You could fully enjoy Palmaïa like another luxury all-inclusive beach resort and have a grand time simply eating delicious locally-sourced food and drinking craft cocktails while being mesmerized by the turquoise Caribbean Sea. Or you could do that and some self-discovery if you go in with an open mind and let a shaman light you on fire.
I’m going to sound like a total hippie and prior to this year, I wasn’t that at all – I like modern luxury, I love meat, and I believe in science. I still am all those, but my perspective has broadened. And even though I still can’t sit through a meditation, I attribute some of that transformation to my experience at Palmaïa.
Burning Man
It has become a special place for me in the two visits I’ve had in the past several months. Perhaps it’s because I was ready for a forced introspect, allowing for exposed vulnerabilities, and seeking growth. Prior to the pandemic, I had decided this was the year I was going to Burning Man. After judging it so hard for many years, I was finally ready to be indoctrinated as a “burner”. That of course didn’t happen, but I did stand in a ring of fire here.
What does this nonsense have to do with a wellness resort? Palmaïa, The House of AïA is what I imagine to be a milder but meaningful stepping stone to a Burning Man essence if you go with the right intention. They share similar principles: inclusivity, balance, self-expression, non-violence, participation, and respect. And both are located on a playa, although this one on white sand Playacar and not the barren Nevada desert.
“Architects of Life” Rituals
Limited menu due to COVID and low-occupancy – meditation, energy purification (the one where I got set on fire), horoscope reading, tai chi, arts and crafts (for creativity and catharsis). I’m not going to go into detail because everyone will have a different result but I encourage participation free of pre-judgement and expectations for the full experience. Let’s just say I was highly skeptical but open, and at one point, I was crying in the jungle with my shaman.
Suites
All the same size with either a king or two beds, option for connecting rooms and some family units with an additional kids room. Starting category is higher floor with sea views. Upgrade option is to a first-floor swim out room but the sea view is obstructed. I love the Bluetooth surround system in each room – music plays a big part at the resort. My current advisor promotion offers a complimentary upgrade to the swim out rooms and waived single supplement.
Food
All-inclusive which at Palmaïa is called the “gifting concept”. Ingredients are super fresh, there are no buffets, everything is made-to-order. Dinners rotate nightly with a themed chef’s tasting menu and curated wine and drink pairings. Many items are vegan/vegetarian but meat is also available and can be customized for every palette/restriction.
Property
It’s a bit reminiscent of an Avatar fantasy world with the jungle on one side and a path that leads through it from the gym, past a temazcal, to the spa and individual treatment bungalows, complete with a swimmable cenote. Burning Man-esque art installations can be found throughout the property and beach. The centerpiece structure is the “sombrero” that leads out into the white sand beach and Caribbean Sea. Decor is boho chic, very much Tulum – two things I’m not really into, but it works here because it doesn’t feel forced.
The only eye sore is that it’s next door to Sandos Playacar and part of the common areas and restaurants overlook one of the Sandos kiddie pools with tacky water features. But it makes sense that it was built on the existing property since Palmaïa is the creation of the son of one of the Sandos owners. Being a hotelier runs in the family.
Eco-Driven
In addition to the focus on preserving the natural environment, I was impressed by the sustainability efforts. No plastic is used – water in refillable glass jars, mini fridge offerings all glass (they even had local kombucha). Even the bath amenities are in recycled biodegradable material. All guests are gifted a nice insulated tumbler in the color of your choice at check-in to use during the stay and take home.
Resort Amenities
Unique spa services offered by healers in beautiful air-conditioned standalone treatment rooms with a floor to ceiling window looking into the jungle. Waldorf inspired kids program. Bicycles for use around the property. A DJ plays vibey sets on the beach. Standout is the service. In the spirit of inclusivity, the staff are free to have their own style and personalities. It’s like being around friends – I was sad to leave them.
COVID
Social distancing very easy to maintain – occupancy is limited according to local guidelines but since its a new property/concept and still being discovered, it’s not busy. Staff are in masks at all times. Outdoor dining options, indoor dining amply spaced. Free antigen testing. 14 day stay extended if test returns positive.
Who?
Anyone looking for something upscale, spiritual, and calming with good gastronomy, especially those with dietary restrictions. It’s family friendly but there aren’t too many kids. Good for quiet girls getaways, couples, and young families.
Location
15 minutes from Playa del Carmen in the gated Playacar development. Less than an hour from Cancun International Airport.
Pricing
Starting at $400 per person p/night which includes gourmet dining, room service, top shelf spirits, most rituals, and authentic service. Book with a luxury travel advisor (like me) and receive complimentary spa credit and upgrades. Current special for long-term stays starting at $7500 per month – perfect for remote working (fiber optic WiFi, on-site IT support, co-working spaces, laundry service – all included).
I only wish I could live and work here – I never want to leave.
