Unwrapping the Best Gift: My Dream Birthday Vacation
Last year, my birthday gift to myself was a cozy Uniqlo haul. This year, I decided to treat myself to an all-inclusive, 5-star, beachside resort in Cancún, Mexico. This is how my week of delightful rest, relaxation, and peace began.
December 27, 2024
6:53 AM – Omaha, Nebraska
Flight Takeoff
To think, in a few hours, I’ll see a beach for the first time. I can’t wait to witness the glistening blue water, feel the sand between my toes, be cooled by the ocean breeze, and kissed by the sun. I often wondered how the month December would feel if I experienced it in a different season. Now, I’m traveling to Summer, and I’m filled with so much curiosity, happiness, and gratitude.
FEELING: tired, anxious, nervous, relieved, aligned, ANDDDD EXCITEDDD! 🌊☀️🌴🌺🐚🌅❤️💗💕
5:13 PM – Quintana Roo, Mexico
Arrival to Cancún International Airport
Honestly, as someone who hates plane rides, this trip was a breeze! I just landed in Mexico, and from the plane view of my middle seat, the trees and nature look beautiful—I can’t wait to take it all in. The fact that I’m alone in a country I’ve never been to is setting in, and it’s both terrifying yet exciting. I guess solo traveling is off to a good start?!
2 HOURS LATER
When I say I was blinded by Mexico’s beauty—I mean it literally. As soon as I walked out of the airport, my glasses fogged up and I panicked. I actually couldn’t see, and when I took off my glasses, I STILL COULDN’T SEE. In that moment I was glad I packed my contact lenses for this trip. After 30 seconds or so, my glasses cleared up, but I was once again blinded by the beauty of my surroundings. It was mind-boggling to me that people see this all the time, I was truly in awe, especially by the trees. I wondered if they’ve ever gotten used to them, because I’m still not used to the trees I witness in Nebraska. Honestly, I don’t believe it’s possible to get used to the incessant beauty of trees.
As you can see, I made the grave mistake of wearing sweatpants and a hoodie knowing how the weather would be, but with my journey consisting of cold, conditioned planes and buildings, I chose to bundle up. My sweaty suffering lasted a hellishly slooowww 20 minutes, but I forgot all about it as soon as my airport transportation was ready to take me to paradise!
Paradise
6:23 PM
Arrival to Resort
I arrived at the resort just as the sun was setting, so the bright, beautiful pictures you see above were practically darkness to me! Even so, I was mesmerized by the property and the beautiful view, I took the best picture I could before being ushered into the lobby.
Reservation Details
Property: Atelier Playa Mujeres (All-Inclusive Resort, Adults Only)
Stay Duration: 4 Nights
Room Type: Junior Suite Ocean View – 2 Double
Included: Unlimited Drinks, Gourmet Dining, & Daily Activities
Extras: Spa Treatments Available (Not Included)
*but SOOOO worth it!*
My Expedia Package: $4,759.85
Roundtrip Flight
Resort Stay
Transportation
+ Taxes & Fees Total: $5,783.81
There are lots of reasons to travel and for me, this trip is all about relaxation. Five days and four nights of massages, cozy baths, soaking up the sun, ordering room service, listening to great music, gasping at the beautiful sea, admiring the beauty of everything—all of that and more whilst smiling and giggling endlessly. As I got my tour of the facility, I couldn’t help but be mesmerized by the copious trail of vines and nature entangled throughout. My suite was on the top floor, and I was absolutely in love with the open layout of the resort. Just outside my door awaited a lush, open atmosphere and beautiful sky view.
As soon as I got settled into my room, I requested the bathtub be cleaned before use (it looked spotless, I’m just extra!), then I ordered room service, took a shower, and started my bath. A nice wind down is just what I needed after traveling all day, so mission accomplished.
► Bath complete ✓
► Belly full ✓
Needless to say, I slept like a baby.
