Exploring Riviera Maya: A Mystery Shopper’s Experience

This year, I had the incredible opportunity to be a mystery shopper for Signature, a highly selective program that significantly reduces available spots and chooses participants who frequently book Signature hotels. The role comes with responsibilities, but the perks make it all worthwhile. I was accepted and granted two complimentary nights at a Signature hotel. My mission was to pick a hotel that didn’t know my name, check in as a regular guest, and observe if they explained the Signature benefits while experiencing the hotel. Upon departure, I would reveal my role and hand them a letter stating my visit was covered as a mystery shopper.

I chose the stunning hotel Esencia, a Small Luxury Hotel, in Riviera Maya, Mexico, and decided to share the experience with my daughter over Mother’s Day weekend. Our adventure began with a flight to Cancun, then a fun-filled party bus ride to the hotel, complete with TV screens, bucket seats, and champagne, setting the perfect tone for the trip.

After a 45-minute drive through the lush jungle, we arrived at the hotel. We were greeted warmly and shown to our fantastic room, which featured a rooftop spa. The room was a paradise for fitness enthusiasts, equipped with a Peloton mirror, weights, a yoga mat, and a range of Peloton workouts. The bathroom was luxurious, with a giant wooden-floored shower and a steam shower. The rooftop pool and sunset views added an extra touch of magic.

The hotel’s small, intimate size was a delight, and the main building’s Mexican style with intricate tile work and a rooftop gave it a charming, authentic feel. The hotel’s “living room” area was cozy and inviting, filled with books and various activities. Service buttons scattered around the property ensured prompt assistance whenever needed.

One downside was the seaweed in the bay, which made swimming difficult on windy days. However, when the conditions were right, the bay’s isolated and romantic setting was absolutely stunning. The seaweed in the Caribbean comes and goes, but during this month of May in this bay it was present. When the wind changes, it goes away.

The food was fantastic, and the hotel’s contemporary yet warm style made for a comfortable stay. Each morning, we were treated to a delightful coffee service left on our patio table, with croissants and pastries. The rooftop was the perfect spot for morning relaxation, and we even received a congratulations cake for our mother-daughter trip.

The spa experience was another highlight, with a natural, serene ambiance and a ritualistic ceremony before treatments. The hotel had a turtle pool where guests could observe and feed them, which added a charming touch.

The room was perfectly set up for the two of us, as we enjoyed the space, the Peloton mirror, and the rooftop patio with hammock and plunge pool. The main restaurant was right at the beach where we could sit and enjoy the ocean while the second restaurant with its pizza oven and grill, was surrounded by foliage and greenery. The lifeguard facilitated activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling, as well as an excursion to the cenote where we looked for manatees.

For those matching hotels to clients, this one accepts kids but is better suited for adults, especially couples seeking a romantic retreat. The workout facility, rooftop pool with views, and overall retreat feeling were highlights. Despite its contemporary touches, the hotel maintained a Mexican feel.

The second hotel on our itinerary was one of my favorites, the Belmond Maroma. Located on the gorgeous Maroma Beach, this hotel has been a beloved spot for years. The rooms’ style and tilework, along with balconies overlooking the ocean and friendly iguanas, add to its charm. This is true Mexican style, with whitewashed curved walls, red tile walkways, and thatched roofs. The hotel is set along the beach, unlike many others on the Riviera Maya which have most rooms in the mangroves. Mornings began with coffee delivered to the room, then a full breakfast in the beachside restaurant with fresh tortillas made by a local lady.

The wide, white sand beach was cleaned constantly and the seaweed here was minimal.  There are palapas for shade on the beach with plenty of loungers. Hotel staff would pass by now and then offering treats while we relaxed on the beach. Swimming was safe and fun.

The breakfast area, new bar, and beautiful tilework in the dining areas were beautifully done. The renovated spa, yoga room, fitness area along with three pools to choose from added to the luxury. Fine dining and outdoor dining options were plentiful, and the goodbye cookies were a sweet touch.

We went over to see the new development at Kanai and visited The Edition and the St Regis Kanai.

At The Edition, the site inspection revealed two large pools, numerous dining venues, and pathways to the beach which are either walkable or you can go by golf cart. It’s a large hotel with various activities, ideal for millennial couples seeking a vibrant atmosphere. The yoga pavilion and gathering spaces are noteworthy, and the overall style is very appealing.

The nearby St. Regis boasts an impressive front desk, circular building designs which seem to float above the mangroves, and extensive amenities. It’s perfect for those who love all the bells and whistles, even if it seems that the Mexican location is secondary to the luxury experience.

It’s essential to arrange transfers beforehand due to long distances and heavy traffic. While breakfast is included, the spa credit and meal prices are worth noting. For those with mobility issues, I would recommend choosing either The Edition or St Regis.

This trip was an unforgettable experience, blending luxury, culture, and adventure in a beautiful setting. Whether for a romantic getaway or a family trip, the Riviera Maya’s Signature hotels offer something truly special.