One of the highlights of our 2021 year was going to Mexico! In August, Ryan and I flew out for our first couple getaway in a long, looooong time. His parents graciously kept our two little ones, and we headed to The Beloved Hotel in Playa Mujeres. We first heard about this place from two friends who said it was a relaxing, couples-only boutique style resort, and we were sold on it when we found out it was a part of The Excellence Collection.
Upon arrival, we were welcomed by the nicest staff and the lobby was decorated in neutral perfection. It was a lot quieter than some resorts we’ve been to, but that is exactly what we wanted in this trip. We desired peace, quiet, and a time to reconnect with each other. We have found the hard way that we have to be intentional in time for just us – especially during the toddler season.
Two of our daily favorite spots included the Caffeto that loaded us up with the caffeine we needed and this Taco Truck. I think Ryan ate lunch here every day because the tacos were so good. I’m not sure if it was lower capacity due to COVID or if it’s the nature of this place to be more relaxed due to it being couples-driven, but everywhere we went was low-key, no reservations needed, and chill. We were able to have deep talks, read, or layout with minimal noise.
One of the books I read was Midnight Library, and it was so timely. I tried to read it a few months prior but couldn’t get into it; however, it was highly recommended by someone right before we left on this trip, so I tried it again and WOW. Loved it.
The Beloved also has a spa, gym, live shows, activities, 24-hour room service…the list goes on!
What we didn’t know when we booked, is that a Category 1 hurricane was headed our way! I was so scared, but Ryan wasn’t at all – and neither was the staff. They said they had been through worse storms and that Hurricane Grace was nothing to worry about. See below for the calm before the storm and us hanging on the beach after it.
I’ve learned the art to packing for a beach trip is that you don’t need many clothes (you’re in a swimsuit the majority of the time!), but somehow that didn’t translate when I packed hats…I mean, I wore every single one of them, but still…was it necessary? Ok, yes. Yes, it was. I may have even had another one not pictured…
I always think it’s fun to dress up for dinner at resorts! It’s like having a date every night, even if you just fake it with a quick body rinse and dry shampoo your sweaty hair. Our favorite restaurant was Le Bisou, the French eatery! We also loved the sushi in the courtyard while we people-watched.
For the most part, we loved our room – it was the only room available when we booked! It was super spacious and the shower was amazing (this is a big deal!). However, something we realized with how we’re wired is that we love seeing the ocean from our balcony. Due to the boutique-style layout of the resort, you can’t see the ocean from your room unless you specifically choose an ocean view room. This may not matter to some people, but Ryan and I love to sit out on the balcony, drink coffee and read our Bibles in the morning, and be able to see the water. The view was still gorgeous though! Just something to keep in mind if you ever visit, it’s worth the extra money if you want to see the ocean from your room.
During one afternoon stroll on the beach, we went next door to The Excellence Playa Mujeres to check it out. We almost booked that resort and wanted to see if we made the right decision! While, some of the amenities would have been nice to have at The Beloved (a lazy river, hammocks over the water, more restaurant choices), The Excellence was a lot louder and more crowded. That can be fun on certain trips, but we were very pleased that we went with a more serene, chill resort this time.
It feels kinda anti-climactic to not be able to list all of the fun things we did, but it wasn’t that kind of experience. It was a very intentional relaxation trip since we had been going-going-going, and we needed to stop and connect, sans kids. I think building these times into the rhythm of life is so important and crucial. In fact, one of the books on mine and Ryan’s “to read” list is The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry.
If you’re looking for a relaxing, slower-paced resort, this is definitely one to look into. One of my all-time favorites is Pueblo Bonito, too! It’s in Cabo, and is also smaller, adults-only, and inclusive.
Until next time…ADIOS!
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