"Best for getting grounded in ancient wisdom "Located in Mexico’s Riviera Maya, the stretch of land from Cancún to Tulum that was once home to ancient Maya civilization, Etéreo, Auberge Resorts Collection is as much a cultural hub as it is a place to beach. Opened in December 2021, the new 75-room hotel—whose Spanish name translates to “spirit” or “heavenly”—highlights traditional wellness wisdom throughout its various offerings. The SANA spa menu, for example, includes detoxifying Mayan clay wraps, a massage that incorporates sacred Mayan healing stones, and an “energy purification ritual” that uses Mayan crystals, metal, vibration, smudge smoke, and local herbs known for their mystical properties. The property also offers traditional cooking classes and workshops, as well as weekly spiritual rituals led by the in-house shaman, Yaotekatl, who will guide you through ancient Mayan practices. The beachside sunset fire meditation is especially transformative, as the Maya viewed fire as a bridge between earthly and otherworldly realms. Gather around the flames for a blessing from Yaotekatl, and then cover yourself in local Mayan clay to connect to the earth before rinsing off in the ocean under the moonlight. For more cultural lessons, be sure to visit some nearby ruins—the hotel offers a guided trip to the ancient city Chichen Itza, or you can rent a car and go on your own."
