Eager to join me for lunch on the beachfront terrace at Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres’ Seaside Grill a spiny-tailed iguana slowly made its way toward my impeccably set table a server swiftly stepped into the local creature’s path directing it away from the guests nibbling on grilled octopus Super-attentive staff members seem to pop up everywhere at the newest adults-only all-inclusive resort from The Inclusive Collection, part of World of Hyatt meandering pathways leading from the 507 suites past several jungle-wrapped pools to the beach the almost-too-discreet signage meant I got lost often during my recent four-night stay Each time I asked someone where the infinity pool was or which staircase I should take to grab a gourmet coffee at Coco Cafe a staff member would insist on accompanying me there Pampering guests in a luxurious setting designed for ultimate relaxation is top of mind here Located 12 miles north of Cancun along the expansive Costa Mujeres shoreline this Secrets resort dazzles the moment guests arrive in the open-air lobby Perched at the highest point of the property this breezy space was designed so guests can enjoy sunrises bursting over the Caribbean Sea and spectacular sunsets over the lagoon My ocean-front corner junior suite — one of 14 guestroom categories — was furnished in the same neutral hues as the rest of the resort with handmade furniture crafted from locally sourced Parota wood known for its durability in tropical climates Smooth stone floors and woven accents added casual elegance Slatted sliding wood doors revealed a massive bathroom with a two-person soaking tub a separate shower and a double vanity stocked with Pharmacopia products and handy amenities daily replenishment of snacks and cold drinks and having a dedicated concierge for my building And while the Wi-Fi can be spotty — especially at the beach — it’s further incentive to unplug and soak up the coastal serenity which serves as a barrier against the piles of seaweed found at many Cancun resorts I was also struck by the majesty of three large ceiba trees growing on the property this divine tree’s roots are connected to the underworld With nine no-reservations-required eateries dotted throughout the property — including six a la carte restaurants the 24-hour Coco Cafe and the poolside Barefoot Grill — guests can indulge any craving from sushi to upscale French dishes and authentic Mexican delights I savored crispy squid and coconut shrimp at Oceana short ribs and homemade ice cream at Seaside Grill fresh smoothies and made-to-order omelets at Market Cafe and a decadent Sharing the same owner and designer as Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya and Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun I was impressed by the stunning decorative elements crafted by Yucatan artisans including several hand-painted tile murals by Mexican artist Carla Guajardo that infuse tropical whimsy into the Market Cafe This last spot is the only one requiring reservations for its four teppanyaki tables which can be booked through the resort app Secrets Playa Blanca also offers memorable culinary experiences in private rooms wine-and-food pairings in Portofino’s cellar — which has an extensive selection including one $11,000 bottle — or tequila tasting at El Patio including one in a sunken conversation area surrounded by water provide congenial gathering spots once the sun sets And with more than 9,000 square feet of event space the resort is ideal for destination weddings and incentive trips The Secrets app updates with activities ranging from mixology classes beach volleyball and sunrise yoga to kayaking The bustling social pool offers non-stop entertainment multiple small pools are tucked among the jungle-like landscape There’s plenty of space around the oceanfront infinity pool and its swim-up bar a wooden boardwalk leads straight to the beach where loungers and palapa umbrellas are set up For clients seeking more privacy, 10 small, dedicated pools for guests staying in ground-floor swim-out suites offer a quick dip. Rooms on higher floors include balcony soaker tubs. Guests in the 221 Preferred suites have their own beach bar infinity pool and indoor lounge — where I nibbled tasty appetizers I also loved the hydrotherapy circuit at the Secrets Spa — attendants accompany you from the dry sauna or steam room when it’s time for a plunge in the cold pool or to wander through the hot-and-cold reflexology foot baths A series of jets in adjoining pools provided soothing massage it’s a short drive to a championship golf course several historical attractions or Isla Contoy National Park which houses one of Mexico’s largest wildlife sanctuaries Guests can also take a ferry to Isla Mujeres for shopping and snorkeling But with such an array of options right on property I was happy to stay put at this swanky resort Copyright © 2025 Northstar Travel Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved. 301 Route 17 N, Suite 1150, Rutherford, NJ 07070 USA | Telephone: (201) 902-2000 -- A hotel-turned-apartment complex in Milton is causing problems for people who live there Many have contacted the WEAR newsroom with complaints of hazardous and unsafe living conditions at the Playa Blanca Apartment on Highway 90 The apartment's website calls the complex a place where residents experience a beautiful blend of modern comfort and charm But residents say it is anything but that "Right here at this apartment complex we're getting screwed over," GG Owens said my back bedroom will flicker above us," an anonymous resident said "We won't get power back there for days at a time and Playa Blanca will not fix it." "It should be against the law," the resident added Google reviews give the complex a 2.9 out of 5 stars while others call the complex a "disaster" and "one of the worst places they have ever lived in." under the name "Emerald Sands Inn." The reviews on that website aren't much better with commenters ranking it a 5.2 out of 10 All booking dates for the foreseeable future are sold out "They need to care more about the people living in these facilities," Owens said Owens has lived at Playa Blanca for about a year She says she's now trying to move out as quickly as she can -- and so are her neighbors Owens says residents feel they've been taken advantage of She adds many of the amenities advertised online like the pool and gym are not open 2-bath mortgage for what we're paying for this podunk looking thing," Owens said Owens and other residents say they've tried continuously to notify management about the complaints When WEAR News visited the complex Wednesday someone was in the office with the doors locked She said she could not answer any questions but referred us to the corporate number for Opus Management Group "You call you can't get anybody on the phone," Owens said "It will send you sometimes to an answering service that's in New Jersey You won't get anybody here on the phone you're not getting anybody on the phone." Opus Management Group did not answer WEAR News' calls on Wednesday "Somebody that cares needs to take this place over or everybody here needs to leave," a resident said "No one deserves to be exposed to bugs and water leakages and sewage backup Especially with the amount of money they're paying here." Santa Rosa County tells WEAR News that since the county has no "Housing Maintenance Ordinance," it doesn't create cases for rental complaints Therefore there is no record on file for the Playa Blanca Apartments "Renters should find their lease agreement because those leases often provide arbitration information," the county says Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres made a splash as one of this year’s most anticipated resort openings when it opened on Feb is a 45-minute drive from Cancun International Airport – and it landed well with repeat Hyatt guests who have come to know and love the 20-plus-year-old Secrets brand.  “Secrets Playa Blanca was a huge hit because they’re fans of other Secrets and they just can’t wait to try the new product,” Shyla Gardner Hyatt’s vice president of commercial services for Latin America & Caribbean “Secrets is always one of our most popular brands It also connects so well with couples who are really looking to reconnect whether that’s a vow renewal or celebrating an anniversary or a honeymoon We really lean into romance with that brand.”  Secrets Playa Blanca is just north of Cancun’s Hotel Zone and west of Isla Mujeres The 507-room resort features four large pools including an infinity pool for Preferred guests nine restaurants serving a wide array of cuisine There are also two presidential suites available on the property and 11 wedding locations with a maximum event capacity of 500 guests.  president and travel consultant of Journeys Inc. just returned from a family vacation to Secrets Playa Blanca after attending a few industry events there during the fall and rooms all make the resort a stand-out to sell to adult clients of all kinds It has also given her a shiny new resort to offer for weddings.  “Venturing into the realm of adults-only resorts after years of family-friendly vacations can present unique challenges especially when catering to young adults,” Goldstein said This resort caters exceptionally well to college-aged guests and young adults providing a wealth of activities and entertainment options There were a lot of families with college-aged kids/young adults there The resort held a well-attended grand opening party in October hosting attendees of the annual Cancun Travel Mart and other travel and hospitality professionals There’s even more in store for the Secrets brand in 2025 when Secrets Baby Beach Aruba will open in April Subscribe to TMR and more – here’s what’s new in the hotel scene this month The Hilton luxury brand has signed on Waldorf Astoria Texas Hill Country NoMad’s new director of sales and marketing JW Marriott Resort Costa Rica will launch as the brand’s first all-inclusive in the country knowing what to order at a high-end bar can be an unexpected but valuable skill Ombi has introduced floating bungalows for two in Key Largo GBTA Conference Examines Canadian Business Travel Trends It’s a busy week in Mexico – the ASCEND conference is happening and Cancun Travel Mart is underway - what better time to officially open two new properties and celebrate with the industry That’s exactly what’s happening in Costa Mujeres and Cancun as World of Hyatt Inclusive Collection officially opened Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres on Wednesday night and is opening the Hyatt Grand Vivid tonight (Thursday) Inclusive Collection Global Operations speaks to the crowd Wednesday night “We have more than 2,000 rooms and another 1,000 in the pipeline coming in 2025 as we continue to solidify our commitment both in Cancun and the Caribbean,” Gabriel Felip Inclusive Collection Global Operations told the crowd Wednesday night at the Secrets opening event held in conjunction with Cancun Travel Mart “Hyatt Inclusive Collection has the largest portfolio of luxury all-inclusive in the world.” Both Secrets and Vivid are targeting similar yet different clientele while giving agents and travellers the same confidence that comes with booking a Hyatt Inclusive Collection property Our room at Playa Blanca - a Junior Suite Tropical View room Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres is a new build that opened in February with 507 rooms and is located in an area that’s best described as more secluded calm and lush than the busier tourist area of Cancun Hyatt Vivid is located in the hotel zone and while is adults only as well it caters to a younger demographic who is looking for a vacation that's more cosmopolitan Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujueres is the first property that’s part of what Philippe Frey Senior Vice President Operations Inclusive Collection Latin America & Caribbean calls the “evolution of the Secrets brand” which is aimed at redefining the all-inclusive experience by elevating the product service and overall guest experience to a new level of luxury “Secrets is focused on providing an exceptional experience for guests and creating memorable experiences,” Frey tells us in advance of Wednesday night’s opening event “But now we’re elevating that level of quality of our product even further while we continue to create unique experiences.” The Preferred Club area which is described as a hotel with in a hotel the Preferred Club at Playa Blanca offers suites and amenities like a private pool and beach area - creating a "hotel within a hotel" experience While primarily focused on couples and romance expanding its appeal across different traveller types “We have a great experiential offering for our customers and this is because more and more there is a demand in all inclusive for incentive groups and weddings This hotel was designed with that in mind.” The Jungle Pool at Secrets Playa Costa Mujeres has the feel of your own private lagoon Probably what stands out most at Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres is its lush and local landscape The resort is built into the surrounding land meaning dunes were left as is and incorporated into the design; plants lining the walkways are local to the region and therefore require less maintenance and watering; and many of