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A
SPAINDEX.COM REVIEW OF
CEIBA DEL MAR BEACH & SPA RESORT
PUERTO MORELOS, RIVIERA MAYA, MEXICO
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December 1, 2009 - San Francisco, California
©
KEVIN McCLAIN SpaIndex.com
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I was recently honored to be an invited guest
at Ceiba del Mar Beach & Spa Resort in Puerto Morelos, Riviera Maya,
Mexico for a tour of its charming and luxurious Mexican Spa Resort.
In October I left behind my blustery, cold, rainy hometown of San Francisco
and arrived at the exceptionally warm and sunny Cancun Airport.
I was greeted at the airport by Eduardo, the Ceiba del Mar Beach & Spa Resort
representative who would be transporting me to Ceiba. Ceiba
del Mar is located at the edge of the village of Puerto Morelos on
the Rivera Maya, Yucatan Peninsula -- an easy twenty minute ride from the
Cancun Airport.
I immediately suffered from my climate shock
when I arrived. It was an arduous 9 hour travel day for me and I left my
house in the cold but arrived at my destination stressed and overheated.
Travel does that to you no matter where you're heading, I find. After
I was seated in Ceiba's van, Eduardo opened a chest and presented me with
a tray of ice-cold rolled hand towels to relieve a bit of the travel strain
and wipe away the dust of the road, so to speak.
What a perfect touch -- one which foreshadowed the level of service and
attention to detail I would come to appreciate is the norm at Ceiba del
Mar.
The first question the front desk agent asked
me was "We heard about your weather and traffic, so how is it at home
and how are you?" They already knew I'd flown to Mexico's
Yucatan Peninsula from San Francisco, and that San Francisco had just had
a 24-hour period of record-breaking rainfall, plus serious traffic congestion
from an accident on the Bay Bridge which made getting to my departure terminal
on time just a little dicey.
The desk staff assured me I was now in good
hands, gave me a welcome Kir Royale cocktail, and showed me to my suite.
From the front desk to dining room servers, every staff member who greeted
me once committed my name to memory and I was addressed as Senor McClain
for the remainder of my trip. Impressive, considering people who've
known me for years can't seem to do the same.
I immediately tested the hammock (for a long
time, just to be sure) and when I finally stood up on my second floor deck
and looked out at the spectacular azure blue sea before me, I was significantly
more relaxed, and looking forward to unwinding at this beautiful sea side
resort.
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Lobby
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Terrace Lounge
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Pier View
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Temazcal Beachfront
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THE
SPA |
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Ceiba's unique holistic and aromatherapy
spa has 800 square meters (more than 8.600 square feet) surrounded
by a beautiful sea and green jungle. It offers the ideal refuge where
you will be able to harmonize mind, body and spirit. The
Spa at Ceiba is a member of the International Spa Association.
†
The spa is located in a separate, private
building on the grounds of the Resort. It has 7 treatment rooms
(6 individual rooms and 1 couples room) and an expansive modern
his-and-her changing rooms equipped with a very large Jacuzzi, cold
plunge pool, steam shower, Swedish shower, sauna room and plush towels
and robes. The spa welcomes day guests.
After changing into a very comfortable
and ample spa gown, I exited the male changing area and stepped into
the spa waiting area -- a beautiful outdoor courtyard. It has
been my experience in touring spas that male changing rooms and amenities
can be remarkably plain in comparison to female changing rooms and
amenities provided for them. I understand this is largely due
to the ratio of female guest to male guests, but this imbalance isn't
the case at Ceiba. The courtyard has a thatched roof and
two lovely water fountains with indigenous planting. A nice touch
to be able to wait outside to make the most of the beautiful day,
but still be within a private environment.
I decided to have Ceiba's signature treatment -- the "Top'Nikte"
massage (Top'Nikte means "cocoon" in Mayan). My therapist
began the treatment by using a "Biotensor" -- a tool which I
was told would reveal and amplify my energy in order to
assure the best treatment and recommended oils -- and then performed
a purifying prayer ritual with copal, a Mayan sacred local tree
resin which is burned and used to ask for permission to harmonize
the body, mind and spirit
After the prayer, my feet were washed in a warm water solution and
I received a relaxing 50 minute full body massage. After the massage,
the treatment continued with a cocoon body wrap consisting of cotton
cloth soaked in an herbal infusion which allows the body to rid itself
of toxins and absorb the benefits of the herbs. During the wrap I
also received a scalp and face massage. At the conclusion of this
90 (total) minute treatment, the therapist rang two chimes whiles
she unwrapped the cocoon wrap, explaining the goal was to make feel
like a new person, free as a butterfly.
