Turning 65 is a milestone worth celebrating, and what better way to do it than with a lifelong girlfriend collective in one of the world’s most beautiful destinations? Recently, a close-knit collective of girlfriends decided to mark one Chica’s 65th birthday with an unforgettable trip to the Mayan Riviera, a stretch of Caribbean coastline on Mexico’s northeastern Yucatán Peninsula. This sun-soaked paradise offered the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and camaraderie, making it an ideal choice for such a momentous occasion.
Day 1: Arrival and Beachfront Bliss
The excitement was palpable we touched down at Cancun International Airport and took our private limousine service to the Mayan Riviera to luxuriate on its stunning beaches. Greeted by the warm Mexican sun and the rhythmic sound of waves crashing on the shore, we knew we were in for a treat as the vast doors to the resort slowly opened to lush greenery. Our home for the week is the luxurious all-inclusive adults-only resort of UNICO 20°87° – a member of the Leading Hotels of the world with stunning panoramic ocean view suites and direct access to powdery white sands.
After settling in, the ladies wasted no time hitting the beach. With their toes in the sand and tropical drinks in hand, they lounged under linen-draped cabanas with bottle service and scrumptious appetizers, catching up on life and reminiscing about their many shared memories. The evening was capped off with dinner at Mi Carisa, an ode to the romantic coastlines and flavors of the Mediterranean, where we toasted to our enduring friendship and the adventures ahead. No evening should end on vacay without music and cocktails, so we headed over to the Cuban-inspired Palmera Lounge for some cocktails and boisterous live entertainment before retiring for the night.
Day 2: Fun in the Mayan Sun
Day two, we enjoyed a light breakfast and coffee at the Parisian-inspired Inez Café with a delicious palate of fresh pastries, coffee, smoothies, bite-size omelets, and freshly squeezed juices, and we dare not mention the delicious fresh baked cookies, macaroons, and ice cream served from 6 am to midnight daily. Next, we returned to our reserved cabana for a day of bottle-popping champagne, appetizers, tons of relaxation, and fun while enjoying breathtaking views. We even danced with the private mixologist who served specialty-concocted tequila shots through a syringe drop. Time flies when one is having so much fun. Before we knew it, it was time to return to our suites to rest up and get dressed for a private dinner at Mura House, delivering Asian flavors through three different styles of Japanese cuisine-teppanyaki, yakitori, and sushi. Of course, no night ends without entertainment and cocktails, so off to Bar BaLam for some of its infused mystique powerful spirits before catching some Z-z-z-z-z-z’s for the evening.
Day 3: Tulum Charter
Day three brought a sense of adventure as we prepared to set sail along the lush canals of Puerto Aventuras, feasting on steak and lobster aboard a private catamaran sailing to Playa La Bocana, an enchanting cove boasting crystal-clear waters before heading back to port. However, that excitement was dimmed as the captain called off the adventure due to high winds on the ocean. So, it was back to bottle popping at our private cabana, individual spa services at the luxurious Esencia Spa & Salon, and fitness classes of yoga, Pilates, and cross-training at the fitness center, all while reminiscing about swimming alongside colorful fish and graceful sea turtles, for a sense of wonder and joy that transcends age on that missed private yacht. After popping bottles all morning, we retreated to a beachfront lunch at 20.87 Restaurant serving up a huge variety of burgers, salads, sushi, cervices, and pasta to please any discriminating palate.
Late afternoon, we indulged in a day of pampering at the resort’s world-class spa. Massages, facials, and aromatherapy body treatments left them feeling rejuvenated and glowing. The serene atmosphere of the spa provided a perfect opportunity for quiet reflection and relaxation and rounded out a perfect day for the ladies before evening festivities. Personally, this was the best pedicure and manicure of my life, total luxury, worth every penny of the $105. The workers are engaging and work hard at this spa. Yes, the spa prices are extortionate, so be prepared if you ever venture to UNICO 20°87°. Lastly, please bring U.S. dollars to tip because it has more leverage than the pesos.
Day 4/5: Relaxation at One’s Own Leisure
For the next two days, we spent time relaxing in the hydro tubs on our suite deck and cabana stints during the early day by the pool. In the evening, we headed to a lively dinner at 20.87 Restaurant and Cueva Siete known for its Yucatecan Mexican gastronomy to sip, wine, champagne, and tequila, and celebrate our bond. Each night concluded with a drink at one of the bars or dancing and laughter as we marveled together in a first-time experience, a silent nightclub with headphones dancing into the night feeling a deeper connection to one another.
Day 6: Beachfront Farewell Fiesta Dinner
As our trip neared its end, we spent a leisurely day shopping and exploring UNICO’s Promenade Mall for gifts to take home for ourselves, friends, and family. We picked up unique mementos and enjoyed a delicious lunch on the beachfront. The afternoon was spent lounging by the sea, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, and snapping photos to capture each magical moment. Of course, bottles of ice-cold champagne were still flowing. Before our private all-white farewell dinner, we met for a photo opportunity on the beach, all decked out in white attire set upon the crystal-clear turquoise green-blue waters of the ocean and gorgeous sky setting with perfect clouds. The finale evening was marked by a festive farewell fiesta on the beachfront and an exclusive private dinner at the restaurant reserved only for our collective. The private chef prepared a sumptuous 3-course feast of Mediterranean flavors with something for pescatarians, vegans, and meat lovers amongst the group. The night was filled with laughter, heartfelt toasts, and dancing under the stars, celebrating not just Chica’s 65th birthday, but a lifetime of friendship and memories.
Day 7: Reflecting on an Unforgettable Journey
As we packed our bags and prepared to return home, we each took a moment to reflect on this incredible journey. The Mayan Riviera adventure was everything we dreamed of and more—a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and togetherness. We left with hearts full of gratitude, vowing to continue celebrating life’s milestones together, no matter where our adventures might take us next.
THE GIRLFRIEND COLLECTIVE
The Mayan Riviera provided the backdrop for an unforgettable birthday celebration for lifelong friends, allowing us to return home with a renewed sense of joy, love, and appreciation for the gift of friendship. Here’s to many more adventures and memories to come! Until next time, love you Mayan Riviera! Thanks for the beautiful memories!