the materials are from local vendors like the wooden benches in the rooms and intricate art murals that line walls of the restaurants That’s all done with a purpose of sustainability which Frey says is ever important in our industry “We are focused on sustainability and supporting local businesses it’s all sourced locally and created by very skilled craftspeople We put this at the forefront because when you visit Mexico you want to experience Mexico and we also want to support the local communities We’re very focused on making a positive impact in both the environment and local communities while working in a sustainable manner.” The Secrets Spa at Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres (Photo Credit: Marsha Mowers) The Secrets Spa is now open - it was delayed until two months ago - and it's well worth experiencing if for nothing other than the view The hydrotherapy sessions are included in the Preferred Club rate and feature an outside circuit which isn't always the case at resorts who offer it The spa also features a beauty salon which can accommodate up to 12 at a time which is perfect for bridal parties Bordeaux is the French-themed restaurant at Sandals Playa Blanca one of 18 restaurant and bars on the property When we comment that there must be a very high repeat guest rate across all World of Hyatt Inclusive properties I think that's because at the end of the day people are coming here on a holiday and are looking for value They're looking for an amazing holiday and to create memorable experiences And through the World of Hyatt's loyalty program you can accumulate points towards your next holiday or trip We value our customers' loyalty and our guests appreciate the fact their loyalty is rewarded." Travellers aren't the only ones rewarded with loyalty agents are as well via Hyatt Inclusive Collection's travel agent program Agents can earn room nights via various incentives which Frey says is due to the company's appreciation of agents "We've been working with travel agents for a very long time and we treasure the relationship we have with them." Brand USA Shares News of Casey Canevari Passing Marsha Mowers has represented some of the biggest destinations in the world including New York City On Location at Tianguis Turistico: Interview With Miguel Aguíñiga Lanzarote(Image: David C Tomlinson via Getty Images)British tourists arriving at Lanzarote airport have been faced with "uncomfortable and chaotic" scenes has acknowledged the problems and is urgently seeking a meeting with the Spanish airport authority He has pointed out that there's a noticeable lack of police at César Manrique-Lanzarote Airport which is the tenth busiest in Spain and ranks third in the Canary Islands especially concerning the long waits for luggage and passport control Holidaymakers report these processes can take around an hour Passengers are often seen queuing with their luggage throughout the terminal as they wait for more taxis to arrive, reports Edinburgh Live. Reflecting on their recent return from a trip to Lanzarote, one holidaymaker told the Mirror: "We were very shocked at the taxi situation at the airport. It took us about an hour to get through passports and to collect our luggage, so we were looking forward to getting to our hotel. "However, we were shocked to find a really massive queue at the taxi rank which literally snaked around the concourse. We had absolutely no choice but to join that queue, which must have been at least 300 people. "It took us 55 minutes in total to get a taxi, which did nothing for our mood or Lanzarote's reputation! When we asked a taxi driver what the problem was, he said there were not enough taxis to cope with the number of arrivals. The time, we must point out, was 7.30pm, so probably not even the busiest time of the day." Local residents concur that there is a "significant mismatch" between supply and demand and that action needs to be taken. The authorities believe that the solution lies in creating a digitalised service, hence they are initiating discussions with the taxi association. Regarding the lack of police officers at the airport, Mr Betancort stated: " It is unacceptable that residents and visitors have to endure long waits due to insufficient staff at security checkpoints. More human and material resources are needed to guarantee efficient operation." There are currently plans underway to expand the airport to enhance operational efficiency and service quality. As per the Airport's Master Plan, the goal is to enlarge and refurbish Terminal 1 to boost quality, as well as expanding the check-in, boarding and security control areas. In addition, terminals 1 and 2 will also be linked in the boarding area, once the security control has been cleared. The Mirror's Victoria Chessum recounts her recent experience at Lanzarote Airport, revealing a chaotic ordeal. She said: "I visited Lanzarote out of peak-season, and therefore ignorantly expected the airport to at least be manageable in terms of queues. "While checking-in was super easy, along with bag-drop, navigating the small and disproportionate terminal building was not. Armed with a sleepy toddler, a pram, and a few hand luggage bags, the whole experience quickly escalated into something of a nightmare." Edited byKim Peiffer Offering all the luxuries of a memorable vacation—without the stress of unforeseen expenses—I sought out the best all-inclusive resorts in Cancun for a tropical getaway drinks and activities all rolled up into one rate guests know exactly what they’re getting with no surprise charges at the end of the trip In the age of sneaky fees and other hidden costs Overhead view of exterior of Excellence Playa Mujeres. Sol pool at Le Blanc Spa Resort Cancun. The lobby at Hilton Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort. Beachfront view of Live Aqua Beach Resort Cancun. Takeshi restaurant at Atelier Playa Mujeres. Temple Bar & Lounge at Impression Isla Mujeres By Secrets. Exterior of Dreams Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort. Cabana at SLS Playa Mujeres' adults-only pool area Rafa Nadal Tennis Center at TRS Coral Hotel Located right off the beach in Cancun’s northern Costa Mujeres adults-only sister hotel to Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa guests who stay here get all of the benefits of a more exclusive adults-oriented property with access to many of the facilities next door The resort is a particularly great choice for active travelers as it offers a wide range of complimentary fitness classes ranging from yoga and pilates to weight training as well as the unique Rafa Nadal Tennis Center which features eight tennis courts as well as coaching using Nadal’s very own techniques the Zentropia Spa & Wellness Center is one of the largest in Cancun a dry sauna and sensation showers that make splurging for a day pass worth it The Forbes Vetted travel team has researched, written and published dozens of hotel guides featuring cities across the globe My name is Astrid Taran and I’m the senior travel editor at Forbes Vetted I have covered travel for almost a full decade as both a writer and editor Along with extensively writing about hotels and airlines I have also written multiple destination guides as well as long-form features on luxury travel I have visited Cancun numerous times thanks to its great beaches and convenient location just a short flight from my home base of New York City and I have stayed at several properties on this list We selected the top contenders based on personal stays as well as extensive research there’s no shortage of all-inclusive resorts to choose from The following properties have recently opened in 2024 and early 2025; while we haven’t tried all of them out ourselves yet they are worth considering if you’re looking for additional resort options Many all-inclusive resorts in Cancun offer similar base amenities including unlimited food and drink each property provides a unique experience Here’s what to consider as you’re perusing your options A majority of resorts are located in the Hotel Zone which stretches nearly 14 miles along the Caribbean coastline While the Hotel Zone offers unmatched convenience it’s also the most popular spot for tourists Playa Mujeres is a short drive in the northern part of Cancun The number of people you’re traveling with should also factor into your decision If you’re going on a romantic getaway with a significant other adults-only resort will likely fit the bill consider a larger resort with plenty of dining options and areas catered to both adults and children Some travelers prioritize relaxation while on vacation choosing to spend a majority of their time lounging at the beach or pool Others look forward to exhilarating water sports Spend some time researching the activity options each resort offers to find a spot that caters to your party’s interests and activity level you’re able to see exactly how much you’ll be spending up front some resorts offer add-on experiences—everything from spa treatments to off-site excursions—for an additional cost Make sure to review everything that’s included in the all-inclusive rate so you can budget for add-ons if you wish While Cancun is mostly a year-round destination the best month to visit Cancun is the shoulder season: mid-October and November The rainy season will have just ended and the humidity has lessened Average daily temperatures are 84 degrees Fahrenheit The crowds have not started arriving for the holiday season but will certainly be more crowded (especially during traditional spring break.) an all-inclusive resort can definitely be worth it mainly because it helps remove the stress from planning a vacation You know exactly how much you’re paying upfront beach access and entertainment built into the all-inclusive price which means you can spend less time tallying up each individual expense and more time unplugging and relaxing if you’re the type of traveler who likes to branch out and explore while on vacation it may not be worth it to pay for an all-inclusive resort Each Cancun resort differs slightly in what it offers in its all-inclusive price you can expect that price to cover the rate of your room Some resorts go above and beyond by offering additional activities at no extra cost spa treatments and offsite excursions can be added onto your package for an additional fee but if you want to leave something extra for outstanding service but it’s a hassle for employees to exchange it for the local currency © 2025 EmCan Media - Hosted By canaryfone Police in Playa Blanca (Lanzarote) are investigating after more than €2,000 was stolen from a cafe during an early morning break-in with suspicions raised that the theft may have been an inside job The incident occurred at around 5:00am on Sunday when a hooded individual entered the premises without any signs of forced entry CCTV footage captured the suspect calmly moving through the shop while the alarm sounded The owner of the business later discovered the door left ajar and found that the cash register and tip jar had been emptied The total amount stolen included €1,840 from two days of business the owner’s car had been broken into and the keys to the shop were reportedly taken leading to concerns that the thief may have used them to gain access suggesting they may have had prior knowledge of the premise’s layout The owner has reported her suspicions to the Guardia Civil Police are reviewing the CCTV footage as part of their inquiry In order to provide you with the best online experience this website uses cookies.By using our website, you agree to our use of cookies. Learn more I am not three steps into the new Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres but I’m handed a flute of sparkling wine Then I’m instinctively drawn through a cavernous thatch-roofed lobby to the edge of a grand archway that yields a view of the whole property at once It is breathtaking – a natural beachscape of tiered gardens verdant with native trees and plants hidden cabanas tucked through winding pools firepits ringed with trickling ponds and the glittering sea beyond.  realizing that I’m subconsciously nodding my head in silent approval I’m here on the Yucatán Peninsula to witness the official openings of two new adults-only both part of the Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection – this Secrets in relatively-quiet Costa Mujeres overlooking the mangroves of the Nichupté Lagoon at the south end of the city’s Hotel Zone “We are selling an experience,” says Philippe Frey senior vice-president operations Inclusive Collection Latin America & Caribbean a statement very much in line with my first impression because the demand for all-inclusive resorts is growing moving toward a more defined and a more personal travel experience Our portfolio is managing 10 brands now – really one for every segment of the market – and we have a chance to be trend-setters to define what the future of all-inclusive really is.” Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection has their Confidant Collective tools and resources to help agents get to know the Collection better Points gathered can yield benefits like free stays and gift cards with incentive programs offering extra commissions “We value the relationship we have with our travel advisors,” Frey says “and we want to reward them for all they do for us.” Secrets Playa Blanca has eschewed the usual hyper-manicured style instead weaving natural beach elements through everything two expansive oceanfront infinity pools and 10 secluded swim-out pools The beach itself has been left with its natural dunes and vegetation intact creating secluded sandy nooks for the ample palapas A beach bar has wooden-swing seating and a yoga pavilion is simple and serene Natural beauty continues in the 507 suites filled with locally-made artisanal wood and jute furniture and furnishings amped up with luxuries like jet tubs and privacy considerations like butler boxes for the 24-hour room service Elegant dining rooms cover all the favourite international foodways yet take them a step further: the Mexican restaurant El Patio features an astonishing tequila-tasting room private teppanyaki room sits adjacent to the pan-Asian Himitsu lobster bisque and sesame-encrusted tuna steaks the service everywhere is surprisingly solid for a new resort – and I am a very fussy customer It makes me wonder how they found so many great people all at once There are no newbie mistakes here – everything is right on the money My building’s concierge introduces herself in the hall I’m not at the pool one minute before I’m ushered to a shaded poolside lounger and set up A bartender takes the time to caramelize orange-peel oil into my martini “Our guests spend a lot of time in the hotel – some do not even go out,” Frey says “so we need to make sure that those experiences really answer what they’re looking for and amaze them – the quality of everything the activities – everything they experience in our resorts.” Pastime pleasures can also include the 2,700-square-metre Secrets Spa – the last building to open It’s claim to instant fame is an elaborate hydrotherapy circuit set within a tranquil courtyard then are buffeted by bubbles and shocked by icy plunges Bucket showers supply a rustic and refreshing cascade We end our Secrets stay with a dazzling and colourful party piggybacked with the annual Cancun Travel Mart and attended as well by travel professionals also in town for the ASCEND Conference Bold lighting and dramatically costumed performance artists make for a real show while I lose my mind over oysters and paella The celebratory atmosphere continues at Hyatt Vivid Grand Island younger travellers for whom travel is a definite priority This is the debut of the new Hyatt Vivid brand The 400-suite hotel is part of a dual-resort project “We identified the fact that there was an opportunity in a niche market to cater to a younger generation looking for an offering that is more within their budget but also wanting more cultural experiences.” He also says he is proud of the way Hyatt is “leading from the front setting new trends to what is relevant for today’s traveller.” The casual Hyatt Vivid Grand Island manages to walk the line between modern and Mayan-inspired its sleek lines and polished concrete propped up with Indigenous and natural motifs Two massive pools right off the lobby lend a quiet while the fun can be found on the hotel’s top floor which features the longest rooftop pool in Cancun at 90 metres I sink into the water up there and set to eavesdropping immediately hearing mostly American and a few French Canadian accents wafting over the cool beats I begin chatting with a friendly woman who I think is a travel advisor at first But she has been celebrating her 40th birthday at the resort with a group of friends leaving her with a couple of solo days to chill – an agenda she cooked up herself “We could really create our own party in whatever area of the hotel we wanted,” says Catherine from Kamloops “The staff all knows that my girlfriends have gone home and they’ve really rallied around and taken care of me.” The rooftop is home to delectable Japanese restaurant Oishii as well as a large fitness centre that looks out onto a section of the pool set aside for aquatic spin classes Frey feels that wellness is a big priority for the Vivid traveller it’s about having the right balance of everything – the food and the experiences There is mention of wheel-throwing pottery and macrame sessions as well as off-site excursions like underground-river exploration and eco-sports adventure I attend a sound bath experience to work a little meditation into my day using crystal singing bowls to promote relaxation Though I am slightly skeptical in a too-woo-woo way I completely and peacefully zone out for the whole 45 minutes When the instructor Fernanda starts speaking again bringing us back to earth while she continues to create sounds I have trouble locating her voice at first or even understanding what she is saying I carry on with my relaxation plan at the nearby Ennea Beach Club As the Hyatt Vivid is on the lagoon-side of the Hotel Zone peninsula a 15-minute shuttle bus takes us to the golden sand of Playa Delfines A refreshing jump in the waves is followed by frothy drinks lounging in the shade I’ve always had a suspicion that I was meant to live the boho-chic resort life Don't miss a single travel story: subscribe to PAX today!  Click here to follow PAX on Facebook.  Receive the best travel industry news every day Go to Home PageSubscribeAdvertiser disclosureSearch The Points Guy sea and sand with access and affordability Often considered the Las Vegas of Mexico this economic juggernaut is known for its hedonistic pursuits megamalls and behemoth resorts that line the commercialized strip of the Hotel Zone the modern city has plenty to offer travelers looking to be within striking distance of spectacular archaeological ruins dazzling marine life and idyllic coastal enclaves Beyond Cancun's glorious natural assets and diversity of experiences this tourist mecca draws millions of travelers each year thanks to its dizzying range of accommodation offerings across the budget spectrum From romantic island getaways to swanky palatial retreats and family-friendly resorts here are some of TPG's best all-inclusive resorts in Cancun The winner of the Best New All-Inclusive Points Hotel for the 2024 TPG Awards An All-Inclusive Resort is the first-ever branded Marriott all-inclusive property located about halfway down Cancun's Hotel Zone an abundance of entertainment options and delicious food this property impressed TPG right off the bat Combining an upscale ambience with relaxed vibes the property is a great fit for multigenerational groups guests can choose from standard 423-square-foot resort view rooms all the way up to the 2,067-square-foot presidential suite There's no shortage of dining options Cuisine types range from an open-air Mexican restaurant (Casa Madre) to American-style burgers (Mo's Burgers & Shakes) to Japanese teppanyaki (Ono Teppanyaki) so there should be something that suits every traveler's taste a robust water park and direct beach access mean that water activities abound and the main pool even features its own whirlpool and a swim-up bar The smaller adults-only pool is infinity style with beautiful beach views and its very own swim-up bar Rates at Marriott Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort start at $436 or 52,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night One of TPG's favorite family-friendly resorts, this 715-key Hilton property, which debuted in 2021, is a fine example of the new wave of all-inclusive resorts Far removed from the hustle and bustle of Cancun — it's an eight-minute drive through mangrove forests to access the property after leaving the main road — this excellent value Hilton shares over 100 acres of secluded real estate with its more exclusive sibling, the Waldorf Astoria Cancun Standard rooms start at just over 400 square feet and have a warm but minimalist design ethos with wooden accents and decorative nods to Mexican culture Spacious bathrooms have double vanities and large walk-in showers with frosted-glass doors and all rooms have either a furnished balcony or patio with stylish public spaces designed to maximize spectacular Caribbean views and attractive grounds anchored by two large infinity pools Ten restaurants and bars add plenty of culinary variety and there's gourmet a la carte dining in addition to the standard buffet fare Related: Great for families: A review of the stunning Hilton Cancun, an All-Inclusive Resort If you are not soaking up some sun on a plush sun lounger on the lightly populated white sand beach there are plenty of activities to satisfy competitive types as well as theatrical performances and live music Grown-ups can indulge in a spa treatment or work off the fruity cocktails at the fitness center while younger guests can visit the kids club for arts and crafts There's also a teen zone for those between 13 and 17 with gaming consoles and sports tournaments Rates at the Hilton Cancun an All-Inclusive Resort start at $450 or 130,000 Hilton Honors points per night One of Hyatt's ever-expanding all-inclusive offerings this new Impression imprint is the brand's most exclusive iteration and a great choice for uninitiated couples keen to dip their toes into the all-inclusive concept Located on a picturesque stretch of white sand on the southern (and more desirable) end of Isla Mujeres the swanky resort is great for couples looking for a low-key alternative to Cancun's lively and commercialized Hotel Zone you'll be greeted with a hand towel and welcome drink before being whisked away on a private catamaran for the 30-minute journey to the gleaming Mediterranean-style resort where beautifully designed public spaces set a tone of refined elegance with spacious accommodations decorated in soothing neutral shades and appointed with sleek furnishings and luxe bathrooms with rainfall showers you can expect upgrades like a furnished terrace with a hot tub and larger walk-in closets The highly praised cuisine ranges from Mediterranean at Spezia to Japanese at Sake and sunset cocktails at The Top bar There's plenty to inspire romance with overwater torch-lit cabanas private sailing excursions and inventive cocktails served on the rooftop terrace with stunning panoramas A beautifully designed infinity pool blends seamlessly with the calm turquoise waters below you can take a dip in the ocean via the hotel's four-story waterslide Rates at Impression Isla Mujeres by Secrets start at $1,200 or 50,000 World of Hyatt points per night for two guests The latest from Hyatt's all-inclusive collection — and its ever-expanding footprint in Mexico — Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres debuted in February 2024 as the 13th adults-only Secrets property in Mexico A world apart from Cancun's commercialized Hotel Zone located on a sweep of pristine white sand around a 50-minute drive from Cancun International Airport (CUN) the 507-key property is surrounded by upscale properties For travelers looking to day trip to car-free Isla Mujeres the ferry terminal at Punta Sam is also just a short drive away Tastefully appointed suites start at 581 square feet and feature hardwood furnishings and artfully layered textures and fabrics in shades of white and cream accented with locally inspired prints and motifs with double vanities and decadent free-standing tubs Round-the-clock entertainment is provided for every mood and moment Active types can play beach and pool volleyball or hit the state-of-the-art gym foodies can hone their culinary skills with a cooking class and sybarites can head to the Secrets Spa by Pevonia for a Mayan-inspired massage or body treatment And there's plenty of opportunity to simply relax Sip a tequila-laced cocktail on the white sand beach and take in classic Caribbean views cushioned lounger beside the two infinity pools or cenote-inspired pool nestled among leafy foliage A range of cuisine will satisfy longer-stay guests with nine on-site restaurants (including buffet and a la carte) traditional Mexican at El Patio and refined French cuisine at Bordeaux With Hyatt's Unlimited-Luxury inclusions everything from gourmet cuisine and 24-hour room service to sundries and libations from the minibar are included in the rate Rates at Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres start from $328.50 per night between a mangrove forest and the powdery sands of Playa Mujeres modern suites and residences feature wooden bedframes flat-screen TVs and a crisp white-and-beige color palette accented with foliage-print cushions where junior suites start at 588 square feet and have furnished terraces complete with hammocks and steps down into one of the hotel's six pools One-bedroom suites are 1,276 square feet and have full kitchens (with Nespresso machines refrigerators and dishwashers) and separate sitting areas Hiroshi (Japanese) and Dao (Chinese) are the hotel's fine dining venues There are also a rooftop cocktail bar and a raw seafood bar on the beach The hotel's newly debuted Gourmet Hall (exclusive to hotel guests) features an additional five specialty kitchens serving everything from traditional Mexican to Asian street food Families can enjoy six heated infinity pools and a designated zero-entry kids pool There are also a kids club and a daily program of activities for children and adults with 16 "purification cabins" and a hydrotherapy spa Rates at Garza Blanca start from $300 per person Located around 11 miles north of Cancun's Hotel Zone Costa Mujeres is a more secluded enclave where a string of all-inclusive