I have to be honest - when we decided to book a trip to Cancun I was nervous. Several folks told me it was unsafe to go there and I felt unsure. We checked on the US Government website and it said it was a Level 2 travel advisory, which means travelers should "exercise increased caution" due to terrorism and crime. Yikes! So, we did further research and discovered that the "Hotel Zone" in Cancun is "a designated tour district and strip of land along the coast of Cancun consisting of resorts, beaches, shops, nightclubs, and restaurants aimed specifically towards tourists." This area of Mexico was deemed safe, but obviously you should always be aware of your surroundings and stay vigilant. Armed with our current information, we hopped on a plane and headed to Mexico to have one of the best vacations I have ever experienced.
The Riu Palace Kukulkan is an all-inclusive, adult-only resort located in roughly the center of the Hotel Zone. I would consider it a 5 star hotel that prides itself on the upkeep of a well-manicured oasis with every different variety of tropical plant or foliage imaginable. To call this hotel a palace was quite fitting with beautiful columns and chandeliers adoring the lobby. You could practically see your own image in the detailed polished floors that were continuously cleaned. At check-in, you were greeted with a glass of champagne or beer as you stood in line for a very efficient and quick check-in.
Once settled, we toured the property that housed three swimming pools, one with a swim up bar. It had 7 different restaurants that covered all the of different venues that would appeal to anyone's palate. Mexican, Asian, Italian, Fusion, American, and the most incredible steak house with nightly lobster tails. The buffet was open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. If you got hungry in between meals there was Pepe's Grill that served American fare such as hamburgers, wings, hot dogs, fries, and nachos. Too tired to leave your room? 24 hour room service was also available. All of the food was first class with some of the best meals I have ever eaten and I can't say enough about the service. The attention to every detail was superb, and every one of our needs was meet with friendly, helpful people. Don't forget dessert if you visit this resort. The Italian Restaurant has the best tiramisu that ever crossed my lips! We stopped there more than once for that delicacy. A spa, gym, and gift shop also adorned the property.
Every night there was some form of entertainment....