Tag: Cancun

5 Reasons Why You Should Visit This Paradise Island Near Cancun

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Cancun may be America’s favorite city South of the border, but it is not the only sunny spot deserving of praise in the – much wider – Mexican Caribbean.

There is a small island just off the turquoise coast that’s drawing in hundreds of thousands of visitors every year with its relaxed vibes and pristine nature. In fact, it is so special it was recently bestowed the greatest title a tourist destination in Mexico can strive for.

If you’re heading to Mexico this fall, you should definitely pay the trendy island of Cozumel a visit, and we will give you 5 reasons why:

A Quieter Atmosphere

However you wanna call it, the Quintana Roo coast or the Mayan Riviera, one thing everyone seems to agree on is that Mexico’s Easternmost coastal province may be the country’s most sought-after, and most luxurious resort zone, but it is far from being the most peaceful.

With the world-famous party scene in Tulum and Cancun’s busy entertainment venues attracting young sociable travelers, it is maybe not the place to go if you’re looking to enjoy some quality time with the family, kick back, and soak up the tropical nature.

Cozumel, on the other hand, has been time and again noted for its slow-paced lifestyle and less-busy resorts.

Alongside Isla Mujeres, it is one of two Mexican Caribbean relaxation oases off the mainland, with TripAdvisor experts listing as many as 10 best ‘quiet‘ resorts on-site.

Luxurious Wellness Retreats

A strong favorite among visitors, the Iberostar Cozumel combines the best of Quintana Roo’s legendary entertainment industry, being in no way lacking in infrastructure in comparison to Cancun Hotel Zone’s offers.

Here, guests also enjoy the tranquil atmosphere that’s so characteristic of Cozumel, with its small, thatched-roof bungalows and sweeping native landscapes.

Other properties listed include the Cozumel Palace, with reviews reading it is ‘peaceful and quiet’, and the Melia Cozumel, one of the best in the hospitality giant’s portfolio, being described by a TripAdvisor customer as well-equipped and ‘very chill’.

Cozumel Is Extremely Safe

As Cozumel is an island municipality with a relatively small population, it does not suffer as much from issues relating to urbanization and gang activity as Cancun or other major mainland cities – after all; there are only so many places for criminals to run and hide.

Though it is definitely not immune to crime, with pickpocketing being a common occurrence, particularly in touristy areas, it is still very safe compared to other Caribbean hotspots, where civil unrest and soaring crime rates have been reported this year.

The island’s authorities have also ensured a high level of public safety by deploying more police to beach zones and resort areas, as early as December last year as part of Quintana Roo’s robust security package, which involves stricter surveillance and zero tolerance towards petty criminals.

As a result, crime levels have been relatively low, especially when compared to border zones between Mexico and the States or Mexican states in the State Department’s Level 4, ‘no-go’ list.

Vacationing in Cozumel, tourists can expect well-guarded resorts, safer streets, particularly in San Miguel de Cozumel, the island’s quaint capital, and an increased coastal guard presence, guaranteeing they will get to the end of their trip unscathed.

New Nonstop Flights From The U.S.

Though they are certainly paradisaical spots, Mexican islands are not exactly renowned for their excellent air connectivity, with several of them being in fact inaccessible by plane. Cozumel stands out as the only major island to host flights from America.

With an extensive list of nonstop flight routes, year-round and over the peak season, it welcomes visitors from numerous U.S. cities and regions, who benefit from affordable fares and greater availability of seats, most notably from December through April.

Passengers all over America, including those in Austin – Texas, Chicago, Denver, Miami, and so on get to pick from several different low-cost airlines or full-service carriers operating at more affordable rates, and every year, new exciting are launched.

2023 has been no different, as recently, flights between Atlanta and Minneapolis and Cozumel with Delta Airlines have been reinstated due to increased demand for Mexico vacations. At the same time, Canadians will now be able to fly to the island from Toronto and Montreal, with Air Canada and WestJet.

Cozumel Is Officially A Magical Town

Finally, Cozumel has been officially granted status as a Magical Town, but what does this even mean?

The decorative title, which is unique to Mexico and is bestowed upon the country’s top tourist destinations by the Tourism Ministry, recognizes Cozumel’s important role in advancing Mexican culture on both national and global levels.

