This update was provided by Tammy Petersen of Luxury Marketing Partners International. Thanks Tammy, I’m sure many of our readers will be interested.

Explore Ancient Ruins, Indulge Your Ancestral Spirit, and Play Ball With Warriors Among the Cultural Experiences Offered Through Resort–Puerto Morelos, Riviera Maya, Mexico

Do as the Mayan Do and head south of the border, where award-winning Ceiba del Mar Beach & Spa Resort, a luxurious boutique property that occupies a half-mile of a private, white-sand beach at the edge of sleepy Puerto Morelos, indulges visitors with the finest in amenities, accommodations, and aesthetics, while providing them with an ideally positioned gateway into pre-Hispanic Mexico.

Mayan inspired in its character and appointments, intimate Ceiba del Mar is situated in the heart of the Riviera Maya, located on the sunny shores of the Yucatan Peninsula, which is known for its jewel-toned seas and lush tropics.  From this coveted address guests of the resort enjoy the ultimate proximity to the best of ancient Mesoamerican culture, in addition to first-rate hospitality, luxury accommodation, comprehensive amenities, and venues for indulgence that include the wellness aromatherapy Spa at Ceiba del Mar and two fine dining restaurants.  Combined these attributes rejuvenate and inspire guests to discover and experience the region’s cultural influences, which include:

Crossing the jungle: Zip-line high above tropical rainforest, where Maya societies built a great civilization that flourished for centuries. The resort’s Adventure Discovery Experienceoffers thrill-seekers a one-day zip-lining expedition and two relaxing massages with 10% off additional spa treatments (other adventures also available). Rates start at $733 per special, per couple for a 4-day/3-night reservation.

Discover a Maya city Tour archeological ruins of walled Maya cities that made up a mighty Mesoamerican power.  The resort’s Mayan Heritage Experience includes a full day of expeditions to the ruins of either Tulum or Chichen Itza, group transportation, snacks and beverages; entrance fees to archeological zones; bilingual guide service, and two Foot Reflexology Treatments with 10% off all additional spa treatments. Rates start at $685 per special, per couple for a 4-day/3-night reservation.

Go treasure hunting: The Maya used jade, feathers, and shells to make elaborate ceremonial adornments worn in rituals and warfare.  Catch a cab to neighboring Playa del Carmen, where small shops offer unique curios, such as decorative Mexican ceramics with Mesoamerican motifs, shell jewelry, and Mayan chocolate.

Hold court with warriors: Those who book an Xcaret Plus Experience through the resort will receive admission for two of the Xcaret cultural theme park; private round-trip transportation; one buffet meal with two lemonades; beverage/food coupons; snorkeling equipment and use of locker room facilities; 10% off both aquatic activities and entrance to “Xcaret Mexico Espectacular,” a show-stopper that includes a simulation of a ritual Maya Ball Game, which in ancient times was often played to the death. Rates start at $622 per special, per couple for a 4-day/3-night reservation.

Indulge indigenously: Inspired by ancient Mayan custom, the resort’s Temazcal Ceremony, a spa purification treatment, takes place at sunset inside terra-cotta sweat lodge on the beach.  Led by a spiritual healer, it begins with a seaside chant, an ancestral sounding of a conch shell, and an offering of flowers to the four corners of the earth; it concludes with the reading of hot volcanic stones and an infusion of steam-inducing aromatic herbs that help detoxify and purify the mind, body and spirit.  The Top‘Nikte Massage and Mayan Goddess Scrub are relaxing spa counterparts to this modern-day version of an ancient Maya cleansing rite.

All packages are subject to 14% taxes and a 5% service charge based on double occupancy and are not combinable with other special offers or incentive groups (meeting and weddings.

Guests of Ceiba del Mar receive a welcome champagne cocktail and personal escort to one of 88 spacious suites and deluxe rooms, seven of which are penthouses, each with a breathtaking ocean view and the following amenities:

  • A balcony or terrace and hammock;
  • Expansive sitting areas;
  • A full bathroom with a shower and separate bathtub;
  • Organic Bath products;
  • Local wood accents and handcrafted furnishings;
  • Complimentary wireless Internet;
  • Twice daily housekeeping service;
  • 300 thread-count Premium Cotton linens and pillow menu;
  • Complimentary in-room morning coffee daily;
  • Nightly turndown service with Mexican handcrafted gift;
  • International cable TV and DVD/CD player;
  • 24-hour room service; and
  • Personalized mini-bar service upon request at an extra cost.

For more information about Ceiba Del Mar Beach & Spa Resort, which was included onConde Nast Traveler’s 2009 and 2010 Gold List, earning perfect scores of “100” in “Best Rooms” and “Best Service” categories for Mexico, visit www.ceibadelmar.com, or call 1-877-545-6221.

Ceiba del Mar Beach & Spa Resort is an award-winning, oceanfront boutique resort in the Riviera Maya district of MexicoThe intimate resort is situated on half-mile of a private white-sand beach and offers 88 deluxe Ocean-View rooms and suites, seven of which are penthouses; two restaurants; a swimming pool; the wellness and aromatherapy Spa at Ceiba del Mar with a gym, and beautiful indoor/outdoor event spaces.

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Maralyn
Author: Maralyn

Maralyn Dennis Hill, The Epicurean Explorer, is president emeritus of International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association, member of Society of American Travel Writers, and Society of Professional Journalists. She is Executive Editor of Luxe Beat Magazine and contributes to other publications. She also speaks and is a guest on many shows. The majority of Maralyn’s articles are now geared to the luxury market, spas, corporate retreats, business events, and culinary tourism, from simple to gourmet. Maralyn’s description of herself: I was born to travel and tell the tale. I’m energized by different cultures in every aspect of their lives, from food, wine, and destination, to how they conduct business. Travel represents a continual geography lesson.