Dreamscapes Travel & Lifestyle

WINTER/SPRING 2022 DREAMSCAPES 37 DS REST, RELAXATION, AND REJUVENATION Banyan Tree Mayakoba is often revered as the gold stan- dard for responsible tourism, toting awards for their low-impact efforts. Recently renovated and expanded, the 50-million-dollar investment brings guests new villas, an expanded spa, and a beach club. For an afternoon of pam- pering, you can step into the oceanview massage rooms to enjoy natural therapies overlooking the water. The newest accommodations offer beachfront access with an interior patio for morning meditations, as well as a private heated pool for evening hydrotherapy sessions. MUST TRY For the ultimate immersive experience, enjoy a Balinese massage, followed by a yoghurt body splash and fresh milk nourisher, which promises to refresh skin. banyantree.com/ en/mexico/mayakoba G R E A T E S C A P E S A Wellness Retreat FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP For an introduction into the world of solar-powered wellness resorts, Mexico's coastline lies among the most favourable sunbelt spots on the planet—meaning year-round sunshine for rest and relaxation. This sunny trajectory is reflected in the next generation of low-impact, high-design wellness hotels that are sprouting up. No longer limited to the eco-hippy destinations of the world, trav- ellers can experience a state of Zen from even the most popular tourist destinations. In Riviera Maya, reconnect with the land through lush envi- ronments that are enhanced with jungle-framed yoga studios and luxury spas surrounded by nature. PARADISE PERFECTED For respite from the world, head to Rosewood Mayakoba's spa island and check into a special wellness suite. Designed with both indoor and outdoor features, overlooking a lagoon, each suite has a private heated plunge pool, medita- tion pavilion and a reflexology fountain—all surrounded by verdant vegetation separating guests from the rest of the resort. This eco-hide- away focuses on daily wellness activities. Go for ecological excursions through canals by kayak or paddleboard. Back on land, guests can explore winding natural trails on foot and bike, or enjoy a yoga session in the outdoor palapa. MUST TRY The Ayurveda experience here combines aro- matherapy using essential oils to reduce stress and enhance immunity. rosewoodhotels.com/en/ mayakoba-riviera-maya STATE OF OM One of the area's newest hotels, Chablé Maroma— which opened mid-pandemic—specializes in holistic experiences with a focus on traditional Mayan wellness practices. You can step inside the temazcal steam house, a traditional stone hut for a deep cleansing sweat, as a healer performs ancient rituals that align the soul. MUST TRY Connect with your ancestors through the Shaman-led practice called "Oracle Reading." The age-old process uses a Mayan calendar for mys- tical guidance. chablehotels.com/maroma TRAVEL PLANNER For more travel information visit visitmexico.com/en/ i // BY MEGAN HONAN PHOTOS: BANYAN TREE MAYAKOBA | RUBEN HG/CHABLÉ MAROMA | BANYAN TREE MAYAKOBA | CHABLÉ MAROMA

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