Other than its world-class resorts and scenic beaches, and UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve, which would warrant a designation based on natural sights alone, it is a seriously underrated cultural destination with a rich and largely unexplored Mayan heritage.

It is the site of San Gervasio, one of the most fascinating Mayan ruins of the bygone pre-Columbian civilization. Sitting on the northern third of the island, it was a piligrimage spot, as well as a sacrificial ground for the ancient people.

Through 16th-century writings attributed to Diego de Landa, the then-Bishop of Yucatan, Historians have learned that the Mayans ‘held Cozumel in the same veneration’ as the Christians do Jerusalem or Rome and would often visit to offer ‘presents’ there.

Having fulfilled all requirements to become a ‘Pueblo Magico’, such as having a robust tourist infrastructure, significant cultural offer, and a population of over 20,000 – Cozumel stands at roughly 90,000 – it was confirmed as Mexico’s newest Magical Town recently, giving visitors to the Mexican Caribbean yet another reason to add it to their bucket list.

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October 4, 2023
Why Now Is The Best Time To Plan Your Trip To Cancun

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Cancun has enjoyed yet another record-breaking summer, with nearly 150,000 tourists visiting every week.

As the crowds dissipate and the shoulder season quickly approaches, those who haven’t had the chance to visit the Mexican hotspot yet might feel like their chance to catch a glimpse of paradise before the year ends is gone.

Luckily, that’s not the case. If you look past the massive summer crowds and envy-inducing Instagram pictures, you’ll see that now is actually the best time to plan your trip to Cancun.

Here’s why:

Lower Prices

With peak season coming to a close, hotels, restaurants, and other establishments are starting to lower their prices to match the decreased demand.

If you open any booking website right now, you’ll see that the fees have already come down quite a bit compared to the summer season.

As we approach winter, you can expect the prices to dip even further; however, remember that you’ll want to strike that balance between finding the best price possible and still getting to see Cancun in its best light.

Tickets to attractions and tours are also being sold at discounted fees, meaning that you’ll get to enjoy the activity-filled vacation of your dreams while still being able to stay within budget.

Fewer Crowds

Though it’s tempting to follow the hype and get to see Cancun at the same time as everyone else, showing a bit of patience will ultimately work out in your favor.

July and August experience such a surge in tourists that visiting your must-see beaches and cultural attractions feels more chaotic than enjoyable.

The summer crowds in the city are often insufferable, especially to those who are just looking for a relaxing, laid-back vacation.

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Planning your visit in September or October instead will allow you to enjoy your favorite spots unbothered and eat at any restaurant of your choosing without having to wait half an hour for a table or needing to book beforehand (of course, exceptions apply).

Unique Experiences

If you visit Cancun this upcoming fall, know that you won’t miss out on anything. If anything, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy an even broader range of experiences compared to summer tourists.

First of all, if a beach holiday is what you’re looking for, you’ll still get to bask under the Cancun sun and take a dive in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean.

With average temperatures that range between 24°C (75.2°F) and 32°C (89.6°F), you might even count yourself lucky that you weren’t there to experience the even higher temperatures of the summer months.

After your day at the beach, you can take your pick between the wide array of fall activities planned in the city.

For example, during the Autumn Equinox (which falls on September 23rd this year), you can visit the Kulkulan Pyramid to witness the shadows imitating the movement of a snake climbing down the steps.

October comes with a whole set of local events, including Hanal Pixan (Day of the Dead), Dia de la Raza (Columbus Day), and the annual Festival International del Caribe Mexicano Food and Wine.

This is also the best time for sightseeing some of Cancun’s natural and cultural wonders, seeing as the weather is milder and the crowds far less chaotic.

International Promotion

Since both hotels and the city itself are trying their hardest to keep the tourism momentum going, several international promotions are being carried out in an effort to attract more visitors.

These include the introduction of new entertainment options, undertakings with specific tour operators, as well as increased security and crime-deterrent measures.

More specifically, there’s currently a campaign underway that’s called “A Todo Verano” (which can roughly be translated to All Year Summer), whose goal is, you guessed it, for Cancun to maintain the same level of summer interest all year long.

