Sunset World Resorts in Cancún

During a visit to Cancún and the nearby Riviera Maya, on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, Nov. 28-Dec. 4, 2013, my wife, Fyllis, and I stayed at a hotel of Sunset World Resorts (800/494-9173), a group of six properties, each boasting unique attractions. Guests may take advantage of the facilities and services at all of them. 

Four of the properties are in close proximity in Cancun, with a free water taxi between two and a free van shuttling between all four, including the Sunset Royal Resort. The other two, including the Sunset Fishermen, 47 miles away, can be reached by public bus (about $4).

Our favorite was the Hacienda Tres Ríos Resort, Spa & Nature Park, about 40 miles from Cancun. Its 326-acre setting is home to some 120 species of plants and more than 90 species of animal life. Among features of its “intelligent rooms” are sensors that turn off the A/C when there’s no movement for a specified time plus low-flow, high-pressure showerheads that deliver hot water in three seconds.

This resort’s Sense Adventure is like nothing Fyllis and I had experienced before. It began as we were blindfolded. We then tried to identify a series of sounds. Were they cymbals or the tinkle of triangles? There was the cry of a baby. As voices chanted softly and seeds cascaded gently onto our heads, our noses picked up the scent of cinnamon. Our sense of touch was heightened as we walked barefoot over several textures, including burlap, wood slats and a soft rug.

When the adventure ended, we were left with an enhanced way of interpreting the world around us.

At the other resorts, free classes are offered in cooking, kayaking, the Spanish language, Mexican handicrafts, bartending and more.

At the Sunset Marina Resort & Yacht Club, the focus is on water sports; guests can even rent a private yacht. 

Two of the properties can be booked through the Sunset 800 number but are not yet featured on the website. At the Ocean Spa Resort, rooms have amenities like massaging multijet showers, a yoga mat, a meditation stool and aroma candles. The Sunset Laguna Suites, Golf & Spa is adjacent to the Pok-ta-Pok golf course, designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr. At its spa, some treatments are based upon techniques developed by the Mayans.

Including meals, beverages and activities, resort rates range from $256 to $720 a night for two people.

Fyllis and I left Cancún hoping to experience all of the resorts at greater length. They offer an exceptional array of facilities, activities and memories.

VICTOR BLOCK

Washington, DC