By Anita Draycott
In all my travels, I’ve yet to find an establishment that rivals the One&Only Palmilla for spoiling its guests. The resort has garnered a lengthy list of travel awards so I’m obviously not alone in my infatuation of the place.
It starts with the salutation you’ll receive from every staff member—from waiters to gardeners. They bow slightly and place their right hand over their heart. The resort’s general manager borrowed this endearing gesture (meaning that the hospitality is from the heart) from the Otomi hill tribes that live in the state of Jalisco.
At the outdoor reception lounge, you’ll be given a mango and coconut fruit sickle popsicle and golf-carted to your casa, all of which overlook the sea. Your personal butler will unpack your clothes, bring cocktail snacks in the afternoon, set out breakfast on your terrace and light your choice of aromatherapy candle in the evening. Would you like your shirt pressed? It shall be done.
My spacious Miramar casa overlooked Turtle Beach. On the dining table I found a bowl of fruit, snacks and a “chocolate tree.” Amenities include an Illy espresso machine, tequila with limes and spicy almonds. In the bedroom you may choose from pillow, sheet and aromatherapy menus. Toiletries are made for One&Only Palmilla by Lady Primrose in England with a signature fresh Blue Agave scent. One night I found a tiny box in my walk-in closet containing about ten needles threaded with threads to match the clothes hanging in my wardrobe. Such attention to detail is what sets One&Only Palmilla apart.
Down by the freeform pool, guests will be offered triangle-shaped pillows to place under their knees and terrycloth neck rests. Your pool butler will also bring ice buckets filled with bottled water, spritz sprays and an assortment of sunscreens. During winter months you will probably see whales in the blue Sea of Cortez. Celebrate the occasion with one of the resort’s signature ginger Margaritas.