My thoughts? I'm a really straight-forward guy and I confess
I was a bit apprehensive to be involved in something more than an
expert massage or skincare. The massage was spot on, the wrap
was comforting and the scalp and foot massage were done effectively.
That would have been enough, and yet, I was surprised to come away
feeling it was one of the most spiritual experiences I have had in
a spa setting. Any apprehension I had at the outset
turned into complete ease. It was genuinely moving.
After my treatments I interviewed the Spa Assistant Manager Joel Lavalle
about the philosophy and practices at Spa at Ceiba del Mar.
I learned they take very seriously the integration of traditional
Mayan culture and wisdom with Mexican herbal know-how.
Joel
described the Temazcal Ceremony performed on the beach at the
resort. A Temazcal is an indigenous ancestral ritual intended
to purify and renew body, mind and spirit.
It takes place directly on the beach
at sunset within a terracotta hut. Four hot volcanic rocks
are placed within the hut and doused with water which has been infused
with aromatic herbs representing the four elements: fire (the rocks),
earth (the ground), air, and water. At ten minute intervals
four additional hot volcanic rocks are placed inside the hut.
Although you may leave the unsealed hut at any time, the ceremony
nears an end when twelve rocks are finally placed within the hut.
At that time, you leave the hut, submerge in the cool ocean water,
and the purifying ritual is complete. The Temazcal Ceremony is by request only in order to arrange for supervision by staff trained in
the process to guide guests through the ritual.
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THE GUESTROOMS |
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The resort initially opened in 2001, and was
fully renovated in early 2006. The renovation converted the property into
an intimate beachfront boutique spa resort which features 88 units, including
37 Master Suites and 7 Penthouse Suites, all which feature fantastic 180-degrees
panoramic ocean views. The resort offers a unique holistic spa, restaurants,
Lounge, two bars, pristine beaches, and excellent service.
I stayed in Master Suite 14 and was immediately
impressed. When I read "intimate" and "boutique" used to describe
hotels and resorts, I typically think "small" and when I hear "cozy" I think
"even smaller." Intimacy and coziness are difficult traits to
pull off properly. At Ceiba del Mar, they do so beautifully. They've
managed to make the entire resort feel private, exclusive -- yes, intimate
and cozy -- but not cramped in any way, and particularly not in the guest
suites.
My suite was so comfortable, yet spacious,
it was as if I had an apartment for four days. My suite had more than
850 square feet and was tastefully decorated in authentic local Mexican
decor with a careful nod to its seaside location. No nautical mania
here. The vaulted ceiling with fans kept the warm air moving.
Individually controlled air conditioning lets guests choose their own comfort
level. The seating area was spacious, with a large circular sofa,
plasma mounted cable ready television, DVD player and a desk. Off
to the side of the seating area was the first of two private decks, overlooking
the grounds with a view to the ocean. In an adjacent room was a spacious
bedroom with a king size bed, another seating area, television and DVD.
The bedroom had the second of two decks, this one with the large hammock.
My suite had two full bathrooms with a shower and separate elevated
bathtub overlooking the bedroom through shuttered doors, which I soon discovered
can be opened wide to watch the plasma television from within the bathtub
big enough for two persons -- and thankfully long enough for me. With
my height of 6'4", long, deep bathtubs are a luxury for me. The bath
amenities in each bathroom are completely natural, organic products which
are formulated by and made exclusively for the Spa at Ceiba del Mar.
Although the hotel offers a complete Gourmet
Dining Plan with included meals and beverages, for families who like to
dine in their suites (particularly useful for families with children who
need to be fed early in the morning), there was a small, fully-equipped
kitchen (always fully stocked with bottled cold water).
The suite was serviced by housekeeping twice
daily, I made use of the pillow menu, turn down service, and complimentary
in-room coffee service (similar to room service dining). I placed my coffee
service hang tag outside my room each night, and the following morning at
the specified time, a wheeled cart was delivered to my room with coffee
prepared as I requested. Each night when I returned to my suite,
a platter of healthy fruits and vegetables, always changing, chocolates
and fresh water awaited me.
The Guest Room Options:
Deluxe Room
(32): This beautiful and intimate room features a selection
of one king bed or two double beds, balcony or terrace with hammock and
sitting area. Bathroom with shower and bathtub separated and exclusive personal
amenities. Gracious and elegantly decorated using local woods and handcraft
furnishing, yet contemporary. Maximum occupancy 3 adults.
