was once a base station for Mayan astronomers, then a presidential retreat for world leaders. Now the 29-acre beachfront property is a posh resort that caters to the international jetsetter who wants to relax and enjoy impeccable service without leaving the property. Of course, there are numerous pools—adults-only and family-friendly—stunning views, and a 30,000-square-foot ESPA facility complete with male and female hydrotherapy areas. Since it’s only 15 minutes from Cancun airport, you can leave Nob Hill at 7 a.m. and be poolside by 4 p.m.
Nizuc Resort & Spa: Riviera Maya Blvd., Kukulcan, Cancun, Q. Roo, Mexico. Starting rates are $400 per night; 855-MYNIZUC.
Punta Mita: St. Regis Punta Mita
Punta Mita is what the natives called this area, which roughly translates as “Gateway to Paradise.” And when you take that turn off the main road from Puerto Vallarta, you can understand why. Arriving at the St. Regis, you are greeted with a cocktail, then your private butler meets you in your room and gives you his number, so you can text him anytime you need something. (That includes unpacking your clothes, ironing, laundry, and drawing your bath—just text him a time and he’ll have candles lit and petals floating in the tub.)
From April 30 to May 3, the St. Regis will host the V American Express Punta Mita Gourmet & Golf Classic. During this incredible four-day extravaganza, the resort is transformed into a culinary and golf mecca as famous chefs, winemakers and epicurean personalities from around the world gather to showcase their extraordinary skills.
St. Regis Punta Mita, Carretera Federal, Punta Mita, Mexico. Starting rates are $825 per night; 877-250-8871 or stregis.com/puntamita.
Huatulco: Secrets
Tucked away on the secluded coastline of Conejos Bay is Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa. This adults-only destination is a godsend if you’re on a romantic vacation. The location’s natural rock formations give it an extra-private and intimate feel. The resort offers a signature Unlimited-Luxury vacation concept, which includes amenities like gourmet a la carte dining at nine restaurants, top-shelf spirits at five bars and lounges, 24-hour room service, and complimentary minibars.
The spa, Secrets Spa by Pevonia, is one of the top spas in Mexico, with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and lush hilltops teeming with tropical birds. The must-have spa treatment is called
hydrotherapy: a multistation experience where your body gets
pampered by different water therapies.
Secrets Resort and Spa, Sección Hotelera Bahía de Conejos, Bahía de Conejos, Huatulco, Oaxaca, Mexico. Per person rates start at $250 per night; 866-GOSECRETS or secretsresorts.com/huatulco.
San Miguel de Allende: Casa de Sierra Nevada
Beyond the bustling streets of San Miguel de Allende, in a rare
cluster of four colonial mansions and a main building, you’ll find marvelous Casa de Sierra Nevada. The second you step onto this pristine property, you’ll be treated like you own the place.
One of the delights of this hotel is their spa. Paying tribute to the magnificent Laja River that flows through the mountains and into San Miguel, Laja Spa is the perfect place to indulge after a day of exploring San Miguel.
The hotel offers some fantastic excursions. Just 20 minutes away is La Gruta Hot Springs. Definitely have the hotel make you a reservation for the private Mayan baths. If you’re an equestrian, the hotel can set you up with a spectacular ride through the countryside.
Belmond Casa de Sierra Nevada, Hospicio, San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, Mexico. Rates start at $450 per night; 800-701-1561 or belmond.com.
Zacatecas: Quinta Real Hotel
The city of Zacatecas in north central Mexico is a beautiful example of the riches before the Mexican Revolution. Clearly influenced by Spanish design and architecture, the city takes you back to Old-World Europe, with its winding cobblestone lanes and sweeping mountain views through arched aqueducts. Zacatecas is one of Mexico’s true treasures.
Once a bullring used during the colonial era, the magnificent Quinta Real Hotel is mostly visited by wealthy Mexicans on weekend getaways. Because of its original use, the rooms are all unique and architecturally stunning. And you’ll have plenty to do here, from hiking the crazy rock formations in the Sierra de Organos and the Sierra de Cardos, to strolling through the city’s cathedrals and plazas.
Quinta Real Hotel, Av. Ignacio Rayón, Col. Centro, Zacatecas, Mexico. Rooms start at $250 per night; 866-621-9288 or quintareal.com/zacatecas-en/zac-location.
Teresa Rodriguez is a travel expert and the founder of tangodiva.com. She is also the author of several books, including Fly Solo: The 50 Best Places on Earth for a Girl to Travel Alone; Solo: 7 Keys to Conquering the World Alone; and Body, Mind.