Ryan and I’s trip to Mexico was phenomenal to say the least – truly the workings of a magical arrangement that was a surprise of all surprises.

 

Working with Ashley Russell, a travel agent with Small World Big Fun, was such a pleasure. Ashley worked behind the scenes with my fiancé Ryan to plan the proposal that blew me away, and that I didn’t see coming. I worked with Ashley to set up the travel itinerary for Cancun and Gabriela with Hyatt Zilara.

 

 

Ashley convinced us that she had the perfect resort, and she fulfilled our hearts desires. Upon arriving we were promptly greeted by Gabriela, a concierge, who worked closely with me to exceed all of our expectations. Little did I know it, but Ryan had also been able to begin communicating his plan for a surprise beach proposal, weeks before we set foot in Zilara. With our package, concierge and butler services were included to make all reservations and make sure we had everything we needed at all times. Ingrid, Ana, Evelin and Gabriela made this trip even more special.

 

 

To my surprise every member of the Zilara staff upon seeing us would promptly stop and engage us with the friendliest “hola” while placing their right hand over their heart. This type of greeting we certainly didn’t think would continue beyond our first few moments of arrival, oh were we wrong. Not only were we politely greeted by each member in the Zilara but every member outside around the pool and the beach. It was like we were royalty.

 

Ashley worked hand-in-hand with Gabriela to ensure Ryan could plan his surprise proposal, and boy was it a surprise! Thanks to Jim Englehorn of Sissy’s Log Cabin, Ryan was able to pick up my ring and securely hide it. Simultaneously, Gabriela was lining up the photographer for the surprise beach proposal of a lifetime, completed with dozens of white roses and “MARRY ME” beach letters.

 

Now, to share some of the incredible amenities that this resort offers:

 

There were so many beautiful cabanas circling the gorgeous infinity pools, where we truly enjoyed relaxing. The meals were incredible and were prepared for us daily by an amazing restaurant where our favorite waiter, Arturo, would address us each by name, and even cared enough to remember our preferences on food and drinks. Arturo greeted us each day for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The food was the best I have ever had at an all-inclusive resort, and every meal was plated beautifully. 

The pool party was a blast, with an enormous conga line, a top DJ spinning the beats and the Hyatt hype man on the microphone, us and other vacationers enjoyed chanting our favorite hits. 

 

The cafe and bakery was everything we could ask for, with fresh macaroons and even my personal favorite, an iced skinny caramel macchiato with almond milk.


 

Our spa day was by far the best over-the-top two day experience. After enjoying a sunset beach massage, we had to return for day two – which was made complete with soaking pools, waterfall relaxation pools, wet & dry saunas and cucumbers to cover our eyes. 

 

 

 

The entertainment was as amazing as MJ, yes Michael Jackson, moonwalked to the hits of “Thriller”, “Billy Jean” and “Smooth Criminal,” stunning the audience for hours. The dancing and choreography of MJ was as close as it gets to the king of pop himself. RIP to the pop star, he was certainly in the Zilara during our trip. With nightly themes, every night brings something new and fun for guests to enjoy.

 

 

Before visiting, we had heard that there were amazing enormous sea turtles that come up every night and lay their eggs. One evening, we decided to go for a walk on the beach and enjoy the beautiful sounds of waves crashing to shore. It was that evening that we personally watched a giant sea turtle come all the way up to where we were relaxing. She dug her hole and laid her eggs right in front of us, it was such a spectacular event.

 

 

The entire trip from the time we arrived, until the sad time of leaving our new Zilara family at check-out, was superb. The whole staff of Hyatt Zilara and Ashley Russell of Small World Big Fun made us so happy with the courteous smiles and pleasant personalities. We will definitely make the trip again.

 

READ ALSO: Heather’s Favorite Things: Travel Agent Ashley Glaze Russell