Looking for the perfect blend of luxury, relaxation, and adventure for your next beach vacation? CIRE CFO Mark Pizza recently returned from a sun-soaked escape to Cozumel, where he was hosted by our wonderful partners at IHG Hotels & Resorts and the Presidente InterContinental Cozumel Resort & Spa. A huge thanks to our dear friend and partner, Renah Kang-Casas, Account Director, Global Luxury & Lifestyle Sales at IHG, for coordinating such a seamless and unforgettable experience. Read on for Mark’s first-hand take on this island paradise…
First Impressions
From the moment I arrived at the Presidente InterContinental Cozumel Resort & Spa, I knew I was in for something special. The entrance is low-key—nothing flashy—just an understated building that blends perfectly into the tropical surroundings. That quiet elegance actually set the tone for the entire stay.
Set along a peaceful stretch of beach and surrounded by lush gardens, the resort feels like a secluded oasis, even though it’s only a short drive from downtown San Miguel. During my stay, the hotel was fully booked, yet it never once felt crowded. Whether I wanted to sip a cocktail in peace or join a snorkeling session, I could always find my own quiet space—or join in the action when I felt like it.
The resort attracts honeymooners, couples, families, and even group events thanks to its thoughtful layout and range of amenities. For me, it was the perfect place to unwind, recharge, and soak up Cozumel’s natural beauty with just the right amount of luxury.
The Rooms
My room was a serene retreat after a day of fun in the sun. The design struck a perfect balance—earthy tones, clean lines, and natural materials like wood and stone. The décor gave off a sophisticated but relaxed feel, with blue and green accents mirroring the ocean views outside.
All the expected luxuries were there: marble bathroom with double sinks, plush bedding, Nespresso machine, and a private balcony where I spent many evenings listening to the waves. Some rooms even come with private pools and butler service, but I was more than happy just having that ocean breeze roll in while I sipped my morning tea.
The Food
The resort has four restaurants, but I’ll keep it simple, you will eat well here. My two standouts were El Caribeño and Alfredo di Roma Trattoria.
El Caribeño, the main beachfront restaurant, is where I had breakfast most mornings. There’s something about starting your day with toes in the sand and ocean views that makes even a basic omelet taste better. But this was far from basic. At lunch, the taco station was a highlight—think warm tortillas piled high with octopus or pork, melted cheese, and fresh herbs and veggies.
For dinner, Alfredo di Roma Trattoria impressed me more than I expected. As someone who grew up in an Italian household, I’m skeptical of resort Italian. But the Chicken Parmesan I ordered? Crispy, cheesy, and rich in flavor. It absolutely delivered. We wrapped things up with a chocolate ganache pastry and tiramisu ice cream that I still think about. Paired with a smooth Sicilian red, it was one of the best meals of the trip.
Activities
This is where the resort really shines. Snorkeling was the highlight of my trip—and I didn’t even have to leave the property. There’s a reef just offshore, and from the cabanas by the water, you can climb straight down a ladder into the sea. Within minutes I was swimming with colorful fish and exploring coral. It was my first time snorkeling, and I couldn’t believe how accessible and amazing it was.
For those into diving, the on-site SCUBA DU shop offers everything from beginner classes to full excursions out to Palancar Reef, part of the second-largest reef system in the world. People come from all over the globe just to dive here, and I can see why.
On land, the resort offers tennis, a full gym, yoga classes, and curated experiences like tequila tastings, and cooking lessons. There’s also a great kids’ club, which families will appreciate.
And if your version of activity looks more like spa robes and sea views, don’t miss the full-service spa. The outdoor thermal pools tucked behind the spa area are an underrated gem—each one a different temperature for a soothing soak with zero crowds.
Top Tips
Skip the stress of downtown souvenir shopping and check out the resort’s on-site boutique. It’s more than just sunscreen and snacks—they’ve got an incredibly curated selection of handmade, artisanal goods from across Mexico. You’ll find beautifully crafted beaded sculptures, Barro Negro pottery, hand-painted and hand-carved wooden figurines, black coral jewelry, and vibrant, hand-sewn stuffed animals. Each piece bursts with color and character, serving as a perfect reminder of your time in this stunning country, even after you’ve returned home.
Also, splurge on a waterside cabana for a day. With private stairs into the ocean and drink service at your fingertips, it’s worth every peso.
Final Thoughts
What surprised me most about the Presidente InterContinental Cozumel was how balanced it felt—luxurious but not over-the-top, peaceful but never boring. The natural setting, attentive service, and laid-back vibe created a kind of effortless escape. Whether you’re diving into the reef, sipping cocktails under a palapa, or just watching the sunset from your balcony, this resort makes it easy to feel like you’ve truly gotten away.
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