Travel

Photos: A look inside a reimagined all-inclusive resort in Cancun

The first Marriott-branded all-inclusive resort offers outstanding hospitality and exquisite food options in a beloved sun destination

  • Published Apr 01, 2024
  • Updated Apr 02
  • 242 words
  • 1 minutes

“May I take your bag?” asks a friendly concierge as he helps me with my luggage. I gratefully pass over my belongings just in time to be greeted by another staff member holding a tray of refreshing drinks and cool towels. “Welcome to Marriott Cancun,” they say as I pick up a glass of freshly squeezed fruit juice and feel instant bliss. 

I’ve been at the newly-renovated Marriott Cancun for just a few minutes, but already, the popular resort hotel’s recent transformation is palpable: with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the ocean and polished marble floors, the elegant lobby exudes luxury. The upscale vibe is carried throughout the property’s amenities, which include no fewer than nine restaurants, a full-service spa, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, a sunbathing terrace, two pools, a waterpark, and, of course, a pristine stretch of white sand with the most vivid ocean colours. The biggest change, apart from the visible updates, is the experience: the resort is now all-inclusive — the first in the world to carry the Marriott name. 

Over the course of five days, I had the chance to fully embrace the resort life, from daily dips in the adults-only infinity pool to cooking classes at the onsite Mexican and Japanese restaurants to an elaborate breakfast in my oceanview room. Here’s a look at some of my favourite moments and spaces.

The main lobby at Marriott Cancun, an all-Inclusive Resort.
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A dramatic sunrise on the beach below the Marriott Cancun.
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The resort’s luxurious Presidential Suite boasts a spacious floor plan complete with a large living and dining area (pictured here), fully equipped kitchen and a private whirlpool with ocean views.
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Sunrise at the Marriott Cancun infinity pool.
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Activities are offered throughout the day at the resort, including aquafit classes, badminton, kickboxing, and more. After working up a sweat, the pool is always a great place to soak up the sun.
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The fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down; guests can choose from a range of restaurants offering global cuisine and explore spaces offering live entertainment from dusk until late. Here, the Casa Madre restaurant beckons with its illuminated archways.
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Traditional Mexican dancers and musicians entertain guests at Casa Madre, which offers authentic Mexican cuisine.
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Cap off a memorable meal with a bespoke cocktail at The Greatroom bar, situated in the main lobby.
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Worked up an appetite swimming? The pop-up poolside taco stand has exactly what you need.
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At Ono Teppanyaki, the onsite Japanese restaurant, enjoy dinner and a show as the chefs dazzle you with their knife skills and occasionally make your food fly through the air with the greatest of ease.
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Dinner at Ono includes an option (for an additional fee) to learn how to prepare your own sushi.
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No alarm clock is needed here; after waking up with the sun, simply pick up the phone and order breakfast to your room: think fresh fruits, grapefruit juice, mimosas, eggs Benedict, complimentary jars of honey, and, of course, fresh coffee.
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