SLS Cancun

At this late date, Cancún, as a destination, has been pretty well discovered. But not every successful hotel experience requires an element of adventure or exploration. In fact, in a hotel like the SLS Cancún, the surroundings are somewhat beside the point — aside, that is, from the impeccable white-sand beach and the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, stretching out to the horizon. This hotel, to put it simply, aims to bowl you over with contemporary design and state-of-the-art luxury, and provide a memorable, self-contained experience — and you can take its inclusion here as proof we consider it a success.

Aesthetically, it’s the work of architect and designer Piero Lissoni, who brings an Italian influence to a project that’s visibly rooted in Mexican tradition (with perhaps just a hint of Miami Beach). With just 45 suites it’s built on a boutique scale — the upper floors are residences — and the service, as is typical of SLS, is highly personalized. With a private stretch of beach, a Ciel spa and fitness center, and a swimming pool and Jacuzzi, it’s got the facilities of a much larger hotel; that’s without even mentioning the 18-hole golf course. Add a Japanese-influenced Argentinean grill under the direction of chef Jose Icardi and you’ve got just about as transcendent an experience as Cancún can muster.