Operations of this campaign include new events, sales, and fairs whose goal is to increase awareness that Cancun is much more than just a beach destination.

In short, you’ll get to enjoy all the extra effort and perks provided by local hoteliers and governing bodies just because you decided to push your vacation off an extra month or two – if your schedule allows for it, the trade-off is worth it.

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September 2, 2023
4 New Reasons Why Cancun Will Be The Top Destination For Americans This Year

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For years now, Cancun has been the number one tourist destination for Americans going abroad, renowned for its luxurious resort zone, world-class amenities, and of course, the miles on miles of sandy beaches bounded by the turquoise-colored Caribbean Sea.

Its popularity has extended well into 2023, even after the world’s wider reopening for tourism and other countries’ return to the competition. This year, as many as 20.5 million visitors are expected to visit the wider state of Quintana Roo, proving the Caribbean giant is still at the top of its game.

It may already be the King of Tourism, but with the diversification of the tourist offer elsewhere in Mexico,it looks set to get a new lead on its competitors due to 4 new reasons:

Revitalization Of The Tajamar Boardwalk

One of the biggest complaints among those vacationing in Cancun is how the city feels largely underdeveloped, with potholed streets and poor walkability beyond the resort walls. That’s why a majority of tourists often restrict their movements to the glitzy Hotel Zone.

Soon enough, Cancun’s urban infrastructure problems will be formally addressed, with more parts of the city set to be revitalized, from municipal parks to smaller beaches away from the main one, the well-frequented Playa Delfines, though the one we’re most excited about is the Tajamar Boardwalk project.

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Currently, it makes for a pleasant leisurely stroll on the waterfront with views of the turquoise ocean, but there are no noteworthy amenities or tourist attractions along the ‘malecon’, at least for now.

In the near future, over $700,000 will be invested in making the boardwalk more attractive.

This may involve the widening of pedestrian and cycling paths, the introduction of restaurants and bars to the area, which borders the landmark Nichupte Lagoon, and open green spaces for the promotion of outdoor activities.

Free WiFi At The Beach

Cancun is not exactly renowned for the speed of its public WiFi, particularly in beach zones outside resort complexes, where connectivity can be remarkably weak. Unless you have a generous data package to see you through excursions out of your hotel, you could be left disconnected from the online world.

That’s not necessarily a bad thing, as a majority of tourists landing in the Caribbean are actively seeking to disconnect and take in the natural surroundings, but it can be a bit of a nuisance too.

Luckily, Cancun authorities have been paying attention to feedback and are now installing WiFi antennas along the Hotel Zone.

By the end of August, two of the busiest beaches in Cancun, Kilometer Zero and Playa Delfines, will be served by GigNet, a popular infrastructure provider in Mexico known to have introduced optical fiber to the Caribbean provinces.

While you shouldn’t exactly expect fast-speed internet in public spaces, at least now you won’t need to rush to the next convenience store to buy more data if your package suddenly expires.

Reopening Of Las Coloradas

After months of being closed off to tourists due to environmental concerns, the famous Las Coloradas are finally open again and hosting tourists.

One of the most popular day trips from Cancun and a top-rated attraction in the Yucatan Peninsula, it sits on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico.

Other than the verdant nature reserves that border it, the Las Coloradas lakes are, of course, best known for their bubblegum pink-colored hue, as a result of a combination of red algae native to salt lakes and tiny shrimp that inhabit the incredibly salty waters.

Last March, access to the site was closed due to disagreements between tourist guides and the salt company that oversees the landmark. These seem to have been resolved now, allowing for the return of visitor groups.

Day tours to Las Coloradas can be booked from Cancun through the numerous tour companies and private, certified guides that operate in the city, as well as Rio Lagartos, the nearest major city, and as far away as Merida, the capital of the state of Yucatan.

A New Tourist Train Launching

Finally, tourists can expect connectivity traveling to and from Cancun to improve from this December when the long-awaited Maya Train is set to launch.

Traveling on a loop around the Yucatan Peninsula, the train will call at all of the main tourist stops and as many as 34 stations, including Cancun and Cancun International Airport, making it a lot easier for passengers arriving at the Mayan Riviera to reach other destinations on the coast.

