Trading Tradition for Tranquility
One solo traveler swaps sparklers for serenity on a holiday weekend
While most Americans spent the Fourth of July juggling barbecue tongs and mosquito repellent, Jennifer had a better idea: ditch the fireworks and holiday crowds. Her options were simple: attend the usual summer holiday weekend BBQ or step out of the comfort zone for solo travel to another country.
With a quick call to Well Placed Travel, Jennifer described her dream: a short, restorative getaway somewhere warm, wellness-focused, and—critically—not complicated. No logistics, no stressful planning, and definitely no parade crowds. Well Placed Travel came back with two options: Belize or Mexico. Enter: Palmaïa – The House of AïA, a dreamy, eco-luxury resort in Playa del Carmen.
“It was exactly what I wanted,” Jennifer says. “A place where I could rest and recharge.”
Welcome to the Jungle
A unique oceanfront wellness resort tucked into 400 hectares of virgin jungle in Playa del Carmen, Palmaïa – The House of AïA is redefining what an all-inclusive can be. Here, the emphasis isn’t on crowded buffets or conga lines—it’s on curated wellness experiences, sustainable luxury, and effortless flow.
Think:
Four infinity pools (including a swim-up bar)
A private white-sand beach with shaded cabanas
A jungle spa featuring Temazcal rituals
Scenic wooden pathways through lush greenery, with hidden cenotes along the way
“I loved everything—the property was stunning, the food was delicious, the staff was incredible, and the accommodations were beautiful,” Jennifer says.
Your Personal Concierge (aka Nomadic Guide)
Every guest at Palmaïa is paired with a Nomadic Guide—your go-to person for everything. Jennifer’s guide handled restaurant reservations, taxi rides into town, even delivered sunscreen to her cabana. “And always with a cheerful, ‘Es un placer,’” she says.
At the end of each day, you receive a text with the next day’s holistic activity schedule—a thoughtful mix of mind-body offerings like:
Sunrise yoga on the oceanfront deck
Sound baths under the jungle canopy
Cacao and forgiveness ceremonies
Meditation and breathwork sessions
Creative classes like drawing and painting
Some sessions happen in open-air spaces like the ritual deck; others in the serene Aisuru Room—with a post-class stop at Plantissa Café for fresh plant-based bites.
Conscious Comforts
Palmaïa blends eco-luxury with serious attention to detail:
Spacious suites with ocean views, balconies, or swim-out pools
Vegan furnishings, cruelty-free toiletries, and no single-use plastics
Menus that are 90% plant-based, with sustainable proteins available
Six inspired restaurants and four bars, all prioritizing clean, seasonal ingredients
Their culinary philosophy follows seven promises, including no refined sugars or oils, fermented food options at every meal, and breads crafted with sourdough starters. (Translation: clean eating never tasted so good.)
The resort serves an array of creative mocktails and adult beverages in several bars and a mixology lounge.
Wild Neighbors & Quiet Paths
Jennifer loved spotting local wildlife: coatis, agoutis, spider monkeys, lizards, and an Instagram-worthy array of birds. Guests can stroll along quiet paths, borrow a bike, or hitch a ride in an electric golf cart.
well placed
“I don’t usually revisit places—my list is too long—but I’ll definitely return,” she says. “The combination of nature, wellness, and luxury was perfect.”
Her top tip? Arrange your airport transfer in advance. “Karen recommended it, and it was a huge relief to have Alex from Project Expedition waiting for me. I felt safe, and the service was professional.”
Because Jennifer booked through Well Placed Travel, she enjoyed:
✔ Room upgrade to a modern suite overlooking the adults-only infinity pool
✔ Expert planning
✔ Exclusive perks & trusted partners for transfers and on-site experiences
“I didn’t have to think about a thing. From the first phone call to my last sunset yoga session, everything was seamless,” Jennifer says.
gravy boat or infinity pool?
your call.
Palmaïa isn’t just for the Fourth of July. It’s the perfect antidote to holiday stress—think Thanksgiving by the beach or a New Year spent under the stars instead of fluorescent lights.
Want to plan your own escape to this or other places? Start with a quick note to Well Placed Travel. We’ll handle the rest.
