SUNSHINE, HISTORY & FAMILY TIME IN RIVIERA MAYA, MEXICO
As a Travel Counsellor, I’m always helping others plan their dream holidays, but this one was for us. It gave us everything we needed: laughter, connection, and a proper break away together.
We chose Dreams Sapphire because it felt like the right fit, only 15 minutes from the airport, relaxed and stylish, with lovely food, great service, and plenty of space to unwind. With two teens, we wanted something that worked for everyone, not too kiddie, not too quiet. Whether we were by the pool, grabbing a bite at one of the restaurants, or just soaking up the sun on a poolside lounger, it felt like a proper escape.
But it wasn’t just about the resort, we got out and about too, and made some memories we’ll be talking about for years. Chichén Itzá was breathtaking: one of those places that makes you feel small in the best way. We stood in front of the pyramid in total awe, learning about the ancient Mayan culture, and imagining what life was like back then.
We stopped at a nearby cenote for a dip: cool, fresh, and absolutely stunning. There’s something so peaceful about swimming underground in those clear, blue waters.
A wander around Valladolid gave us a proper taste of local life :cobbled streets, colourful buildings, and a real charm to the place.
We also spent some time in Playa del Carmen, which has a brilliant buzz about it : loads of shops, cafés, and a proper holiday vibe. It was lovely to stroll along Quinta Avenida, stop for a cold drink, and soak up the atmosphere. It’s lively without being hectic, and a nice contrast to some of the quieter spots we visited.
Our day in Tulum came with a little extra adventure, we travelled there on the brand-new Tren Maya, which was a brilliant way to see more of the Yucatán Peninsula. It’s a really comfortable and scenic option if you fancy getting off the beaten path a bit. We’d hoped to explore the beach and ruins, but with a tropical storm rolling in, we embraced a slower pace, staying in the town centre, ducking into lovely little cafés, trying a few gorgeous restaurants, and browsing some local shops. It ended up being one of those unexpectedly great days, and a lovely reminder that travel isn’t always about ticking off sights, it’s about being present, going with the flow, and enjoying each other’s company.
Puerto Morelos was just a 10-minute taxi ride from the resort, ideal for a little change of scene without much effort. It’s a laid-back fishing town with real charm, perfect for a wander and a seafood lunch with your feet in the sand. We loved the easy pace and the more local feel, it’s a little gem tucked away from the busier spots.
We had a great day out on Isla Mujeres: we took the public ferry from Puerto Juárez, which was really easy and a great way to see the coastline from the water. Once we arrived, we hopped into a golf buggy and spent the day exploring at our own pace, stopping for swims, snacks, and plenty of photo ops. The island has such a laid-back charm to it, and it was one of those days where everything just felt easy and full of fun.
We weren’t quite sure what to expect from Jungala Aqua Experience, but it turned out to be one of the highlights of the trip. It’s a beautiful water park that strikes the perfect balance between fun and relaxation, with plenty of thrilling slides and lazy rivers to keep everyone entertained, from the teens to us grown-ups.
What really made it special was the luxury cabanas, where we could unwind in comfort between adventures, and the excellent food and drinks served poolside. It felt like a mini retreat within the resort, where we could laugh, splash around, and just be together without any rush. Perfect for a family looking for a bit of excitement alongside some well-earned downtime.
Travelling with older teens is a whole new kind of lovely, there’s time for proper chats, shared laughs, and those little moments that mean everything. No pressure to be anywhere fast. Just a chance to be together.
This trip reminded me why I do what I do. It’s not just about the sunshine or the flights, it’s about those special family moments you’ll carry with you. The right destination, the right accommodation, the right pace. That’s what I love to create for my clients, something that fits you perfectly.
If you’re thinking about a getaway, whether it’s for your family, a special occasion, or just a well-earned break, I’d be delighted to help. Think of me as your friendly travel expert, here to take the stress out of it all and make sure it’s just right.
Ready to start planning?
Drop me a message, I’d love to hear what kind of trip you’re dreaming of.
