Feel like a star at these south-of-the-border celebrity favorites.
By: Jimmy Im
Photo courtesy of Rosewood Mayakoba
If there’s one thing we’ve learned from celebrities — apart from the benefits of a glam squad — it’s that Mexico is a preferred hot spot for quintessential romantic escapes. In fact, since the days of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, A-listers have regularly ventured south of the border for some serious downtime, holing up at unforgettable five-star resorts while paparazzi and tabloids offer voyeuristic glimpses of their enviable lifestyles. Thankfully, you don’t have to be a reality TV personality or pop star to luxuriate in Mexico’s ultra-posh digs. Live (and honeymoon!) like a jet-setting celebrity at one of these glam hideaways and enjoy a vacation that’s red carpet from start to finish.
Riviera Maya: Rosewood Mayakoba
Emmy-winning actress Sofia Vergara is known to harness her inner beach diva at five-star resorts, though she especially loved her stay at Rosewood Mayakoba, where she celebrated her 40th birthday. The luxury resort — located in the ecofriendly resort development Mayakoba — has a prolific celebrity following, and with good reason. All 128 swanky suites are ultra-private and located either on the beach or mangrove lagoons; many are over water. Local Yucatan limestone and sustainable woods are used in the resort’s commanding design aesthetics to blend with the beautiful natural environment. There are three pools, a beautiful Sense spa on its own island offering Mayan-influenced treatments and gourmet bites at Agave Azul Sushi Bar & Tequila Library — the shitake glazed and miso butter Kobe beef are menu favorites. But it’s rare for guests to actually peel away from their gorgeous suites, since many are equipped with private pools and pretty views (room rates start at $515 a night; rosewoodhotels.com).
Photo courtesy of Rosewood Mayakoba
Los Cabos: Esperanza
Sure, celebrities flock to Los Cabos for quiet getaways, but A-list honeymooners have been known to beeline to Esperanza, an Auberge Resort. This coastal gem served as the romantic sanctuary for Katherine Heigl and musician Josh Kelley, not to mention other notable couples (Beyoncé and Jay Z, Fergie and Josh Duhamel and LeAnne Rimes and Eddie Cibrian). The 57-room resort located on bluffs overlooking two private coves near Cabo San Lucas boasts five-star amenities, impeccable service and gourmet meals. All guests receive personal concierges (who whip up fresh guacamole and margaritas upon arrival). And rooms all tout outdoor Jacuzzis (room rates start at $695 a night; esperanza.aubergeresorts.com).
Photo courtesy of Esperanza, an Auberge Resort
Next: Check out where to stay in Costalegre, Playa del Carmen and more ►
