Resort: Riviera Maya, Mexico

Just south of the purpose-built tackiness of Cancun on Mexico's Caribbean coast is the self-styled Riviera Maya, the hot new beach destination for the Vilebrequin-wearing brigade. At the centre of the buzz is the sprawling, eco-conscious Mayakoba development, which has attracted six luxury hotels to its unique blend of golden sand, jungle and mangrove forests.

Two of Mayakoba's newest five-star residents are just opening for business. The Mandarin Oriental Riviera Maya opened quietly in December, while the Rosewood Mayakoba opens its doors on 1 February. Capella's Bahia Maroma and the hip Viceroy Resorts and Residences will follow, while next year's arrival of Nizuc, a wow-factor resort from Amanresorts founder Adrian Zecha, can only enhance the area's allure. AO'R

Suites at the Mandarin Oriental, Riviera Maya, start at £392 a night, 00 52 984 877 3888, www.mandarinoriental.com. Suites at Rosewood Mayakoba start at £310, 00 800 87 67 39 66, www.rosewoodhotels.com, www.visitmexico.com