Travel: Rest, recuperation and some raccoons in Mexico

Making friends on holiday is important, particularly if you’re flying solo.

It was a scorching hot day in Mexico and, just as I contemplated slinking over to the La Escondida swim-up bar, I spied a potential new pal.

After a bit of rustling in the bushes, out popped the head of an inquisitive grey coati – a member of the raccoon family.

Seconds later, he was joined by half a dozen members of his band for a sniff around, before scurrying back into the jungle.

I was at Unico 20°87° resort on the Riviera Maya, a stunning stretch of coastline on the north-eastern Yucatán Peninsula.

And, although it is a perfect destination for couples, I found this all-inclusive haven ideal for meeting new people – as well as the odd wild animal. My base for three days was a pristine Ocean View Room, complete with a jet bathtub on the balcony, and fully stocked mini bar.

Robes, slippers, sun hats and other luxuries were also provided, while complimentary 24-hour room service is available.

I experienced three amazing dining experiences during my stay. On the first night, I headed to Mexican restaurant Cueva Siete to munch on crunchy corn tortillas with guacamole and salsa, followed by beef steak with ashes and Cotija cheese Sauce.

Then, at the Mediterranean-inspired Mi Carisa, I was served charcoal provolone in fig jam, followed by creamy spaghetti carbonara. And, finally, at the hotel’s signature steak house, 20.87 Restaurant, I opted for a mouth-watering rib eye marinated in chimichurri sauce.

© David Massey

Across the wooden bridge from Unico, is a narrow beach, dotted with protected turtle nests, which is perfect for a stroll or swim in the warm Gulf of Mexico waters.

Most guests hang out by the pools, whether they prefer listening to music at the 20°87° Pool, socialising at La Unica Pool, or bar-top games at La Escondida.

Down the corridor from the main lobby, you can indulge in a wine-tasting session at La Botella or a chocolate-sampling session at Soól. Meanwhile, over at the resort’s spa, I took part in the revitalising aqua therapy journey before booking in for relaxing men’s facial.

At night, there is a variety of entertainment, and on my final evening I headed to Palmera Lounge for the silent disco and a few Mayan Mule cocktails with a few pals.

After saying “adios” to Unico, I was driven 10 minutes up Highway 307 for a hotel experience of a different kind.

The Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya resort is split in two – the family-themed Hacienda, and the adults-only Heaven. I made a beeline for Heaven’s Central Pool which features live bands, DJs and dancers on the 20ft-high stage.

© David Massey

During the week, I got to know a group of other holidaymakers and we met up for drinks at the Heaven Bar, which turns into nightclub and pool party. The next day, I embarked on another hydrotherapy tour – sauna, steam room and hot and cold baths – at The Rock Spa.

The food and drink at Hard Rock’s nine restaurants were second to none, particularly at Zen, where teppanyaki chef Roger threw knives into the air, flames on the grill and rice into our mouths.

Then there was the Awaken Your Senses dining experience, the French-inspired Le Petit Cochon, and Toro Steak House – a great option for lovers of rib-eye, skirt and flank.

There are also plenty of excursions from Hard Rock, including a trip to the ancient Mayan town of Tulum and the Zipline Xpress circuit through the jungle. You can even join a Jam Band or try music mixing.

However, I opted for a round of golf at the resort’s course.The course is immaculate, and I had a great time with my golfing partners, Kevin and Tyler, while the wildlife, including spider monkeys, capybara and geckos – were also out to play.

After, I headed to the bar with my new (human) friends and toasted a fun round and magnificent holiday in Mexico.

P.S.

The white-sand beaches of Riviera Maya are made from crushed coral that is bountiful in the Yucatan Peninsula. Therefore, even in the searing Mexican heat, the sand remains cool to the touch, meaning no hot feet.

Factfile

TUI offers seven nights all-inclusive at Unico 20°87º from £2,258pp based on two adults sharing a Tropical Double Room with direct flights departing Glasgow on December 13, and transfers.

Or seven nights at the 5T Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya Heaven from £1,717 per person, with flights departing Glasgow on May 10, 2023, and transfers.

Visit tui.co.uk