As we step onto the shores of Isla Mujeres, a sense of anticipation runs through our body. The sun casts a golden glow over the impressive temple of a resort that is Impression Isla Mujeres by Secrets. Michelle Raoult, the Director of Sales and Marketing, greets us with a warm smile, her eyes sparkling, and an enthusiastic “Hello!” Right away we have to talk about our “first impression of Impression”. She told us how despite its recent opening, this has been a long time coming. “The idea for Impression Isla Mujeres by Secrets began over 15 years ago when the previous owners initiated the project. However, construction was abandoned, leaving the site deserted until the current team took over and brought the vision to life.”
Continuing our stroll through the hotel’s lush grounds, we are met by Mourad Essafi, the General Manager, who exudes such calm confidence and warmth, it can only be matched by the perfectly curated atmosphere of the hotel’s nature-inspired architecture. We sit on one of the many comfortable chairs and Mourad talks about the intentionality of this project to truly be one with a purpose. “Architecture is important because art is important,” he says. Looking around, we understand what Mourad means.
Venturing towards the beach, we are greeted by crystal-clear waters that shimmer in the sunlight. The rhythmic sound of waves crashing against the shore creates a soothing backdrop as we stroll along the boardwalks. Suddenly, a familiar face appears – Sheena Williams, Luxury Travel Advisor of Embark Beyond. With an infectious energy, Sheena regales us with tales of her adventures and shares her newfound love for the mesmerizing sunsets of Isla Mujeres.
Sheena shares snippets of who she is and how she got her current zest for life. “I was really shy as a kid,” she confesses with a chuckle. “But now? Now, I love singing at the top of my lungs, dancing all night, and sharing belly laughs with anyone who will join.”
Sheena’s enthusiasm for life is palpable. She speaks animatedly about her passion for collecting favorite sunsets worldwide and a personal credo she lives by: “Take nothing for granted and live each day like it’s your last!”
“I couldn’t agree more” as if on cue, we are joined by Katie Brook, Luxury Travel Advisor of Embark Beyond who emerged from the hotel’s lush surroundings. “I specialize in group travel of all sizes,” Katie tells us about her work. When we ask her what kind of people she works with, we find out that Katie has a background in the music industry. “I have a focus on entertainment clients, ensuring that every aspect of their travel experience is tailored to their unique preferences and desires.”
From unique clients to unique weather, Katie says Isla Mujeres is a haven, not to mention perfect for flowy dresses.
Speaking of dresses, Alexandra Rice, Luxury Travel Advisor, was looking positively divine in her off-shoulder dress. “It’s made in Greece!” she tells us proudly, “it’s where I specialize in”.
We were ready to discover the pool and Alex guided the way.
At the pool we ran into another member of the Embark Beyond luxury travel team looking absolutely supreme, Jazz Coble!
Jazz has pioneered a new aspect of navigating luxury travel as a private consultant for Caribbean, Mexico and Maldives bringing insight to both the Luxury Travel Advisor’s role as well as resort partnerships. Learning about her experience was fascinating, and the setting was absolutely magical. Honestly, we could not have asked for a better way to have ended our day!