Mayan-Inspired Spa Treatments In Cancun

By Marissa Gold

It’s the end of the (Mayan) world as we know it, so why not spend it at the spa?

To commemorate the year 2012 and the end of the Mayan calendar on 12/21/12, some top Cancun spas are offering Mayan-inspired spa treatments that are so relaxing, you might not care about the alleged end of the world, either.

Le Blanc Spa Resort
(shown right)
Kukulkan Massage: “Initiates with shamanic purification ritual that cleanses the body from stress and tension. This is a four hand massage performed by two therapists that  incorporates special movements and manipulations that represents the Jaguar, keeper of the underworld; the serpent, earth and present time; and the eagle, heaven and the sacred. This massage is also designed to release muscular tension, physical blockage and stress.”

Live Aqua Cancun
Temazcal treatment: “Steam bath based on traditional healing methods. The origins of Temazcal begin in center of Mexico and the Yucatan region. The ancient ritual is conducted by a Mayan shaman and has been used for centuries to achieve space physical, emotional, mental and spiritual purification.”

The Westin Resort & Spa
(shown left)
Mayan Ritual: “Warm cotton compresses containing herbal mixtures are applied to energy points of the body, followed by a massage.”
Temazcal Ritual: “A steam bath based on traditional healing methods in which properties of fire and water are combined for purification.”
Black Mud: “Ancient anti-fatigue therapy where visitors bathe in holistic Pevonia Aromatoc Moor Mud that promotes healing and alleviates fatigue.”
Vanish: “A concentrated serum known for its smoothing and contouring properties is applied to problematic areas of skin followed by a body mask to leave skin feeling youthful, firm and toned.”

Royal Cancun
Temazcal treatment: “A steam bath based on traditional healing methods.”
Full & New Moon Celebrations: “After letting out toxins during a Temazcal treatment, visitors cool down and rest by an open air waterfall shower and then receive a relaxing massage under moonlight.”
Nine Leaves Divine Bath: “A bath designed to treat ‘spiritual diseases of the soul’ with 9 different herbs.”
Mayan Massage: “A combination of different massage techniques that relieve tension.”

The Ritz-Carlton Cancun
Mayan Seashell Massage: “A soothing relaxing massage with coconut, rosemary and hot seashells.”
Mayan Healing Ritual: “An oceanfront Mayan ritual which blends therapeutic and aromatic herbs to comfort the body and soul.”
Mayan Renewal Bath: “Infused with medicinal mint leaves, wood, lemon rind and seeds of annatto and a moisturizing organic cactus facial mask.”(Available through October 2012.)

Fiesta Americana Grand Coral Cancun
The Mayan Gods Ritual: “Lasts 120 minutes and begins with a copal exfoliation and body wrap. Copal resin, used by ancient Mayans in their spiritual ceremonies, is known for revitalizing the spirit. After, a restorative facial incorporates jade and Tiger’s Eye, inspiring clarity and power.”

Fiesta Americana Condesa
Mayan Mud Massage: “Inspired by the Mayan story of creation that reads the gods created man from mud. The treatment nourishes the body with photo-enzymes and trace elements originally discovered by the Mayans to revitalize the body.”

5 Honeymoons 5 Ways: 5 Resort-Spa Destinations


Everyone has that one girlfriend who constantly dreams about their big day (and has to forcibly tell you about it every time she’s had one too many). The dress will look like this, the jewels will be from his mother, the flowers will be orchids, and on and on. If you’re the type who hasn’t even thought about next week, let alone your own wedding, then we are in the same boat. The thing I look forward to about marriage (besides the diamond) is the honeymoon, a sweet reward after all the tedious wedding planning stuff. Below are 5 super-romantical resort-spa locations from all over the world, each with their own signature own honeymoon experiences. Whether its wine tasting in a Tuscany, walking hand-in-hand in along a white sand beach or melting away during a couples massage, these resorts are sure to be the icing on your wedding cake.

Caribbean Escape


Radisson St Martin Resort, Marina & Spa, St. Martin, French West Indies

The Love Package at the Radisson St. Martin is sure to make your lover’s heart swoon. Wander in gardens swept by ocean breezes or lounge in a private cabana by the hotel’s signature zero-entry infinity pool.  Frolic on the hotel’s golden sandy beach, swim in the warm Caribbean water, be pampered at the soothing Le Spa by Carita. Then, spend the evenings dining at the hotel’s sumptuous gourmet French Caribbean restaurants and sip Champagne under a sky dusted with a million stars. Dontchya just want to puke hearts and roses?

Mexican Fiesta


Le Meridien Resort & Spa Cancun, Cancun, Mexico

Le Meridien offers three gourmet dining options, the marvelous Spa del Mar, a awe-inspiring  three-tiered cascading pool, and easy access to downtown Cancun nightlife and historical attractions. The Presidential suite is the best choice on a honeymoon with a king-size bed and a Jacuzzi that overlooks the ocean

Southern Honeymoon


The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort Kiawah Island, South Carolina

Although not international for us Americans, The natural beauty of the island and their extraordinary pampering services make The Sanctuary the perfect honeymoon destination for any couple. (Plus, tell people your honeymooning on Kiawah Island, their sure to think your gallivanting in the South Pacific). Romantic packages include champagne and chocolates, rose petal turn down on the evening of arrival, one hour couples massage at The Spa at The Sanctuary, and dinner for two at The Ocean Room, Kiawah’s signature steakhouse.

Island Retreat

Le Grand Courlan Spa Resort, Trinidad and Tobago

This adult only resort features a magnificent over-sized swimming pool with swim-up bar and a fabulous blend of local and international cuisine in a choice of restaurants. Wifey can enjoy the spa facility with sauna, showers, and hot tubs while Hubby plays a game of tennis at the floodlit tennis courts or works out at the fully equipped fitness center.

Italian Romance


Antico Casale di Scansano Spa Resort , Grosseto, Italy

Get the newlywed treatment at the spa on your honeymoon. Spa packages include swimming pool with warm water, an outdoor Jacuzzi with warm water, and the sauna area, including Etruscan sauna, Turkish Hammam and chromotherapy showers (bathrobe, slippers and towels are complimentary). Meals are also included: a lovely buffet breakfast on the panoramic veranda of the hotel, a light lunch featuring the typical soups of Tuscan tradition (Acquacotta) and a gourmet dinner at the Hotel restaurant “La Castagneta.” They have every treatment from hot stone massages to deep cleansing facials for men and women.

Michelle visited them back in November (not on a honeymoon, at all) – read all about it! Here are some of the spa treatments at Antico Casale, 16 reasons to visit and never leave Antico Casale in Hakuna Ricotta , and their milk bath with coffee scrub in Spa Dolce Vita. And if you really think you’ll be eating “light” the whole time, you’re out of your mind. You don’t want to miss making pasta from scratch with the chef!