Left The beach and ruins at Tulum.The Caribbean and Gulf coastlines of the Yucatán peninsula, with long stretches of powder-white palm-fringed sand and turquoise seas of glassy translucence, have inevitably attracted tourist development. However, there are quiet romantic corners and discreet, very private hotels and resorts along the Riviera Maya beyond the high-rise cacophony of Cancún. The opportunity to stretch out on a glorious beach and dabble in water-sports is irresistible. We've identified and visited some of the best properties in all categories from the international luxury of the Fairmont Mayakoba to the friendly La Tortuga, where whitewashed rooms built round a sinuous free-form pool are shaded by tropical vegetation in the low-rise family resort of Playa del Carmen. In Puerto Morelos, an erstwhile fishing village which still retains its traditional character, the secluded resort Ceiba del Mar is a long-standing favourite.The small town of Tulum is overshadowed by the majesty of its ruins but here there is a good choice of standard accommodation, such as the family-run Ana y José which has a spa offering a range of traditional Mexican treatments.Cancún is a purpose-built resort awash withhotels, but it does have exceptional beaches andall the creature comforts. For families, it is anideal base from which to explore by hire car ororganised excursion without having to uprootevery day. The Fiesta Americana Condesa is typical of the high standards manifested by these properties across the range.The whole coastal strip with its beach resortsand ecological reserves such as the Sian Ka'an Biosphere, and the Mayan sites and colonialtowns dotted around the forest inland, can easilybe explored by road, and car-hire is an excellentoption, especially for families. If you are staying for at least a few days you might base yourself at Las Villas Akumal, where the thatched white-washed cottages have a fully equipped kitchen, and there are two swimming pools. The hotel is at the purpose-built but low-key resort of Akumal between Playa del Carmen and Tulum. (La Tortuga is) A small hotel in a traditional style building. Location was excellent, just a couple of minutes walk from restaurants/bars etc. Ideal for evening dining out. AJ, Sheffield esencia Yearning for a real oasis of calm? This place fits the bill for all-the dreams of everyone from honeymoon couples to families with children are realised here. The hotel offers pure simplicity mixed with quiet sophistication, and details in shells, coral and driftwood create a castaway feel. White is the dominant colour, so the hotel blends seamlessly with the powdery sands. Some of the rooms and cottages in this ultra-discreet property are housed in a mansion once owned by an Italian countess, but the themes and style are of a futuristic, minimalist nature. There's a very tempting, comprehensive spa. Close your eyes, imagine you are dining on the shore with the warm waters of the Caribbean lapping at your feet and you'll get the general idea of just how romantic this place is... 020 8747 8315 / journeylatinamerica.co.uk bookings, consultant advice and additional information 21SHUTTERSTOCK.COMESENCIA

Exotic Guatemala lies at the heart of the Mayan world. There are vivacious markets and volcanic landscapes, mystical lakes, and tropical jungle embracing ruined Mayan cities and temples. It's a country which takes pride in its age-old customs: many villagers still wear richly-woven costumes and the gentle tones of marimba music are all-pervasive in the flowery courtyards. The frequent indigenous festivals are characterised by Catholic and evangelical motifs intertwined with the mysticism of the old beliefs.Belize, a tiny country with an English-speaking Caribbean tradition, is a nation of silky white-sand beaches and coral islands, a plethora of Mayan sites, and a forested highland hinterland which is gradually being opened up to eco?and adventure?tourism. Almost every road journey in both countries is a scenic delight, and Belize has a network of local flights so you can hop to and from the cayes and the more isolated lodges.22