Cancun Hotels

Stunning, stylish, and sensual, Aqua quickly emerged as Cancún's most coveted place to stay following its 2005 opening -- only to be severely damaged by Hurricane Wilma. Extensive repairs rebuilt this mainly glass structure, slated to open in the fall of 2007. A member of the Fiesta Americana chain, the entire hotel seems to mirror the predominant colors of Cancún -- turquoise and white -- in a sublimely chic manner. This hotel was built for sophisticated travelers who appreciate hip style and look for the cutting edge in places to stay. Aqua aims to stimulate your five senses, and upon arrival -- under a crystal cube fountain -- you're offered a fusion tea, and a blend of relaxing and stimulating aromatherapy. The oasis of eight oceanfront pools is surrounded by chaises, queen-size recliners, and private cabanas. All rooms and common areas emphasize the views to the pool and ocean beyond. Rooms are generous in size, and all face the ocean and have balconies. Very large bathrooms feature a soaking tub and organic bath products. Guests can tailor their turndown service by selecting from a pillow menu and choice of aromatherapy oils and candles. Miniature Zen gardens or a fishbowl add unique touches to room decor. Suites offer extras like Bose surround-sound systems. Twenty-nine rooms are "Grand Club," which include continental breakfast and a club room with butler service, snacks, bar service, and private check-in. The 1,500-sq.-m (16,145-sq.-ft.) spa is among the hotel's most notable attractions, with 12 treatment rooms offering a blend of Eastern, pre-Hispanic, and Western treatments. Outdoor Pilates, Tai Chi, and yoga classes are offered daily, and massage cabanas are also available on the beach. Another hallmark of this hotel is certain to be its collection of restaurants, chief among them SIETE, under the direction of premier Mexican chef and cookbook author Patricia Quintana, featuring her sophisticated take on traditional Mexican cuisine. Chef Michelle Bernstein, formerly a rising culinary star in Miami, presides over MB, serving healthy comfort food. There's also an Italian restaurant, deli, lounge, and 24-hour room service. After dark, the hotel shifts moods, with fire pits, torch lights, and ambient music.

Facilities: 4 restaurants; poolside snack bar; lounge and bar; 8 outdoor pools; tennis court; fitness center; spa w/12 treatment rooms; watersports on the beach; concierge; travel agency; business center; salon; room service; babysitting; laundry service; club floors w/special amenities and complimentary cocktails.

- Frommer's