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The train will run parallel to the ocean and, in some sections, over a viaduct, offering panoramas of the verdant scenery below, Mayan ruins, and open-air cenotes, and should leave each station every two hours, from 6 am to 10 pm daily.

Official ticket fares have not yet been announced, but earlier reports indicate they may cost between 60 and 80 Mexican pesos. Learn more about the Maya Train and how it will transform travel in the Mexican Caribbean here.

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August 27, 2023
Travelers Are Being Warned Not To Fall For These Increasingly Common Scams In Cancun And Cabo

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As travelers continue to flock to Mexico’s finest coastlines, two of them are seeing increasingly common scams.

Cancun and Cabo tourists are being warned not to become victims when booking their dreamy beach getaway.

These scams range from hotel fraud to beggars. Travelers need to be vigilant and not allow themselves to fall for fraudulent activity.

With so many people vacationing in Mexico this year, without proper knowledge, it can be easy to become a victim.

While the following scams have become commonplace in Cancun and Cabo, they can happen anywhere.

Here is what travelers should know:

Cabo’s Fake Listings

According to Good Morning America, Cabo has been targeted as a destination with an influx of fake hotel listings.

Fraudulent sites are accepting payments for hotels that are not open yet or may not even exist at all.

Scammers are using the names of hotels currently being built and listing them as if they are open for business.

Travelers are falling for this scam since there are articles about the new resorts, but not doing quite enough research before booking.

A little extra digging online will go a long way! It’s not just fancy hotels and resorts either. It’s also vacation rentals.

Airbnb and other big-name platforms tend to be safe for bookings. If a website doesn’t sound familiar, it is best to do more research before going any further in the booking process.

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Especially if a “host” reaches out for advance payment such as credit card, Venmo, PayPal, or any type of wire transfer. That’s the ultimate red flag.

Be Wary Of ATM Use In Cancun

Travelers should always be wary of ATM scams no matter where they are in their travels. Unfortunately for Cancun tourists, ATM scams have become more popular as of late.

It’s always best to use an ATM at a bank when possible, as these are far less likely to be tampered with.

There have been increased reports of skimming devices, which steal confidential information from debit cards. But these are most often when the ATM is not inside a bank.

Travelers should know not all ATMs are not operated by banks. Ones that are run by small businesses tend to have an exchange rate not as friendly for your wallet.

It’s also wise to never use an ATM after dark unless absolutely necessary. You never know who is watching.

Unwanted Friends In Cancun

Many come to Cancun to relax at one of its many luxurious resorts, but everyone needs a night out too!

Travelers might stumble upon one of the most common scams when enjoying a night out on the town and running into some friendly people at a bar or nightclub.

Perhaps a little too friendly. After a few drinks, your new friends will encourage you to go somewhere else with them.

Everyone is having a good time, so why not barhop across town, right? The problem is your new friends at the new bar will keep the drinks flowing until a bill arrives with some extra zeros in the total.

Congrats, you have just been scammed by your new friends with extremely inflated prices! All without a chance to look at the menu.

Help! I Lost My Passport!

Common in Cancun right now, the “robbed tourist” scheme targets tourists to pull at their heartstrings.

Someone will approach an obvious traveler begging for help because they lost their wallet, passport, or both.

Instead of going to the nearest embassy like any traveler should, they will beg for financial help, hoping to gain the trust of a fellow traveler.

Rather than assist them financially, it’s best to point them in the right direction of the embassy, as this is the proper protocol for this situation if it is indeed a real scenario.

Can Taxis Be Trusted?

There has been ongoing Taxi vs. Uber battles in Mexico for years. Taxis also do not have the best reputation for honesty and trust, just about anywhere from the classic “my meter is broken” trick to what is not being reported in Cancun of inflated prices at the last minute.

What will generally happen is you think you are agreeing to a ride for 100 pesos (roughly $5), but when it comes time to pay at the end of the ride, the driver demands $100 USD.

Big difference! Travelers should know that no ride should be anywhere in this ballpark for pricing.

Haggling for pricing and confirming a clear understanding is the best option before taking off to your destination.

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June 27, 2023
This Mayan Ruin South Of Cancun Will Open To The Public For The First Time Ever

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Mayan ruins are a big part of the reason why Mexico is so popular as a tourist destination, particularly among History enthusiasts.