resorts front a gorgeous (and much quieter) white sand beach The hip TRS Coral Hotel, part of Wyndham's luxury Registry Collection imprint combines a fashionable designer aesthetic (which may surprise frequent guests of Wyndham properties) with superb amenities and a liberal dose of exclusivity Discerning couples who are looking to stay active and entertained all day and all night before retreating to their stylish accommodations will find a lot to love at this resort range from loft suites with Caribbean views to the honeymoon-favored swim-up rooms and generously proportioned suites with private Jacuzzis Rooms across all categories come with butler service Even standard rooms have plenty of urban flair with midcentury modern-inspired furnishings glass-walled terraces with tropical garden or ocean views and spalike bathrooms featuring double vanities luxe marble rainfall showers and freestanding hydromassage bathtubs For couples who aren't overwhelmed by choice the property's "Infinite Indulgence" concept includes access to services and facilities at the resort's three hotels; that's over 30 restaurants and bars the Chic Cabaret & Restaurant (reservation fee applies) and inspired daily programming that spans everything from pole dancing workouts and paddleboarding to tequila tastings and poker nights daily wellness programming and a full-service spa a major selling point for tennis players here is the Rafa Nadal Tennis Center which draws sun-seeking amateurs and pros year-round to its eight tennis courts and Rafa Nadal Museum Xperience Rates at TRS Coral Hotel start at $491 per night On secluded white sand shores 19 miles north of CUN this 593-key boutique hotel (part of Preferred Hotels & Resorts) is located within a gated condo complex that's surrounded by an 18-hole golf course an array of nonmotorized sports and a daily lineup of activities and shows including fitness classes and nightly entertainment There are five room categories from which to choose all with a similar aesthetic and designated butler service freestanding tubs and Molton Brown toiletries Atelier's 15 restaurants focus primarily on authentic Mexican and Mediterranean cuisine while 12 bars tout their innovative mixology with an extensive menu of handcrafted cocktails The hotel's marquee dining venue is María Dolores (included with your all-inclusive room rate who earned his stripes at Sud 777 in Mexico City Praised as one of Cancun's best restaurants it specializes in artfully presented nouvelle Mexican cuisine served against a sophisticated backdrop of colossal marble pillars crisp white tablecloths and elegant white booths there's contemporary Asian fare at the minimalist Takeshi pizza and pasta at Cilento and healthy Mediterranean cuisine at the whimsically decorated Cala di Luna Rates at Atelier Playa Mujeres start at $472 per night At the epicenter of Cancun's tourist zone this popular all-inclusive Ziva resort is the fun family-friendly counterpart to Hyatt's adults-only Zilara brand Flexible room configurations and a slew of family-oriented amenities a newer adults-only Turquoize Tower — with upgrades like private infinity pools and hot tubs — is perfect for romantic couples looking to sequester themselves in their own beach haven The 547 rooms and suites won't win any design awards Even standard rooms are equipped with such tech-forward amenities as Bluetooth speakers and charging stations as well as high-end bathrooms with rainfall showers Guest rooms in the 17-floor Club Tower come with Hyatt Ziva Club access perks such as private check-in and checkout Guests looking for more grown-up fun can indulge at the oceanfront spa with a signature massage or holistic body treatment or recline poolside on a cushioned chaise lounge and make occasional forays to one of the lively swim-up bars for a Don Julio-spiked margarita; the liquor and wine selection here is above average for an all-inclusive there are complimentary paddleboards and kayaks to explore the coastline and scour for marine life Hyatt Ziva Cancun's all-day buffet; Pasteles a dessert parlor; a microbrewery; and roaming food carts for that very small window of the day when there's not a full-service restaurant open there's plenty of culinary variety for all ages and tastes Rates at Hyatt Ziva Cancun start at $760 or 50,000 World of Hyatt points per night Located close to the Hotel Zone's buzzing shopping (it's across the street from La Isla shopping mall) and dining scene this modern 371-key property is a lively staging post for younger couples looking for an entertainment-rich vacation with an array of surprising in-room perks (for this price point) Recently renovated standard rooms are compact (they start at 353 square feet) compared to the competitor set but are bright and crisp with shiny tiled floors streamlined furnishings and an unfussy aesthetic The lack of elbow room is offset by enhancements like aromatherapy and pillow menus Molton Brown bath amenities and 400-thread-count sheets The hotel's expansive amenities include eight oceanfront swimming pools which offers an extensive menu of reasonably priced treatments and massages Daily programming marries wellness activities like yoga with fun-in-the-sun classics such as beach volleyball and more bacchanalian pursuits as the night unfolds Dining options include nouvelle Mexican fare at Siete Mediterranean food at Azur and Italian classics at Varenna Rates at Live Aqua Beach Resort start at $490 per night A sophisticated retreat just a short drive from CUN Le Blanc Spa Resort stands out for contemporary accommodations impeccable service and next-level perks and amenities Elegant rooms with one king or two queen beds dressed in crisp white linens are appointed with light wooden furnishings and muted tones create a soothing ambience But these rooms shine in their surfeit of luxe amenities Guests are also welcomed with a bottle of Robert Mondavi wine and there are thoughtful rituals like nightly petit fours left by the bed during turndown service Whether it's relaxing on the manicured white sand beach lounging by the Sol pool with a signature cocktail in hand keeping up your fitness routine at the state-of-the-art gym taking a sunrise yoga class or enjoying a Mayan-inspired ritual at the spa La Blanc is one of those properties that adeptly marries wellness and indulgence Lumiere is the one you shouldn't miss Helmed by renowned local chef Justina Zavaleta it serves French haute cuisine in an elegant setting Savor appetizers such as scallop tartare with seaweed and ginger emulsion or heartier signature dishes like lamb rack with fermented eggplant puree or beef cheek with truffled potato and wild mushrooms Rates at Le Blanc Spa Resort start at $859 per room A 30-minute drive north of Cancun on Playa Mujeres this adults-only all-inclusive resort overlooks a pristine swathe of white sand and impresses with stylish rooms that offer a variety of configurations and enhancements for guests looking to splurge on extra wow factor expect spacious and tastefully appointed accommodations that start at 800 square feet and come with private furnished terraces hardwood canopy beds dressed in luxe linens and marble bathrooms stocked with Bulgari toiletries upgrade to the two-story rooftop terrace suite with a plunge pool a sumptuous spalike bathroom and extra perks like a pillow menu A true world-unto-itself resort experience guests here will find endless opportunities to relax There are seven palm-fringed swimming pools a Greg Norman-designed golf course and an extensive menu of indulgent massages and treatments at the lavish Miile spa Guests here rave about the hotel's impeccable service and fine dining options with 11 restaurants serving everything from piquant Thai and classic Italian to simply grilled seafood and inventive takes on Mexican staples Rates at Excellence Playa Mujeres start at $500 per night For travelers looking for oceanside convenience and comfort — as well as nonstop entertainment — in the heart of Cancun's Hotel Zone this 497-key Secrets (Hyatt's adults-only all-inclusive resort brand) is a great choice While some guests may find the rooms rather bland and generic high-thread-count linens accented with blue throw cushions where spacious rooms (over 1,300 square feet in the Ocean Front Master Suites) include larger living spaces a designated swimming pool and a lounge area with drinks and bites Nine restaurants (five are a la carte) allow for sufficient culinary variety and a diversity of setting for guests staying a week or more: Olio specializes in inventive Mediterranean cuisine with a seafood focus; Nebbiolo Ristorante offers classic Italian staples in an elegant dining room or alfresco; and classic Peruvian fare is served along with laid-back beach vibes at Sea Salt Grill There are three infinity pools surrounded by loungers and cabanas (an extra fee applies) and active types can explore the coastline on a paddleboard or kayak sign up for a dance class or play pool volleyball while sybarites can indulge in such treatments as an Aromatherapy Salt Glow at the Spa by Pevonia Rates at Secrets The Vine Cancun start from $242.50 or 25,000 World of Hyatt points per night One of a few Marriott hotel options available to Bonvoy loyalists in Cancun the high-end Hideaway at Royalton Riviera Cancun is an adults-only Autograph Collection property that's part of the Royalton Riviera Cancun resort Spacious accommodations offer plenty of style and substance personalized beach bags and signature "Dreambeds" dressed in high-thread-count linens The resort also features daily programming 10 restaurants and 16 bars (including access to the adults-only Dorado) a massive fitness center and the Royal Spa which offers a mix of treatments like massages and facials Upgrade to the Diamond Club for more lavish rooms and access to a private swimming pool an exclusive beach area and a raft of perks like pillow menus and premium liquor selections Rates at Hideaway at Royalton Riviera Cancun start at $320 or 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night for two guests Moon Palace Cancun has a whopping 2,000 guest rooms divided between two distinct sections Nizuc tends to draw families with younger children thanks to its flexible room configurations (including family suites with connecting bedrooms) and an expansive pool complex with a waterslide The Sunrise section is where you'll find the resort's Noir nightclub including one with a surf simulator and arcade games at the Wired Lounge with dark wooden furnishings and whirlpool tubs positioned in the bedroom area it's worth splashing out on a fancier suite like the superior junior suite golf course view In addition to the multiple pools with swim-up bars there are dozens of bars and restaurants to choose from serving everything from cantina-style Mexican to pan-Asian and gourmet burgers at La Burgueria There's also a Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course and a full-service spa with over 30 treatment rooms Rates at Moon Palace Cancun start at around $537 per night, based on double occupancy. The Points Guy believes that credit cards can transform lives helping you leverage everyday spending for cash back or travel experiences that might otherwise be out of reach That’s why we publish a variety of editorial content and card comparisons: to help you find a great card to turn your goals into reality We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings Sign-up to the Gazette Newsletter to receive a weekly email including the most important news stories and upcoming events This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful Strictly necessary cookies should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings we will not be able to save your preferences This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again Advertiser DisclosureAdvertiser Disclosure 61 Published Articles 3583 Edited Articles Opinions and recommendations are ours alone Lanzarote is one of Spain’s popular Canary Islands, located just off the western coast of Africa. This impressive location is known for its stunning beaches and the landscapes created by volcanic eruptions it comes as no surprise that visitors to Lanzarote can choose from a wealth of trendy boutique hotels Casa Serena 10 is a highly-sophisticated Featuring amazing views over the Atlantic and the sand dunes of Fuerteventura Casa Serena 10 includes luxury in every single detail There is an on-site curated art gallery and an impressive wine atelier along with a gourmet fine dining experience available to guests made with fresh local produce by a private chef This stunning retreat can be found on protected land and includes a heated outdoor pool perfect for relaxing Each of the luxurious suites at Casa Serena 10 has complimentary Wi-Fi as well as room service and daily housekeeping Finca Isolina can be found in Mácher Its privileged hilltop location allows guests to enjoy great views The original farmhouse was first built in the 1800s and has since been extensively refurbished to become the luxurious boutique option it is today The hotel follows a sustainable approach to hospitality surrounded by the island’s rugged landscape Guests can enjoy breakfast with ocean views and yoga or meditation sessions offered on-site Each of the elegant rooms at Finca Isolina features a unique design inspired by the island They each