Inspirations

Heaven, has been found

Leading up to a major milestone birthday, I was painfully clear with my husband that I did not want a party, but a once in a lifetime trip. For someone who plans travel for a living, that’s a pretty tall task, so I set my expectations where any normal person would. Boy, was I wrong…

I really just wanted to sit on a beach chair, soak in the sun, drink and eat good food for a few days. I ultimately could have been happy with your run of the mill all inclusive resort in Cancun but Hermitage Bay far exceeded my very, very high expectations. As soon as you pull through the very hidden gates, you can tell this place is magic. Our driver joked that a lot of guests equate the surroundings to something out of Jurassic Park and that definitely hits the nail on the head. We drove down windy, bumpy paths to this unbelievable place that just emerges from the sea. Everything is/can be open air, which is so appropriate for the amazing scenery and warm weather that waits for you. Out in front of this boutique property is a pristine white sand beach that you just die for and an infinity pool that opens up right into an amazing view of the water.

We opted to max out our trip and stay in one of the Hillside Suites, which have the most amazing vegetation/water views and private pools. We didn’t use ours all that much, mainly because we like the convenience of being down at the main pool/beach, but it was a real nice thing to have when we did use it. This property is also an all inclusive, which you would never guess. I have been to my fair share of resorts and I have NEVER had better food at an all inclusive before. The menu changes daily and everything is a la carte, so it really doesn’t feel like one. The drinks are always flowing and the quality is top notch.

A review of this property would not be complete without mentioning how amazing the staff are here. There are only 30 bungalows, so the staff to guest ratio is off the charts and you can feel it. Everywhere you turn, there is someone friendly and warm waiting to help in any way they can. After one day, most of the staff knew our first names, which is just unheard of anywhere. Proper staff can really make or break any experience and I am thrilled to report that here, that’s not an issue at all.

Children under the age of 14 are not allowed at the property, which really makes this best for honeymooners and escaping couples/parents. Every single night while sitting at the open air restaurant eating our amazing dinner, my husband and I just looked at each other and said how amazed we were with this place and how we couldn’t wait to come back. With how many places there are to see in the world, that’s not a statement we make often. Needless to say, I will never underestimate my husband’s ability to pick an exceptional location ever again.

MEGAN WALLANDER