FEELING: Excited! It’s ME day tomorrow hehe❤️
December 28, 2024
If at the end of this day, I woke up and realized it was all a dream—I’d 100% believe it. This was hands down the best birthday I’ve ever had.
Special Day
8:13 AM
Birthday
My first full day at the resort! Also, MY BIRTHDAY! Let’s go to the beach-each! Hehe, I wanted to get there before sunrise, but I fear sleep wanted me more. No worries, my morning continued as planned! I did some light makeup, packed my beach bag, and went over to Alba, the resort’s go-to place for smoothies, parfaits, and fresh fruit in the morning. Since I had no clue how to get there, the staff called a cart to take me over. I have to admit, it felt a bit bougie. Especially when I saw it was a close walk away.
I was shocked to find everything wet from the rain when I walked out of Alba. Even though I had hoped for endless sunshine, everything still looked beautiful. There was a nervous flutter in my chest as I made my way down to the beach, like the feeling of meeting someone for the first time. I sat a bit farther from the shore, where I could only see bits of the water. Is it silly that I felt “sea shy”? After settling in, I journaled and gave myself a reminder that today is all about celebrating ME. I set intentions for the day and showered myself with affirmations. I felt great.
As soon as the sun came back out, I knew it was my cue to leave the shade of the cabana hut and introduce myself to my new big blue friend. Looking at the sea felt unreal. It was beautiful to witness and chilling at the same time. I slowly crept up to the shoreline and when the water rushed to my feet I immediately giggled, I couldn’t contain my excitement. I’ve imagined this moment for years, and the rush of euphoria was beyond words. The tide pulled me forward like tug of war, and that’s when I felt the strength of the gorgeous waves and my anxiety kicked in. How could I ever swim in this? I toyed with the idea of asking the lifeguards, befriending strangers I could join, or simply going for it myself, but ultimately, I decided that today I’d just witness this glory from the sand.
Each step along the seashore brought me a deeper sense of gratitude, joy, and serenity. As unforgettable as the sights were, I couldn’t resist taking endless photos of the blues that made me so happy.
FEELING: AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH! ♡⸜(˶˃ ᗜ ˂˶)⸝♡ 1000000/10 EXPERIENCE 💙
11:19 AM
Poolside
To make this day of mine even more celebratory, I booked a spa appointment for later as I made my way back to my suite. The resort’s greenery was absolutely stunning, and every time the elevator doors opened and reveal the lush, tropical view, I had to take a moment. Can we please fill this room with thank you’s? Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! As I peered over the ledge of my balcony, the pools below me sparkled and the lounge chairs were calling my name. I threw my animal print swimsuit on, the beautiful red headband my girlfriend made me (I love youu<3), and made a dash for the pool.
Baby, the sun in Cancún is different— I was getting cooked! But it felt lovely. I had one of my favorite books in hand, and although the romance is messy, it’s written so sweet and poetic I can’t help but pout, grin, and swoon every time I read it. The next couple hours flew by almost too quickly, but I wouldn’t dream of being upset that I had to leave for an afternoon at the Spa. “It’s like a reward!”
2:16 PM
NuuSpa
Between witnessing the beautiful sea for the first time, and spending the most relaxing time at the pool, I was fulfilled for the day, yet there was more to delight in. Truthfully, I haven’t had many Spa experiences, my first time was last summer in London, and I enjoyed it. For this trip I wanted the ultimate vacation, so it was really important to me that the resort I chose had an incredible Spa.
However, the Spa Day I imagined in my head couldn’t compare to the pampering, rejuvenation, and tranquility I experienced at NuuSpa. For the next few hours, it felt as though I stepped into heaven. From the wonderful soporific Swedish massage, meditative steam room experience, sweltering sauna, invigorating cold plunge, bubbling jacuzzi, relaxing pools, and other amenities—all of which left me feeling revitalized!
5:39 PM
Suite
I journeyed back to my room and was pleasantly surprised to find it spotless, with the exception of a chocolatey dessert, wine, and envelope placed on the table. Inside the envelope was a celebratory birthday day message, which I appreciated, and trust I devoured whatever yumminess this was!