have partial or full views overlooking the ocean Following the farmland tradition of the property the hotel has its own orchard and vineyard and it uses solar panels for energy as much as possible The Hotel Boutique Palacio Ico can be found along the cobbled streets of the historic and scenic village of Teguise Originally built at the end of the 17th century the main hotel building has been extensively refurbished with careful preservation of the traditional Canarian architecture that went into first shaping it and wooden floors create a timeless atmosphere enhanced with the addition of luxurious modern comforts Each room at the Hotel Boutique Palacio Ico has been designed to fit the original spaces available in the mansion Using minimal décor and plenty of natural elements the opulence in the rooms at the Hotel Boutique Palacio Ico is understated but very present in the quality of every detail Hotel Casa del Embajador (The Ambassador’s House) is an elegant boutique experience in Playa Blanca as well as the La Bocaina strait and the bay along with a shared lounge decked with TVs and comfortable views This beachfront option provides a peaceful accommodation experience full of boutique luxuries and local charm Additional features can include private parking and various water activities organized by the hotel the hotel offers direct access to the beach Each of the stylish rooms at Hotel Casa del Embajador has an en suite bathroom with a tub or shower Located in the south of Lanzarote, close to Playa Blanca, the upscale and beachfront Kamezí Boutique Villas provide authentic luxury with glorious ocean views The multilingual staff is on hand at any time to provide personalized service The on-site Kamezí Deli & Bistro provides expert fine dining influenced by the island and features fresh local produce as much as possible in-villa breakfast and dining options are available The Kamezí Boutique Villas has its own supermarket The supermarket is stocked with essentials as well as freshly-baked goods like bread and pastries every morning Each villa has its own parking for extra convenience Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi is available in every space within the sprawling resort La Casa de los Naranjos is a heritage boutique hotel this 200-year-old manor-style building was opened as a luxurious boutique hotel in 2021 Guests have easy access to the charming village of Haría this building remained in the same family since it was first built The history of La Casa de Los Naranjos was shaped by the island and by the 30 orange trees that guests will find at the front of the property These trees are behind the name of this magnificent hotel which translates to the House of Orange Trees the living room where the original design was preserved The guest rooms are full of light and glamorous details La Isla y El Mar Hotel Boutique is a sustainable option focusing on a hi-tech approach and ultra-comfortable design This adults-only boutique experience can be found in Puerto del Carmen overlooking the Atlantic and a short walk away from Playa Chica Beach La Isla y El Mar includes a premium gastronomy experience at the African-influenced Kentia Gourmet Club The hotel includes a wellness center featuring numerous pampering treatments The state-of-the-art fitness center is also available to guests at any time There is also an outdoor dynamic swimming pool with water jets Accommodation options include suites and villas Lani’s Suites de Luxe is a trendy boutique hotel that can be found on the beachfront in the touristy resort area of Puerto del Carmen This luxurious option includes direct access to the beach from the hotel Lani’s welcomes all guests over 16 years old and treats them to an ample selection of boutique amenities including a gourmet restaurant focusing on Mediterranean cuisine and a range of stylish experiences for additional fees Personalized concierge service is available whenever guests need it along with a heated pool with towel service and complimentary private transport in the immediate area There are 6 categories of suites at Lani’s Every suite includes a private furnished balcony with excellent ocean views Los Lirios is a charming hotel located in Tías Located on the heritage site of a former farmhouse dating back to the 18th century this authentic boutique experience was built using only sustainable local elements like wood and limestone This design makes the beautiful hotel adapt to the climate and also to its stunning surroundings Guests are close to Puerto del Carmen and Lanzarote Airport (ACE) but they can fully unwind in this magical location Many elements presented in the new building have been preserved from the heritage estate including the central patio and the wooden floors This adds further charm to this unforgettable place The hotel includes an outdoor swimming pool Rooms at Los Lirios have a smart TV with satellite channels and a minibar The Royal Marina Suites is a stylish boutique experience that can be found in Puerto Calero Featuring ocean views and numerous luxuries the Royal Marina Suites treats guests to a magical atmosphere guests can enjoy laundry and dry cleaning service A private doctor can also be called for any medical discomfort The refined suites at the Royal Marina are bright and cozy an Illy coffee maker with complimentary pods When visitors to Lanzarote want to take a break from resorts and beaches where travelers can fully witness the mark of volcanic eruptions on the island there is much to explore on this majestic island Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them He has contributed to publications including Forbes Plus — expert strategies to maximize your points & miles by joining our (free) newsletter We respect your privacy. 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Google's privacy policy  and terms of service  apply OFFER ENDING SOONChase Sapphire Preferred® Card LIMITED TIME TRAVEL OFFERThe Business Platinum Card® from American Express BEST LOUNGE ACCESSThe Platinum Card® from American Express Privacy Policy | All Guides | Terms & Conditions | Web Accessibility Policy | Cookie Policy travel information and ancillary information concerning travel and credit cards The information provided is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial LLC uses reasonable efforts to maintain accurate information on the site — and prior to applying for any credit card offers found on UpgradedPoints.com all visitors should review other features of such credit cards including but not limited to interest rates and should determine the suitability of such credit cards considering their own individual financial position as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases Editorial Disclosure: The content featured on UpgradedPoints.com has not been influenced or reviewed by the credit card companies mentioned comments and analyses are the responsibility of the author(s) and not any Advertiser or credit card issuer Playa Blanca will soon be treated to another new supermarket in the resort ALDI have announced that its new supermarket ALDI will open a new supermarket at the entrance to Playa Blanca (coming down from Femes) at the end of this month The opening on the 29th will make it the second German supermarket in the resort after the opening of Lidl last December ALDI’s new shop in Playa Blanca will be the first of four supermarkets that the company plans to construct in the first quarter of 2025 The supermarket will be spread across 1,200 square metres with 19 staff and on-site parking Approximately nine out of ten products offered by ALDI are own brand 80% of them of national origin and around 20% from the Canary Islands shoppers will also be able to take advantage of weekly offers on items he told us that Mercandona were also showing interest in opening a supermarket in the resort and were looking at areas around the Marina Rubicon A plan of action for a new Mercandona in the sunny southern resort is yet to be seen Playa Blanca residents will be overjoyed to have two new supermarket options after years of asking for more choice and fairer prices and website in this browser for the next time I comment Jet2 is expanding its winter 25/26 programme with more flights to 13 popular destinations (including Lanzarote & Fuerteventura) from Manchester Airport & London Stansted Fire fighters were called to put out a minibus engine fire yesterday morning Lanzarote Pool & Spa Shop in Playa Blanca are currently looking for an Office Administrator & Customer Service Representative A head-on collision between two vehicles on the LZ-1 near Mala yesterday evening saw three people injured Six local derbies will take place next season as three Lanzarote teams take part in Group 12 of the Third RFEF league A man and a woman have been arrested in Lanzarote after police linked them to 17 thefts and burglaries in the popular resort area of Playa Blanca with investigators now also tying the pair to dozens of other crimes on the neighbouring island of Fuerteventura The Guardia Civil confirmed the arrests today saying the pair had been targeting hotel complexes breaking into rooms while guests were out and stealing valuables including mobile phones Police say the arrests follow a sharp spike in reported thefts in Playa Blanca last month After reviewing CCTV footage and stepping up patrols described as one of the “most active” criminal couples operating in the Canary Islands The female suspect was tracked down near the scene of a recent theft thanks to a drone deployed by the local UdronYaiza police unit but was later caught by an off-duty officer from Yaiza who recognised him and called in support to make the arrest Officers also uncovered evidence that the pair had used stolen bank cards to make purchases in both Playa Blanca and Puerto del Carmen further implicating them in a series of high-value thefts Most of the stolen items have now been recovered After analysing security footage and bank records police confirmed the suspects had previously been linked to more than 20 other break-ins on Fuerteventura The pair are now facing a fresh round of charges from authorities on both islands The case has been handed over to the duty court in Arrecife Lanzarote Pool & Spa Shop in Playa Blanca are currently looking for an Office Administrator & Customer Service Representative The role requires a motivated and organized individual who thrives in a dynamic office environment and is passionate about delivering exceptional customer service * Provide outstanding customer service to clients via phone * Manage scheduling and calendar coordination for the team * Prepare and send accurate quotes to clients * Maintain an organized office environment and manage administrative tasks * Proven experience in customer service and office administration * Strong organizational skills and attention to detail * Ability to multitask and work independently and bilingual professional with a passion for people and organization To apply, please send your CV to info@lanzarotepoolshop.com ALDI has opened its first ever supermarket in Playa Blanca which is now the third supermarket on Lanzarote ALDI maintains its commitment to expansion in the Canary Islands with the supermarket chain’s first opening in the archipelago of 2025 bringing its total number of shops in the Canary Islands to 16 The company plans to open four new supermarkets in the Canary Islands this year of the nearly 40 planned for the whole of Spain where it has strengthened its position since its arrival in 2022 “Since we arrived in the Canary Islands more than two years ago our aim has always been to offer savings opportunities to more and more Canarian households,” said José Luis Redondo “One of the keys to our low prices are our trusted relationships with more than 50 local suppliers which is why 20% of our products come from the Canary Islands,” added Redondo The inauguration of the new ALDI in Playa Blanca was attended by David Mille Pomposo the Canarian Government’s Director General of Trade and Consumer Affairs “ALDI has become a very important operator in our market with a significant degree of acceptance by both consumers and producers due to its commitment to local produce,” said Mille The event was also attended by Yaiza Mayor Noda thanked “the confidence placed in Yaiza as the main beneficiaries are the residents of the municipality and the entire island of Lanzarote because they will have a cheaper shopping basket and a new alternative to purchase quality products The council is aware that resolving issues quickly is in the interest of the entire population.” The ALDI supermarket in Yaiza-Playa Blanca is open to the public from Monday to Sunday from 8:30am until 10pm consumers will find a wide range of quality products at low prices with a focus on own brands – nearly 9 out of 10 products are own brands – and on local and national origin 20% of ALDI’s range in the Canary Islands comes from more than 50 suppliers in the archipelago who supply the supermarket chain with more than 360 locally grown products ALDI will be offering exclusive offers and holding weekly and fortnightly promotions to make it easier to save on shopping baskets An 86-year-old swimmer was rescued yesterday in Playa Blanca The emergency services received a report of a swimmer in trouble in Playa Blanca at approximately 4:40pm yesterday afternoon