All-inclusive Mexico, all good | Ocean Maya Royale

The words “all inclusive” and “Mexico” don’t often sit comfortably with us, but when one of the Civilian team went on a not-quite-but-nearly-budget-holiday recently to South America, they came back with glowing reports about the Ocean Maya Royale.

Our contributor – travelling as a genuine civilian in this case – was holidaying with her husband who makes use of a wheelchair when travelling and was particularly impressed with how user friendly all of the facilities at the Ocean Maya Royale were: there were ramps at every turn, and fantastic service from all the staff. If you’re neither a wheelchair user, or accustomed to travelling with someone who uses one, it’s easy to forget how difficult it is to get around certain hotels or cities; Monaco, for instance, has to be one of the most difficult places to navigate in the world, while Seattle, for all its hills, is a breeze, with strategically placed lifts just where you need them.

The beach at Ocean Maya Hotel does, as you’d expect, have beauty to burn – and the best way to experience it is as a Privilege guest. First off, you bypass any queue at check-in (and with a lot of visitors arriving on that flight you just got off, that can be an issue). There’s also a luxe Privilege Lounge and separate beach area with amped-up service, bells and whistles. We’re all about the Bali-beds on the beach, which have private waiter service and a “personal drinks oasis”. Privilege guests also get a la carte breakfasts in a private area in the main restaurants (or breakfast in bed), premium booze, and an upgraded mini-bar in their suites. All-inclusive hotels succeed or fail on F&B, and the Ocean Maya Royale scores highly: a solid wine selection, top shelf spirits and fantastic dining.  The lobster cappuccino, in particular, in Blue Moon is off the scale fabulous. C

Ocean Maya Royale, Carretera Federal Chetumal, km. 299, Playa del Carmen 77710, Mexico
+1888-531 8927; Oceanhotels.net