While I love a sweet treat, I still needed something with a bit more sustenance, so I ordered room service, slipped into the shower, and put on my smooth jazz playlist.
My stay at this resort has been amazing, but if I could change one thing, it would be the TVs—for goodness’ sake why aren’t they smart?! Take em’ to school or something! No, but seriously, that bothered me. It’s not like I was going to watch a full season or something, but I would’ve loved the ease of putting on my favorite show while I eat. There wasn’t even any option to airplay or watch YouTube, I had no choice but to whip out my laptop. First-world problem? Absolutely. Is it dramatic to dock points for that? Maybe. But I’m not above being a drama queen.
9:03 PM
Dinner
Birthday makeup was a success, and it feels silly calling it that when it’s my regular routine but it’s my birthday so it’s different! For dinner, I made a reservation at Cilento, a highly raved about Italian restaurant at the resort. Although many of the restaurants have vegan or plant-based options, I found myself eating mostly pescatarian. I don’t eat fish often, but with the limited options for non-meat eaters, I would’ve been starved. However, I did enjoy being a “pescy” babe tonight! I tried my first lobster at Cilento, and it was absolutely delicious.
Dinner was great, but I can’t lie I still haven’t gotten used to the “all inclusive” part because what do you mean I just ordered everything off the menu, took a couple bites of each, and walked out? Lol. But before I left, they sang happy birthday to me in the most amusing way, and I couldn’t help but erupt in giggles and smile my biggest smile.
As a December baby, I’ve always had a complicated relationship with my birthday. This day alone healed so much of that and I’m eternally grateful for the experience. I can’t believe I have 2 more full days of marvelous, theraputic experiences that await me.
FEELING: COMPLETE. ❤️
December 29, 2024
7:13 AM
Morning
I love slow, grounding mornings that let me fully sink into the present—and this morning was just that. I started my day on the balcony, quietly taking it all in. The humidity always surprises me—windows fogged, the air heavy and warm, and my glasses constantly fighting the soft blur of the fog. I’m not sure I’ll ever get used to it.
10:46 AM
Breakfast
I was just going with the flow on this trip, especially when it came to my meals. I no longer identified as vegan but as someone who’s interested in exploring Mexican cuisine. Breakfast was simple: waffles, eggs, fresh fruit, and juice. But these weren’t just any eggs—they were ranchero eggs. Two fried eggs on warm corn tortillas with refried beans and salsa. Let’s just say, my plate was cleared.
11:58 AM
Poolside
Surprise, surprise… I’m headed to the pool! When people talk about being two completely different shades in the winter versus summer, I can’t lie—I get a little jealous and a bit confused. My skin doesn’t tan easily; instead, I usually just sit somewhere between “the same shade” and “slightly sun-kissed if you squint.” But for this trip, I was determined to change that. I made it my mission to soak up as much sun as possible, so poolside tanning is a non-negotiable part of my daily routine. And of course, sunscreen is always a must!
I am confirmed #GayAF because even though I was lost in my book, I immediately perked up when I heard lesbian lounge music at the pool—like, wait… okaaay?! The resort’s playlist is mostly covers of American classics or worldwide hits, but in a jazzy Bossa Nova style. It was all just background noise to me until I overheard the lesbian version of Stevie Wonder’s ‘My Cherie Amour’ playing, right as I turned another page of my lesbian book. It couldn’t have been more perfect.
1:21 PM
Beach
I love how quickly I got familiar with the resort. By day two, I practically knew where everything was and even found a few shortcuts.
I wandered down to the beach, and though it was far from crowded, every lounge chair was already taken. I’d been “warned” that people claim their spots early in the morning, but of course, I forgot. Lesson learned for tomorrow! With nowhere to settle in, I kept my visit short and sweet—just a 20-minute stroll along the shore, watching the pretty waves rush to my feet. After that, I made my way back to the calm pool, where I could comfortably read and soak up the sun in peace.
