Zoetry Paraiso de La Bonita

Designed and created by the owner/architect for his wife (whom he calls "La Bonita", meaning "the beautiful woman" in Spanish) the resort was inspired by their world travels. During their journey, the couple picked up handmade fabrics, art, and curios, such as the gargoyles in the lobby and Quimeras, signaling hope and prosperity, from an Asian temple. These items can be seen around the common areas and in guest suites, giving the whole place a warm, authentic feeling. Buildings are painted dark clay or yellow and are in simple block or curved shapes extending down the beach. Thatched-roof huts shade the beach and poolside bars, and tropically landscaped grounds can lead to encounters with strolling peacocks and other colorful birds. Inside, pleasant music is playing and aroma lamps scent the air. The property is geared to adults wanting to get away from it all -- mainly couples, including some honeymooners -- but there are some families with children and occasional wedding parties that may disturb some guests. Zoetry's direct access to the beach, though, means there's typically enough space for everyone to properly unwind. 

This property is situated on the beach in the Riviera Maya near the small touristic city of Puerto Morelos, about 20 minutes away by car or taxi. Hotels surround the property on the beach side, and jungles on the other side. This is a great spot for tourist couples and solo travelers who don't mind being outside of town and about 20 to 30 minutes from Cancun International Airport. Ojo de Agua Beach is a 20-minute drive away. Escapes to larger cities are relatively nearby, including Cancun (45 minutes) and Playa del Carmen (40 minutes). Tulum is around a 90-minute drive and offers more beaches, restaurants, and archaeological sights such as Coba Mayan Ruins. The Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins are around two-and-a-half hours away, as is Cozumel, an island frequented by cruise ships and known for its scuba diving. 

All rooms are one- or two-bedroom oceanfront suites with large terraces and individualized Mexican hacienda-style decor. Fabrics, art, and sculpture were chosen by the owners on their travels around the world, and each room is named for one of the cities they visited. The striking suites have at least three flat-screen TVs (living room, bathroom, bedroom), as well as a digital music player. Other standard amenities include air-conditioning, coffee- and tea-making facilities, and minibars. Bathrooms have marble flooring, shower/tub combos, and Bvlgari toiletries, as well as hairdryers are provided. Some suites have private plunge pools and/or bathrooms with two-person marble sunken bathtubs, glass showers, and handcrafted sinks. 

Luxe perks include free Wi-Fi and unlimited worldwide phone calls, maid service three times daily, and a free bottle of sparkling wine and fresh fruit daily. However, some guests have complained of slow Wi-Fi and issues with maintenance and maid service. 

Facilities here are extensive and excellent across the board. This all-inclusive resort has a few restaurants on-site, including a beachside grill and La Canoa, emphasizing spicy fusion cuisine for dinner. Restaurant Kaxx serves Mexican takes on international cuisine for dinner, sushi and ceviche for lunch, and breakfast (free in the restaurant or in rooms) of cold and cooked items such as fresh fruit and yogurt, eggs Benedict, and bacon. The restaurant also offers monthly themed specials, such as one that coincides with the Mole festival in September. Free, unlimited wines, cocktails (with top-shelf spirits), and beers are served at the thatched-roof poolside bar, in the Library Bar, or the Wine Cellar dining room. 

The resort is home to the first Thalasso Center (seawater therapy) in North America, with a seawater pool. Mrs. Gosselin, "La Bonita", is a wellness and beauty devotee who wanted to create the center and integrate ancestral wellness activities, such as Temezcal (sweating/heat treatment) and yoga, into the resort. Standard massages and facials are also offered. A fitness center has cardio and strength-training equipment, plus a hot tub, sauna, and steam room. The property also has its own pier and yachts, and a putting green. Each guest gets one daily green fee at one of two nearby Nick Price-designed golf courses. Guests have access to the beach, and there's a large outdoor pool with sunken loungers and lots of sunbathing space. 

The property's Endless Privileges program offers freebies such as private chauffeured airport transfers, one spa service, and wine or cocktail hour. Room service is available 24 hours. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the resort.