Mayan mythologies depict the Ceiba tree as a sacred world tree, with its roots paying homage to the deceased, the trunk representing life and the foliage symbolizing the heavens. The Ceiba del Mar Beach & Spa Resort in Puerto Morales is appropriately named as guests truly feel revitalized and infused with life during their stay, along with many glimpses of paradise within the resort.
The Ceiba del Mar is a bona-fide 5-star property the moment you pass through the doors, where two magnificent, ancient Ceiba trees grace the entrance outside. You feel welcomed right away as you sink into the comfortable reception-area seats and sip on champaign – as if you were visiting your beloved wealthy uncle’s secluded estate for the week. The property is tucked away and quiet, away from the hustle and busyness of nearby Playa del Carmen and Cancun, though those areas are easily accessible by a short cab ride if you are so inclined. The resort is a sandal’s throw away (10 minute walk) from the sleepy fisherman’s town of Puerto Morelos. A stroll through the town reveals many places to eat and drink with locals and pick up a few inexpensive souvenirs. Walking back to the resort in the moonlight, you feel completely safe in the area. There are no strangers on the beach trying to sell you cigars from a handmade box or pestering you to hop on an unmarked bus to go to the disco. The resort and the surrounding area have an excellent track record with the safety of their guests.
The food at the Ceiba Del Mar is often what one remembers as they return to their homes long after the trip is over. Chef Victor Solis has competed in national competitions, and is an up and coming chef focused on creating authentic Mexican cuisine along with Mexican-influenced fusion style creations. From the soulful Chile Pobalno cream soup with blue cheese and tequila to the decadent lobster with white chocolate, glazed pear and risotto, the scrumptuous meals are one of the things you will look forward to most each day. I came to the resort with every intent of moderation in my eating, but that quickly melted away after my first shrimp tempura taco.
Another standout of the resort is the spa, which does more than just pamper and sooth your tired body. Spa manager Gloria Guerrero is like a fairy godmother, equipped with a wand that checks your body’s energy and matches it with one of 60 essential signature blended oils. There are 15 signature treatments including the Balsamic Mayan massage, designed to bottle energy and restore vitality and the Grounding massage treatment, which helps to cleanse your aura, in addition to the massage. It may sound like some hocus pocus, but it is truly something you must experience for yourself. I personally left the treatment area with a renewed sense of energy and life.
It is the attention to detail that really separates this resort from other 5-star ones. Complimentary coffee and warm pastries are delivered to a small cubby-hole in your room every morning to ensure that you start each day right. Organic toiletries including insect repellent, aloe and bath salts transform your spacious bathroom into a mini personal spa. The wait staff’s warm reception and thoughtful recommendations help accentuate the dining experience. It is evident that general manager Eduardo Herrera and his staff play close attention to ensure that all the little things are done the right way, from the personalized pick up at the airport to the pillow menu to ensure a good night’s rest.
The resort is very moderately priced for such a luxurious property. To receive further discounts, use promo code STP01 to receive 2 nights free when you book for 7 nights total. Catch a glimpse of paradise at the Ceiba del Mar.