6:22 PM
Suite
Food, food, and more food!
I know this may sound crazy, but all that lounging and relaxing in the sun wore me out. I spent the rest of the day in my suite—ordering room service, writing to my girlfriend, watching Beyoncé’s half-time performance, catching up on my favorite show, and fully embracing my inner homebody.
And LET ME JUST SAY THIS: I need to publicly apologize for all the years I talked down on fish. The salmon I had this night? Unreal. Am I reconsidering my entire diet? Possibly.
The night wrapped up quietly, and I booked another spa day for tomorrow—because a little extra pampering never hurt.
FEELING: Pescatarian! 🐟
December 30, 2024
8:34 AM
Beach
For this trip, I packed my new cinema camera, and this morning felt like the perfect time to use it. On my walk along the shore, I held the camera steady, capturing dreamy clips of the sea that I could revisit and admire (after color grading of course). Needless to say, my digital camera was also in my possession, and these photos I took are some of my favorites.
10:40 AM
Suite
After spending the past few days getting familiar with the sea, I finally felt ready to swim. I headed back to my suite to slip into my swimsuit, then strolled down to the beach, feeling more excited than nervous. It’s my last full day at the resort, so it’s now or never, baby.
Swimming in the sea was far less scary than I thought. Each wave felt magical, heavenly, and fulfilling in ways I couldn’t begin to describe. When it comes to my self-care rituals, long baths will always be my favorite. There’s something so soothing about the feeling of being submerged in water and softly gliding my hands to create little man-made waves. I always imagined myself in the ocean, sea, or some grand body of water in those moments. And now, I’m living it. I’m really here. If I could swim and float forever, I would.
12:12 PM
Spa
This time, I decided to try a deep tissue massage instead of my usual Swedish—and let’s just say, I quickly realized I’m a soft babe who needs a soft touch. Firm? Maybe. But anything beyond that? Back up, thanks! I won’t lie—the cracks were cracking, and my body felt great a few hours later, but whew, I got worked on that table. Voluntarily! Never thought I’d pay for a whooping. I did ask them to ease up, but yeah… never again. I’ll stick to gentle, soothing massages from now on.
Taking my time to enjoy the spa amenities was top priority today. Experiencing it all for the second time felt so different—it made me truly appreciate first-time experiences. They’re so fresh, exciting, and full of surprises. This time, without the initial shock factor, I could fully settle into the moment. After moving through the steam room, showers, sauna, cold plunge, and jacuzzi, I was treated to a complimentary head, neck, and shoulder massage—something I didn’t get the first time. And it was lovely. Massages weren’t part of my regular self-care routine, but trust me, that’s about to change. Once I’m home, I’m finding a luxury spa or masseuse immediately. One major thing this trip has taught me: I need to upgrade my pampering and spoil myself more!
Side note: Am I the only one who can’t get into sparkling drinks? Whenever I’m offered, I give it a try to see if it’ll be a different experience, but nope. Same thing happens every time—I gag. Looks pretty though.
3:48 PM
Suite
Like clockwork, it’s time for tanning and reading by the pool! As I was packing my beach bag, a flight check-in notification popped up on my phone, and just like that, the reality of leaving hit me hard. I wasn’t ready to say goodbye. To make up for the incredibly snug, homebody day I had yesterday, I decided today would be different. After my time by the pool, I’d get up, explore, and immerse myself in as much of the resort as I could. Anything but staying in.
Right beneath my usual tanning spot, there’s a swim-up bar with seated dining, and today felt like the perfect day to try it. The menu didn’t have any vegan options listed, but when I asked, they were more than happy to make a few swaps. While the resort isn’t big on plant-based alternatives, they do their best to accommodate! I ended up having a Caesar salad, Cajun shrimp soup, and a burger with fries. The salad? Gone in seconds. But the shrimp heads… I just couldn’t do it. Apparently, it’s a thing in “higher dining,” but I had to remove them before I could enjoy my soup. When my burger and fries arrived, I was sure I had more room—until halfway through, when it all finally caught up to me.
