CANCUN — RIU Hotels & Resorts has opened its newest 5-star property in Mexico, the 428-room Riu Palace Kukulkan.

The new all-inclusive, adults-only hotel has a prime beachfront location in Cancun.

This year marks RIU’s 25th anniversary in Mexico. The country has become RIU’s main international destination with 22 hotels in five Caribbean and Pacific states, for a total of 12,000 rooms.

Riu notes that the rooms are bright and spacious with views of the Caribbean Sea and a colour palette dominated by natural and earth tones. Enormous green columns preside over the lobby and contrast with the comfortable curved white sofas that add distinction in combination with the spectacular lighting fixtures, says the company.

Seven restaurants offer an array of culinary options. There’s the main Don Julio, a great buffet with terrace; the Japanese restaurant Sunakku; the Krystal, with fusion food; the Mexican restaurant la Casa de las Flores; the Italian restaurant Rossini; a poolside steakhouse; and the grill Pepe’s Food with barbecue served throughout the day. There are also five bars: the lobby bar Daiquiri, with a mixology specialist and daily signature cocktail; Capuchino patisserie and ice cream shop; la Latina lounge; Mamasita pool bar; and the Lounge bar.

Outside there are four pools plus direct beach access from the hotel. There’s also a Renova Spa. Riu Palace Kukulkan is across from the popular La Isla shopping centre, plus it’s well connected to the archaeological areas of the Yucatan as well as the city of Cancun and the airport.

Guests booking Elite Club by RIU rooms have access to separate and personalized check-in  and late check-out, a welcome gift, aromatherapy and a Premium beverage dispenser, among other perks. Guests who choose the new Elite Club option will also receive a special welcome with a letter from the hotel manager, a gift with the Elite Club logo and a bottle of wine or cava to celebrate the start of their holiday.