Back to School.
The three words we’ve been anticipating since March. Yet, those words don’t have the same ring.
The languishing hours of an extended summer are not yielding to a normal, productive fall agenda we’ve all become accustomed.
Just like so many, my children’s Spanish immersion program at the International School is going virtual and with this reality looming, I’m looking at the problem as part of my solution.
Simply put, how can my child learn Spanish from the deck of this Nipa hut in Tulum, Mexico?
One of my favorite partners, The Four Seasons Punta Mita, Mexico has a better idea..“Knowledge for All Seasons”. The luxury resort has launched a vacation school program and provides complimentary Spanish classes in ocean facing, WiFi equipped “study cabanas”.
How is that for higher learning?
Now open to U.S. travelers, Mexico is a convenient escape from the mainland and our friends South of the Border are providing a chance to say adios to the mundane routine and Hola to the school of life.
Here are four culturally packed sanctuaries for your schoolcation in paradise.
FOUR SEASONS RESORT PUNTA MITA
Genius at work!! It’s hard to say which is superior at Punta Mita by Four Seasons: the unparalleled Mexican culture and hospitality or its prime location on the Pacific’s Bahía de Banderas, one of the world’s largest natural bays. My vote is the Knowledge for All Seasons launch.
Picture this: No carpool. You’ve just stepped out of your gorgeous casita overlooking an infinity pool that appears to stretch into the ocean. You pour yourself a sturdy cup of coffee while you breathe in the salty ocean air and log on to your virtual academy. Physical Education tops the list with children’s golf, tennis, or yoga. And for recess, you choose to enjoy world-class snorkeling, diving, deep-sea fishing, or horseback riding on the beach. Short siesta and then Cheers to you for seizing this unforgettable moment in an unforgettable place. And cheers to vacation schooling!
Private Perks: ( other than a fluent child and relaxed parents) Upgrade upon arrival, full daily breakfast for two, $100 resort credit, early check-in, late check-out, and popsicles in the study cabana.
NIZUC RESORT & SPA
CANCUN
Ancient Mayans believed in holistic health and the body and soul should be treated as one. Healing and peace occur only when there is balance and harmony in one’s life. I can’t think of a better place to achieve both than road schooling at Nizuc Resort & Spa.
This stunning property is situated on 29 secluded acres of Punta Nizuc, a peaceful nature preserve where you can imagine ancient Mayan astronomers who once studied starry night skies. Stylish accommodations include private pools, sweeping views, outdoor showers and soaking tubs. Nizuc boasts one of the most impressive spas in the Mexican Caribbean, where you can indulge in a variety of holistic spa services, including your complimentary hydrotherapy session included as a private perk when you book with me. Tequila, spa, and serenity. What Covid stress? And there’s more…Music Class with live Cuban Jazz in the eve.
Private perks: Upgrade upon arrival, full daily breakfast, one-way airport transfer on arrival, hydrotherapy session for two, welcome amenity (a bottle of tequila and dried fruit), early check-in, late check-out, complimentary WiFi, and more.
ROSEWOOD MAYAKOBA
Riviera MAYA
You’ll be in awe from the moment you arrive at Rosewood Mayakoba and step into your private boat transfer. So much better than the school bus!!! Marvel as you float through tranquil lagoons lined with lush mangroves before arriving at your seriously awesome suite where your personal butler awaits. So much better than a principal!!!
This five-star resort is just north of Playa del Carmen, and conveniently a short distance from ancient Mayan ruins, ecological parks, stunning beaches, and incredible diving in the Great Mayan Reef, the second largest coral system in the world! Check Natural Science and Archeology off the school syllabus list.
Private perks: A welcome Mezcal!
One&Only Palmilla
SAN JOSE DEL CABO
Ahhh Cabo’s jagged coastline gives way to this sublime property. Resting atop one of the region’s few swimming beaches and has played host to Ernest Hemingway, John Wayne and President Eisenhower. There you go…Literature, Western Television, and History all in one property. Check. No more cafeteria food…up the education with fabulous cuisine at a steak house by Michelin-starred chef Jean-Georges.
Accepting reservations now and set to reopen later this year, this is the ultimate Baja retreat and is certainly worth waiting for, homeschooling at your kitchen table. ( Maybe your much needed Christmas vacation and break from virtual learning at your dining room table). If you’re seeking an idyllic destination to spend the holidays, look no further.
How Far Adventures is now an affiliate of ProTravel International and this is Muy Bien! Please contact me if you would like to know more about these premier properties.
