A Romantic Beach Getaway? We Recommend Riviera Maya

I want to take my boyfriend for a romantic 3 or 4 day get-away on the beach. What would you recommend? And is there somewhere that would have great luxury resorts but have inexpensive options for food and nightlife?

Jump on a plane for a quick flight to the Riviera Maya, a slice of Caribbean paradise about an hour south of Cancun. From most places in the Unites States it’s not more than a 3-4 hour flight to Cancun on American, Virgin or United, then get out of Cancun as quickly as possible! Head to Playa del Carmen, a bustling little resort city with a European influence surrounded by the crystal waters of the Carribean. Check out chic but inexpensive crash pads like the Hotel Deseo. Or splurge for the more romantic and private Maroma Resort, on a private stretch of beach about ten minutes from town with a world class spa and amazing restaurants. There is also a Viceroy and Fairmont Mayakoba, two other extremely luxurious and top notch properties on the beach. You can have your luxury room and get into town for inexpensive but delicious restaurant experiences. Try Oh Lala for trendy, funky décor and outstanding international cuisine, or Club de la Cerveza for the best Mexican food in town.

Playa del Carmen is teeming with Europeans and has a very open-minded feel, so gay couples can be comfortable here. When asked if the area is gay friendly, they’ll tell you that they are just people friendly! There is one gay bar, Playa 69, in the city, but there are many bars along the pedestrian only 5th Avenue North that are much nicer and very open. Or lounge on a beach chair at one of the beach clubs like Mamitas or Kool. Three days will have you completely relaxed, revitalized, and reconnected to your boyfriend.

Jason Couvillion is a partner at ALT – Alternative Luxury travel, a travel agency based in LA that caters to the needs of the LGBT traveler. Send your travel questions for future columns to Jason@TravelALT.com.