By the time I was done eating, the sun had already hidden behind the clouds for the day, so no more tanning for me. Sad face. But I still spent the afternoon lounging and getting lost in my book. A peaceful ending to a lovely little meal.
7:46 PM
Art Gallery
From the moment I saw the art gallery on my first night here, I knew I wanted to visit. They offer art classes, and I had hoped to join one, but today I missed it. Still, simply being in the space was enough. I appreciated the variety of artwork, from captivating paintings to charming pottery and delicately crafted paper sculptures.
While exploring the gallery, I ended up talking with the art guide, a kind older woman. We talked about the artwork, culture, and the resort and when she learned I was here alone for my birthday, she immediately pouted, wished me a heartfelt happy birthday, and pulled me into the warmest hug—one I didn’t even realize I needed. Her kindness was so touching, and she became such a sweet highlight of this trip. I made sure to thank her for her warmth, her birthday wishes, and for capturing such lovely pictures of me.
Solo traveling has always been a dream of mine, and while some find it confusing, I see it differently. To me, solo traveling is about embracing new experiences on your own, while connecting with strangers along the way. The people you come across, even just for a moment, can leave you with memories and lessons that are just as meaningful as the ones shared with loved ones.
Before leaving, I chose a few stunning souvenirs for myself and the people I cherish most. I know years from now, I’ll look at them and be flooded with memories of this beautiful trip.
9:28 PM
Dinner
For dinner, I reserved a table at Takeshi. Would it be insane to say I almost cried eating this meal? Not only because of how delicious it was, but the fact that I really should’ve been eating here every day! Like hello, I’m leaving tomorrow!? Takeshi was highly recommended, and now I understand why. I wanted to come here on the 28th, for my birthday dinner, but it was reserved DOWN. I’m so happy I could finally experience it, and the best part? I didn’t have to eat no fish or nothing—this is niceeee! When I saw tofu on the menu I almost started twerking, swear. It was the perfect dinner, the perfect farewell.
FEELING: Happyyyyyy :D
December 31, 2024
7:21 AM
Makeup
There was a mix of emotions running through me this morning: satisfaction, sadness, and gratitude. I don’t want to leave just yet! But also, I need to get back home before the New Year to kiss the love of my life, so actually, I’m satisfied. I started my morning with one goal: to take pictures by the sea with the lovely flower my girlfriend made me. I wore it the first time I went to the beach, but it’s time for a formal photoshoot!
With 45 minutes and a dream, I did my makeup and got dressed for the beach! I’ve never done a full face of makeup on a morning face like this, and I love it, lol. I looked so cute.
8:07 AM
Beach
This morning, the thought that this would be the last time I’d see such a big, beautiful body of water for a while stayed with me the entire time. I tried my best to savor these last moments on my walk along the shore. When I wandered far enough, I took out my phone + digital camera and took as many photos as they’d allow. BTW it was so hot and humid this morning, I was surprised my makeup didn’t melt off right there and then!
I gave myself an hour to enjoy the sea before heading back to my suite to remove my makeup and finish packing. Luckily, I had gotten most of it done the night before, so all I had left was my toiletries, makeup, and slipping into my comfy airport fit. Time to go home!
1:41 PM
Airport
This trip was such a last-minute decision, something I booked only 10 days prior, but I’m so happy I did. My stay at Atelier was absolutely amazing—between the cozy accommodations and the incredible hospitality, it’s set the bar high for all my future travels. I’m already so excited for my next adventure, and next time, I’ll be choosing experiences beyond resorts.
This vacation gave me the deep rest and relaxation I was yearning. Thank you for reading my latest travel diary—here’s to many more to come!
