There’s something magical about the entrance gates to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere, located at the extreme southern edge of the boho-chic town of Tulum. There’s certainly a noticeable and instant shift from Tulum’s bustling main drag to a new world that’s very quiet and natural – a transition that was welcomed when we arrived after a long day of travel through the area.

Putting together the perfect family holiday can feel like a balancing act. However, there is a formula to make everyone happy, and it starts with choosing the right accommodation.

You are already thinking about making a private villa your base for the holidays. But how to pick the one that’s right for you?

Beyond its famous beaches and charming towns, there is a wilder side of the Riviera Maya, a place of astounding biodiversity that keeps us in awe of the natural world.