Papaya Playa Project is an answer to the need for real experiences in an authentic setting that could not be replaced so easily, located across an untouched piece of magical Caribbean coast in Tulum, Mexico, one of world’s best beach destinations and right in the heart of Maya mysticism.
Papaya Playa, a Design Hotels™ Project has a great view with turquoise waters, white sand and a hammock on each porch as the ultimate luxury going off the grid and the concept of this jungle chic beach resort exudes a rustic finesse where nature is the unhindered hero. Always having an eye on the bigger picture –namely sustainable development to preserve the area’s pristine nature and special flair – Papaya Playa Project’s mantra is “Consciousness” under which an evolving program addresses to the locals, their environment and the travelers.
When you come to Papaya Playa Project, two things are of paramount importance: having no footwear and a sense of privacy for families and close friends.
The cabanas and casitas are all ecologically built with indigenous materials and construction techniques by Maya craftsmen. Their simplicity and no-frills furnishings lend them their special charm. Fresh colors, snug beds with highest quality sheets and thoughtful details make for a comfortable stay. The rooms encourage its residents to soak in the warmth of the elements, both physically and mentally. The separation between human and nature diminishes in these rustic spaces and the absence of electrical outlets becomes a welcome reminder to truly unplug. Perception of small indulgences, like flowing mosquito nets and thick towels, is heightened, and the ultimate luxury in most of the cabanas is the private porch, where hammocks gently swing guests into sync with Tulum’s laid-back rhythm.
Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner with locally grown organic vegetables and fruits in season, the menu is a creative and sensitive twist to the typical antojito’s (small portions) and Mexican-inspired tapas. Think colorful, delicious, healthy options with fresh fish caught on our doorstep in the Caribbean Sea, herbs plucked and tossed into steaming, delicious dishes.
LIVE – LOVE – LEARN: Sensorial Spa ‘’Chak Ek’’
The Sensorial Spa “Chak Ek” at Papaya Playa Project is based on a cosmo-vision concept which joins together holistic, therapeutic & medicinal properties by stimulating the senses, thereby evoking an overall spiritual wellbeing and conveying emotional support, affection and respect.
Papaya Playa Spa takes a holistic approach with the aim to nurture the mind just as much as the body. It is a vibrant outdoor space on the beach where guests come for massages, beauty treatments, yoga and meditation. Mayan healing practices are an important component of the Spa’s menu and a meeting with a Shaman can also be arranged. To cleanse body and spirit, the Temazcal (sweat lodge) is a traditional ritual where an herbal tea is poured over hot volcanic rocks, creating steam inside a domed hut that cleans your body, and restores your equilibrium, while the resident Shaman leads the intimate group in meditative chants and healing verses.
A longing for the real, simple, and above all, sensory: to consciously feel the fine texture of sand, hear the sounds of the whole ocean in a seashell or open oneself to the energy of a place where ancient culture and a modern creative spirit merge. Papaya Playa Project is definitely a place where simple pleasures are rediscovered luxuries.
Photo credits: Papaya Playa, a Design Hotels™ Project press kit