Riviera Maya with kids
By Judy Koutsky
Kids’ splash pool at Grand Palladium Kantenah Resort & Spa (Courtesy Grand Palladium Kantenah Resort & Spa)
Nestled in the Riviera Maya, home to Mayan ruins and stunning topography, the Grand Palladium Kantenah Resort & Spa is an all-inclusive Caribbean property that spreads over the northeast coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. The beaches here are one of the biggest draws. Think clear turquoise warm water perfect for swimming with kids of all ages. The beaches are clean and chock-full of beautiful seashells, ideal for those youngsters who love to collect and admire nature’s fine creations.
(MORE: Best Things to Do in the Riviera Maya with Kids)
Activities Galore
The resort has plenty to keep you busy. (Courtesy Grand Palladium Kantenah Resort & Spa)
If your family is always on the lookout for things to do, this resort is for you. Not only are the beaches clean and inviting (you could spend all day just hanging out on the sand), but the resort has plenty to keep you busy including: aqua aerobics, badminton, paddle tennis, pedal boats, catamarans, kayaking, snorkeling, windsurfing, and stand-up paddle boards. Kids and adults will never have time to be bored—there’s too much to do.
And while there’s plenty of activities during the day, there’s also equal number of things to do at night. When staying at an all-inclusive resort, evening shows are generally standard fare, but the bar is raised at this resort. They take pride in their entertainment—and entertainers—and it shows. From high-flying Cirque du Soleil-esque moves, to beautifully choreographed dances, to the professional sound of the singers, to the brightly colored customs—these shows are quite the performances. It shows in the fact that each night is packed (get there early for a good spot). Kids and adults alike will enjoy the spectacular.
A Little Pampering
Zentropia Palladium Spa (Courtesy Grand Palladium Kantenah Resort & Spa)
Another highlight of the resort is the spa. The Zentropia Palladium Spa & Wellness. is set in a location that resembles a Mayan temple. And you’ll feel the soothing environment the moment you walk in. The spa has a beautiful aquatic area—including hot and cold plunge pools, a lazy river, a heated pool with pressure jets, a hydro massage pool, a foot bath, waterfall showers, a sauna, a steam and a massive swimming pool. There’s also a private Turkish bath and an extensive fitness center (including lots of machines and plenty of weights). Of course the star of the show is the treatments. From facials, to scrubs, to rubs—there’s enough on the menu to satisfy the most discerning spa-goer.
(MORE: Say Si to These All-Inclusives on the Riviera Maya)
Exploring Mexico
What makes this property such a great draw for those who want to explore outside the resort, is the fact that the location is ideal for day excursions. Nearby is Tulum, a history-rich town chock-full of culture. Then there’s the world-famous Chichen Itza—home to the famous Mayan ruins. In Rio Secreto, you’ll find a mystical experience in a protected natural reserve.
For more information about the other Palladium resorts, read the review on the Grand Palladium Colonial Resort & Spa and Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort & Spa.
Judy Koutsky contributed this to MiniTime.