Tag: healthyeating

Luxury, Wellness, and the Flavors of Mexico: My Unforgettable Stay at Etéreo, Riviera Maya

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In June 2025, I had the pleasure of spending a couple of days at Etéreo, the first Auberge Collection I’d stayed at since being at the Auberge du Soleil many years ago. Here’s a short account of my stay.

The Welcome

Imagine a world where you are greeted by a shaman who leads you through a Mayan welcome ritual; where wellbeing and self-love are manifested through a cleansing ritual, sound baths and flowing yoga; where your surroundings rest above mangroves, overlooking a beach, ocean with hidden cenote, and water features at every turn.

Thus, I found myself standing with my eyes closed and arms akimbo while being wafted with incense to chanting in Mayan. By Kevin. Kevin, as it transpired, is a resident shaman at Etéreo, an Auberge resort where I was to spend two days restoring my exhausted body and extenuated mind. (I should add that Kevin’s most un-Mayan-sounding name came from his mother’s favorite English radio show that she enjoyed before he made his entry to the world).

A short drive from Cancun airport, Etéreo lies in Kanai, near Playa del Carmen in Riviera Maya. Kanai is a preserve where the ratio of building to land is limited, local materials are used in building, and water features predominantly in the design. Etéreo seems to float on a sea of green, a veritable ecosystem of tropical birds, iguanas, coatis (Mexican raccoons), and more.  

Aside from Kevin, my welcome crew included my guía, Richie, who was there to answer questions and deal with any requests I might have (easily conveyed via WhatsApp). Richie gave me my personalized itinerary for my stay, which, unsurprisingly for me, consisted primarily of the spa and culinary activities.

Suites and Studios

My room, an Oceanfront Studio with Plunge Pool, was perfect. Like all the accommodations at Etéreo, it overlooked the Caribbean sea. With 875 square feet, I had plenty of space for a king-size bed, big bathroom with soaking tub and separate shower with a view, and more. However, I spent most of my time on the generous terrace that included my very own plunge pool.

Rooftop studios and suites allow even more outdoor living space. Families can spread out in a two- or three-bedroom suite up to 3,900 square feet in living area.

My king-size bed faced the floor to ceiling windows and the view to which I cherished waking up. As I sipped my coffee, my plans for reading vanished and my book remained unopened. I was mesmerized by the view.

Experiences

You can be as busy, or not, as you like at Etéreo. For my part, a walk on the beach every morning, a swim, spa, curling up reading on my terrace, or lounging in my plunge pool worked really well.  Options abound from tequila tasting, culinary activities, a cacao ceremony, Mayan calendar reading, sunset rituals, kayaking to the underwater cenote, and beach activities. Take advantage of the Weekly Experience Calendar, particularly if you have the good fortune to be at Etéreo during the Holidays.

Of particular interest to me was the array of authentic culinary experiences, including the popular Cena de la Abuela, a Mexican heritage dinner with recipes from Etéreo’s chefs’ grandmothers.

For little ones, there is the Chavitos Kids Club, which is offered free of charge in summer, along with children’s meals. There’s a different theme daily and enough variety of activities to make you want to be a kid again.

Spa & Wellness

After settling into my gorgeous room, I scurried to the dedicated yoga studio to join my colleagues for the specially-arranged yoga class, only to find that they all ghosted me in favor of languishing poolside. Indignation gave way to gratitude as I enjoyed one of the best yoga classes I’ve ever had with the talented instructor, Jesús, all to myself.

The following day I participated in a sound bath with Jesús and one of the shamans. I must have enjoyed it. I fell fast asleep and, to the delight of those around me, woke myself up with my own snoring…

SANA spa at Etéreo has the perfect blend of indoor and outdoor space, as well as modern and Mayan-influenced treatments.  Enjoy the spa, exercise classes and fitness center as part of your vacation or book a curated four-day wellbeing retreat (through me of course!).

