“Pole dancing”, says Ana, our well-toned instructor and a Paris-trained classical ballerina, “is a valid and rigorous dance – based exercise designed to enhance women’s self-esteem and pride in the strength of their bodies.”

Despite her 7″ lucite stripper shoes, she assures us she’s never worked in the adult entertainment business and we believe her.

Of the many high quality classes offered at the all-inclusive Paradisus Playa del Carmen, nothing compares to Pole Dancing 101.

And Ana isn’t joking about the rigorous exercise. The 10 of us, women of various ages, shapes and sizes quickly discover just how much strength is required to hug the pole with our knees while supporting our body weight – all the while trying to appear graceful on the slippery descent. Of course, we soon have  a curious audience – mostly male – some with video cameras.

Other Classes:

For those lacking exhibitionist tendencies there are other recommended classes. Spanish with Paula, tequila tasting with Jorge and tennis lessons with Hermana all add to the five-star all-inclusive experience but as to be expected, classes are not the only reason to visit the Paradisus Playa del Carmen.

Service:

Several other guests – repeat visitors or those following the advice of their travel agents come for the great service from a staff of 900 – attentive and professional but never in your face. And nothing is out of the question. If you are lost and late for one of your many classes on this huge property, a staff member will show up immediately to take you there.  If you’re craving a dish that is not on the menu it will magically appear. The beach staff will even put your things away for safe keeping if they notice you’ve wandered off and also give helpful suggestions on shopping in Playa del Carmen without getting harassed or cheated.

Location:

Paradisus scores top marks for the location too as it’s a 20-minute walk along the beach into lively Playa del Carmen and a $10.00 US cab ride home at night (recommended). The beach is perfect for swimming with gentle, warm waters that are completely safe for kids and those who usually hang around the pools – which at Paradisus are salt water based and heated to a perfect temperature. As to be expected, whether you’re at the pool or the beach someone is always there to bring you a perfectly chilled mojito, icy beer or a glass of wine- all top quality drinks.

Food and Drink:

Like most all-inclusives, food is a major part of the experience and here to Paradisus Playa del Carmen excels with 15 bars and restaurants including my favourite, La Palapa reserved for Royal Service guests – a worthwhile upgrade.

The finest of dining comes in the form of “Passion by Martin Berasateguia”, a Michelin-starred chef and innovator of Basque cuisine. His creations focus on molecular gastronomy employing fresh seafood to produce light and imaginative dishes not soon forgotten.

Rooms:

The best of these feature well-lit cool, contemporary designs in either swim up rooms or those that provide good ocean views from higher floors. Double-sized bathtubs and private balcony hot tubs are popular features.

http://www.melia.com/en/hotels/mexico/playa-del-carmen/paradisus-playa-d…

• 5ª Av. Esq Calle 112, Luis Donaldo Colosio,
• 77719 Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, Mexico
• Phone: 52 800 906 3542