staff at a nearby dive centre spotted the 86-year-old at sea and pulled them out of the water and prevented them from drowning stabilised the 86-year-old and took them to the Dr Jose Molina Orosa hospital in Arrecife for further treatment A fire on the pier at Playa Blanca harbour caused concern yesterday causing a large plume of billowing black smoke The fire was caused by burning oil and rubbish setting fire to a wooden boat a dock fender and a plastic pontoon were destroyed in the blaze The fire was extinguished by firefighters from the island’s Emergency Consortium The new ALDI supermarket in Playa Blanca will open its doors next Wednesday at 10am ALDI will celebrate the opening of its first shop in Playa Blanca next Wednesday They invite you to the opening ceremony of the shop which will start at 10am The new ALDI will have a sales area of more than 1,200 m2 and a team of 19 workers the new ALDI will be open from Monday to Sunday from 8:30am until 10pm and will offer a wide range of products with 86% own brand and more than 20% locally sourced The opening ceremony will be attended by José Luis Redondo ALDI’s expansion manager in the area and institutional representatives from Yaiza Guardia Civil officers in Yaiza have arrested a couple who committed at least 17 burglaries and thefts in Playa Blanca An investigation was mounted in nearly April after a sharp rise in burglaries from rooms while guests were absent With the help of Yaiza Local Police’s Drone Unit Although the other burglar had been identified he remained at large committing thefts until he was detained by an off-duty police officer Further evidence confirmed that the pair had fraudulently used stolen bank cards The pair were later discovered to be one of the most active criminal pairs on Fuerteventura accused of 20 crimes on the neighbouring island Guardia agents from Fuerteventura came to Lanzarote to re-arrest the pair has spoken out after returning from a business trip to discover her home had been completely emptied of its contents in what she described as a shocking and brazen burglary who lives on the Vista Lobos estate with her husband and children returned on 14th March after being away for a month which lacks a gated entrance or dedicated security personnel allows open access to both residents and non-residents Poor street lighting further exacerbates the estate’s vulnerability to crime a neighbour became suspicious after noticing unusual activity and items left outside the property the homeowner arranged for a friend to inspect the house he discovered the front door lock had been tampered with and replaced it to secure the property until the family’s return “They took everything except the beds which had been moved out onto the terrace,” she explained “They even stole a large dining table brought over from the mainland which can’t be dismantled.” The house had no alarm system installed at the time and the burglary appears to have been meticulously carried out the beds remained made with sheets and blankets still in place suggesting the property had not been used as a temporary squat The resident has since reported the incident to the Guardia Civil but she expressed frustration over what she sees as a lack of thorough investigation claiming that officers did not carry out fingerprint analysis or other basic forensic checks She also raised concerns about the wider security situation on the estate noting that some properties operate as unregistered holiday rentals and that one company even advertises spiritual retreats in the area She criticised certain homeowners who rent out properties for tourism but refuse to invest in basic security measures such as surveillance cameras the woman and her children relocated to her mother’s home in Madrid saying they no longer felt safe staying in Lanzarote She is now calling for urgent improvements to estate security and the removal of a community map near the entrance which currently displays all access routes something she believes could be exploited by potential intruders “This could have been prevented,” she said “We need to take security seriously before it happens to someone else.” The Sunday TimesWith daily highs nudging over 20C the Canary Islands make for a perfect spring getaway where strict planning restrictions have made big hotels the exception rather than the norm with its whitewashed volcanic rock brickwork and locally sourced exposed timber beams It’s in the southerly resort of Playa Blanca where the sand is golden rather than dark and volcanic You’re also a 25-minute drive from the best beach in the Canary Islands: Playa Papagayo Since there’s an entry fee to this remote reserve (£3) and few facilities so this villa is a bit of a steal — £378pp for a week including flights and luggage but not transfers springtime also brings the Canaries’ carnival driven by the islands’ large Latin American population a public holiday when schoolchildren wear traditional dress and you might catch a Canarian wrestling match or folk-dance event Villa Siroco is great valueThere will always be Canarian dishes served at street parties but you don’t have to wait for a festival to try them 15 minutes’ drive from Playa Blanca in the sleepy village of Yaiza served with the classic Canarian mojo sauce; be sure to try ropa vieja (“old clothes”) made using leftover vegetables and shredded pork (restaurante.laera.com) A trip to La Era also offers a chance to see some of the local architect César Manrique’s work up close without having to drive north to his sculpture parks or home-cum-gallery with its white-rendered curves and central courtyard and he influenced the aesthetic of Lanzarote more generally — see his revolving metal mobile of flying fish at another southerly beach resort the location of a bizarre lurid-green lagoon (owing to high algae levels) The drive here takes you on an astonishing single-track road that winds through volcanic rock waves and past spiky eruptions Then on entering El Golfo village you’re met with calming fish restaurants and tables in the sunshine where you can enjoy a glass of the crisp local white wine • 25 under-the-radar stays in the Canary Islands departing on April 26 (easyjet.com)• 23kg hold luggage• Seven nights’ self-catering at Villa Siroco (villaplus.com) Villa Ariel is close to the wild beaches of Los AjachesWith a pitched terracotta-tiled roof and wooden balconies But its location in the east of Playa Blanca brings you much nearer to the wild beaches of Los Ajaches; if you pack comfy shoes you could even walk there over the dunes whose weekend open-air market rivals the famed one in Teguise (a 45-minute drive) on Sundays a private pool and a lovely upper terrace with pergola shade.Details Seven nights’ self-catering for up to six departing on April 26 for £1,288 (vrbo.com) • Read our travel guide to Lanzarote here This modernist villa has a superb poolWWW.RONN-BALLANTYNE.COMAlso in Playa Blanca all-white modernist beach house to which Manrique would have been proud to put his name glass walls and enough space for a cinema room The sleek outdoor living area has a superb pool and a sunken hot tub.Details Seven nights’ self-catering for up to ten departing on April 26 for £2,651 (solmarvillas.com) Become a subscriber and along with unlimited digital access to The Times and The Sunday Times you can enjoy a collection of travel offers and competitions curated by our trusted travel partners Sign up for the travel newsletter and follow us on Instagram and X Two cars were destroyed in Playa Blanca this morning in the latest of a spate of fires in the resort Emergency services were called to Avenida de Faro Pechiguera on the Residencial Playa Blanca estate at 4.12 am they extinguished a blazer which was threatening to damage adjacent properties The incident is the latest in a spate of what seem to be cases of arson following the deliberate burning of two rubbish containers on Calle Irlanda on Sunday evening and another two containers on Calle la Concha on Monday afternoon A survey by Puertos Canarios states that the arrival of cruise ships at Playa Blanca would bring “positive economic profits” the survey claims that around one million Euros would be left in Playa Blanca claims that Playa Blanca’s dock “would suit the docking of luxury cruise ships These ships are smaller than the immense “floating hotels” that dock at Arrecife and are aimed at a more exclusive type of tourism Sources used by the study indicate that the expenditure per cruise passenger amounts to almost €1,000 on a base port stopover and €150 euros on a transit stopover shopping (36 percent) and catering (15 percent) Playa Blanca would be likely to be a transit stopover The survey also identifies the Canaries as a growth market for cruises and claims Playa Blanca could appeal to cruise passengers with visits to places such as La Geria Water sports and restaurants are also singled out as an attraction of the resort Yaiza Ayuntamiento has installed two cages for cardboard waste recycling in Playa Blanca One cage is located near the church and the other is on Calle Comedero adding to the cage already installed by the Cabildo near the port Mayor Óscar Noda explained that the cages had been installed “to compensate for the deficiencies in the selective waste collection that the Cabildo has caused via the company responsible for this service.” “We’re also experiencing problems with the collection of plastic waste and the lack of maintenance and cleaning of glass recycling containers,” added Noda Yaiza’s Mayor Óscar Noda has registered his “surprise” that the public company Puerto Canarios has submitted a request to deregister with the Association of Mediterranean Cruise Ports if it is confirmed “it will leave Playa Blanca out of the market and seriously undermine the economic interests of Playa Blanca and Yaiza.”  He has demanded explanations from Puertos Canarios and the Canarian Government Yaiza has intended to open Playa Blanca’s port to medium-size and boutique cruisers since it was extended but has not yet received the authorisation to do so If the Canaries are removed from Medcruise’s schedules it will also affect ports in Fuerteventura and Noda claims this will damage the Canaries as a whole Best in Travel is here! Discover 2025’s 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Pacific surf beaches to scenic coves on the shores of Lake Atitlán Guatemala's beaches are calling out to be explored Guatemala is famous for ruined pyramids bursting from the rainforest, evocative Spanish-built cities, colorful buses, traditional Mayan culture, satisfyingly strong coffee and dramatic volcanoes rising over silent lakes. But the beaches of Guatemala often slip under the radar it's easy to find a perfect spot for soaking up the sun Walking across the black sands of the Pacific coast is not something you want to do barefoot – it's like walking on lava as sandflies are common and chigger mites can also leave itchy bites While it's perfectly fine to wear a bikini to the beach Keep an eye on your belongings – leave any valuables at your hotel and you won't have to worry while you splash and doze Don't let any of that put you off heading to the beach in Guatemala The best beach on Guatemala's Caribbean coast, lovely Playa Blanca is about an hour's boat ride northwest of Lívingston the only way to get here is by boat; the easiest way to arrange a transfer is to book a tour through a travel agency in Lívingston or Puerto Barrios The name means "white beach," and that's exactly what you get – a postcard-worthy stretch of pale blond sand and lots of coconut palms Guatemala's Caribbean beaches face steady erosion You can grab a beer at the beachside restaurant and sit in the shade of a palm tree while the water practically laps at your feet The beach is privately owned, so check that your tour includes the price of admission. Many tours also include a stopover at Siete Altares a series of small waterfalls and natural rock pools set in the jungle just along the coast Planning Tip: The quality of the water at Playa Blanca depends on the weather so it's best to come during the drier winter months some 20km (12.5 miles) north of Puerto Barrios the rainforests of the Punta de Manabique peninsula hide spider monkeys but there are also hidden beaches that sparkle in quiet seclusion with rough seas on the eastern side and calmer waters to the west and sea turtles come from the ocean to lay their eggs here from June to December The best spot for visitors is Playa Punta de Manabique near the tip of the peninsula where you'll also find rustic accommodations and places to eat The beach is narrow and the light beige sand is often littered with driftwood and pieces of coral from the reefs offshore – the only coastal reefs in Guatemala A long dock provides a launch point for snorkeling in the calm waters Planning Tip: The easiest way to get to Playa Punta de Manabique is to book a trip through a travel agency in Puerto Barrios or Lívingston you can rent a boat at the public dock in Puerto Barrios The name Playa Dorada means "golden beach," and this is indeed the color of the soft sand and tiny pebbles dusting the shore at Playa Dorada it's hard to believe that this beach lies not on the coast but on the southern shore of Lake Izabal between the villages of Izabal and Mariscos The calm water makes this a good swimming beach but bear in mind