Morning yoga while overlooking rich turquoise waters. A 45-minute hydrotherapy circuit that soothes achy joints and muscles. Made-to-order smoothies containing all the superfoods your body needs. These are only a few of the offerings we experienced during our recent summer escape to one of Mexico's most stunning resorts.
Garza Blanca Cancun is the go-to retreat for many of our favorite celebs, including the travel queen herself, Ashanti. Located just far enough from Cancun's bustling hotel zone, but also close enough for those who still want to mingle, we're giving you all the insider details on how to get your zen on at this premiere hotel.
So if you're looking for the perfect spot for your next girls' trip, baecation, or even family trip, here's how to experience Garza Blanca like a pro.
The Digs
When you pull up to the all-white resort, you instantly feel the vibes. With an adorable, yet photo-worthy, carousel meeting you at the top of the driveway, the friendly staff greets you with a much-needed glass of bubbly. Adopting a no-luggage policy—meaning the bellhops grab your luggage as soon as you step out of the car—the hotel's expansive foyer welcomes you with open arms.
As for the rooms, there are plenty of options to choose, depending on the size of your group. From standard hotel-style rooms to 1, 2 and 3-bedroom suites, you can ensure that your friends, kids and loved ones are always close by when you need them. Each room, no matter the size, also comes with butler service—an added bonus for those who prefer not to lift a finger during their summer escape.
A highlight, for us at least, were the hammocks on the balcony and the luxe bathrooms. With Japanese-style toilets and massive soaker tubs, you honestly don't have to leave your room to tap into your highest state of zen.
The Food
As an all-inclusive resort, there's always something to eat or nibble on. With 4 sit-down restaurants, a main dining hall as well as pool and beachside eats, there is literally a bite for every palate. A standout during our stay was the 7-course Japanese Robata experience at Hiroshi restaurant; it's a sushi lover's dream meal. Starting with a ball of fried rice, we worked our way through perfectly—and creatively plated—nigiri, sushi rolls, grilled meats and dessert. And, if that wasn't enough, the resort's mixologist stopped by to shake up the most refreshing lychee and vodka-based cocktail.
Other must-try dishes and drinks include: the customizable taco station during the breakfast buffet in the gourmet hall; the spirulina verde smoothie perfect for a midday refresh; roasted duck from Dao; and the Trouble in Paradise cocktail and steak quesadilla from the adult-only rooftop pool and bar.
Top Things To Do
Each June, Garza Blanca Cancun—and all the resorts under the larger Tafer chain umbrella—curate special programming centered around wellness and self-care. Things like guided walks, morning yoga in the garden, guided meditations and more are added to the daily activities schedule.
During our summer escape, we also took a little time to recharge via the spa. A unique offering, and also a must-try, is the hotel's hydrotherapy circuit. Starting out in the sauna, you're taken through a series of water-related therapies to soothe achy joints and muscles, with the finisher being 1-minute in the water chamber. We won't give too much away, because we want you to try it for yourself.
Outside of self-care, the resort offers multiple pools, a splash pad for little ones, overwater hammocks, a children's club and tons of daily classes and activities to keep you busy. If you want to go off-property, take a relaxing boat ride to nearby Isla Mujeres for snorkeling or just lazying on one of the area's most beautiful shorelines.