Belonging to the wider Mayan World, it is home to over 200 archaeological zones, where some of the most impressive structures of the ancient civilization, including the world-famous step pyramids and the ball courts, can still be seen.

While open-air museums like Chichen Itza and the Tulum ruins are well-known to the wider public, one of Mexico’s priceless Mayan treasures had remained sealed off for decades as excavations and conservation efforts were underway, though that is changing soon.

A Mayan ruin with restricted access is opening for visitors for the first time, and if you’re planning a trip to Cancun for 2024, you could be among the first to explore it:

The Legendary Ichkabal Is Opening To The Public For The First Time In History

After a decade since it was first announced as Mexico’s next protected archaeological site, the unexplored Mayan city of Ichkabal will host its first foreign visitors.

As revealed by Diego Prieto, Director General of the country’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), renovation works in the ruins will be finished soon, allowing it to welcome tourists as early as summer 2024.

In his own words, ‘the Federation’s instruction is that the opening of the archaeological zone of Ichkabal be in August 2024, so they with the ejidatarios to reach an agreement‘.

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The ruins are only a two-and-a-half hour drive South of Cancun, towards the trendy resort town of Bacalar, and its opening coincides with the launch of the Mayan Train later this year.

From December 2023, travelers based in Cancun will be able to hop on an affordable scenic train to Bacalar, the major town nearest to the ruins in question, and the gateway to the seven-colored Lake Bacalar, a popular alternative to the Tulum coast this summer.

From the planned Maya Train station in Bacalar, the drive to Ichkabal will take less than 25 minutes.

Why Is Ichkabal Important?

Ichkabal was once one of the most important urban centers in pre-Columbian America.

Settled by the Mayans as early as 400 B.C., it stood among an elite group of cities on the Mayan trade route, due to its privileged location, in close proximity to the Central American isthmus, offering easy links to all of the major Mayan hubs beyond the Yucatan Peninsula.

Although it was a secondary power and not as relevant a cultural center as the likes of Chichen Itza – currently one of Mexico’s best preserved ancient cities – or Tikal, in Northern Guatemala, Ichkabal was able to flourish as a key trading hub in the pre-classic era.

Much like Chichen Itza, its more famous sister city-state, it consisted of several temples and sacrificial sites built as a means to bring the Mayans closer to their deities, wide avenues flanked by stone houses and public buildings, and ball courts and other entertainment areas.

It was inhabited until the early 16th century, when the natives were pushed out or exterminated following the Spanish Conquest, and the city fell into abandonment.

As the ‘Hispanicization’ of Mexico took place, and the native Mexicans eventually assimilated into Hispanic culture, Ichkabal’s existence was all but forgotten as the construction of post-colonial settlements advanced, and nature slowly reclaimed it.

It wasn’t until the 20th century that a renewed interest in Ichkabal was noted, particularly following the rise of tourism in the Mexican Caribbean, leading historians and archaeologists to intensify their efforts in restoring the lost city to its former glory.

What Are The Rules For Visiting Ichkabal?

At this point, we do not yet know how much it will cost to visit the ruins or whether there are additional rules visitors must familiarize themselves with not to be on the wrong side of the law.

Recently, a number of tourists have been penalized, or issued fines, for climbing Mayan structures in Chichen Itza and other protected ancient reserves in Mexico.

Some of the pyramids in the Aztec city of Teotihuacan, close to Mexico City, are now also off-limits to climbers.

Regarding Ichkabal’s state of preservation and whether its temples are accessible and safe to enter, we will only know more once the site is formally open and the visitation rules are available for consultation.

While Ichkabal is not open, you can still explore countless other Mayan ruins accessible to visitors within driving distance of Cancun. Learn more about them here.

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June 17, 2023
4 Reasons Why You Should Visit Los Cabos Instead Of Cancun This Summer

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If you’ve fallen in love with Mexico on your last vacation and you’re thinking of returning, but another summer paying inflated tourist rates in Cancun doesn’t sound like your idea of fun, maybe you should consider exploring the country’s Pacific coast instead.

In other words, why not skip the Mexican Caribbean altogether, and fly somewhere new, where the weather is just as great, the seas bright blue, and the tourist offer comparatively vast?

