My husband and I celebrated our milestone birthdays with a trip to Mexico—a perfect blend of sun, sand, and sea. I love planning trips, so after some research, we decided on a combination of Cancun and Isla Mujeres for a birthday getaway we’d never forget.

We chose the recently opened Hyatt Vivid Grand Island, a trusted brand, though we had some concerns about the unpredictable September weather and staying at a brand-new hotel.

Upon arriving in Cancun, we were greeted by heavy rain—a less-than-ideal start—but just as quickly, the sun emerged, setting the tone for the rest of our trip. As we made the scenic drive to the resort, we couldn’t help but wonder if our second concern about the hotel would come true.

All doubts were swept away when we arrived. At the gates, we were welcomed with refreshing beverages, cool hand towels, and a tour of the property. The beautifully manicured grounds and the stunning design of the main lobby made an immediate impression, assuring us we’d made the right choice.

To our delight, we received an upgrade to a spacious, modern suite with floor-to-ceiling windows and a wraparound patio offering panoramic views of the ocean, bay, and golf course. Watching the sunrise and sunset from any angle of our suite was an absolute dream—and enjoying breakfast on the balcony felt like a luxury all its own.

The resort itself was a foodie’s paradise, offering 10 restaurants featuring everything from Mediterranean to Japanese cuisine, not to mention an authentic Mexican taco truck. The tacos, ceviche, chilaquiles, and churros were nothing short of perfection.

With six lounges and bars serving premium drinks, we spent many evenings at the Vantage Club Lounge, sipping spicy mango margaritas during golden hour and enjoying live music. The Moët & Chandon vending machine was a cheeky and tempting touch!

The resort’s activities catered to every mood. I loved the sound bowl yoga sessions and sipping and painting by the pool. When we weren’t relaxing in the longest rooftop infinity pool in Cancun, we took the shuttle to the private beach club—a peaceful escape just for hotel guests.

Exploring Cancun itself was a must. We ventured into El Centro to experience local culture and visited the Zona Hotelera’s iconic Coco Bongo club and the scenic tower. Public transportation made it all an easy adventure.

A highlight of the trip was our day on Isla Mujeres, or the “Island of Women.” This charming island exudes a laid-back vibe that stole our hearts. We rented a golf cart to navigate its narrow streets and stunning sights.

We stopped at a fresh coconut stand by the roadside to refresh us on our journey to the hillside paths at Punta Sur Park located at the tip/edge of the island. Along the path there are statues that highlight the history and culture of Mexico. Feeling the warm ocean breeze while taking in the stunning views at the edge of the island left us speechless. 

On our way back to the island’s main area, we got turned around a few times until a kind gentleman helped us find our way—and he even recommended his restaurant. We stopped at Brisas Mexicana for a delicious meal, served with a smile. If you’re ever on the island, give them a try!

No trip to Isla Mujeres is complete without enjoying its beaches. The crystal-clear turquoise waters embraced us, making it incredibly hard to leave. We ended the day with a stunning sunset ferry ride back to Cancun, soaking in every last moment.

Both Cancun and Isla Mujeres offered the perfect balance of fun, relaxation, and unforgettable birthday memories. This trip was everything we hoped for and more—and it’s one we’d gladly repeat.