Last Updated on June 22, 2020 by Laura Cooper
So, you’ve packed your bags, flown somewhere warm, and you’re treating yourself to a relaxing vacation at a tropical resort. One morning, you wake up and peer out the window. Instead of being bathed in warm sunlight, you’re facing the unthinkable. The unspeakable. The dreaded. Grey skies, downpours, and maybe even a chilly breeze.
When we recently travelled to the Grand Palladium White Sand Resort & Spa and The Royal Suites Yucatan in Riviera Maya, Mexico, we encountered a few days of unsavoury weather. But, you may as well make the best of these situations. After all, you’re on holidays in a dreamy location! Fear not – I’ve got many ideas on how to actually enjoy a rainy day while visiting an all-inclusive resort.
Treat Yourself to a Spa Day
A rainy day makes the perfect spa day. Treat yourself to a blissful and rejuvenating massage treatment to forget all of your worries. Unwind after your massage by listening to the soothing rain while admiring oceanfront views. Simply relax.
Zentropia Palladium Spa & Wellness Centre at the Grand Palladium Riviera Maya.
At the Grand Palladium Riviera Maya Resort complex, the Zentropia Palladium Spa & Wellness Centre has an invigorating water spa. Similar to traditional Nordic spas, alternate between hot and cold pools, and rest your aching muscles in the sauna or steam room. One jetted pool was open to the elements, and it was a memorable experience to swim here in the rain.
Exercise at the Fitness Centre
In between your first, second, and third trip to the buffet (by the way, eating is an excellent rainy day activity!), flex your muscles at the gym.
The fitness centre at the Grand Palladium Riviera Maya has several cardio machines, lots of weight machines, a massive space to stretch and do yoga, free weights, and basically everything you need to work up a sweat and get your heart pumping. Use this free time to get into shape, especially since you might be scaling back on those long walks on the beach during times of inclement weather.
Go Shopping or Hit the Town
A day with unsettled weather is a great opportunity to indulge in some retail therapy. Plan a day trip into nearby towns to check out their shops or indoor malls. Pick up some souvenirs for loved ones or treat yourself to a special find.
Check out one of the town’s restaurants or bars to taste the local flavours. It’s always a good idea to venture off the resort to explore the place you’re visiting.
In the Mayan Riviera, walk down the cobblestone streets of Playa del Carmen’s lively Fifth Avenue (Quinta Avenida). There are tons of touristy shops, bars, restaurants, and cafes. Wander around at a leisurely pace and soak up your surroundings to enjoy a rainy day.
Book an Excursion
As long as the excursion isn’t dependent on good weather, it might be the best time to book a tour. People tend to shy away from activities on rainy days, so it’s possible to beat the crowds.
If it’s only cloudy and not pouring rain, I recommend visiting the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum, Coba, or Chichen Itza. There’s also the option of booking an tour to a local history or art museum.
Just Relax
When it’s raining, the weather almost forces you to do exactly what you should be doing on vacation: nothing at all! If you’re the kind of person who is always on the go, a day with poor weather causes you to relax even more.
Curl up with a good book, watch a movie on your tablet or laptop, or even have a nap. Enjoy conversations with your loved ones or some new friends you’ve made at the resort.
Embrace It
Don’t let a little water keep you from making the most of your holiday. Who says you can’t frolic in the rain?
Going swimming in the rain makes sense because it isn’t as though you’re going to get any more wet. Run up and down the beach just for the sake of it.
In the end, as long as you’re enjoying yourself, the weather won’t be able to rain on your parade!
Lauren Yakiwchuk is a travel blogger and photographer at Justin Plus Lauren, a blog about the worldly travels of a Canadian couple. Justin Plus Lauren showcases urban and outdoor adventures, eco-friendly travel, and the best vegan food from around the world.
