Palmaia, The House of AiA

I recently stayed at Palmaïa – The House of AïA in Mexico, and it was easily one of the most unique and beautiful resort experiences I’ve ever had. The property is exceptionally clean, peaceful, and thoughtfully designed, giving you the feeling of enjoying two vacations in one. The Setting: Jungle Meets Ocean - The resort’s layout is incredible. The back side immerses you in a quiet, untouched jungle filled with local wildlife, natural cenotes, and winding pathways that feel genuinely magical. Step toward the front, and you’re met with a stunning beachfront. It’s the perfect blend of nature retreat and oceanfront relaxation. The Food: Flavorful, Elevated, and Surprising - The dining was exceptional. While the resort is known for being vegan-focused—and I’m someone who typically avoids certain vegan ingredients like seitan—the meals completely surprised me. The chefs know how to build real flavor, texture, and depth with plant-based ingredients. Every dish felt intentional and balanced, often to the point where you forgot it was vegan at all. For non-vegans, I appreciated that the staff always asked my preference and offered thoughtful, high-quality non-vegan options as well. There are no buffets—just fresh, beautifully prepared meals served à la carte. - Room service matched the same high standard. Many of the dishes mirrored what you could get in the restaurants, and they arrived just as fresh, vibrant, and well-prepared. It was one of the most elevated room-service experiences I’ve had anywhere. Service & Amenities: - The level of service was outstanding. Every staff member I encountered—from groundskeepers and housekeeping to restaurant staff and waiters—was friendly, helpful, and genuinely kind. My assigned guide was fantastic: attentive, responsive, and always just a WhatsApp message away. - The beach and grounds were spotless throughout my stay. The resort offers plenty of daily activities, which they encourage but never pressure you into—something I really appreciated. Booking Notes: - I originally reserved a King Suite but ended up in a Family Master Suite. My main tip- book a swim-out room directly with the resort. This property’s pools are beautiful but arent like the typical layout you encounter at most other resorts. So having your own reserved lounge chairs and direct pool access from your room makes a big difference in my opinion. - I also booked my private airport pickup and drop-off directly through the hotel and highly recommend it as well. It was a huge convenience having a private vehicle going straight to the resort—no shared vans, no waiting on other travelers. A Place for Healing and Renewal: I came alone after a difficult breakup, seeking a place to reset. Palmaïa delivered. The atmosphere helped me recover, refresh, and feel grounded. I left renewed and hope to return with a partner who would appreciate it as much as I did. Highly recommend Palmaïa - The House of AïA. Serene, stunning, and truly one of a kind.

We’ve gone to this place three times now. And definitely planning on coming back. The food is out of this world - every restaurant is thoughtful and delicious. The rooms, the beach, the atmosphere is all top notch. The yoga, rituals, meditation sessions are honestly life changing, if that’s what you’re looking for. And finally the staff are all incredibly friendly. Cannot recommend highly enough!

This resort surpassed my expectations. Everything from food, amenities, and service was exceptional. The service especially at restaurants was remarkable. Charley’s tacos was our normal lunch spot. Dany took care of us most of the time. He was always very kind, informative and very hard working. The remaining staff was remarkable as well. Jaime, Luis, Emilio, Alejandro, Jacki, Joel, and many more I don’t recall their names but I can picture their smiling faces. On the spiritual side I very much enjoyed Balder, Rene, Angel and Lucia. Challenged my body and mind in many ways it hasn’t been before. Plantissa was always welcoming with warm faces. Don’t recall their names but their work and dedication to their craft was unmatched. If you’re feeling artsy, Iva as I called her teacher!! Always welcomed me with a smile! Watercolor and charcoal classes available to explore your inner artist. Our transportation within the resort, David and Niuhlt, were splendid. Everyone was very personable and we will be coming back yearly.

Palmaia was exceptional! My husband and I had a memorable stay and loved every aspect of the resort. The food was incredible and as vegans, we were thrilled that most of the menus were vegan by default. However, most of the restaurants include fish and guests can substitute animal products for many of the dishes. Most of the other guests we spoke to were not vegans and chose meat options and also raved about the food. Similarly, the drinks are mocktails, but alcohol may be added. Given the wellness-focus, the activities lean toward yoga and meditation, requiring guests to relax and pay attention to our mental and spiritual health, as well as our physical wellbeing. This is not a place for those who prefer to go on multiple excursions or party into the night but I encourage those on the fence to give it a try. Palmaia allows guests to find peace and there are plenty of activities for those who want to stay busy. Each room is assigned a Nomadic Guide who provides assistance throughout the stay. For example, reservations are required for dinner and made through the Guides. Our Guide, Esteban, was attentive, answered all of our questions, and ensured a seamless check-in and check out. He was always a pleasure and made our stay even more enjoyable! In fact, all staff were so friendly and helpful and they really went above and beyond. We plan to return to Palmaia as soon as we can.

My absolute favorite place on earth. Most wellness places can be either sterile or not luxury…this is just perfect. The most delicious healthy food that’s played even though it’s all inclusive, anything you ask the staff “nothing is a problem”, the water is beautiful turquoise even like Turks and Caicos, you are surrounded by nature, unlimited wellness classes all day like yoga, sound baths, gratitude ceremonies…there’s soo much here to love. I’ll always keep coming back here to get centered and be well taken care of!