Here are 4 reasons why you should spend your long-anticipated holiday in Los Cabos this year:

A Higher Concentration Of Wellness Retreats

While Cancun – and the wider Riviera Maya, on an extent – have developed a reputation for being Mexico’s party capital, actively promoting jungle parties and beach clubs as part of the tourist offer – the dual destination that is Los Cabos has pursued a slightly different path.

Instead of following in Cancun’s footsteps, much like Acapulco and Puerto Vallarta have, ‘The Capes’ have been focusing instead on developing a strong wellness scene.

That’s not to say you won’t find nightclubs or a lively social scene here, but a majority of the guests come to Cabo hoping to simply unwind.

As a matter of fact, it is now Mexico’s number one wellness destination, as well as Latin America’s absolute leader in this market, boasting the greatest presence of spa resorts and relaxation retreats out of any coastal spot in the subcontinent.

Whether it’s lounging by the beach all day without the constant thumping of electronic music originating from a random beachfront bar in Cancun or treating yourself and booking a much-needed spa day, you’ll soon find yourself enamored with Cabo’s unique vibes.

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Development-Free Colonial Towns

The Capes may not have pre-Columbian ruins, being located on the Southernmost tip of the Baja Californian Peninsula, and not the Ancient Mayan-Caribbean World, but it hosts a number of nationally-relevant sights History buffs will not want to miss.

For instance, three of the most beautiful Pueblos Magicos – Mexico’s ‘Magical Towns’, a nationwide designation for destinations with an incomparable cultural wealth – are located within short driving distance of both Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.

Visitors keen on experiencing a more authentic side of Mexico, where over-development is yet to drive locals out and the colorful houses make for a postcard-ready picture, will want to add the small towns of Loreto and Todos Santos to their summer wishlist.

Settled in the colonial era, when Europeans began populating Mexico’s territory, they have retained much of their Old World charm, from the distinctly vibrant-colored facades to the charming 18th-century churches.

Sargassum-Free Beaches

One of the biggest complaints of tourists vacationing in Cancun, or the state of Quintana Roo in general, is the state of the beaches when the humidity starts to build up.

In the summertime, other than a higher incidence of rain and tropical storms, Cancun’s coastal strip is invaded by the smelly brown seaweed known as sargassum, which continues to batter local swimming spots in spite of the municipality’s best efforts to keep it at bay.

Interestingly, sargassum is not a common occurrence in the Pacific Ocean, being exclusive to tropical and temperate seas instead.

This means Los Cabos remains sargassum-free year-round, even when the country’s Southeast is battling the phenomenon.

From the landmark Playa del Amor to Medano Beach, the sands remain golden, and the seas bright azure. Storms may hit the coast on occasion, but those are infrequent, and the skies remain clear for the best part of the season.

Cabo Is Safer

Mexico may have made headlines recently as an unsafe destination after a group of American visitors was kidnapped crossing into a border town, with a gruesome conclusion, but unlike what the mainstream media would have you believe, violent incidents involving tourists are very much an exception rather than the rule across all of Mexico.

When it comes to Los Cabos, these rates are not even statistically relevant, as they are so exceedingly rare it rarely ever makes the news.

Additionally, 67.5% of Cabo residents consider it safe to live in, as reiterated in research conducted by INEGI, the National Institute of Statistics and Geography.

In sum, Cabo is as safe as it gets, and it may well be Mexico’s safest destination overall, with improved surveillance in beach zones, including patrolling of bars and nightclubs in proximity to Medano Beach, and a crackdown on insistent beach vendors known to disturb beach-goers.

Learn more about Cabo’s well-documented and successful battle against crime here.

Cabo Is Just Trendier

Cancun may still be the indisputable King of Tourism, drawing in 30 million visitors last year alone, but it has long ceased being Mexico’s fastest-growing destination.

It now trails behind Cabo in terms of recovery, openly challenging it for the spot of number one resort destination in Mexico.

If you’re looking for first-class service, a more ‘chill’ atmosphere, and unspoiled nature, this is a natural replacement for Cancun.

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June 16, 2023
These 4 Towns Near Cancun Will Give Visitors An Authentic Mexican Experience

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Cancun is still the number one destination for Americans taking an international vacation this year, surpassing popular tourist hotspots like South America and Mediterranean Europe.