Authentic Mexican (And Asian…) Cuisine

As much as I travel and being married to a chef, to say that I would go back somewhere on account of the food seems a bit silly. I would go back to Etéreo because of the food. Chef Carlos Segura has got his act together, not only in the manifestation of his talent and passion for his craft, but also through the seamless and friendly service. When harmony is prevalent throughout front and back of house, you know you’re on to something.

The two main restaurants are Itzam, traditional Mexican, and Che Che, a blend of Asian and Mexican cuisines. Homemade guacamole pairs really well with a spicy tuna roll, as I discovered.   

At Che Che, we were treated to a Tacology session, a six-course tasting menu which included Octopus Chicharron, Creamy Lobster Adobo, Ahi Toro Taco, Pork Belly Cochinita, Wagyu A5 Taco, and dessert. Our welcome cocktail was a Juevebes, a Mexican version of the French 75 which just happens to be my favorite.

Having decided that hosting a tacology session would be a fabulous way to entertain, I requested a couple of recipes. Watch this space for my future podcast on that very topic, replete with the recipes that Chef Carlos Segura was kind enough to share with me.

Dinner at Itzam delighted with the regular menu that would please carnivores and vegans alike. Grilled marrow and braised beef, or lobster esquites to start for the former, chayote and beets tartare for the latter. I couldn’t decide what to have so my host suggested the tasting menu. My eyes have long been bigger than my belly so I had to go for it. Six courses later, I was full with chayote, ahi tuna, snapper, pork belly confit, short ribs, and churros with sea salt dulce de leche.

Do you wonder now why I would go back for the food?

Ready to go to Etereo?

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Whether you’re seeking deep rest, culinary discovery, or simply a change of pace wrapped in natural beauty, Etéreo delivers an experience that feels both grounding and extraordinary. If this magical corner of Riviera Maya is calling your name, I’d be delighted to help craft your perfect stay. Reach out to me to book Etéreo, secure exclusive amenities, and let me design a journey that’s as effortless as it is transformative. jayne@ilxtravel.com and 772-480-8621.

10 Reasons To Go To Etéreo

A Magical Mayan Welcome
Be greeted by a resident shaman and experience an authentic Mayan cleansing ritual the moment you arrive—setting the tone for deep relaxation and renewal.

Serene, Nature-Forward Setting
Etéreo “floats” above protected mangroves in the Kanai preserve, surrounded by tropical wildlife, calm waters, and lush greenery that instantly grounds you.

Spacious, Luxurious Accommodations
Oceanfront studios and suites offer expansive layouts, soaking tubs with ocean views, and generous terraces—many with private plunge pools you’ll never want to leave.

Personalized, High-Touch Service
Your own guía (guide) is just a WhatsApp message away to coordinate schedules, answer questions, and make your stay seamless and stress-free.

Wellness Experiences That Actually Restore You
Daily yoga, sound baths, curated retreats, and the SANA Spa blend modern techniques with Mayan traditions for deeply nourishing experiences.

A Wealth of Activities—If You Want Them
From kayaking to the cenote and sunrise beach walks to tequila tastings, cacao ceremonies, culinary classes, and sunset rituals, you can be as active or as mellow as you like.

Exceptional, Destination-Worthy Cuisine
The food alone is worth the trip. Chef Carlos Segura’s talent shines across Itzam and Che Che, delivering meals that blend tradition, creativity, and perfect execution.

Unique Culinary Experiences
Highlights like Tacology tastings and Cena de la Abuela provide a delicious way to explore Mexican heritage through recipes passed down by the chefs’ own grandmothers.

A Dream for Families Too
With spacious multi-bedroom suites and the Chavitos Kids Club (free in summer along with children’s meals), Etéreo is a rare resort that delights adults and kids equally.

Effortless Access, Total Escape
Just a short drive from Cancun airport, you’re transported into a sanctuary that feels worlds away—making Etéreo perfect for quick getaways or longer restorative stays.

