Ser CasaSandra, Isla Holbox, The Yucatan - Explore & Book
"When Cuban music producer, poet and artist Sandra Pérez first came to the Yucatán, she felt an instant affinity with its people, colours, sounds and scents. Friends advised her to visit unspoiled Isla Holbox, the last vestige of uncommercial living on the Maya Riviera; she fell in love with its raw beauty. When she bought a plum spot of land on the Playa Norte, then covered only with fine white sand and coconut palms, the local fishermen threw a 3-day party to celebrate. Since then, word has spread about this little isle and tourism has bloomed, but Ser CasaSandra remains a cocoon of boho bliss. This place is her passion project and it shows. Sandra's influence is evident in the carefully sourced Cuban antiques, the bespoke colonial-style furniture from Guadalajara, and 18 romantic guest rooms. Little details - gauze curtains that ripple in the breeze, hammocks peppered around the grounds, original artwork by Sandra herself - contribute to the stylish and welcoming ambiance. Add a fantastic restaurant delivering quality Yucatan fare, daily yoga flows, vast double loungers and a pool, and you have the perfect formula for lusciously lazy days. Highs Lots of fun, thoughtful extras included in the price: daily yoga lessons, bike hire, beer and snacks from the minibar The delicious seafood was some of the best we had in Mexico Charming staff provide warm service that makes you feel part of the family; turndown includes handwritten poems and wafting incense A stylish mix of rustic Mexican features (palapa thatched roofs, hand-embroidered cushions) and original artwork, some by Sandra herself Isla Holbox is a romantic destination. Think blissful beach strolls, shells and sunsets Lows Room and restaurant prices are steep, but you get top-quality meals and there are lots of extras included in the price Some find the WiFi a bit patchy, only reaching some rooms, but we had good connection in and around the main building and pool Rooms get pretty hot by the afternoon so we needed to use the air conditioning a lot The sand road that runs between the hotel and beach takes away total privacy, but traffic is usually only bicycles and golf carts" - Nadine Mellor
