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Picture the lush mangroves of the Riviera Maya, a 620-acre nature reserve which stretches toward the coast and meets a kilometer of pristine white-sand beachfront and crystal clear turquoise sea. An area that is practically untouched, abundant with rainforest plants, palms, cacti, tropical fruit trees and flowers; home to hundreds of species of birds, as well as sea turtles.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Now imagine, tucked within, just noticeable through the lushness and the trees, is a stunning tranquil, luxury hotel. Well remarkably, deep inside Mexico\u2019s Yucatan Peninsula, EDITION has managed to do just that. The result is a place of spellbinding tranquility like you\u2019ve never seen before.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n The entrance itself is a nod to Mexico\u2019s indigenous past \u2013 designed to resemble a cenote, the hotel\u2019s grand entryway feels like a portal to another world. Once inside, every detail has been carefully curated to reflect the country\u2019s deep-rooted and unique Yucatan culture. From the earthy textures to the fluid architectural lines that mimic the natural landscape, it\u2019s hard to not feel like you\u2019re somewhere completely timeless and natural \u2013 while of course enveloped in the luxury markings of an EDITION hotel.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n From the moment you step into your suite, the biggest detox of your life falls upon you.\u00a0 The rooms demonstrate how much of modern luxury is in fact a return to basics, the desire to escape it all: neutral tones, natural textures, and floor-to-ceiling windows which open up to breathtaking views of the mangroves. You are at one with the elements, you are grounded. You are every zen meme you have ever encountered, and you will never want to see a screen again.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Obviously, the furnishings and bedding are gorgeous. EDITION\u2019s signature Le Labo bath products, along with the oversized soaking baths and rainfall shower only add to the calm you will feel. It\u2019s a space designed for absolute relaxation, where you can wake up to the sounds of nature, wind down with perfectly dim lighting, and fall asleep under the glow of stars,<\/span><\/p>\n <\/em><\/p> It is! The resort welcomes LGBTQ+ travellers with open arms, offering a space that feels sophisticated and warm. Whether you\u2019re looking for a tranquil escape or a vibrant social scene, the hotel staff go above and beyond to ensure every guest feels at home. Mexico\u2019s Riviera Maya has long been a favourite for queer travellers seeking sun-drenched serenity, and this EDITION property makes it all the more special.<\/span><\/p>\n Along with the stunning beaches and luxurious resorts you\u2019d associate with Riviera Maya, there is in fact a growing LGBTQ+ scene. For those wanting to experience a queer-friendly escape beyond the hotel, the coastal town Playa del Carmen is a short drive away. Here you\u2019ll find the lively Club 69, a favourite among the local LGBTQ+ community for its drag performances and energetic dance floor.<\/span><\/p>\n For a more relaxed evening, Bar 25, an intimate cocktail lounge known for its mezcal-infused drinks and stylish crowd is friendly to all. If you\u2019re lucky, your visit might coincide with one of Playa\u2019s underground queer pop-up events, which range from beachside full-moon parties to art-driven soir\u00e9es in hidden jungle locations. Tulum, another town not too far away, offers LGBTQ+ travellers an alternative scene, with bohemian beach clubs and wellness retreats embracing the queer community. And when you wish to unwind in complete calm, there is, of course, the hotel you\u2019ll forever call home.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n <\/em><\/p> As well as impossible serenity and a truly special, near-sacred, atmosphere, this EDITION has all the glamour and chic comforts you associate with the brand globally. Two of Mexico’s most renowned young chefs pioneered the concept in their own restaurants on-site, KI’IS (which means ‘Zest’ in Maya) and SO’OL Beach Club. You can expect tasting menus that take you through the history and modernity of Mexican flavours, local ingredients elevated to art, varieties of vegetables you\u2019ve never had before, and a tres leches cake that lingers in your memory long after the last bite.<\/span><\/p>\n Make sure to reserve at table at KI’IS during your stay. This isn’t any average hotel restaurant. The experience is top-notch. Leave decision making at the door and go for the tasting menu – you won’t be disappointed.<\/p>\n Drinks are just as exceptional, with a focus on Mexican spirits (particularly mezcal). These can be found at the restaurants of course, but also at the hotel\u2019s bar, and poolside. Speaking of the pool \u2013 unlike the bright blue you might expect, EDITION\u2019s swimming pool is a striking green, designed to mirror the surrounding sea and seamlessly blend with the environment. A small touch that goes a long way to making this place feel truly special.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n That attention to detail is everywhere. The staff don\u2019t just meet expectations, they anticipate them. By the second day, they had our favourite cocktails memorised, greeting us with personalised drinks before we even had to ask. It\u2019s that kind of warmth that transforms a hotel stay into something unforgettable.<\/span><\/p>\n In every EDITION, there is a grand interpretation of the Lobby Bar. If you are an EDITION fan like us, the one here is a cross between The London EDITION’s grandeur and The Madrid EDITION’s expanse – the result is a huge space, triple height ceiling that manages to – remarkably – feel intimate at the same time.<\/p>\n![](\"https:\/\/www.gaytimes.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/The-Riviera-Maya-EDITION-at-Kanai-_-Forum-Terrace-scaled.jpg\")
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This sounds incredible, but is EDITION Riviera Maya queer-friendly?\u00a0<\/b><\/h3>\n
Fabulous, so there\u2019s a queer scene here to explore?\u00a0<\/b><\/h3>\n
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What else is at EDITION Riviera Maya?\u00a0<\/b><\/h3>\n
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<\/p>Responsibility\u2026\u00a0<\/b><\/h3>\n