I really enjoyed reading this!! I felt like I was right there with you. You are a great writer. You have inspired to consider doing a solo travelling. Thanks for sharing! Also loved the formatting!
you’re so kind, thank you very much!! I was nervous about trying this format/timeline style lol. I’m glad you’re considering solo travel, it’s an exciting and lovely experience!
Yar you are gorgeous! Reading this was like reading a dream, Your pics were absolutely fabulous, I’ll continue to cheer you on from your youtube and instagram. Btw you mentioned morning intentions. I want to start being more intentional with my days and start reflecting on myself and my life more. Any tips on where to start learning about things like that?
Thank you so much!! I appreciate your support, it means a lot to me! Generally, if you’re seeking mindfulness, yoga is so powerful for that! For me it changed my entire mindset, and I was able to be more present and treasure simple things a lot more, as well as myself. A yogi I really love is Arianna Elizabeth: https://www.youtube.com/@AriannaElizabeth!
Intentional mornings are something I’ve been trying to implement in this digital age. I hated that I would immediately open my phone and scroll in the morning so here are some things I do to stay present and slowdown.
– When I wake up, the first thing I do is list my 5 senses. I go through what I can hear, taste, touch, smell, and see. This helps me focus on the now.
– To wake my mind up in a helpful way, I try to read for at least 10 minutes, picking out a book or two to have on your bedside table is really helpful. I have a typical book and a comic book on my nightstand, I’ve found it easier to read comics most days, I’m loving them honestly ha. But another thing you can do is a crossword puzzle or a similar mind game (not on your phone). I find crossword puzzles to be great for a mid-day brain break as well, when I felt like I’ve been inside too long I would walk to the park and do a crossword puzzle to 1. give my brain a break and 2. touch grass. I always felt amazing afterward.
– Stretching/yoga/activeness! I love to do a quick 15-minute stretch, or mindful yoga. My body feels amazing after weeks of consistency, especially when I first started, my knee tightness/pain disappeared in a couple months and hasn’t returned. It’s so healing, physically and mentally!
– Meditation. For me, meditation doesn’t have to be sitting with my legs crossed and my hands resting on my knees. It can be me sitting, laying down, stretching, anything! I also don’t try to quiet my mind, I find it helpful to let it roam and release control of my thoughts, I let things flow. I typically do this after stretching or while I’m stretching. I just close my eyes and do my 5 senses here too to feel more grounded. I find that my mind races less at night when I give myself time during the day to sit and think or sit and let things roam. Sometimes all we do is DO DO DO, never be still and let things flow. Our mind needs time to process things.
– Journaling is also beneficial. Even if it’s just a couple sentences of you describing how you feel, what you hope to achieve that day, how you felt about yesterday, or maybe writing about the dream you just had.
– Cleaning! I know this might sound crazy lol, but cleaning is a great way to stay off your phone and try not listening to music. I especially love washing the dishes because its 20-40 minutes of just me and the dishes, and it brings me such calmness.
– Before I start anything with my day, I set intentions for how I want my day to go. Some people find writing a detailed timeline of all the positive things that are going to occur that day worthwhile. Alternatively, you can simply say a few affirmations or statements, maybe in the mirror. I change mine often, depending on how I’m feeling, but here are a few examples:
➤Wonderful things are happening to me and for me.
➤I love myself, I believe in myself, I support myself.
➤I choose to feel and think positive.
➤I can’t wait to hear good news today. (I love saying this at night: I can’t wait to hear good news tomorrow! makes me feel excited lol)
➤Rest is productive. (this is important for those days I feel tired or unmotivated, prioritizing rest and giving yourself a break when you can is everything)
I hope you feel inspired and add some of these things in your morning/day routine! Thank you again for reading the blog, I appreciate your comment!
This was a lovely read! I hope to one day have similar experiences to this and I hope you had safe travels. This really does seem like a dream and I’m happy you got to treat yourself to such an amazing trip!
This was a great read! I’m glad you got to experience something like this and hope to one day do the same. This truly seems like a dream