All you need to know before taking your next winter escape…
After almost a 10 year hiatus of the all-inclusive style Caribbean vacation, we felt a pull to return and give it a go with our kids. Having done some globetrotting; staying, seeing and experiencing lots of amazing resorts, hotels and rental properties in little towns, big cities, adventure packed counties and various climates, we were feeling a need for something simple and luxurious. We needed of a “mental vacation” and we always equated all-inclusive resorts with this type of holiday and were ready enjoy the ease of this style vacation as a family.
The idea of idea of “relaxing” can be tricky when travelling with children! Thankfully, it’s possible though! Choosing the right resort is key! I have saved you some steps by not only researching, but also spending a week at the perfect resort for your next family getaway! While researching, we knew we wanted a property the kids would enjoy as much as us, but allowing for rest and relaxation. I envisioned a beautiful resort, that had everything we needed, so we did not feel the need to leave the property. The Hilton Cancun proved to be all that and more!
I will begin with saying, that the photos on Hilton Cancun‘s website are very true to what you will see when you enter the resort, except, everything is actually even better in person. Our drive to the resort was just a short 15 minutes from Cancun airport. Upon arrival, we were swiftly greeted by attendants to assist with our bags and offer us a moist hot towel for our face and hands. As we made our way to the lobby, we breathed in the relaxing scent of lemongrass, while admiring the tranquil views of the ocean amongst the lobby buzz.
Checking in to the Hilton Cancun
For us, check was quick and easy – while I did this, Andrew enjoyed a drink from the bar and the girls snacked on some delicious wood oven pizza from the “Grab & Go.” This spot, would end up be being our go-to for specialty coffee (they carry coconut milk, soy and almond – no oat, as dairy alternatives), healthy snacks (think pre-cut veggies, fresh fruit), sandwiches and sweets. Perfect option when on the go and needing something quick.
We were each given bracelets (I forgot they did this at all-inclusive resorts). They were not the plastic ones I have had in the past, but, tasteful and functional (also acted as a room key -which was genius). I forgot I was even wearing it throughout the week – so the design was obviously very well done.
We then made our way to our room, which was an oceanview, one bedroom suite. It included two queen beds, a separate seating area with large sectional sofa, a dining table, 1.5 bathrooms, ample storage for luggage (this is important as I don’t want to be tripping over luggage – I want to feel at home) and a large balcony with the most amazing view of the chill pool and ocean.
Our room was tastefully styled and well appointed. It provided everything we needed (except for robes/slippers for those wondering – I usually bring my own anyway). The nespresso coffee machine was lovely touch (getting that perfect cup of joe is important). The iron was a good one (this is important to me, as I usually need to iron things daily!) and was easy to pull out and put away.
There were 4 full length mirrors (I can never understand hotels that don’t have at least one). Also, they offered most lovely complimentary toiletries (the scent was amazing and felt like a spa product AND were full size, not the tiny ones). Beds were okay, regarding comfort level (not the softest sheets ever, but I’m a bit of a snob when it comes to thread counts). That said, I definitely wouldn’t complain given all the other advantages.
Service standard was on par and even better than many other 5 Star hotels we have stayed at in North America & Europe. I think this is major. The people were very friendly and prompt and couldn’t do enough. Room was always cleaned really well and room service arrived when it said it would (I have had issues in this area of the food & bev service dept during other stays in Caribbean, so this stood out).
The Food & Bev
The concierge was always there at our disposal and super helpful. The dinner reservations were easy to make, albeit thru an onsite booking agent or via the website. (also like some other all-inclusive resorts, there are no limits on how often you book a restaurants, where reservations are required, as long as availability).
You can choose from 12 unique dining experiences. The 3 restaurants that require a reservation: Auma (aka: Steak House),Maxal (aka: Mexican), La Lucce (aka: Italian). All were super delicious. We ate at the steak house most often, because Andrew loved it best. Although, I enjoyed this one, I think my fave were La Lucce & Maxal (but honestly, all restaurants were good, seriously).
Everything is included in the all-inclusive price, but they do offer a menu with a few specialty items to purchase. Also, if you’re not fussy over the house wine, you can also upgrade to choose a bottle of your choice for a charge and they do have a wide range. My personal opinion was that the house wine isn’t offensive, but its sort of blah (probably to suit broader range of pallates) and the sparkling is very sweet (too sweet for me). On the other hand, the cocktails we tried were very good, at all the bars.
The other restaurants that don’t require reservations were also very good! The first night we arrived we didn’t have a reso, so we went to Sunan, which has an asian inspired menu ( also open for lunch). It was dark, but we were immediately impressed with the ambiance. The open air ocean views and tasteful decor and vibe. The menu is great for sampling, as it consists of a lot of small plates you can share. I loved seeing Elle and Ivy sample some international dishes and flavours.
The buffet, Vela, was very large and spacious and offered indoor and outdoor seating with a buffet that had everything you needed. We didn’t experience lunch or dinner here – although available. For lunch, we typically stuck to the stations set up by the pool (so convienient). It was the chicken tacos daily for me (loved how authentic and healthy they were – made on the spot with all the ingredients you wanted). Also loved the fresh fruit station – was perfect for the kids and I when needing a little hydrating snack. The kids enjoyed the tacos some days, but also the chicken nuggets and fries.