†
Junior Suites
(13): Offering a selection of one king bed or two
queen size beds, this spacious and beautifully appointed suite features
a sitting area, private balcony or terrace for relaxing or dining: Full
bathroom with shower and a separated bathtub overlooking the room through
shuttered doors and exclusive personal amenities. This cozy and charming
suite offers a romantic and relaxing atmosphere. Maximum occupancy 3 adults.
†
Master Suites
(31): More than 750 ft2 / 70 m2 suites, offering
spacious bedroom with either king bed or two queen size beds, sitting area,
TV and DVD player, mini bar, balcony or terrace, full bathroom with shower
and a separated bathtub overlooking the room through shuttered doors. A
living room separated area with balcony or terrace, bar, 42" plasma TV,
a working area and full bathroom. Enjoy the privacy and relaxing ambience
of this enchanting suite, with detailing décor designed for your full satisfaction.
Maximum occupancy 3 adults.
†
Penthouse
(7): This exceptional 904 ft one bedroom penthouse offers
inspiring ocean views. Impeccable decoration with Mexican-Contemporary motifs,
this exclusive suite is the perfect romantic and intimate getaway for honeymooners.
Its separated living room area offers splendid ocean views and access to
a private plunge-pool terrace to enjoy fantastic sunsets or romantic dinners
under the stars. Relax and reenergize in one of our seven marvelous private
and selected Penthouses designed for the elite travelers. Maximum occupancy
2 adults. †
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View from Penthouse Suite
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Penthouse Marble Tub
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Penthouse Living Room
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Panoramic Balcony View
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Master Suite Jacuzzi
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Master Suite Bedroom
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Deluxe Room Seating Area
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Deluxe Room Balcony
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ACTIVITIES |
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Private Beach
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Infinity Pool Private Beach
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The Upper Pool
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The Upper Pool
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Poolside Cocktails
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Poolside Bar & Jacuzzi
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Private Terrace Jacuzzi
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Night View
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Snorkeling
One of the highlights of my visit to
Ceiba
was the snorkeling on the
MesoAmerican Barrier Reef -- the second longest barrier reef
in the world. For over an hour and half I swam through pristine plant life
and an abundance of beautiful fish. To protect the reef against intentional
and unintentional damage, you are only allowed onto the reef in the company
of an accredited guide and wearing a life jacket. As our very capable guide
took us all over the reef to see the fish and plant life he also pointed
out the
Puerto
Morelos version of the Leaning Tower of Pisa -- the Original Lighthouse
at Puerto
Morelos.
In 1967 the structure was tilted over in Hurricane Beulah. It has since
survived Hurricanes Gilbert in 1987 and Wilma in 2005, but has not been
knocked down (see
photo).
Yoga/Bike Ride
My best intentions were to join my group for sunrise Yoga class
to work on my downward facing dog but alas I was about 10 minutes late and
did not want to disrupt the class. Instead, I headed over to the hotel's
bicycle garage to check out a bicycle. I own an
Electra Amsterdam
so I was really pleased to see these quality bicycles made available to
the hotel's guests. I enjoyed a leisurely exploration ride into the
town of Puerto Morelos.
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2 outdoor
swimming pools
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1 outdoor
Jacuzzi®
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Complimentary
access to Fitness Center (excludes spa facilities)
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Tennis
court and bicycles
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Snorkeling
equipment and kayaks
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Yoga,
Pilates and Aquafit programs
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Scuba
diving and water sports shop
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Library
with books and computers available for private use
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Tour
desk available to help plan excursions
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Pier
with facilities for yachts
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Mangrove
walkway and Meditation Palapa
Beachfront
While the hotel can provide concierge services to local activities ranging
from high-energy (zip line tours, horseback riding, jeep riding) to low
energy (shopping and site seeing), honestly, the pristine, sandy sugar
white beaches were the main draw for me. I spent almost the entirety
of my final day at Ceiba Del Mar finishing a novel on the beach, completely
relaxed.
This quiet, private and clean beach set up the perfect exchange with a
young couple I noticed had strolled the beach much of the day -- and staring
at me, or so I thought. Only when I'd finished and put my novel
away did they finally approach me, asking if I'd mind answering a few
questions about Ceiba del Mar. They noticed it from their daily
strolls and it looked quaint and inviting. Housed in a nearby noisy resort
with a rambunctious younger crowd, they were eager to try somewhere else.
"Do
you like it? Would you recommend it?"
they shyly asked, while gazing at the pools, terraces and bungalows. "We
keep walking by and are keen to see inside."
I turned
my head and followed their gaze, taking in what had seemed my clean, white,
quiet home for four days and said "I do. Absolutely, I do.
It's so peaceful and they'll take good care of you here."