Raw Vegan Chocolate Tart from Euphoria Retreat, Greece

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I believe that chocolate is the best of all food groups, but I like good quality chocolate so I can keep my intake on the healthy side. Imagine my delight on discovering this delectable and seemingly decadent chocolate tart during a stay at my favorite wellness destination, Euphoria Retreat in Mystras in Greece’s Peloponnese region.

This chocolate tart is raw and vegan, so you don’t need an excuse to eat it. I’m eternally grateful to the chef at Euphoria Retreat for sharing the recipe. I have made this dessert a few times, even fooling some anti-vegans who were shocked on discovering that the rich, creamy filling does not contain an iota of dairy.

Serves 4 to 8. You can make between 4 and 6 invidual tarts, depending on the size of mold you use. This recipe also makes one 9-inch tart, as pictured. If you want more filling, simply double the quantity.

INGREDIENTS

Base

  • ½ cup almonds
  • ½ cup walnuts
  • ½ cup golden raisins
  • 1 ½ tbsp cocoa powder
  • Water

Filling

  • 210 gr. Unsweetened almond milk
  • 85 gr. Dark chocolate, 70% or higher
  • 120 gr. Seedless dates
  • Topping, choose from the following:
  • Pomegranate arils
  • Dried cranberries
  • Shredded coconut
  • Chopped pistachios

METHOD

Base

  1. Line 4 muffin cups or one 9-inch pie dish with parchment.
  2. In a food processor, chop the nuts and raisins until the mixture is soft and crumbly. Add the cocoa powder, and mix until incorporated. If the mixture is too dry and doesn’t hold together, add a teaspoon or so of water, but don’t overdo it.
  3. Press the mixture into the pie molds, dividing equally if using small molds, and forming the tart with your fingers. Refrigerate for 10 to 20 minutes.

Filling

  1. Melt the chocolate in the microwave or in a heat-proof dish over a pan filled with boiling water. (Do not let the water touch the dish). Cool slightly.
  2. Add the dates and almond milk to a food blender, blend until smooth. Add the melted chocolate and blend again.
  3. Pour the chocolate onto the tart bases, return to the fridge to set.
  4. Carefully remove the tarts from the molds by grabbing them from the parchment paper.
  5. Decorate with fruits and nuts before serving. I prefer chopped pistachios and pomegranate arils for a colorful finish.

Navigate the Culinary Crossroads: 10 Strategies for Nourishing Travel

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Frequent travelers face a unique dietary challenge: navigating a landscape often dominated by convenience and indulgence. Airports overflow with sugary temptations, hotel breakfasts skew towards processed pastries, and hectic schedules tempt hurried, unhealthy choices. Yet, nourishing sustenance is essential for maintaining energy, focus, and overall well-being on the road. Fret not, intrepid explorer! By incorporating these ten strategic principles, you can transform travel into an opportunity for culinary exploration and mindful, delicious eating.

1. Meticulous Pre-Planning: Avoid succumbing to indecision at mealtimes by diligently planning your culinary journey. Utilize online resources to identify healthy options at airports and research restaurants near your destination. Consider requesting a refrigerator in your hotel room to facilitate the storage of fresh produce and healthy snacks. For extended journeys, explore the availability of special meals on flights, such as vegetarian or low-carb options, to ensure access to nutritious choices.

2. Banish Menu Mayhem: Cultivate a discerning eye when navigating restaurant menus. Employ a mental filter, eliminating dishes laden with excessive cream, fried elements, and cheese. Resist the siren song of calorie-laden indulgences and prioritize dishes featuring whole grains, lean proteins, and abundant vegetables.

3. Embrace the Veggie Vanguard: Let vibrant plant-based options take center stage on your plate. Start your meals with a nutrient-rich salad and actively seek additional vegetable servings throughout your meal. This approach promotes satiety while limiting calorie intake and ensuring a balanced nutritional profile.

