For a whole week, Isla Mujeres Palace is devoting its capacity to the LGBT community - a first for the exceptional hotel. The high-end all inclusive sits on the enigmatic island just off the shores of Cancun, and here's why you, your friends, and loved ones should be packing your bags to go there this winter season.

The ideal location
Voted Travellers' Choice 2012 by TripAdvisor, and included as a Top 25 All Inclusive Resorts in Mexico, Isla Mujeres Palace is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to leisure travel. The four-star Palace lives on the lush, tropical Isla Mujeres - just a short ferry ride from the party-centric Cancun strip, but eons away in attitude. The island prides itself in its secluded and private atmosphere, and offers visitors to reach their ultimate goal - rest and relaxation. That being said, it's just as easy to hop on a boat and be in the middle of Cancun's prevalent gay-friendly nightlife.

Over-the-top accommodations
So what sets Isla Mujeres Palace above the rest? For starters, the 62 exquisite rooms offer views of the lush island, infinite ocean, or grandiose pool. But that's not all - every room has its own double Jacuzzi, private bath with shower only and private balconies to soak up the sun with some privacy. However, entertaining guests indoors is just as easy with in-room wine, beer, and a liquor dispenser containing whiskey, tequila, run and vodka, purified sodas, water and juices. Self-pampering comes easy with fluffy complimentary robes and comfy slippers. Your $500 credit can be used towards the spa as well (why not?).

Indulge with old friends and new
Of course, the resort is also a great place to meet new people and have fun with old friends. The week includes a welcome cocktail and beach party. Cocktails are readily available by the pool or at the lobby bar. Palate-pleasing top shelf wines from Spain, Argentina, California, France and Italy are available to pair with international cuisine options (Mexican, Asian and Italian) at Azul Restaurant. The more causal lobby bar features snacks, continental breakfast, tropical drinks and cocktail lessons. By day, you can build memories with volleyball in the water, Spanish lessons, Caribbean bingo, fruit carving shows and more. In the evening, there's karaoke, disco dancing, casino night, movie night on the beach and more.

Historic discoveries and nightlife adventures
Off the resort, there is something for everyone. You can use your $500 credit for off-site excursions - to explore The Mayan Temple of the Goddess Ixchel or visit the National Park of El Garrafon (known for its excellent diving and snorkeling) for example. Of course, for those who want a taste of local gay nightlife, Karamba Bar (Cancun's largest gay club) is a satisfying night of salsa, acrobatic dance shows, applause-worthy drag performances and of course, great music.

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TORONTO DEPARTURE

MONTREAL DEPARTURE

CALGARY DEPARTURE