By Blue Gaia
Entrance to Azul Hotel & Beach Resort
The boutique Azul Hotel and
beach resort is a unique all-inclusive resort situated 20 minutes south of the Cancun,
Mexico airport. The small resort features 98 rooms and features the unique "Gourmet Inclusive" dining concept. Azul promises a superior experience for guests with beach butler service, an all-lobster menu, a tequila lounge, three pools and family amenities.
Wows and Woes
Azul Hotel features three wonderful restaurants. Buffets found at most all-inclusive resorts are replaced here with a la carte dining. In the evening, the Blue International Restaurant menu features one entire page of lobster appetizers and entrees. While lounging in a comfy beach bed, butlers cater to your every need.
Although family-friendly, older children may become bored at Azul Hotel. The games and activities offered here are not as engaging as those found at larger all-inclusive resorts. The tap water has a rather unpleasant smell in the rooms, which are quite small. The nightlife here is very quiet.
Insider Tips
Room View at Azul Hotel & Beach Resort
All rooms are literally just a few feet from the beach, pools, restaurants and lobby. Families can leave the baby necessities behind, as Azul Hotel provides strollers, cribs, baby food and toys at no additional charge. Unlike larger all-inclusive resorts, no restaurant reservations or limitations are imposed on guests. Ask for the guacamole and chips during the day. For dinner, the all-lobster menu is unbelievable.
Author's Most Memorable Moment
Lobby at Azul Hotel & Beach Resort
While staying at the Azul Hotel, my then-boyfriend conspired with the staff to surprise me with an unforgettable proposal. A staff member captured the moment on camera for us, while others set up a table and chairs in the gazebo with a bottle of champagne. We returned to Azul Hotel with our infant son several months later for another fantastic vacation.
Bottom Line
Villas at Azul Hotel & Beach Resort
Azul Hotel is on the pricier side of all-inclusive resorts found in the Riviera Maya. The gourmet food, superior staff and attention to detail make it worth every penny.
About the Author:
Blue Gaia contributes green living, environmental, conservation, and alternative healing Internet content. She is published in "High Country News," "Gnosis" journal, and was a newspaper columnist. She writes about the effects of loss of habitat, endangered species issues and global climate change. She has an M.A. in systematic theology, with a concentration in South Asian religions from St. Mary’s University.