4. Elevate Your Carb Choices: Eschew refined carbohydrates in favor of their whole-grain counterparts. Brown rice, quinoa, and barley offer sustained energy, increased fiber intake, and lower calorie content compared to their white counterparts. Enjoy these nutrient-dense options in moderation, pairing them with a variety of colorful vegetables for a satisfying and balanced meal.

5. Pack Your Portable Pantry: Empower yourself with the ability to make healthy choices regardless of external circumstances. Pack a selection of portable, shelf-stable snacks such as almonds, seaweed snacks, lentil chips, hummus, and savory granola. These options provide sustenance during travel stretches and prevent resorting to unhealthy convenience foods.

6. Indulge with Intention: Recognize that occasional indulgence is a natural part of life. When cravings arise, prioritize mindful enjoyment over blind indulgence. Savor a few bites of a desired dish, appreciating its flavor and texture without succumbing to the pressure to finish it all. This approach fosters a balanced and sustainable approach to eating while allowing room for occasional treats.

7. Hydrate Wisely: Amidst the whirlwind of travel, prioritize mindful hydration. Opt for water, unsweetened tea, or black coffee throughout the day, particularly before meals to curb the urge to overeat. Avoid sugary beverages and mixers, which contribute to empty calories and hinder healthy choices.

8. Fuel Your Day Right: Ditch the sugary breakfast routine that sets the stage for energy crashes and unhealthy snacking. Prioritize protein and fiber-rich options such as yogurt parfaits, oatmeal with berries, or eggs with spinach. These choices provide sustained energy, improved focus, and set the tone for a day of healthy eating.

9. Embrace Culinary Simplicity: Opt for dishes featuring simple, recognizable ingredients. Grilled fish, chicken, or lean meat paired with a medley of roasted vegetables offer a balanced and satisfying meal, free from the potential hidden sugars and excessive sodium often found in complex dishes. This approach promotes mindful eating and avoids unnecessary dietary pitfalls.

10. Prioritize Restful Rejuvenation: Recognize the crucial link between sleep and mindful eating. Prioritize restful sleep by avoiding caffeine after midday, opting for light dinners, and creating a relaxing bedtime routine. A well-rested body makes more balanced food choices and exhibits greater self-control, empowering you to navigate the culinary crossroads with confidence.

By incorporating these ten principles, you can transform travel into an opportunity for culinary exploration and mindful nourishment. Remember, healthy eating on the road is not about deprivation, but about making informed choices and embracing the journey towards a balanced and vibrant relationship with food. Bon voyage!

Mediterranean Tuna Salad With Peppers

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This Mediterranean-inspired tuna salad tastes lighter and fresher than the mayonnaise-laden version. The peppers and parsley add a good dose of vitamin C, while the celery provides more crunch for good measure. I use the Tonnino brand of tuna that comes in a jar. It’s a bit more expensive than the canned variety, but the quality is better.

Serve the tuna salad on a bed of organic greens, with crusty bread, or pasta.

As a big proponent of the Mediterranean Diet, I am working my way through the New York Times collection of recipes dedicated to that lifestyle. Usually, I change recipes but not this one. It is perfect as is.

Ingredients

Yield: 4 servings

  • 1 red, yellow or orange bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 hot green chile, such as serrano, seeded and thinly sliced
  • 1 ½ tablespoons sherry or red wine vinegar
  • Salt and black pepper
  • 2 celery stalks
  • 2 (5-ounce) cans or 1 (7- to 8-ounce) jar tuna packed in olive oil. (Sometimes I use 2 jars…)
  • ¼ cup fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves, coarsely chopped

Method

Toss the pepper and the chile with the vinegar and a big punch of salt in a large bowl. Let sit for 10 minutes. Meanwhile cut the celery into ¼-inch dice.

Add the celery, tuna with all of its oil and chopped parsley to the peppers. Toss until the tuna flakes into bite-size pieces and everything is well mixed, then season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days.