that this is one of Guatemala's most popular weekend spots for enthusiasts of just about anything that moves on water from kayaks and jet skis to banana boats and water bikes Several restaurants and places to stay can be found in the village behind the beach Best beach for the all-inclusive resort experience With friendly staff, luxurious rooms and plenty of things to do, from horse-riding to beachside massages, Amatique Bay Hotel near Puerto Barrios is one of the best all-inclusive beach resorts in Guatemala It's thoughtfully laid out so that noise from the pool with water slides doesn't reach the bedrooms An old stone lighthouse guarded by cannons overlooks a private beach where the light-colored sand becomes an impromptu soccer field or beach volleyball court when enough people want to play kayaking or bobbing around on a giant inflatable banana Planning Tip: The resort offers a variety of rooms and suites and two on-site restaurants so you can tuck yourself away from the outside world Get here from Puerto Barrios by taxi; the resort is a few kilometers north of the airport Playa Tilapa in the fishing village of Tilapa just a few miles south of the Mexican border is far enough off the beaten track that you might have the wide beach and tidal pools all to yourself but there are plenty of decent places to eat Local fishermen may also be willing to sell you some of the day's catch A series of canals and the Río Naranjo make it impossible to walk from the village to the beach so you'll need to take a boat from the municipal boat dock The trip along the mangroves takes about 10 minutes There's a beach cabin for rent and a handful of restaurants just beyond the beach Does Guatemala have crystal-clear waters? On the coast, not really, as pollution and run-off can muddy the waters, especially during the rainy season. But at some spots inland, the water is crystal clear most of the time, such as at Playa Las Cristalinas, which means "the crystalline beach," on the shores of Lake Atitlán Playa Las Cristalinas is one of the best swimming beaches on the lakeside so it's more a place to splash than build sand castles As you're on the edge of the Guatemalan highlands you won't suffer the uncomfortable heat and humidity found on the coast Planning Tip: The beach is about halfway between San Pablo La Laguna and San Juan La Laguna take a tuk-tuk or chicken bus or come by private boat or rented kayak Guatemala's principal port until the port at Puerto San José was built some 15km (9.3 miles) up the coast Iztapa is home to a scenic black-sand beach – actually more of a sandbar – backed by a flowing river and Iztapa is a great base for whale-watching Iztapa is one of the best spots in Guatemala – and one of the best spots in the world – for catching sailfish you can catch between 15 and 25 sailfish in a day Planning Tip: The town has a decent tourist infrastructure with some appealing hotels and resorts to choose from Several of these cater to anglers and can arrange fishing trips for guests An easy hop from Guatemala City, Monterrico is a favorite with capitalenos (people from the capital) so much so that the more affluent have vacation homes here alongside some of the best beach resorts in Guatemala The beach at Monterrico is one of the best black-sand beaches on the Pacific Coast It's quiet during the week but becomes very busy over weekends and during Holy Week A particularly good time to be on the beach is around sunset to watch the fiery sun slowly sink below the horizon without the black sand searing the soles of your feet Instead of looking straight out across the ocean and you'll see the setting sun's reflection in the water as it washes over the beach You may even spot the silhouette of a surfer amidst all those shades of pink Monterrico is about a three-hour drive from Guatemala City if you take the route via Iztapa travel to La Avellana instead and take the ferry along the canals through the nature reserve until you reach Monterrico town: the ferry even transports chicken buses Detour: During turtle season from June to December, Tortugario Monterrico releases hatchlings into the ocean. Be aware that handling hatchlings – especially without gloves – stresses out the animals and increases the risk of transferring diseases between turtles and humans. Instead, make a donation and let the staff handle the hatchlings instead. With its dirt streets and thatched houses, the tiny town of El Paredón looks like a typical laid-back Central American beach town, with the same black sand found on many of Guatemala's Pacific beaches, but the big lure is the consistent surf. If you're looking for beach resorts in Guatemala that cater specifically to surfers, El Paredón is the place to find them. El Paredón offers something for every level of surfer. Waves are reliable throughout the year, and they tend not to be crowded. Surfing is such an integral part of the lifestyle here that just about every hotel offers boards for rent. If your hotel doesn't offer surfing classes, they can arrange these for you through one of the surf schools in town. If you want to do something different, Sipacate-Naranjo National Park is just to the west of town. Here, you can laze on the sandy beach or explore the mangroves and lagoons. More than 90 bird species can be found in the park, and you may also see both freshwater and sea turtles. Planning Tip: Even though you can get to El Paredón by tourist shuttle direct from Antigua, the vibe in town remains decidedly laid-back. Wi-fi is spotty on good days, but on bad days, you can forget about cybersurfing; focus on the waves instead. A quick boat ride from El Paredón, but more than an hour away by road, Sipacate is a great alternative to El Paredón if you want a less sleepy surfing experience. While still a small town, Sipacate offers more accommodations and dining options, and the waves perform consistently throughout the year. Sipacate is one of the best surfing beaches in Guatemala, no matter what your skill level. If you need a break from the surf breaks, the canals behind the beach are great for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and birdwatching. Playa Blanca’s newest attraction opened its doors… and it’s a much welcomed addition to the Rubicon Shop & Fun centre in the stunning Marina Rubicon If you have visited the Rubicon Shop & Fun centre in the past you will have seen the old & abandoned looking minigolf course just outside of the centre as its new owners have completely transformed and updated the course with jungle motifs We visited the new course last week and we were blown away at its transformation This new addition to the Marina Rubicon is a much welcomed one as families staying in nearby rental villas or hotels can now enjoy a round of minigolf at the Rubicon Shop & Fun centre The course is open 7 days a week from 10am until 8:30pm… with tickets costing 9 euros for adults and 7.50 for children Be sure to follow them on Facebook for up-to-date information: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570525179331 Two men were rescued last Saturday after suffering injuries at the rocky area near the lighthouse in Playa Blanca Upon arrival fire fighters found the two men Both men were initially taken to the health centre in Playa Blanca both of them had suffered a moderate head injury and had to be taken for further treatment at the Dr Jose Molina Orosa hospital in Arrecife The Iberostar hotel group have announced plans to remodel the Selection Lanzarote Park hotel in Playa Blanca and are applying for permits this year The plans were confirmed by Iberostar’s commercial director The Iberostar group owns 32 hotels in Spain In addition to its plans to refurbish its Playa Blanca hotel Ackermann confirmed that they would also be refurbishing its hotel in Fuerteventura When asked about reinvesting in its existing hotels Ackermann stated “the Iberostar Selection Fuerteventura Palace we are going to close this summer for three or four months to refurbish; for the Lanzarote Park at the end of the year we are also going to request a refurbishment.” Guardia Civil arrested a man at the end of last month for breaking and entering a property in Playa Blanca The property owner had reported the perpetrator on March 31st and finding the perpetrator inside the property According to Article 202 of Spain’s Penal Code breaking and entering entails a prison sentence of six months to two years If it is carried out with violence or intimidation the penalty would amount to one to four years and a fine Playa Blanca will have a 10-metre rock-climbing wall by next summer after the Cabildo announced funding of €195,000 for the project The wall will be located in the Parque Atlántico and will feature ascents of varying difficulties Offers will be accepted for the contract this month with the award expected at the start of next year.  Works are expected to be completed in spring or summer.  Playa Blanca has been rated the second-best resort in the Canary Islands by Which An article in the November edition of Which Travel magazine titled “Rated by you – The Canary Islands’ best and worst resorts” has placed Playa Blanca as the second-best resort in the Canaries The ratings come after a survey conducted by Which and features star ratings in categories for each resort listed the Las Palmas Provincial Court has reversed a previous decision to evict almost 100 people from unfinished homes on Calle Cyca in Playa Blanca The ruling came after the court found issues with the initial order in January that pushed these families out on to the street The evicted residents challenged an October 2023 court decision that set their eviction for the end of that month the eviction was enforced in January after several attempts leaving some families without homes and others relying on friends for shelter had become a haven for families caught in the island’s housing crisis The court found fault with the eviction order noting it didn't specifically identify who was being evicted despite clear evidence of long-term occupancy The court argued that eviction decisions should be backed by solid evidence and not just serve as a shortcut to a final judgment It described the eviction as "disproportionate and premature lacking necessary legal backing” the court revealed that the property owner had purchased the plot in late 2022 These families had already been living there even making improvements like installing doors The court suggested that the owner used criminal proceedings instead of civil ones to reclaim the property They emphasized that such actions should not misuse criminal law for civil eviction purposes the court pointed out that maintaining safety in the unfinished complex is the owner's responsibility The eviction was justified by citing safety concerns but the court found this to be contradictory A poignant sign from the evictees on the day of eviction read "Leaving us homeless also violates the family," highlighting the emotional toll of the legal proceedings Archaeological excavations at the San Marcial de Rubicón site have uncovered three more skeletons and a lime kiln – the first to be dug up on Lanzarote near Playa de las Mujeres beach in Papagayo is hugely important as it is the first European settlement on the Canary Islands overseen by professors María del Cristo González and Esther Chávez has already revealed a dozen skeletons which are being subjected to analysis in Canarian universities González describes the lime kiln as the “most spectacular” of recent finds as it is the first to feature in an archaeological dig on Lanzarote about three metres in diameter and contains its final load of lime and stone.  