The Explorean Cozumel

This upper-middle-range property delivers an all-inclusive experience near the beach. The lovely grounds shroud the open-air architecture in greenery, while decor combines a tasteful contemporary style with rustic touches like thatched roofing, stone floors, and wooden ceiling beams. Stylish, clean-lined wooden furniture dominates, as do soft neutral hues that are enlivened by pops of color like chic mint seating in the lobby or bright cherry red chairs perking up the abundance of rattan, wood, and stone in the restaurant. The style and atmosphere throughout feels organic, seamlessly blending the outdoors with interiors so that the lush surrounding greenery almost always provides a backdrop. With just 56 rooms, it's pretty small for an all-inclusive resort, especially compared to others on the island, so the atmosphere feels private and service is attentive and personalized. Guests are tourists, both couples and families.

The hotel is situated right by its sister property, the Fiesta Americana resort, on the western side of Cozumel island. While the sister resort is on the beach, the Explorean is situated right behind it, but the shore is easily accessible (about a three-minute walk away). There's not much else within walking distance, so guests wishing to explore the surroundings will have to use taxis or rent a car. The nearest attraction is Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park, which offers dolphin swimming and other family-friendly activities and is just a four-minute drive. San Gervasio, site of Mayan ruins, is around a 35-minute drive. San Miguel, the island's largest city, is a 20-minute drive away and offers shops and dining options like Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville. Cozumel International Airport is about a 20-minute drive from the hotel.

Rooms are minimalist in style, clad in whites and soft neutrals that are paired with simple, attractive wooden furniture. The lush greenery outside is the main focal point here, with beds facing glass doors that frame the tropical scenery and open onto private balconies. Though decor is pared back and the spaces are fairly simple, the rooms have an upscale feel to them, with plush bedding, chic seating, and framed photographs adding an interesting touch to neutral walls. There are no TVs here, which might be a problem for some, but most guests indulge in unplugging. Those who want to watch something or catch the latest game can do so at the restaurant. Amenities include air-conditioning, phones, free bottled water, electronic safes, and free Wi-Fi, but there are no minibars or tea/coffee facilities (though free coffee/tea is delivered every morning). Bathrooms have walk-in rainfall showers. Somma toiletries and hairdryers are provided.

The resort's main focus, as evident by its name alone, is exploration and providing guests with adventures and new experiences. Many activities are included in rates here, such as the daily guided expeditions around the island by way of snorkeling, horseback riding, kayaking, hiking, driving dune-buggies, and other means.The hotel has a lovely, but rather small, outdoor pool surrounded by lush greenery and featuring an attractive pool deck with chic and comfortable umbrella-shaded loungers. There's also a hot tub. The all-inclusive rates include all meals at the on-site restaurant, which serves regional fare for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Room service is also available. The fresh bread, coffee, and juice that's delivered to rooms every morning is a thoughtful touch. There's also a self-serve bar. Wi-Fi is free throughout. Parking is free. Guests who prefer the beach can make use of the sister resort's private beach club, which has food and drinks as well as a free scuba diving school. There's also free full access to all facilities at the next-door sister property, which has several restaurants and bars, as well as a spa, kids' club, boat dock, fitness center, and two pools.