So you came for the destination, stayed for the food, and lived for the views — this is the Riviera Maya. Centered in the heart of the Yucatan Peninsula, miles of pristine beaches and lush mangroves are dotted with numerous resorts. Commonly known for all-inclusive experiences, where food and drinks are included, the options can be quite endless and confusing when it comes to making the best decision for your vacation.
Karisma Resorts has redefined the way we think of an all-inclusive through quality cuisine, service, and the loveliest of resorts. Their darling adult’s only El Dorado Casitas Royale is a charm of a resort between Puerto Morelos and Punta Maroma. After spending a week there, I can see why it’s one of the top rated hotels, has an AAA Four Diamond rating, and guests return every year.
As you approach the resort, you’re taken right through the heart of the jungle — lush leaves, overhanging palm trees, and then appears the hotel. As you wind out to the private check in of the casitas (separate from the El Dorado Royale, the sister resort), a glass of champagne is served and you know you’ve arrived to paradise. Brought to your room, the concierge knows what your needs will be and you can rest assured you’ll be well taken care of.
The suites at El Dorado Casitas Royale have a casual, authentic luxury atmosphere to it. Grand in space (almost bigger then my city apartment), the suite is inviting. An outdoor shower, indoor shower, and a jacuzzi tub gives you options to relax and refresh. The expansive closet allowed the unpacking process to be simple, finding room for all that was packed. The bed, well, couldn’t expect anything less than perfect.
Staying in a swim-up suite meant I could float in my pool, and with 24 hour room service, I never had to leave. Though there were plenty of reasons to go explore as well…
At El Dorado Casitas Royale, with their Gourmet Inclusive program, you know that when it comes to food and drinks, you’re in it for the quality. With an onsite greenhouse, most of their ingredients are grown right on property, meaning you’ll be eating the freshest of Yucatan food. In every bite, you can taste flavors that are second to none. With over eight restaurants on property, you can try local cuisine, indulge in Italian, eat classics, and more. In partnership with Jackson Family Wines, they’ve introduced a food and wine series each month for one week. Wine tastings, paired 6 course dinners, and more, gives you an opportunity to enhance your stay while at the resort. Having the chance to try a full week of the series, the wine experience was a great way to end each day.
If you followed along on Instagram, you saw there was no shortage of foliage. As you walked through the resort, there was care and attention in the slightest of details. The pristine beach had plenty of Bali day beds, chairs, and areas to call home for the sunbathing hours. With quite a few pools with swim-up bars, sometimes I felt like I was the only one there. It was a relaxing entry to the week. At night, the daily entertainment was sure to make it lively, often dancing a bit of salsa. During the day, there was plenty to do, like daily fitness classes and games at the main pools.
The area is rich in history, that can be found in Maya Ruins and Cenotes, so be sure to ask your concierge what the best day excursions are for you. My recommendation would be Chichen Itza and Ik Kil Cenote.
Overall the time at El Dorado Casitas Royale was a reminder that an all-inclusive can be about quality and not quantity. It was a reminder that it can peaceful, serene, and luxurious. And you can count me in as one of the returning guests…
Bon Traveler’s Tips For Staying at El Dorado Casitas Royale
+ Book a swim up pool suite
+ Take a spa treatment
+ Concierge or butler is your best friend
+ Check in advance for the wine series, as this is a popular time to go
What’s Included:
Food and beverage
24-hour room service
Daily activities
Adult’s only
Swim up bars, theme bars, & health bars
All-suite rooms
A la carte restaurants
& more!
Get in touch
El Dorado Casitas Royale
1.866.527.4762
*Bon Traveler was welcome as a guest of El Dorado Casitas Royale. As always, all opinions are own.
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Xx,Jessica
