staying at the valenting maya
México

What it’s Like Staying at the Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya

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Staying at the Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya is hands down the best all-inclusive resort in Cancún.

Nestled beachfront on Playa del Secreto, this hacienda-inspired five-star hotel offers complete luxury while reflecting the beauty and culture of the Yucatan. What makes this the best hotel in the Riviera Maya is the instant access to relaxation in your own beach oasis.

Here is my review of what it’s like staying at the Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya.


Staying at the Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya was actually my first time going all-inclusive. Previously, when I pictured all-inclusive I thought of low quality and limited selection.

That was absolutely not the case here! You can find anything you want to drink at any of the eleven bars at any time. I also loved the fact that you could find a party if you wanted one, but it was equally easy to find peace, quiet, and relaxation, all at the same resort.

I found myself at the main pool in the mornings trying out an exercise class, volleyball game, or watching a mechanical bull riding contest. And after a delicious lunch, I’d find a quiet pool or relax on the beach before getting ready for dinner.

  • Where to book it: Valentin Maya
  • All-inclusive
  • Adults only (18+)
  • Daily activities & nightly entertainment

Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya Restaurants

Room service is always an option at any time. For breakfast and lunch, you could also try the beachfront restaurant called Mar y Tierra, the all-you-can-eat buffet called Le Marche, or the occasional food truck and grill that popped up by a pool.

While everything I ate there was delicious, dinner was definitely my favorite.

  1. L’Olivo (Italian)
  2. La Hacienda (Mexican)
  3. Ginger (Japanese)
  4. Taman Sari (Indonesian)
  5. L’Alsace (French)
  6. Mar (Seafood)
  7. Tierra (Steakhouse)

With seven gourmet restaurants to choose from, there is something for every taste. Each Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya restaurant served a three-course meal with your choice of a starter, main, and dessert. My favorite was Taman Sari and a close second was L’Alsace.

The best part of every night was grabbing a fresh-made churro from the churro cart in the Plaza España! As with all the restaurants and bars, remember to bring some cash or coins to leave a tip for the great service.

Read Next: The Best Cancún Excursion

Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya Dress Code

To maintain its five-star rating, this resort does enforce a dress code.

During the day, the Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya dress code is “resort casual.” I wore a swimsuit and a dress or coverup with a big hat and was fine. Shorts are also acceptable, but you won’t find people walking around in swimsuits only unless they are in the pool or beach area.

For dinner, the dress code is “resort elegant.” I found that women were exclusively in dresses and skirts, and men had to wear pants and a collared shirt. Because the standards are simpler, I would say that the Valentin Imperial Maya dress code is more strict for men. Men were asked to go change if their shirts did not have a collar, and no jeans were permitted.

My husband made the fatal mistake of only bringing one collared shirt! Luckily I had febreeze so he was able to rewear it each night. But next time, he will definitely bring more options.

Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya Review

The Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya truly embodies the fun spirit of Cancún while providing a relaxing Yucatan escape. The all-inclusive options make this stay so easy and indulgent. It really was the perfect vacation experience, and one I would return to in a heartbeat.

If you enjoyed this post, check out some of my other favorite stays. For video footage, you can preview my stay on my Instagram! And if you ever have a question you can always DM me @cassiescompass or drop it in the comments below.

What do you think? Will you be staying at the Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya?


This trip was in no way sponsored or compensated. I simply loved my experience so much that I had to share! As always, all thoughts and opinions are sincere and entirely my own.


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For Cassie, every destination deepens her love for God. Her mission is to inspire that same love in others. Hang around and find something to inspire your next adventure!