When goals become destinations

Back in 2014, I made a decision.
Not just to take a trip — but to make a memory that felt earned.

I was living in Maryland at the time and started plugging numbers into one of my travel spreadsheets, looking for the perfect warm-weather getaway. I compared resorts from Jamaica to Thailand using my usual formula:

  • Search Google Flights + Expedia for price and times
  • Rank resorts by ratings, value, and amenities
  • Calculate flight + stay + daily costs
  • Map it to goals and timeline

I wanted something elevated. Something peaceful.
That’s how I found Banyan Tree Mayakoba.

Banyan Tree Mayakoba: The First Taste of Tranquility

Everything about Banyan Tree was next level.
The arrival experience. The lagoon boat ride to the room. The private plunge pool. The spa. The Saffron restaurant. The energy.

It was quiet luxury done right.
And that trip taught me something: environment is everything.

But then we took a detour…
Breakfast at the Rosewood Mayakoba.

Rosewood: The Goal Hidden in Plain Sight

From the moment we pulled up, I knew this place hit different.

That breakfast changed everything.
Not because of the food.
But because of the feeling.

I checked Expedia and saw the price — and said, “Not yet.”
But I also said, One day.I wrote it down.

I went back to work.
And I set the goal to come back.

2016: I Turned 39 and Booked It

By then I was living in Miami.
I had made some progress in business.
So for my 39th birthday, I booked Rosewood Mayakoba.
And the experience did not disappoint.

They greet you by name.
A butler takes you by boat to your room.
Every detail is thought through.
Every part of you relaxes.

It wasn’t just a trip.
It was confirmation: you can design your own life.

Why It Still Matters

Since then, I’ve returned.
Not because it’s trendy, but because it’s timeless.
I don’t chase destinations. I create checkpoints.

This place isn’t about flexing.
It’s about stillness. Gratitude. Earning your peace.

And to this day, Rosewood Mayakoba is still my favorite resort in the world.

Final Thought

You don’t have to go to Mexico to feel rich.
But you do have to stop waiting for joy.

Start small.
Plan with intention.
Reward yourself like you’re worth it.

Because you are.