Famous for its world-class resort strips, which straddle the turquoise ocean, and unparalleled luxury scene, the city has seen a record surge in bookings for the June-August period.

If you’re one of those people who couldn’t resist spending another year in the Riviera Maya, but you’re now craving for something more than just lounging by the pool all day sipping mimosas, and you’ve made it your goal to have a more authentic Mexican experience this time, we’ve got you covered.

Here are 4 incredible small towns near Cancun where development is more limited and that still feels like the Mexico ‘of old’:

Valladolid

Population: 56,494

Distance driving from Cancun: 2h09

Valladolid is a great option for a weekend getaway if you’re hoping to witness firsthand a colonial-era settlement where centuries-old customs are maintained.

Originally settled by the Mayans, Valladolid was captured by the Spanish in the mid-16th-century, who named it after an already-existing city in Spain, and it would be under the control of the colonizers that it would flourish as an important trading and cultural hub in the Yucatan Peninsula.

Tourists often pinpoint the beautiful Cathedral of San Servacio, towering high over the town square, and Valladolid’s well-organized grid-like structure, a remnant of the Spanish period, as some of the main landmarks to be seen.

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Within short driving distance of the town, there are a handful of world-class attractions, including one of the seven New Wonders of the World, the Mayan archaeological complex of Chichen Itza, and the pristine Cenote Zaci, which unlike other swimming pits closer to Cancun, such as Cenote Azul and Cenote Dos Ojos, receives very few tourists.

Felipe Carrillo Puerto

Population: 25,744

Distance driving from Cancun: 2h45

Less than three hours driving South of Cancun along the coast, Felipe Carrillo Puerto may take its name after a Spaniard, but it remains a quintessentially Mayan enclave in essence.

Sitting on the edge of the famous Sian Ka’an Reserve, yet relatively unknown to most day-trippers, it is one of a handful of towns in the overtouristed Riviera not yet ruined by over-development, and a ‘family first,’ traditional community where Mayan dialects continue to be spoken by some locals, besides Spanish.

The linguistic heritage is, in fact, a huge part of Felipe Carrillo Puerto’s tourist offer, with a visit to the Na’atik Language and Culture Institute ranking as the number one to-do activity on TripAdvisor.

It is credited with helping keep Mayan culture alive and bridging gaps between foreigners and locals.

The town is also home to the Holy Cross Catholic Church, an important part of post-colonial Mayan History, and the folk Museo Maya Santa Cruz Xbaalam Naj, a free museum chronicling the History of the natives during the Caste War when the Mayan populace revolted against Hispanic settlers.

Izamal

Population: 15,101

Distance driving from Cancun: 3h53

Yet another treasure of the state of Yucatan, easily reachable from Cancun, in the neighboring Quintana Roo, Izamal is a postcard-ready ‘yellow city’ that’s been stealing the hearts of visitors for years now.

It is the furthest one out, at just under 4 hours of driving, but it can be toured as a day trip if you time wisely, though it is best visited as an overnight destination.

After all, Izamal’s cultural wealth is well and truly boundless.

Stroll its cobbled streets, flanked by vibrant-colored buildings dating back centuries, and you’ll be transported back to the 16th century when the Spanish first made landfall and chased the native Mayans out of the land.

Though at least five pre-Columbian structures are visible in Izamal to this day, including a Mayan pyramid, the main attraction on site is the Franciscan Monastery, with an open atrium second in size only to the Vatican’s.

El Cuyo

Population: 1,567

Distance driving from Cancun: 2h36

The smallest settlement on this list, El Cuyo, is a quaint spot on the shores of the Caribbean that has successfully eluded city planners and international brands.

Located in the state of Yucatan but only two and a half hours away from Cancun, it was recently named by The Cancun Sun, the largest independent website on Riviera Maya news, a ‘traveler’s paradise’, and we’re inclined to agree.

Described as having sandy streets and a ‘fishing village ambiance’, it offers resort guests basing themselves in Cancun a much-needed escape from the agitated atmosphere of the chaotic metropolis and its tourist-filled sands.

