The Pool at Kempinski Hotel Cancun

"View the entire 2011 Gold List of the world's best places to stay › Also appeared in the Gold List in 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005 Amenities: Beach, Pool, Spa, Tennis"

"The property is tricked out with luxury resort amenities, including seven dining venues, a serious cooking school, a tennis center, a large spa, two swimming pools, an oceanfront whirlpool and private beach palapas"

"Guests can choose between two pools, a spa offering conventional and Mayan treatments, and six restaurants, from poolside-casual to very elegant"

"An oceanfront whirlpool and swimming pools overlook white sandy beaches where the terrace is utilized for sunning as well as dining"

"While the resort is undeniably grand, it's surprisingly unstuffy and young within the halls, out by the pool, and down by the beach (though some may feel interiors could use an update)"

"Expect some piano and jazz combos in the Club Grill, fine singers and musicians playing dance music in the Lobby Lounge, maybe a Mexican trio in the cafe or at the poolside grill, or a pianist in the Italian room"

"Casual dining options include El Café Mexicano, The Lobby Lounge and the poolside Caribe Bar & Grill"