As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a golden hue across the Caribbean Sea, I found myself enveloped in the ethereal beauty of Etéreo, an Auberge Resorts Collection property. This luxurious haven, nestled within the lush mangroves of Mexico’s Riviera Maya, served as the perfect backdrop for a much-needed four-day escape with my mother, Ana Victoria. Our journey was more than just a holiday; it was a celebration of my mother’s Latin American epicurean roots, love, and the exquisite flavors of Mexican cuisine.
From the moment we arrived, Etéreo embraced us with its warm hospitality. The lobby, an artfully curated space that seems to float above the greenery, welcomed us with the soothing scent of white copal and the refreshing taste of hibiscus tea—a place we did not return to see until our departure. Our assigned host guided us through the tranquil pathways where every structure, crafted from natural stone and surrounded by shimmering pools, felt like a meditation in motion.

Our stay was punctuated by culinary adventures, with Itzam, the resort’s signature restaurant, leading the charge. Under the expert guidance of the executive chef, Carlos Segura, Itzam offers an immersive dining experience that celebrates the rich tapestry of Mexican heritage. Each dish tells a story, a narrative woven from local ingredients and traditional recipes passed down through generations.
The highlight, undoubtedly, was the cena de la abuela—a tasting menu that showcased cherished family recipes from the culinary team, each bite echoing the love and passion embedded in their grandmothers’ kitchens, which brought us back to my own family’s epicurean history. Imagine a Like Water for Chocolate film unfold in real time as we enjoyed every special meal. As I like to say, each meal was prepared with love.
The Flavors & Spirits of Etéreo program further enriched our culinary journey, featuring rotating chef residencies and innovative bar collaborations. We were fortunate to experience a special dinner prepared by celebrated chefs from around the globe, each bringing a unique flair to the table. The evening was a feast for the senses, with vibrant flavors and expertly paired beverages that transported us to the heart of Mexico’s culinary landscape.

Chef Segura’s commitment to sustainability resonated deeply with us. Each menu was crafted with an ethos of responsibility, sourcing ingredients from local farmers, fishermen, and artisans. Our taste buds danced with delight as we savored Oaxacan-inspired wagyu tetelas and the refreshing vuelva a la vida verde, a zesty seafood medley that spoke to the coastal richness of the region. The toro taco, featuring bluefin tuna from Ensenada, was a testament to the resort’s dedication to honoring both tradition and sustainability.
Beyond the culinary delights, our days at Etéreo were filled with exploration and relaxation. We indulged in rejuvenating treatments at SANA, the resort’s spa, where ancient healing practices merged seamlessly with modern wellness trends. The serene atmosphere enveloped us, inviting us to disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with ourselves.
Our evenings were spent beneath the stars, dining al fresco at Itzam, where the open-air setting offered panoramic views of the ocean. We relished the carefully curated wine and spirits experiences, which provided us with the opportunity to learn about the history of Mexican viticulture.

The Mexican Wine Club and Spirits of Mexico tasting experiences were particularly memorable, as they unveiled the richness of local varietals and the intricate processes behind mezcal and tequila production.
Each meal became a treasured memory, from the casual elegance of Che Che, where Nikkei cuisine was redefined, to the beachside ambiance of Changarro, which served up mouthwatering ceviches and shrimp tacos that were simply irresistible. The vibrant colors and flavors of every dish were a feast for the eyes and palate, making each dining experience at Etéreo a remarkable celebration of culture and cuisine.
One evening, we participated in the much-anticipated Abuela Dinner, a collaborative effort among the resort’s chefs to pay homage to their roots. With each course, we were transported on a culinary journey across Mexico, exploring flavors from Puebla to Michoacán.

Each dish was lovingly crafted, reflecting the unique stories of the chefs and their grandmothers. The camaraderie in the kitchen was palpable, and it was a joy to share this intimate experience with my mother, who reveled in the nostalgia of her own culinary heritage.
As our four-day retreat drew to a close, I was left with a profound sense of gratitude for the experiences we shared at Etéreo. This luxurious sanctuary offered us more than just opulent accommodations; it provided us with an immersive journey through the heart of Mexican culture, cuisine, and community. The connections we forged with the people and the land left an indelible mark on our hearts.
Etéreo, with its seamless blend of nature and luxury, truly captured the essence of what it means to travel. As we departed, I vowed to carry the spirit of this enchanting destination with me, reminding me that every meal is a story waiting to be told, a connection waiting to be made, and a memory waiting to be cherished.