Walls that have already been excavated on the site contain lime so it could be that the oven was used in the construction of the settlement TravelPulse Quebec visited three very new resorts in the Cancun/Tulum area for the group that won "best all-inclusive hotel group" at the Readers Choice Awards 2024: the Secrets Tulum was inaugurated last February and was still under construction during our visit It is an oasis of calm and tranquility in a luxurious and enveloping setting Here's a look at Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres the hotel is located about 45 minutes from the Cancun airport in the less developed Costa Mujeres region The advantages are that it is extremely quiet and the hotels are much less numerous than in other areas the algae is much less present there since the island of Isla Mujeres just opposite the coast acts as a barrier for marine algae which has been a problem in Cancun for too long We were surprised to find that the beach was beautiful the sand was white as the name Playa Blanca suggests the neighboring hotels almost absent and the seaweed too Very pleasant for a region known for quite the opposite As soon as we arrive at Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres we recognize the impressive bird's nest-shaped lobby characteristic of Secrets hotels - we saw it at Secrets Moxchés and Impression Isla Mujeres among others - which overlooks the complex there are three oversized swimming pools (a "jungle" the main swimming pool where the entertainment is located and the Privilege Club swimming pool) where there is plenty of room for everyone in addition to numerous palapas and chairs along the section of the beach dedicated to the hotel The rooms (507 in total) are also like the other recent Secrets complexes luxurious and offering everything you want on vacation: a bathtub in the bathroom a balcony with outdoor bathtub and furniture and a most comfortable bed with lounge area in a decor in neutral tones where wood and raw materials dominate for a very chic look The unparalleled service of Secrets is of course included and it is in fact the central point of the stay: the staff is exceptional and the inclusions include several other most luxurious touches: dedicated butler Rendezvous day time photo cred: Catherine Maisonneuve Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres offers seven restaurants where you can show up without reservation according to your desires (high class): Japanese seafood and a restaurant by the sea plus three bars including the super Rendezvous which was the place to be every night for a festive atmosphere We really liked the coffee and ice cream counter open 24 hours perfect for all our cravings from morning to evening and the seaside restaurant serves breakfast exclusively to customers in the Preferred Club section who also have access to the lounge at all times View from room 2406 photo cred: Catherine Maisonneuve the hotel offers a decor of local and authentic inspiration The Market Café (buffet) features a mosaic of 646 tiles created by Mexican artist Carla Guajardo and numerous works of art can be found throughout the hotel all furniture at the resort uses materials sourced from Yucatan artisans note that Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres is the first Secrets Resort to offer a dedicated mezcal cellar The winery offers guests the opportunity to discover and taste Mezcal the quality of its food - we ate very well everywhere - and its magnificent beach The gym is still under construction and should open in the coming weeks as well as the spa but in-room massages (excellent and very professional) are offered in the meantime and yoga is offered every day on the beach to keep in shape Catherine Maisonneuve est une journaliste indépendante spécialisée en voyage et art de vivre Playa Blanca will once again host the Handbike International Lanzarote race this March with two races of different distances to take place on the 7th and 8th The latest edition of the Handbike International Lanzarote returns to Playa Blanca next month for the first time ever the event is valid for the Spanish Paracycling Road Cup (allowing for the addition of tandem bikes and adapted tricycles) – which means the sunny southern resort will see the arrival of the Spanish Paralympic team the time trial between Salinas de Janubio and Playa Blanca the 2-kilometre circuit throughout the main streets of Playa Blanca town will take place where handbikers will reach peak speeds along the Avenida Papagayo stated “Our municipality of Yaiza is committed to adapted sport and inclusion and we are convinced that we all must make more efforts to integrate people without discrimination of any kind The promotion of equal opportunities is a priority objective of Yaiza.” added that “in Playa Blanca we have an extraordinary elite athlete as a neighbour Paralympic medallist in Paris 2024 representing Belgium Jonas is one of the great figures of the Handbike International Lanzarote.” Registration opens on Wednesday 5th February and closes on 5th March on the website www.summitsportsevents.com Yaiza Mayor Óscar Noda has claimed that cruise ships will be operating in Playa Blanca by this year or next Noda made the claim after a meeting with Canarian Mobility Minsiter Pablo Rodríguez saying “The councillor assures us that Promotur Turismo Canarias is already in charge of channelling the marketing strategy of our port for cruise tourism.” “the commitment that the minister conveys to us is that cruise ships will arrive in Playa Blanca This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks The action you just performed triggered the security solution There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page A report commissioned by the Yaiza Town Council has outlined the process for the partial demolition of the Son Bou Hotel in Playa Blanca The complex has been operating with twice the permitted number of guests and an excess of 6,000 square metres of built-up area beyond what was legally authorised the Son Bou Hotel in Playa Blanca appears to be just another tourist complex mirroring the typical holiday scene seen in surrounding buildings It lacks any identifying signage and has no reception Access is only possible via a ramp leading to a communal area or through an underground passage connecting it to the luxury hotel Princesa Yaiza and both have continued operating despite being classified as illegal The Son Bou hotel was originally granted planning permission in 1998 by former mayor Juan Francisco Reyes who is now serving a prison sentence for corruption Reyes pushed through over 1,500 tourist accommodation permits as part of a scheme to enrich himself while in office Court rulings from the Yate case determined that many of these licences were granted irregularly Reyes’ governance saw the rise of ‘developer-led urbanism’ where he demanded money from businesses with real estate interests in Yaiza under the pretext of expediting planning approvals he ignored essential legal requirements such as tourism permits and legal assessments Many of Yaiza’s current tourist complexes are legacies of this period Attempts at Legalisation and the Road to Demolition owner Juan Francisco Rosa has sought to legalise Son Bou His most recent attempt involved proposing an expansion of the neighbouring Princesa Yaiza hotel to integrate the Son Bou apartments the Yaiza Town Council commissioned a technical report to establish the necessary measures for the partial demolition of Son Bou to bring it in line with municipal urban planning regulations prepared by architect Maximiliano Valero Padilla found that the architectural plans submitted by the hotel’s owners did not correspond to the actual structure consists of three above-ground storeys and two underground levels The report confirmed that the Lanzarote Cabildo has revoked the original operating licence for the aparthotel the structure exceeds the permitted limits of the Yaiza General Planning Scheme The Son Bou hotel currently accommodates 220 guests double the 111 allowed under municipal regulations the total constructed area exceeds the legal limit by more than 6,000 square metres covering 9,427 square metres instead of the authorised 3,333 Demolition Proposal and Implementation Plan the technical report sets out how the partial demolition should be carried out to bring Son Bou in line with urban planning laws It also includes a series of renovation works for the parts of the building that will remain intact According to legal documents presented by the town council’s defence team the responsibility for preparing the demolition project lies with the hotel’s ownership which must comply with the findings of the technical report the property must ensure the physical execution of the demolition without further delays by hiring a construction firm with adequate resources A legal submission made to the Administrative Litigation Division of the Canary Islands High Court of Justice (TSJC) on 18th November 2024 granted the hotel 30 working days to accept the demolition proposal and six months to present a partial demolition plan the property will have 18 months to complete the works the Yaiza Town Council will take immediate action and carry out the demolition itself recovering the associated costs from the hotel’s ownership Demolition Scope and Structural Modifications The proposal does not require alterations to the second basement level but outlines significant changes to other floors the common area available to guests must be reduced to an 83-square-metre lounge To ensure that the basement level is not classified as a ground floor lowering the solarium area around the swimming pool the gym and changing rooms must be converted into internal service rooms The tunnel connecting Son Bou with the Princesa Yaiza Hotel will remain intact The most substantial changes begin on the ground floor where 76% of the vertical perimeter walls must be demolished to create an open-plan space All internal divisions and external fittings must also be removed The reception office and a service room will be transformed into guest communal areas and the entrance pergola will be dismantled a partial demolition of the vertical façade is required to comply with municipal regulations This floor must be transformed into an open-plan area The second floor will undergo the most extensive demolition with the complete removal of the building’s roof and flooring and sanitary facilities must be eliminated walkable rooftop fitted with the existing photovoltaic system the layout of the remaining apartments must be reconfigured to ensure that the hotel complies with the legal capacity of 111 guests The demolition of Son Bou marks a significant step in rectifying illegal developments in Lanzarote’s tourist sector the Yaiza Town Council aims to ensure compliance and restore adherence to urban planning laws in the region Playa Blanca residents were surprised by a small hailstorm yesterday The hail was observed falling from a small cloud at around 3pm and the rest of the island experienced sunny The mini heatwave is expected to continue on Lanzarote today and into the weekend.  Winds from the west south and south-east are predicted over the next seven days The Guardia Civíl arrested a 36-year-old man who is charged with committing various robberies from hotels and complexes in Playa Blanca The thefts took place in four separate locations and items worth an estimated €25,000 were stolen The Guardia Civíl launched “Operation Virgina” by increasing surveillance in hotels after the first thefts which involved the perpetrator climbing walls breaking windows or entering rooms that had been left open the thief dropped a bag of stolen items after being surprised by a resident while burgling an apartment on a complex This permitted agents to establish that he was the same thief operating in hotels as well as recognise and identify him on various security cameras A search of the suspects home on 25th October revealed clothing worn during the robberies and several pieces of stolen property which are being returned to their owners where possible The Barcelo Playa Blanca Hotel has requested permission from the Insular Water Council of Lanzarote to install a desalination plant for its own use the latest accommodation establishment built on the island of Lanzarote requires an average of 500 cubic metres of water a day to service its 1,500 guests this water is supplied by Canal Gestión so the Insular Water Council will assess whether the proposal meets the technical and environmental requirements outlined in the recently approved Lanzarote Hydrological Plan This plan allows private entities to build desalination plants for self-consumption provided they do not sell water to third parties The tourism sector has expressed significant concern over Lanzarote's ongoing water crisis which has persisted for several years but has worsened this year leading to extreme water shortages on the island is set to present a proposal to declare a water emergency to the parliament and the Insular Water Council in the next few days This declaration would enable swift execution of the so-called "Salvation Plan," which includes an initial investment of 90 million euros over the next two to three years to renovate the most outdated and leaky water distribution networks and includes constructing a new modern desalination plant with a capacity of 20,000 cubic metres which will address the island's current daily water deficit that leads to frequent water cuts there are approximately 50 small desalination plants owned by tourist complexes on the island producing around 15,000 cubic metres of water daily The hotel's initiative reflects a broader concern within the tourism industry about water scarcity and infrastructure challenges By wanting to establish its own desalination facility the hotel aims to ensure a reliable water supply for its guests while reducing pressure on the island's public resources Firefighters extinguished a fire that affected two vehicles in Playa Blanca on Sunday morning The incident occurred at around 4 am on Calle Playa de la Cruz and when emergency services arrived the cars were fully ablaze Firefighters extinguished the fire with a combination of water and foam.  Witnesses have claimed that the cars caught fire simultaneously with a gap between them raising suspicions that the fire may have been deliberate A car fell from a two-metre drop and caught fire last night at Playa Blanca The incident occurred after midnight near Playa Blanca’s Punto Limpio (Recycling Centre) The fire was extinguished with foam and water Playa Blanca is likely to have an Aldi supermarket Mayor Óscar Noda said “Aldi has told us that they’d like to open before the end of the year but the more realistic forecast is for January it’s good news for market competition in Playa Blanca.” The supermarket will have 1,200 square metres of sales space Noda also confirmed that Lidl would open its Playa Blanca store in the industrial zone in November This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.