This weekend X Factor headed to the Judge's Houses, when former Spice Girl Melanie B was working with the boys on their lyrics to see who went through to the live shows.
And the setting that played backdrop as the boys sang their hearts out for their mentor and fellow former Spice Girl Emma Bunton – enlisted by the X Factor judge to help her choose her final three hopefuls – is the impressive four-star Grand Xcaret Resort in Mexico.
Situated in the heart of the Riviera Maya, adjacent to the eco-archaeological Xcaret Park and just minutes from Cancun and Playa del Carmen, the Grand Xcaret provided the perfect beach setting for the X Factor team as the boys gave it their all in their auditions.When Mel B and Emma weren't listening to lyrics, and the boys – Andrea Faustini, Jake Quickenden, Jordan Morris, Paul Akister, Danny Dearden and Jack Walton – took a break from rehearsals, the lovely resort, offering the tranquility of Mexico and the crystal clear Caribbean Sea, was the perfect place for a breath of fresh air.
Mel B and Emma made sure they visited the eco-archaeological Xcaret Park and the historic Mayan ruins in the grounds, and no doubt the duo enjoyed some downtime poolside at one of the resort's five swimming pools – or perhaps at the resort's swish swim-up bar.The talent show's VIP's, including presenter Dermot O'Leary and Xtra Factor host Sarah-Jane Crawford, mixed work and play as they stayed in Master Suites in the resort's Royal Club – a unique boutique-style resort within the resort that provides extra special services including beach butler service, a private pool and restaurant.
The group of six boys, meanwhile, had an array of restaurants at their fingertips – ten to be precise – offering everything from gourmet Mexican and tacos to a pizzeria and steakhouse. They may well have opted for the Beach Club for snacks and light meals, and, after sunset, maybe even one of the resort's fourteen bars for a taste of the nightlife.
Best At Travel is offering a seven-night all-inclusive package from £899 per person, including return flights from the UK and airport taxes. Plus one child stays free! Upgrade to the Unlimited Xcaret Xperience from £75 per person per week.