Desire Experience (Resorts)

This was our third trip to Desire and we keep coming back. There's simply nothing else like it. The combination of a world-class resort with a lifestyle-friendly atmosphere is unique. We've made lifelong friends at Desire — couples we now travel with regularly. The jacuzzi area after midnight is where the magic happens. Pro tips: book a room with a private plunge pool, arrive on a Saturday to maximize the social calendar, and bring costumes for theme nights. Already booked our fourth trip.

We just returned from 5 nights at Desire Riviera Maya and it was the best vacation of our lives. The resort is stunning — turquoise water, immaculate rooms, incredible food (the sushi bar alone is worth the trip). The clothing-optional policy creates a uniquely liberating atmosphere. The playroom is tasteful, clean, and well-managed. Staff are professional and discreet. The crowd was a great mix of ages and nationalities. Yes, it's expensive, but for what you get — all-inclusive luxury in a lifestyle-friendly environment — it's worth every dollar. Book 6+ months in advance; it sells out.

Desire is the gold standard for lifestyle resorts, full stop. The Pearl property is more intimate and upscale; RM is bigger and more social. We preferred Pearl. The themed nights (glow party, white party, etc.) are well-produced and create great energy. Our only complaint is the price — $700-900/night all-inclusive for a couple is steep, even by resort standards. And the drinks, while unlimited, lean toward quantity over quality. We'd give it a perfect score if the pricing were more accessible.