Do you dream of lounging at a world reknown spa by the ocean, dining on fish fresh out the sea while your kids explore a state-of-the-art kids’s club complete with sitters and water slides? Hard Rock Cancun and Hard Rock Riviera Maya will cover all your luxury family vacation needs!


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As a first-time mom who’s pre-baby life included a glamorous lifestyle of interviewing celebrities at Phillipe Chow on South Beach, I was in for a shock when I gave birth to my now rambunctious two-year-old daughter Felicity.  I was no longer touring with rap artists through Dubai and I traded in my Louboutins for sensible Birkenstocks. Now my on-the-whim trips to Paris were nonexistent. I was Felicity’s mom and watching her discover the world and exposing her to new experiences became my new job.  But what about Courtney? She was in there somewhere and I was determined to incorporate our ‘new normal’ with some of the things that both my husband and I love to enjoy and that included luxury vacationing.

We decided to trek across the country to two of the most talked about all-inclusive resorts in the heart of Mexico.  First, we rocked out at the Hard Rock Cancun, then we ventured just an hour away to experience the serenity of Hard Rock Riviera Maya.

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The 12-story beachfront property at Hard Rock Cancun is the perfect getaway for a family of rockstars.  Infinity pools, a decked out kids club and live entertainment for the entire clan—just part of the cream of the crop amenities offered at this gem of the Caribbean.  Upon arrival we were greeted by a giant guitar-shaped driveway, and a neon-lit glass staircase that seemed to catapult us to our own personal stage.  Rockstar memorabilia lined the walls, showcasing some of my favorite items belonging to George Clinton, Snoop Dogg, Prince and more.

After being introduced to our own personal assistant, we were escorted to our VIP room fully equipped with a hydro tub, a wonderfully creative welcome platter and the most breathtaking view of the ocean.  Felicity instantly made herself at home lounging on the patio chair.  We decided to grab something light to eat at the private health food bar on our floor and Felicity discovered she loved fresh seafood ceviche.

Next we hit up the main infinity pool which offered the most picturesque postcard-worthy scene. The poolside service was immaculate as they served BBQ food, wings, nachos and tasty beverages to quench your thirst in the hot sun. We spent the day exploring the hotel for cool memorabilia and munching on pizza at the beachside brick oven pizza hut.

Ready for dinner we ventured back to the room passing five international restaurants and five bars and lounges. We chose Zen and enjoyed a tasty dinner at an hibachi table with a whimsical fire show with Asian flair.

We woke up the following morning to a full hot and delicious breakfast pre-ordered by our assistant who took care of everything from ironing to making sure our room and pillows were scented with lavender arometherapy each night.  This had to be the best part for a mom who’s use to wearing many hats. We decided to explore the kids clubs which boasted a separate facility, exciting activities, games, toys and an exclusive water park for kids of all ages. The staff participated on the fun with a daily schedule of kids yoga, talent shows, arts and craft classes and so much more. Free childcare is also available making a romantic dinner on the beach the perfect way to end the evening.  Felicity had such a good time she wore herself out.


That night in an attempt to put our talkative toddler to sleep we went to a family night rock show held at the outside amphitheater.  The house rock band was beyond entertaining.  They covered all the classics and pointed Felicity out who was cheering and dancing in the front row.  Before I knew it my tenacious toddler was being whisked onstage as she danced, sang and strummed the drummers guitar to a roaring crowd. She didn’t go to sleep but needless to say that was one of our most memorable nights.

The next morning we took a 45-minute drive to Hard Rock Riviera Maya.  Surprisingly unique offering two vibes in one—the ‘Heaven’ side is a sanctuary for adults only while the ‘Hacienda’ side serves all your family needs.  Our Sky Terrace room was magnificent.  The room’s design gave a modern aztec vibe and included a private rooftop area with a jacuzzi which served as the perfect getaway for me to grab my book and read in the sun.

There was so much to explore on the grounds we were entertained every moment of the day.  We went on an exciting monkey tour and caught a glimpse of spider moneys swinging playfully from tree to tree.  The property has so much to offer, an amplified Kids Club, Teens Lounge & Club, snorkeling and kayaking in their private lagoon. The lagoon was perfect for toddlers to enjoy the beach minus the dangerous waves.

The adults-only section, Heaven, includes the Hard Rock signature Rock Spa and a tranquil astonishing design that you won’t want to leave.  I was able to sneak away for a spa day and the opulence in the lounge left me speechless.  Easily one of the most luxurious spas in Mexico, the lounge area was fit for a queen with mother of pearl lining the jacuzzi floors.  The steam, sauna and ice rooms give a high-tech style to relaxation and a great addition to anyone like myself who loves spa hopping.

We had a blast each night visiting one of the four restaurants and three uniquely designed  bars and lounges.  My favorite restaurant was the Market which provided something for everyone to relish in.  They had everything from beef to fish, a vegan station, and my indulgent—the themed nights where they offered an all-you-can-eat smorgasbord of seafood including everything from grilled lobster tails to king crab claws.

The Kids Club at HRRM was the Willy Wonka Factory of kids clubs. The outdoor play area was a mini-amusement park. A huge jungle gym playground, kids pool and slides served as the easiest tactic to tire any child out which seems to be my daily goal. Inside the club, the staff made it an adventure for kids with a full schedule of activities. Felicity loved to play dress up and each morning woke up saying, “Kids club?”

 

Overall our ‘new normal’ trip exceeded all our dreams. Everything from the service, to the delectable food was top notch.  While I may not be traipsing solo through the villas in Paris, nothing is more rewarding then cultivating our daughter’s little brain and touring the globe making memories with my family.

 

Where are some places you’d love to take your little ones?

To learn more about the Hard Rock All Inclusive Collection CLICK HERE