Fodor's Expert Review Valentin Imperial Maya

Nestled in thriving mangrove forests, this adults-only all-inclusive is one of the few in the region that still embraces Mexican tradition. Marking the entrance are brick archways and terra-cotta walkways inlaid with mosaic tile. In hacienda fashion, the grand lobby features more than a dozen wrought-iron chandeliers suspended above marble floors. Wooden paths lead to private palafitos (structures on stilts), where couples can enjoy romantic dinners. Jazz or classical music echoes throughout the resort's 75 unspoiled acres. Standard rooms are richly decorated with teak furnishings and include sitting areas with plasma TVs and terraces with spacious hot tubs. The surf at the beach can be somewhat rough, but there are two huge pools, one with an artificial island.