I think the La Churrería was Elle & Ivy’s fave tho! A little sweet shop with all you can eat Ice cream & churros (+donuts, candy, cupcakes, build your own sundays, etc). This was a daily ritual. It was very cute and convienatly located by the water park and kids club.
Shopping
One thing I didn’t expect, based on my previous travels to all-inclusive resorts, was to find a boutique that had really trendy and quality fashions. Onom had beautiful resort pieces, crafted by local Mexican designers. I picked up a few goodies! I didn’t think I would be doing any shopping, as we did not plan to leave the resort, but was very impressed with the curated pieces in this boutique – pleasant surprise for a fashion lover. They offered men’s, women’s and children’s clothing and accessories.
Kid Friendly
Our girls Elle (5) and Ivy (3) are at a great age for travelling. Although, we could send them to the kids club (it was very well monitored and had lots of activities thru the day) we still feel they are a bit too young and are very cautious with leaving our kids with anyone that isn’t family. That said, it’s great they have it as an option for kids and teens. We did enjoy using the club during family time (a daily scheduled time, they let families in, after all the kids are gone for security reasons). We also enjoyed the playground, which was well shaded.
The girls really enjoyed the waterpark and to be honest, so did we! This was also enjoyable for all of us. It was so nice to be able to relax with a drink and a book, but keep a close eye on the Elle and Ivy, while they had fun playing and making friends. That said, I loved that they had specific areas for the kids, but that they are also welcomed at the other pools.
Check out this reel for a typical morning for us at Hilton Cancun
The chill pool was also a favourite with all four of us. I loved how relaxing it was looking out over the ocean, while sitting in our loungers, which were wading in the pool. The designs of both this pool and the activity pool (where they held the aerobics and games through-out the day) are similar. Aesthetically beautiful, infinity style pool, with several layers and levels of depth – perfect for lounging. I loved how they were not too deep (no worrying about kids getting too deep, although the girls always have their puddle jumpers on). The clever design and the vibe just made for a stress free experience that pleased all our senses!
I will also add, to those without kids and wondering, although the pools are not “adult only”, there were not any instances of screaming children. They were very well behaved (this could change obviously, but was our experience that week). So we found it enjoyable and relaxing.
Health & Wellness
During our holiday, I also took advantage of the resort gym. I did my own HIIT workouts when I could squeeze them in, but they offered all the equipment you would need, as well a variety of classes to participate in – spin, pilates, yoga, etc. I did take advantage of a lunch time ocean and pool aerobics and it was pretty good! Loved being able to exercise outdoors in the sun.
For my self care lovers, there is no spa on site, but as a Hilton Guest, you can take advantage of the spa at their sister property next door, the newly opened Waldorf Astoria. I took advantage of this and am so glad I did! The bellman will drive you over in the Golf Cart (and pick you up when you’re finished). The spa is beautiful and has both a dry and wet sauna, as well a various spa services. Perhaps my favourite part was the hydro therapy pool. I have never used hydrotherapy, but it was so amazing and relaxing. All the different water pressures on a sore back or feet – so nice! I loved it on my head too – felt like a scalp massage!
The Waldorf property is not an all-inclusive hotel, but you may also book dinner reservations as a Hilton Guest (for a charge). I have stayed at the Waldorf Astoria NYC & Rome & dined and used spa at both properties and I was very impressed (top notch – La Pergola located in the Waldorf Astoria Rome is the only 3 star michelin restaurant in the city). We didn’t feel the need to dine off our resort, on this holiday, as there was enough variety for our family and it was very good. If we travelled as a couple, we might have taken advantage to switch it up.
Final Thoughts
The Hilton Cancun‘s slogan is All-Inclusive; All-extraordinary. I have to agree, based on my experience with various brands, including really “high end” brands that have made doing all-inclusive their niche – this resort met and in some ways, exceeded our expectations. I honestly could not have imagined a better place to kick off 2023 travels with our family than, Hilton Cancun. My husband said it was one of his favourite family vacations yet (that says a lot!). On this holiday, we made amazing memories we will cherish, while relaxing in the sun.
I feel this resort would be best suited for families, large group meet-ups, but also think couples would enjoy too! (We saw a mix of all these demographics and everyone seemed happy and as tho they were enjoying their holiday to the fullest). I would love to get my extended family on board to meet up here next winter! Then, the event manager in me, also had myself imagining this resort as a beautiful venue for conferences, corporate events and destination weddings.
In closing, here are my top 5 reasons we would return to Hilton Cancun for a future vacation in no particular order:
1.) Lots of options to help relax (as couples or as a family travelling with children).
2.) Vast options for great food.
3.) Beautiful New Resort with tasteful decor, breathtaking ocean views & spacious rooms.
4.) Close to Airport – 15-ish minutes (But not so close that planes are flying over head).
5.) Lots to keep our children busy!
If you are considering travelling to Hilton Cancun and have any specific questions – please feel free to reach out via commenting below. Also, you can check out my Instagram story highlights labeled “Cancun” for more videos from this holiday including a room tour. To book your trip, head to their website! Xx
