I've traveled to Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula—specifically Cancun and the Riviera Maya—about half-a-dozen times, but this was my first visit to Isla Mujeres and the Hotel Villa Rolandi^THC. Once just a quaint fishing village and a few beaches, Isla Mujeres has seen tremendous growth in recent years, with new vacation homes, hotels, and tourist attractions taking over much of the island. I was happy to note, however, that as our boat made its way to Villa Rolandi's private dock, none of these developments were readily apparent.

The short trip across the water by private yacht from Cancun to Isla Mujeres, "The Isle of Women," is one of Villa Rolandi's special charms. We found ourselves on one of the resort's larger boats, the Cocoon, which has a two-man crew and offers beverage service to lively music as you cross the bay.

January 2009