Just got back
Cancun and Cozumel, Mexico
I stayed at the Presidente Intercontinental Cozumel for my first fam trip where I met incredible agents and IC's and got a chance to rediscover the island. I then spent the following days in Riviera Maya at the Rosewood Mayakoba for ILTM North America. This was my first show and I was very impressed with how well it was produced and the hotel groups I met. I then attended a post fam at Mahekal located in Playa de Carmen. Here, I was able to wind down from the weeks' activities and enjoy all of what 5th Avenue has to offer.
In a nutshell...
I had a fantastic trip! All of the properties I stayed at were absolutely amazing, but my favorite would have to be the Rosewood Mayakoba where I had a room as big as my apartment! The main focus of the trip was for ILTM, where I met people and properties from all over the world. I enjoyed being around fellow travel advisors who were excited about sharing their destination with me.
Good grub?
I ate mainly at the hotels I stayed at and at the events hosted by ILTM. I had amazing enchiladas and chilaquiles at my host hotels. I also tried Milos, a Greek restaurant across the street from Mahekal, which was surprisingly delicious.
Get any souvenirs?
Yes! I bought a shot glass because why not? I also got a small hand made and painted bowl. I received a gift from Mahekal that was also hand made and was a plaque with my name on it.
What struck me most was…
I was surprised with how amazing the service was at each of the hotels I stayed at. The workers paid attention to detail and always gave me a warm greeting. My wine glass was always full which some may consider a bad thing!
If you do one thing...
Snorkeling at El Cielo was my most memorable part of this trip. Swimming amongst fish and sea turtles while viewing one of the largest coral reefs is a must do.
Local gem?
5th Avenue in Playa de Carmen is a hot spot for locals. This long street is lined with restaurants, bars and shops, making it the perfect setting to mingle with locals and other travelers.
Defining moment?
My defining moment was realizing how special and how much of a destination Mexico is. I think sometimes it gets overlooked especially by Americans, so it was nice to find a new appreciation for the country and it's people.
Bizarre encounter?
While walking down 5th Avenue, I noticed a dog that wasn't on a leash and before I knew it he was running after me. I used to have a big fear of dogs so at first I was startled and then I realized that for whatever reason, the dog liked me. I then spent the rest of my walk with my new companion. He even walked me back to the hotel and would have followed me to my room had the security not stopped him.
Favorite activity?
My favorite activity was laying in the sun. Whether that was on a hammock, on the beach or by my own private pool. With the winter coming up in NYC, I could use all the sun I can get!
Favorite experience?
A great experience my fam group and I were able to partake in was a celebratory party at Mahekal for being named amongst the top ten resorts in Mexico. They threw a party for their employees which happened to coincide with the first night of the fam. The party was held on the beach with beautiful décor and a live band. We drank, ate and danced the night away.
Favorite restaurant?
My favorite restaurant was Agave Azul at the Rosewood Mayakoba. They served Asian inspired dishes and sushi which is my favorite.