They beamed
with delight at this intimate find and scurried away, hopefully to return
later on with their luggage. I'd like to think they did, and that they
took my spot on the beach the next day.
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DINING |
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Dining at Ceiba del Mar focuses heavily
on seafood, but has a healthy array of other options, including authentic
Mexican fare, for all guests.
I don't understand anyone who doesn't
like seafood. I'm reminded of the funny quote from the
film My Big fat Greek Wedding: "What do you mean he don't eat
no meat? Ok, I make lamb." In that vein, if you
don't care for seafood, try the lobster instead. You'll love it.
I took advantage of the daily-caught shrimp and lobster and didn't
go a day without one or the other. It was simply but expertly prepared,
beautifully presented, with ample portions.
Guests can dine on their own, or, Ceiba offers a terrific value in
its "Luxury Gourmet Plan" room rate, which means
your accommodations include breakfast, lunch, dinner, as well as snacks
at the lobby and pool bar beverages, wine, and top-shelf brand liquor
served by the glass.
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Xtabay Restaurant:
Open for buffet breakfast from 07:00
to 11:00 a.m., located in the lobby area. Offers Creative Cuisine
with Mexican Accent, for the Adventurer Gourmet from 06:30 to 11:00
p.m. †
Arrecife Grill & Lounge:
Grill & wood-fired oven Mediterranean Style, beach front
restaurant. From12 noon to 11:00 p.m.
Lounge & Sushi Bar:
Under the stars, from 05:00 to 11:00 p.m. †
Bar del Tequila:
Selection of Tequilas, cocktails and Mexican appetizers from 12 noon
to 11 p.m., lobby area. †
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GROUPS AND WEDDINGS |
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HOTEL AMENITIES |
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Hotel amenities include:
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· Complimentary daily news paper
· Daily in-room complimentary morning coffee service
(fresh juice, coffee or tea & sweet rolls)
· Meal plan available on property
· Unique Aromatherapy & Holistic SPA
· 2 outdoor swimming pools
· 3 bars
· 1 swim up bar
· Lobby and pool concierges
· 1 outdoor Jacuzzi
· Complimentary wireless internet access
· Complimentary usage of computers
with internet access in Library
· Complimentary access to Fitness Center
(exclude Spa facilities)
· Tennis Court and bicycles
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· Snorkeling Equipment, Kayaks
· Yoga, Pilates and Aquafit programs
· Room service 24 hours
· Temazcal sessions
· Boutique
· Scuba diving and water sports shop
· Laundry & Dry cleaning service
· Pier with facilities for yachts
· Suite for the physically impaired
· Doctor on call 24 hours
· Valet parking
· Beauty Salon
· Currency exchange
· Taxis on site
· Tour desk available
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LOCAL ATTRACTIONS |
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The diversity of the Mayan world, many of the most significant Mayan archeological
sites, the vast network of underground rivers, over 100 "cenotes" (sacred
pools of clear, calm water) cave diving, scuba diving and snorkeling on
Great Maya Reef and deep sea fishing are all within easy reach of the resort.
†
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GETTING THERE |
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Ideally located on a stretch of secluded
powdered sand beach, at the edge of Puerto Morelos, a
picturesque fishing village, Ceiba del Mar is only 20 minutes from the
Cancun Airport International (CUN),
one of the busiest airports in the Caribbean and the point of entry to
the Mundo Maya." †
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CONTACT CEIBA DEL MAR |
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Ceiba del Mar Beach & Spa Resort, Riviera Maya Cancun, México
Costera Norte, lote 1 S.M. 10 Mz. 26 C.P. 77580
Puerto Morelos, Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo, México
Tel: 52 (998) 872-8063 | Fax 52 (998) 872-8061
Reservations Office:
Toll free from US 1-877-545-6221
Toll free from Mexico 01 800-426-9772
reserve@ceibadelmar.com
General Information:
info@ceibadelmar.com
WEBSITE: http://bit.ly/CeibaDelMar
TWITTER:
@CEIBADELMAR
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SPECIAL THANKS |
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We'd like to extend a special thank you to
the following individuals and organizations who contributed to the comfort
and pleasure of our Rivera Maya - Cancun spa vacation:
Ceiba del Mar Beach & Spa Resort:
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Eduardo Herrera - Operations Manager
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Manual
Lamadrid -
Director of Sales & Marketing
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Gloria Guerrero - Spa Manager
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Joel
Lavalle - Spa
Assistant Manager
LMP International
AeroMexico
Cancun Tourism
† denotes material provided by Ceiba del Mar Beach & Spa Resort
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