The Paradisus, La Esmeralda family brand from Melia Resorts has changed what one can expect from an all-inclusive resort by creating free form vacations with life-enriching experiences for parents, and grandparents … like samba lessons and cooking classes, all day assistance from a Family Concierge, an activity packed Kid’s Club and a complimentary walkie-talkie or cell phone for instant communication. Programming includes kids from newborn to age 12, with separate facilities for teens.
There are several kid-friendly restaurants where super talented young chefs have elevated the cuisine to gourmet standards. In fact the 24 remarkable bars and restaurants, serving delicious cuisine from all around the world and stylish mixology creations, will take your senses on a culinary tour.
Not to be missed is the M BAR, for their exotic martinis, Fuego’s International ceviche bar and the Spa for a relaxing carefree afternoon, knowing your kids are having supervised fun and making new friends.
Personal Concierges Make Paradisus a Paradise for Kids, Too
Upon arrival, kids are greeted by a family concierge who presents them with a darling purple or white Paradisus Kid’s Club beach backpack filled with lots of goodies, books, a tee shirt and cap.
While parents or grandparents are checking in, kids are whisked away for a walking tour of the kid’s pool, outdoor playground and indoor Club house. Activities, adjusted to age and attention levels, change every day to keep kids interested in learning… and include flower lessons, painting by the pool or on the beach, and building sand castles, just to mention a few.
Four well trained counselors coordinate indoor activities which range from art projects to watching movies to snacking and napping. Full info is taken of any allergies, likes and dislikes.
The family concierge team will also prepare the jacuzzi in your family suite, do ironing and shoe shines, and arrange butler service at the swimming pools. I was impressed with butler Fernando’s welcoming smile, love for kids and the fact he wins the trust of kids all ages. He uses a walkie talkie to keep parents apprised of how their child or children are doing… leaving them worry-free to enjoy adult amenities, daily activities, and the luxury of an afternoon massage and facial in the spa.
YHI SPA is named after the Mayan Goddess of the Light, and her legend lives on in the Zen-like sanctuary that offers guests an expansive menu of treatments.
Family Rooms & Amenities at Paradisus Resort
There are accommodations to fit every family size and need. I was impressed with the Family Connecting Suite: 893 square-feet of area and 248 square-feet of terrace with an Ocean or Garden View. The bedroom has a king bed or two double beds.
All suites have a living area with sofa bed, dinning area and kitchenette. Families will also find a 40″ Flat Screen with cable TV, CD/DVD Player, coffee maker, daily stocked mini bar, modern bathroom with jacuzzi, safety deposit box, iron/ ironing board, free internet access and a private terrace with Jacuzzi and tanning area. This suite connects to a 646-square-foot one bedroom with a 194-square-foot terrace if you need extra space. Perfect for grandparents.
In addition to adult in-room amenities, kid-sized robes and slippers are in the closet and children’s amenities are in the bathroom. Kids will also find special drinks in the mini-bar, and easy access to the video gaming menu. The family turn down service includes milk and cookies.
Paradisus Esmeralda is Great Riviera Maya Vacation
This elegant, oceanfront 5-star luxury family resort, surrounded by a lush tropical mangrove preserve and views of Cozumel Island, has a Mayan ecological feeling. Located 45 minutes from Cancun International Airport, it is a short distance from golf courses and attractions such as Playa del Carmen’s 5th Avenue, Xcaret Park, Akumal and Xel-Ha, and near world-famous Mayan archaeological sites such as Tulum, Chichén Itzá and Cobá.
I thought having my own personal butler at Paradisus, La Perla, the adult-only sister resort, was the height of luxury until I discovered Paradisus, La Esmeralda’s programs. At Paradisus Playa del Carmen La Esmeralda parents, grandparents, and kids up to 12 receive the royal treatment and are treated as VIP’s in a relaxed ambiance where everyone is free to be.
For reservations and special packages, visit the Paradisus Resorts site or contact your travel agent.
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