Written by Alex Ruelase

Location, location, location

As any good real estate agent will tell you, location is paramount. And perhaps the most obvious decision you will make in this regard is: beachfront or not. However, while you might intuitively think beachfront is always better –having the ocean as your backyard is, no doubt, a treat– there are other things to consider. 

Some villas, while not oceanfront, are located in peaceful neighborhoods that are much better suited for families than busy hotel zones. Others are closer to restaurants and shopping centers. Some others might lack that coastline but offer lower rates or amazing views from the rooftop. And while there are no big cities in the Riviera Maya, some destinations have several boroughs, all with their particular charm even if they are not by the water. 

And who knows, some might even enjoy the sounds of the jungle more than those of rolling wavers. Then again, if you choose the right location, why not have both?

Pick the right size

Villa size can vary widely. Private residences in the Riviera Maya range from cozy 4-bedroom family hideouts to lavish haciendas that can sleep up to 30 guests. So we are sure there is something for every traveler.

Of course, other areas of the residence vary in size proportionally to the number of rooms. There are medium-sized kitchens where you can have a lazy breakfast and professional-looking ones for cooking splendid dinners. There are living rooms for watching movies with a few friends and sprawling outdoor lounges for hosting memorable gatherings. One can even find swimming pools so large that they could belong to an all-inclusive hotel. 

Mind the amenities

The variety of amenities one can find in a private villa might surprise you. And it is not only a matter of choosing between a swimming pool by the beach or a rooftop infinity pool. Vacation rentals offer endless possibilities.

For instance, sports lovers might look for private gyms and other training facilities (did anyone say tennis court?). Outdoorsy people will likely enjoy a place with kayaks and snorkeling gear. Having a fire pit is also ideal if you want to spend your evenings out in the open. And if you wish to make great meals for everyone, a fully equipped kitchen and a BBQ in the garden will not be wasted –neither will a bar by the pool.

Entertainment options are also vast. From ping pong tables to epic flat-screen TVs, you can choose your antidote to boredom. Or, if you are more the self-pampering holiday type, keep an eye out for bedrooms with epic views and ensuite bathtubs, rooftop plunge pools, and loungers by the sea.

Pay attention to decor and design

Architecture and interior design are not only a matter of aesthetic pleasure. Every villa has its own personality, and you want it to match yours. These private residences aspire, after all, to be your home for a while. And you want to feel as comfortable as possible in your surroundings. 

There are many styles to choose from. Some villas have a tropical vibe, with palapa roofs and rustic furnishings. Others favor modern, minimalist sophistication that privileges clean lines and balanced spaces. Some other have a classic, stately flair, with gorgeous furniture and grand old rooms. So whatever the energy you’re looking for, you are sure to find a style that fits your own.

Choose the right in-villa services 

Not only the physical space of the villa will make your stay memorable. It is also possible to get additional in-villa services to personalize your experience and make it unrepeatable.

For instance, hiring a private chef can turn a holiday into a culinary journey. Not only will dinner be ready always, but you will also get to try traditional flavors you might otherwise miss. If you need to relax, you can also get a massage in the comfort of your vacation home or even have a private yoga class on the pool deck. Further, you can always hire a butler to have things sorted and private transportation to travel without delay. 

Overall, choosing the perfect villa is about knowing yourself. These bespoke travel experiences are entirely customizable, tailored to your every need. So take a minute to consider all of these tips and design a spectacular vacation. We are sure it will pay off.