Palmaïa, The House of AïA

Vacations come in all different forms. Some help us recharge our batteries. Some expose us to new cuisines, new surroundings and new experiences. And some are great for the kids. It can be tough to find the total package, so I'm here to tell you that Palmaïa, The House of AïA is it. This luxury wellness retreat in Playa del Carmen offers sophisticated design set against the bounty of nature, skillfully prepared vegan cuisine, and wellness activities (for kids and adults) that push your boundaries juuuuuuuust the right amount. For something different, try the House of AïA.

Palmaïa's commitment to sustainability can be found in everything they do. Its all-inclusive approach seeks to free its guests from the "burden of relentless commerce." In fact, the property's beginnings were rooted in a "planet-first" and "plant-first" mission, and great care is still taken to safeguard the natural landscape of Mexico's Riviera Maya. 

Children are not only allowed, but embraced at the House of AïA. Family suites give adults privacy and children a place to feel at home. Waldorf-inspired play areas, free of electronic devices, seek to help kids disconnect and "return to their natural state." Bamboo bicycles, swim up suites, a mini aqua park and family wellness activities ensure there's plenty of opportunity for you to enjoy your time as individuals and as a family.

Palmaïa aims to provide a unique culinary experience, plant-based or not. Guests can start with an ultra-healthy diet, ease into new flavors, or indulge in favorite staples -- like an outstanding plant-based cheeseburger. If you're up for it, Palmaïa's team will help build a culinary experience that balances your diet, encourages better nutrition absorption, reduces anxiety and diminishes inflammation.

Beachfront work areas allow guests to work remotely from a fiber-optic-powered suite on a natural, white sand beach. Focus your concentration and nurture your creativity while enjoying lightning-fast Internet, dedicated air-conditioning units and all the Nespresso you need to keep you going.

The "Architects of Life" program features a myriad of rotating classes, ceremonies and rituals to provide a comprehensive personal growth program that draws from ancient practices. Drawing, painting and meditation classes, ancestral dance, harmonic singing, Tibetan bowls and gratitude rituals are just some of the wide-ranging offerings that can help you tap into the parts of yourself that you usually ignore, avoid and neglect.

Palmaïa believes that children and a healthy life are inseparable. Whether this is true of your family, either on vacation or in daily life, the House of AïA will certainly give you the space to explore the concept. See for yourself what changes are possible, and come back feeling better than you left.