We rang in 2022 at the Hyatt Ziva Cancun – and it was just what we needed!
Let me start by reminding the reader that travel advisors do not really get a traditional December vacation. Wherever we go, whatever we do, and no matter how much fun our families are having, the “festive season” between December 20 and January 3rd is a the most heavily traveled of the year. And that means that whether we’re on the slopes or the sand, it’s still work time (although frequently in a beautiful location). This year was no exception, particularly with the new protocols, testing requirements and the thousands of canceled flights leaving clients anxious and in need of support.
So it was with some degree of trepidation that I boarded our JetBlue flight for Cancun. We took advantage of every option available to make our travels seamless and smooth – we checked nothing (carry on only seems impossible for a girl from Long Island, but we made it work!), booked extra legroom seats as close to the front of the plane as possible, and arranged for VIP airport arrival assistance and departure services. While these luxuries increased our total budget, the travel days couldn’t have gone smoother and we were on the beach and drinking margaritas by 3 PM on arrival day – not too shabby!
The Hyatt Ziva is a “best in class” all inclusive resort located in Cancun’s hotel zone, positioned on a peninsula that enjoys white sandy beach front on both sides of the property. I am often asked about the beaches and color of the ocean in Mexico, so I’m posting lots of photos! While all meals, snacks and beverages are included; we loved that the resort also offers opportunities to upgrade as much or as little as you like – so we indulged in surf and turf lobster, a Tomahawk steak with tableside presentation, top shelf mixology a couple of nights and daily cabanas.
The service was flawless, polished and beyond friendly. The food was five star – really and with no exaggeration could have been served at a restaurant in NY with no complaints. The beaches are immaculate, and the drinks are flowing everywhere. We chose to stay in their Club tower, which has a small lounge with additional concierge service and upgraded culinary offerings throughout the day. The spa is a tranquil respite with a great “wet” relaxation area which can be used in conjunction with treatments or reserved as a standalone afternoon activity. We spent the last minutes of 2021 enjoying Amaretto on the rocks on our balcony and watching the fireworks up and down the whole strip… it was like a private party where we got to celebrate with thousands of people.
In short – we wouldn’t have changed a thing about the trip. Despite it being a “working vacation” for me, I got to relax and truly enjoy myself, and my family (ranging from a teenager to my 70 year old mother) all agreed that it was pretty much a flawless and perfect vacation.
Wishing you all the best in 2022 and beyond!
Rebecca
PS an important note – while I occasionally do receive complimentary stays and reduced rates, we paid regular consumer pricing for this vacation from door to door, and would do it again in heartbeat!
Rebecca Alesia 