Marriott Cancun Resort: Where the Mayan Riviera Meets the World

It was a sweltering night in September and I was seated under the palapa roof of a lush patio eating some of the best Thai food of my life. The spicy stir fried rice noodles were fresh from the wok; slightly smoky and crispy around the edges (just the way I like them) and the coconut and lime soup was richly fragrant and delicious. Nearby palms swayed gently in the light breeze as I enjoyed second and third helpings. No, I wasn’t on the shore of Phuket or Krabi, I was taking in taking in the view of the Nichupte Lagoon while enjoying a meal at Sasi Thai, one of nine authentic international restaurants at the Marriott Cancun Resort.

Courtesy of Marriott Cancun Resort

Located in the heart of the hotel zone, the Marriott Cancun Resort just recently underwent a 25 million dollar renovation and the result is an elegant, cosmopolitan experience designed with foodies in mind. From La Capilla, an Argentinean steakhouse to Mikado Teppan Yaki which offers an impressive Izakaya – Japanese Tapas – menu (think: juicy pork belly, fluffy bao and savory mini bowls of ramen), the Marriott Cancun offers something for every taste, while infusing the culinary experience with authentic Mexican flavors.

The Kiwi Rita. Courtesy of Marriott Cancun Resort

Take a short jaunt through the resort’s palatial lobby to their sister property, JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa, where they’ve recently launched a brand new 150 Margaritas Menu. Yes, you read that correctly.

The Ruby Red Rita. Courtesy of Marriott Cancun Resort

The Lobby Bar offers 150 margaritas each made from a different Tequila or Mezcal. From fiery jalapeno and habanero to sweet and sultry watermelon and hibiscus, don’t be surprised if you find your new favorite drink or a host of new flavors to delight your guests. Enjoy your beverage while indulging in some mouthwatering guacamole and freshly made totopos (tortilla chips).

Courtesy of Marriott Cancun Resort

The Marriott Cancun Resort takes a similar elegant and eclectic approach to their wedding services. While wandering through the resort’s 88,000 square feet of venue space, I stumbled across a room that was being prepared for a South Asian wedding (think: sumptuous pillows strewn on the floor and gorgeous bright flower arrangements).

Courtesy of Marriott Cancun Resort

While this is one of the resort’s most requested wedding packages, the Marriott Cancun Resort offers a Certified Wedding Planner to coordinate nuptials of all types, including ethnic and military weddings. Along with new digital mapping technology that allows couples to fully customize the event’s look with creative lighting, they are also guaranteed creative insight, flexibility and the professional help required to bring their dream wedding to life.

When it’s time to unwind, visit the resort’s full-service spa which infuses traditional treatments with elements of Mayan rituals. With your body and mind relaxed, catch some rays by the pristine ocean-facing pool while enjoying a drink and some freshly made tacos.

Wrap up your stay with one of the resort’s signature brunch baskets on the beach. Filled with a selection of charcuterie, tropical fruit, DIY mimosas and craft brews from around the globe, this Insta-worthy dining experience is proof that there’s no better place for relaxation and comiendo (eating in Español) than Cancun.

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