Earlier this fall, I attended the 3rd Annual Pivot & Prosper Retreat, an intimate event hosted by Denise Canon, owner of Kansas City-based travel agency Travel Concepts. For this year’s retreat, she chose to partner with the all-inclusive, adults-only Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya, and there are so many things to love about this property.
The Vibe
Meaning “place of the turtle” in Mayan, Akumal is a destination where travelers go to see these beautiful creatures, and Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya is located in the heart of it all. The resort has modern accommodations set within a lush, tropical environment connected by winding trails. It’s an adults-only hotel that attracts both couples and groups of friends, and it’s an ideal place for wedding groups with a variety of unique venue locations scattered throughout the property.
How I Felt
Peaceful. You can’t help but feel relaxed when walking around this property. The lush vegetation is grown so high that you can’t see exactly where you’re headed when you’re walking through the pathways. It reminds you to slow down and take in the surroundings – you might just see an iguana or a coati if you do.
The Digs
I stayed in a Preferred Club Junior Suite Tropical View room which had a comfortable bed, sitting area, desk, minifridge, hot tub and a spacious terrace with a plunge pool. One unique feature in the room that I haven’t seen at other properties is an enclosed area where you can put your dishes after ordering room service. This is also where your food can be placed when it arrives if your “do not disturb” light is on.
The Agenda
There are all sorts of ways to spend time at Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya. While my time here was mostly planned out with the group, I did squeeze in a kayak tour during some free time. The resort also offers bike tours, snorkeling, archery and a variety of classes.
The Eats
Our group had a private dinner experience one of the evenings, and both the food and service was amazing. The dinner took place at Central Plaza, an area that can be used for weddings, corporate groups, live music, etc. Our setup had a bar and high-top tables during cocktail hour and one long table for the group during dinner, and the string lights used were a perfect touch to make it a cozy atmosphere. The property also has a variety of restaurant options, and I especially enjoyed the fish tacos for lunch at Seaside Grill.
Why I Would Go Back
Since I didn’t get a chance to see one of the beautiful sea turtles I heard so much about, I need to go back to take in the beach, snorkel and swim with the sea turtles!
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