It has been just more than a year since Karisma Hotels & Resorts announced that it would bring overwater villa luxury to Mexico for the first time. The company kept the details and design under wraps for months, causing the rumor mill to wonder what these bungalows, called palafitos, would be like. In December at Karisma’s annual GIVC awards held in Riviera Maya, travel agents were given a first look at the bungalows as they neared completion. Now Karisma says they are set to open in September at the adults-only El Dorado Maroma.
The first phase of the 30 palafitos, which is still under construction, will have ocean views, glass-bottom floors, direct ladder access to the ocean, outdoor Aguas del Amor showers, private infinity pools, indoor Jacuzzis and oversize decks with lounge chairs that look out onto the ocean. An overwater restaurant and spa will complete the experience. The Gourmet Inclusive Over Water Ocean Grill & Wine Bar will have an open kitchen for all meals with views of the Caribbean Sea, with menu creations inspired by the ocean and a glass-floor private dining room. Naay Spa Over the Ocean will have four suites and a list of treatments based on Mayan herbal practices. Guests will have the option of indoor or outdoor treatments.
Special services at the palafitos will include 24-hour room service, exclusive beach beds, customized beach picnics and full butler service on-demand.
The palafitos are now on sale, bookable only by qualifying Gourmet Inclusive Vacation Consultants for travel starting Sept. 1 with rates starting at $665 per adult, per night. Those who have already sold El Dorado Spa Resorts & Hotels and Generations Resorts, by Karisma will be the exclusive sellers of the palafitos through Sept. 1. Karisma Hotels & Resorts will pay a 21% commission on all bookings.