Vacation Adventures: Day One at Catalonia Grand Costa Mujeres – Dinner, Show, and Surprises

Imagine stepping into a paradise where every detail contributes to an unforgettable vacation. After settling into our rooms and enjoying a tasty lunch, we were invigorated and ready to explore! First up was the Pure Bar located off the quiet pool at the end of the boardwalk leading to the beach—a highlight that set the stage for the lazy afternoons to come.

Orlando is the name to remember! He is a master mixologist who crafts the best drinks in the whole resort. I hadn't tasted a cosmopolitan that good since our honeymoon at El Dorado seventeen years ago. Not only is he talented, but his enthusiasm and smile elevate the whole experience. I even captured his artistry on video, and you can check it out on my IG! Now according to the website the Pure Bar is the privileged bar but we were never tuned away and everyone was served so I'm not sure if it's just that the premium alcohol is also available there or if they're just not strict about it but either way, it was nice to be included.

After enjoying our drinks, we swung by Café Aromes for my daughter's iced coffee.

It was a treat to the senses in every sense. With its chevron-patterned floors, tasteful pops of yellow and teal that bounce off the mirrored ceiling, this vibrant space exudes tropical. Nevermind the actual treats they offered which were delicious (hello creme brule tarts!) It's a design that surely blends the laid-back beach vibes with a touch of elegance, making it the perfect spot for enjoying a coffee or light meal.​ We would have spent more time here but the air conditioning is on and we came for the heat. Thankfully they make all of the drinks to go as well as sit in. After that we took a refreshing swim in the pool before heading back to our rooms to prepare for dinner. As the sun began to set, we returned to our rooms to freshen up for dinner ready and eager to check out all the evening's entertainment inlcuding the music on 5th avenue. The kids were particularly hungry though so we kicked it into gear.

Dinner & the Show

Night one we decided to stick with the buffet. There was a lot of chatter about the à la carte booking system in the reviews I'd read. Honestly, it did look tricky at first glance. The secret we found was to book your reservations through the app at midnight. That's when new spots become available for the upcoming days!

Since we had just arrived, many à la carte options were already filled. We decided to dive into the buffet. I'd enjoyed the poke bowls and fresh fish from lunch earlier in the day and I was curious to see what the pasta station might be cooking up.

However, I was surprised to find that this was the first resort I’ve visited that doesn’t serve fresh pasta. There was a sign indicating fresh pasta was available, with a cook standing by. Regrettably, it turned out the fresh pasta was only for the pre-made buffet options. Definitely not the end of the world, though, as there were plenty of other delicious things to eat. And yes, the poke station was back in action! Anytime I can get sashimi, I’m a happy girl. Not to mention, covering fish and veggies in chili oil is my idea of heaven.

One downside, however: once again, there was a line-up at the buffet, and the staff didn’t seem thrilled to seat us. It’s strange—having a party of five seemed to be a burden for some reason. We were told there were no tables available except for a high-top one that felt like we were sitting in high chairs. The combo of the table and chairs was pretty weird, so we agreed not to sit there again—even if it meant waiting longer next time.

But aside from that, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming, and the food was tasty, which made it the perfect way to unwind after a long travel day.

Now the real fun began after dinner with the nightly entertainment. The shows at Catalonia Grand Costa Mujeres are in a theater (which I love), and they’re unique! While they offer the usual Michael Jackson and music-themed shows, they always put their own spin on it, and that’s what I appreciated.

On our first night, the show was broadway themed, and it started with numbers like “Dancing Queen” by ABBA. Then it moved into one of my favorites, “Sherry”, and then, of course, “Oh, What a Night” from Jersey Boys. The costumes got a little more scandalous as we progressed into the ‘80s. It may have been inspired by Rock of Ages and Hairspray, but whatever it was, I loved it. The dancers were amazing, the energy was contagious, and I was literally dancing in my seat the whole time. There is video available. Check out my Youtube for that. Post show, they offer a game or entertainment session (I think it was karaoke that night) located right outside the theatre or over in the area outside the lobby. Unfortunately, night one we didn’t stay too long, as we were all pretty tired from the long day of travel.

A short walk through 5th Avenue with all its colors was the perfect way to end our first evening, and it made me even more excited for the days ahead.

As day one at Catalonia Grand Costa Mujeres came to a close, our hearts overflowed with gratitude and we were soo excited to wake up to the sunshine! My fave part of vacation is the wake up but especially the first day wakeup.

Stay tuned for our next post where we cover that. Until then, happy travels!

Note:

To see more fun moments, don’t forget to check out the video highlights linked above on my IG!

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Cheers!

Rae