Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach, Photo Credit: Grand Fiesta Americana Hotels & Resorts
Some of our favorite stays in the world take place in hotel chains. And we’re proud to say that. There’s plenty to be said for having strength in numbers and establishing a reputable brand name that echoes around the globe.
At the same time, there’s equal worth in properties that maintain an independent spirit. Hotels that stand on their own yet still thrive solely off hard work and delivering good experiences are vitally important.
Though La Colección is a group of 12 luxurious resorts under the Posadas hospitality umbrella (the largest hotel operator in Mexico), it still stands out among the high-end travel fray for keeping a singular focus on product and personality.
This summer, the brand will deliver opportunities that families and couples will find nearly impossible to resist. The following five La Colección addresses, in particular, are ones we suggest any free-thinking traveler get to know over the next few months.
Where to go: Cancun
What to do: Bask in the beach
Where to stay: Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun
Don’t tell the college spring breakers this, but Cancun has a side that knows absolutely nothing about tank tops, beer pong and EDM. This “other” Cancun loves a good party, yes, but it also appreciates a fine wine in a more quiet beachfront setting.
To get to know this alternative side, you’ll need a few nights at Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun. This oceanfront palace whisks you from lively Punta Cancun and transports you to an almost-tranquil world filled with 602 generously appointed suites, five restaurants and a 40,000-square-foot spa.
But if you must surround yourself with a bit of rowdiness for one night, many of the most popular local hot spots are only a five-minute ride from your room.
Grand Fiesta Americana Monterrey Valle, Photo Credit: Grupo Posadas
Where to go: Monterrey
What to do: Explore the outdoors
Where to stay: Grand Fiesta Americana Monterrey Valle
Located directly between the city of Monterrey and the Sierra Madre Mountains, Grand Fiesta Americana Monterrey Valle offers incredible views from every room, with the cityscape and rugged wilderness competing for attention.
While traditional shops, galleries and museums can be found in town, the real highlight of this stylish hotel is the myriad of outdoor activities offered in the surrounding mountains. Adventure seekers will love exploring the caves, rappelling the steep rock faces and zip-lining through the forest.
More low-key nature enthusiasts will prefer hiking and horseback riding through the Cumbres de Monterrey National Park.
Grand Fiesta Americana Puebla Angelopolis, Photo Credit: Grupo Posadas
Where to go: Puebla
What to do: Walk through history
Where to stay: Grand Fiesta Americana Puebla Angelópolis
Grand Fiesta Americana Puebla Angelópolis serves as a beacon of modern luxury in Puebla’s historic city center. As the fourth-largest metropolitan area in Mexico, Puebla is an of-the-moment city, but the cobblestone streets, museums and UNESCO World Heritage Sites remind you that you’re in a place with deep roots.
Every effort has been made to highlight and preserve local culture without sacrificing luxurious comforts at the chic hotel — especially when it comes to food and drinks. The rooftop Sky Lounge features an extensive mezcal selection from Oaxaca, while Borro Azul, the property’s signature restaurant, serves up the best of Puebla gastronomy with mole poblano and squash blossoms served in tacos with tasty local cheeses.
Live Aqua Mexico City, Photo Credit: Grupo Posadas
Where to go: Mexico City
What to do: Go shopping
Where to stay: Live Aqua Urban Resort Mexico
Teeming with everything from market stalls hawking handmade crafts to haute couture stores in the upscale Polanco neighborhood, Mexico City is a haven for shoppers.
Go outside of the regular tourist zones in the Bosques de las Lomas neighborhood. There, boutique hotel Live Aqua Urban Resort Mexico gives you direct access to the adjacent Paseo Arcos Bosques. You’ll spend hours in the mall perusing Dupuis for modern Mexican furniture and décor, TFA Store for clothing and accessories curated by Mexican style purveyors The Fancy Archive and Kiehl’s for skincare products.
When you shop till you’ve dropped, your hotel is only steps away. Retreat to one of the stylish library-influenced sitting areas, the relaxing spa or your own modern, soothing room.
Grand Fiesta Americana Puerto Vallarta, Photo Credit: Grand Fiesta Americana Hotels & Resorts
Where to go: Puerto Vallarta
What to do: Rekindle that romance
Where to stay: Grand Fiesta Americana Puerto Vallarta
If Puerto Vallarta’s spectacular beaches and non-stop sun aren’t enough to woo a special someone, this all-inclusive hotel will seal the deal.
The oceanfront property inspires romance: Grand Fiesta Americana Puerto Vallarta has a secluded location in the Sierra Madre Mountains; the fresh, minimalist rooms all come with Pacific vistas; the spa can do side-by-side massages; Mojito Lounge plies you with refreshing cocktails and tropical music at sunset; and, best of all, no kids are allowed. You’re practically guaranteed an amorous time.
And if you get really caught up in the moment, the hotel can arrange for an on-the-sand wedding.
