01-08-2025
World's best hotel revealed with swim-up bars and private plunge pools – and it can be booked with TUI
SURROUNDED by a jungle and sat right on the beach, a stunning hotel has been named the best in the world by Tripadvisor.
Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya can be found in Akumal, Mexico, and is home to 434 rooms and suites.
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Just 150 metres offshore from the adults-only resort is the second largest barrier reef in the world, while the historical Mayan sites of Tulum are nearby.
Inside the all-inclusive hotel are natural interiors inspired by the surrounding jungle.
Some of the suites even come with a private plunge pool.
Depending on the room or suite you choose, there are also hot tubs, rainfall showers, private balconies and even swim-out access from the terrace.
Other amenities include bath robes, Nespresso coffee machines and air conditioning.
Heading outside, guests can enjoy three pools, including an infinity pool with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and a swim up bar called Manatees.
Alternatively, head to the spa for a bit of self-indulgence, including a hydrotherapy circuit with a sauna and steam room, a reflexology pool, and different treatments.
The fitness suite also offers guests the opportunity to get their workout in, with cardio and strength training equipment as well as group classes.
For those who love an adventure, there are many activities to embark on such as kayaking, s norkelling with turtles, paddle-boarding and beach volleyball.
For those who don't like sporty activities, the resort also offers culinary classes, such as wine and tequila tastings and dance classes as well.
The beautiful lake an hour from London with overwater bungalows like the Maldives
In total, the resort has nine restaurants (none of which you have to reserve ahead of time) and seven bars.
And each offers something different, so everyone will have something they like.
There is traditional Mexican cuisine at El Patio, French dishes at Bordeaux, authentic Italian staples at Portofino and Pan-Asian specialties at Himitsu, for example.
Or you could head to Coco Cafe, which offers snacks and late-night bites.
And if you don't fancy these options, the 'Sip, Savor, and See' programme allows guests to dine and enjoy entertainment at nearby sister resorts.
At night, head to one of the bars as the resort comes alive with live music, themed nights and beach parties.
Even skilled performers demonstrate their skills there.
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Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya is just an hour's drive from Cancun Airport making it easy to get to.
The Travellers' Choice Awards Best of the Best title awards the destination with the highest level of excellence in travel, which means it goes above and beyond for its guests.
Out of eight million listings on Tripadvisor, less than one per cent of hotels achieve the award.
For Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya in the number one spot, it has over 14,000 reviews on Tripadvisor, averaging an impressive 4.8 out of five.
One visitor said: "This resort exceeded all expectations — beautiful beach, crystal-clear water, and top-notch service."
Another added: "The walking paths are surrounded by lush trees, flowers and plants that provide shade while walking around and gives it a cozy, romantic feel."
A third stated: "This place is immaculate, pristine, gorgeous. Like pinch me, is this place paradise? Heaven on earth?"
Prices vary depending on the season but a holiday package can be booked with TUI.
For example, through TUI, you could head there in November for £1,997 per person for the week.
When is the best time to visit Mexico?
MEXICO is a fantastic year-round destination, but it truly shines as a winter escape.
With its magnificent sandy beaches, delicious cuisine, and rich historical sites, this tropical treasure offers an incredible getaway.
The best time to travel to Mexico is during the dry season, which runs from December to April.
This period offers high temperatures of up to 32C with almost no chance of rain, guaranteeing sunny days for your holiday.
While the dry season is generally warm, it's worth noting that the coldest months are from late December to early February.
However, temperatures still comfortably fluctuate between 24C and 28C, so you'll still enjoy plenty of warmth.
Conversely, the wet season lasts from the end of May until October.
If you prefer to avoid rain and enjoy continuous sunshine, this is the time to steer clear of.
For those wanting a cultural experience, consider planning your trip around one of Mexico's vibrant events.
Cinco De Mayo on May 5 celebrates a key Mexican victory and features lively street food, parties, and parades.
Meanwhile, surfers should take note of the regional seasons.
The busiest surfing season in Los Cabos is from November to April, while Cancun's surf season runs from June to November.
A popular resort has also been named among UK's best seaside towns with stunning castle and Tudor streets.
Plus, the little-known seaside resort town with one of the cleanest beaches in the world.
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