Katarina Railko, a leading voice in hospitality with deep expertise in travel and tourism, offers her perspective on the new Secrets Mirabel Cancun Resort & Spa. We explore how its unique location shapes its design, the curated journey for elite members, its culinary strategy, the integration of local traditions, and its commitment to sustainability.
Your resort sits between the Caribbean Sea and Nichupté Lagoon. How did this unique setting inspire the “modern coastal aesthetic” and your choice of local, handcrafted décor?
Being enveloped by water creates a tranquility we bring indoors. Our aesthetic uses a palette from the Caribbean and lagoon, blending natural textures with handcrafted décor from local artisans. This grounds the design in Yucatan culture, giving guests a true sense of place.
The Preferred Club promises an elevated experience. Beyond amenities like the Sky Bar, can you describe the personalized journey that makes it feel so exclusive?
It’s a seamless, proactive experience. Guests get a private check-in at an oceanfront lounge. Our team anticipates needs, like arranging a cabana at the exclusive infinity pool or securing a spot at the members-only breakfast venue. It feels like an inner circle where every detail is managed.
With eight distinct, reservation-free restaurants, how do you maintain unique culinary identities and ensure quality across the board?
The key is culinary autonomy. Each venue operates as an independent restaurant with a specialized team, from our steakhouse to our Asian concept. This avoids a generic feel. Our commitment to local sourcing also weaves the region’s story into the dining experience, making each meal authentic.
The upcoming Secrets Spa will feature Mayan-inspired rituals. Can you give us a glimpse into how local traditions will shape the healing treatments?
Our vision is a sanctuary honoring Mayan healing wisdom. We will incorporate local ingredients from the Yucatan into our treatments. A signature ritual might begin with the aroma of sacred incense before a treatment using ancient massage techniques. It’s a sensory journey connecting guests to the spirit of the land.
Your resort is focused on sustainability and community engagement. How do you turn that commitment into action when partnering with local artists or food suppliers?
It’s about genuine relationships. We commission pieces directly from community artists, making their story part of our resort. We visit local farms to build long-term partnerships, supporting the local economy. Our bottle cap collection is another direct collaboration, benefiting local health organizations.
What is your forecast for the future of luxury all-inclusive travel?
The future is hyper-local immersion. The model is evolving beyond the self-contained bubble as travelers crave authenticity. They want to know the art was made locally and the spa treatment is based on regional wisdom. Successful resorts will be cultural gateways, integrating the community for an enriching vacation.
