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UNICO 20ºN 87ºW Changes the All-Inclusive Game in Mexico

UNICO 20ºN 87ºW Changes the All-Inclusive Game in Mexico
Unico 20 87 changes the all-inclusive game in Mexico

Luxury meets value at UNICO 20˚87˚

The all-inclusive concept isn’t new, but a luxury, adults-only property where spa treatments, golf and excursions are part of that inclusion is. Opened in March 2017, 20N 87W Unico is changing the all-inclusive game in Mexico.

Like traditional all-inclusive properties, UNICO 20˚87˚, located on Riviera Maya, includes room, meals, drinks and on property entertainment and water activities, in addition to the unexpected inclusions.

Spa divas will find a multitude of treatments available for nothing more than a gratuity. Classics like the Swedish massage or the age-defying facial or more exotic offerings like The Shaman Wrap or the Volcanic Stone massage, are available on an unlimited basis during your stay. Manicures, pedicures and hair services are offered through the salon.

With such a deal dangling in front of me, I decided to make a spa day of it with the signature massage plus a manicure and pedicure. I arrive at the spa early to take advantage of the hydrotherapy pools, Hammam, steam and sauna areas. I’ve noticed that every time I’m at a Mexican resort spa, the locker room attendants are overly attentive and that trend continues here. I am followed around as if I were assigned a bodyguard. While some may welcome that level of service, it tends to stress me out, which is the opposite effect a spa wants to have. I manage to convey I need some alone time and happily I’m left to enjoy the facilities and relaxation areas at my own pace. I love the hanging egg-like wicker swing chairs and the loungers overlooking a wooded area.

Unico 20 87 changes the all-inclusive game in Mexico

Swinging in the spa at Unico

The massage follows a basic Swedish protocol, although my therapist switches more to a deep massage, point specific technique when I ask him to work deeper and he realizes the level of knots in my shoulders. The pedicure and manicure are relaxing, but I noticed that the polish on my fingers chipped while I was still on property, probably due to the intense humidity. This means I needed to give them more time to dry. The entire spa day cost just under $50, a bargain hard to find outside of Southeast Asia.

During my stay I took one day to try one of the 13 included excursions. As in the spa, guests simply pay a 20% service charge. I am impressed with the list of offerings that includes everything from swimming with dolphins to a guided tour of Chichen Itza, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Adventurists will love the Selvatica Extreme Canopy trip or Xtreme snorkeling.

I choose one of the signature experiences, a trip to an authentic Mayan Village and the Tankah Cenotes. Our guide Cesar takes us to three cenotes, natural swimming holes formed by the collapse of porous limestone bedrock. Cenotes only exist on the Yucatan Peninsula. At the first hole, Cesar encourages the brave and the bold to jump off the cliff into the cenote. Being a wuss when it comes to heights, I walk down and then jump in. The next two cenotes we visit also offer the opportunity to zip line and jump in. After the swimming my group has lunch in the Mayan village before heading back to UNICO 20˚87˚.

Golfers are taken to the nearby Hard Rock Resort and its 18-hole Robert von Hagge course to hit the links, again paying just the 20% service charge.

Unico 20 87 changes the all-inclusive game in Mexico

My suite at UNICO 20˚87˚

UNICO 20˚87˚ is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World and my 1,270 sq. ft. one-bedroom Estancia suite was proof of why the property is included in the exclusive hotel group. The space is all about relaxed, unpretentious luxury. The color palette is neutral grey, beige and white with highly textured and interesting interior furnishings. I fell in love with my huge ocean-view balcony that had a hydro-tub for al fresco bathing. Be warned though, the space isn’t entirely private, so undress knowing you might be giving an unsuspected peep show!

Unico 20 87 changes the all-inclusive game in Mexico

The stand-out feature of my suite at UNICO 20˚87˚

Guests at the new resort also enjoy five restaurants, including one from celebrity chef Christian Bravo. One of my favorite elements of UNICO 20˚87˚ was the strong entertainment offered at different venues on property including the Palmera Lounge, a Cuban-inspired bar that featured the sultry voice of up-and-coming singer Yoli Mayor, a 21-year-old powerhouse called the Cuban Adele.

Unico 20 87 changes the all-inclusive game in Mexico

Mi Carisa Terrace, one of five restaurants at UNICO 20˚87˚

Life at the hotel revolves around three pools that offer a much-needed respite from the intense heat and humidity. The beach and a dip in the ocean are just steps away.

Unico 20 87 changes the all-inclusive game in Mexico

It doesn’t get better than this.

From relaxing at the resort to exploring the surrounding area,UNICO 20˚87˚ is an ideal base for couples or girlfriends looking for some value-added with their luxury getaway.

About The Author

Dena Roche

Dena Roché has covered luxury travel and spas since 2007. She has been published in magazines like Robb Report, Great Golf, Destination Weddings & Honeymoon, Bridal Guide, Day Spa and Spa. Her online credentials include contributing to Peter Greenberg Worldwide, Destination W and editing her own site, Fitglobetrotter, which focuses on luxury wellness travel. A former college tennis player, Dena has a passion for wellness and believes in playing hard during the day, but coming back to a luxurious hotel at night. In addition to her work as a journalist, she is a certified wellness coach focused on teaching people how what they eat and how they live shapes how they look and age.

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