In its 50+ years of existence, Cancun has evolved into the ultimate “destination event” destination. Global brands, including four- and five-star properties designed for events open regularly, while older properties that made waves decades ago (such as the Fiesta Americana Grande?) are reinventing their spas and food programs to stay in step with the times. With multi-generational vacations and conferences that blur into “bliesure” trips more popular than ever, the most reliable mainstays and new global luxury brands on the scene try to stay one step ahead of the competition.
AVA Resort Cancun picked the right time to open up as a one-stop shopping destination in June 2024. The sprawling property, just minutes from Cancun International Airport, has the feel of a high-end cruise ship from the inside out. Gensler Architects gives it the feel of a modern ocean liner, complete with pools and patios to accommodate every kind of traveler, including business travelers going solo and those bringing their kids or extended families.
Over 90,000 square feet is dedicated to flexible, high-tech meeting space, making it a go-to destination for corporate events, incentive trips, meetings, and conferences. Standard amenities throughout the business/event spaces include high-speed Wi-Fi, modern AV equipment, onsite AV staff, and support for hybrid meetings. At 53,000+ square feet, the largest space includes a built-in stage and private green rooms, making it suitable for major conferences and exhibitions. However, it can be divided into 16 rooms. Collaboration and board rooms, meanwhile, are available for breakout sessions or executive meetings, while oceanfront terraces and beach lounges are available for receptions and networking sessions.
AVA Resort’s business services are designed to make meeting planning easier for those booking on behalf of their companies or clients. Dedicated in-house event planners are available to work with them to coordinate logistics and custom menus for special events. All participants enjoy the all-inclusive features of the resort, with pricing covering dining across 17 restaurants, cocktails, and entertainment.
The food and beverage program includes buffets that go on for days as well as French, Mediterranean, Pan-Asian, two AROMA bakery/coffee cafes, two indoor ice cream stands, and poolside dining. There is something for every palate, though the two steakhouses (including The Butcher) and the white tablecloth Mexican restaurant Copal are exceptional. Copal’s street taco booth in the North Building serves made-to-order tacos throughout most afternoons that can rival the offerings at popular food destination Mercado 28 in downtown Cancun. Indian fare (brought in once AVA quickly gained a buzz for its elaborate Indian weddings) on the buffets is another fun surprise. The beverage program, partially engineered by award-winning Mexican bartender Fatima Léon, guarantees a lovely bar experience with unique cocktails and zero-proof drinks.
“It’s important to present flavors that are traditional, but look for different ways to present them to tell a story,” says chef Ruben E. Razo about making Copal a place where refined presentation does not come at the expense of traditional flavor profiles or fresh local ingredients. “We make every recipe important, whether it is using a molé based on my grandma’s recipe or another variation or cooking proteins with the right techniques in telling a story or introducing a guest to a different way of enjoying what they think they know.”
While one rarely has to worry about snagging an available machine or spot in a class within the fitness area inside the 66,000-square-foot wellness complex, the spa is at once spacious yet intimate. The receptionists and practitioners explain that the ambiance is “Organic Minimalism” with artfully placed stones as well as furnishings and light fixtures with curved shapes, making for an ambiance that is bold yet comforting. A hydrotherapy circuit, 55 treatment cabins, sauna, steam room, and pre-or post-treatment relaxation lounges ensure there is enough space and opportunity to decompress and recharge from a conference, meeting, or family gathering.
Other thoughtful spa features include heated ergonomic loungers, chlorophyll-infused water, and healthy snacks. The spa services menu, meanwhile, has an impressive selection of men’s and couples’ facials and massages that, like the other services, integrate Mexican and international modalities and products.
All private rooms and suites, though far bigger than the average cabin, have oceanfront views and are outfitted in a crisp color palette of soft greens, blues, and beiges that create the feel of a shipboard experience while being on terra firma. They are also equipped with a work desk, two chairs, and USB multiport charging stations. Although guests can easily get in their daily steps going from the far reaches of the North Building to the far reaches of the South Building, those attending conferences and weddings at AVA Cancun have the luxury of knowing they can find enclaves offering peace and quiet.
Those traveling with their families can breathe easy knowing their kids are in good hands and will never get bored. The kids’ and teen clubs and other family-focused areas, including an arcade and bowling venue, are stacked with activities. However, there are plenty of adults-only areas for guests to kick back.
Although a guest could stay on the property the whole time, the astute concierge and guest relations personnel recognize that many guests experience wanderlust while on the Yucatan Peninsula. Those with extra time can visit the guest services area near check-in, which can help book excursions to popular spots like Isla Mujeres, popular cenotes, and Uber rides to the best local (read “less touristy”) beaches and Cancun’s downtown and foodie hubs. As of this writing, the Parque de las Palapas is the real deal for solid street food, while popular public beach Playa Delfines–recognized as one of the most beautiful in the immediate area-is a fine place to relax, enjoy some grab-and-go picnic fare from the AROMA coffee bar, and enjoy.