El Cuyo may lack the Riviera Maya’s more advanced infrastructure, but it’s made great strides towards improving its attractiveness to guests in recent years, from the investment in better internet connectivity to the opening of ten boutique hotels and preservation of the town’s beaches.

Soon enough, El Cuyo could be inscribed on Mexico’s list of Magical Towns, recognized for their historical significance and/or inestimable value to the tourism industry.

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June 13, 2023
4 Reasons Why Cancun Will Be Easier To Visit Than Ever Before

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Despite strong competition, both in the Caribbean world and beyond, Cancun remains the number one beach resort for Americans going abroad this summer.

Having welcomed more than 30 million guests last year, it continues to eclipse all of its fellow competing sunny spots, such as Punta Cana and Jamaica.

In an attempt to assert what’s already an infallible popularity, the jewel of the Riviera Maya has continued to improve tourist infrastructure and services every passing year, to the point it is not simply a world-class destination, but one of the easiest to visit from the States:

Here are 4 reasons why:

More Low Cost Flight Options

Second only to Mexico City, Cancun International is the best-connected hub in the country, hosting at least 38 nonstop US flights as of December 2022.

For many Americans, Cancun is the main entry point into Mexico, and its high demand continues to foster both slot and fare wars between competing airlines.

Spirit has low-cost flights to Cancun starting from only US$79 one-way from select departure points, while Allegiant offers fares as cheap as US$102 from Fort Lauderdale.

One could argue Cancun is the cheapest ticket into the Mexican Caribbean for North Americans, with aa record number of flights operating between the Mayan city and numerous departure points in the United States and Canada, and plenty of all-inclusive vacation deals available.

Safety

One of the main concerns for Americans traveling outside the United States is security.

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Seeing that a majority of destinations worldwide is either at Level 2 or 3 on the State Department’s Travel Advisory list, it may seem as if there are not enough safe spots to explore out there.

Regardless of the media frenzy, you should know Cancun wouldn’t be so hugely popular unless security was tight in tourist zones. Yes, it is a Level 2 destination, but so is France and the United Kingdom, and while crime has not been eradicated, much like in every major U.S. city, it is far from being rampant.

Yes, shootings can occur in peripheral zones, but gangs do not target tourists, and their activity is often restricted to suburban districts, where visitors do not routinely go.

This summer, state authorities are deploying drones to monitor the Hotel Zone from above, as well as reinforcing security personnel on the streets to drive down petty crime rates. As it is extremely safe, no other Caribbean city is easier to explore than Cancun.

Improved Transport Links

For years now, one of the main complaints of tourists arriving in Cancun has been how poor public transport infrastructure is.

Landing at Cancun Airport, other than being harassed as you walk through the Shark Tank – learn more here – you are extremely likely to be overcharged getting into an airport cab.

Sadly, public buses are not a viable option for many, as they lack the comfort, and usually do not drop you off at the doorstep of your hotel. Beginning in 2024, however, transport links will improve greatly.

Other than the usual cabs and Ubers, tourists looking to save a few dollars will be able to avoid rivate transfers altogether and hop on the Maya Train, which covers large swathes of the Yucatan Peninsula, calling at several tourist spots both within the Cancun municipality and the wider Riviera.

Additionally, roadwork currently being carried out along the Colosio Boulevard is set to reduce traffic jams. This includes the construction of a new bridge set to speed airport transfers, as reported by our sister website The Cancun Sun.

Both the infrastructure improvement, and the launch of the Maya Train, will make it easier for visitors to transfer between Cancun Airport and the city proper.

Hassle-Free Entry

Lastly, this year Cancun has simplified border procedures for American visitors, scrapping the dreaded customs form at arrival, and allowing them to breeze through the border by scanning their passports.

With the new e-Gates that have been put in place, U.S. and Canada passport holders are no longer expected to join a long line of travelers from the rest of the world waiting to get screened by a border agent.

There may be lines still, as Cancun is Mexico’s busiest coastal airport right now, but they are moving a lot faster now that North Americans are given priority.

As long as you carry a valid biometric American or Canadian passport, or a valid travel document issued by other low-risk countries, you are eligible to use the e-Gate and avoid the usual scrutiny at the border. International travel doesn’t get any smoother than this – certainly not in the Caribbean region.

Tourists are normally granted a 6-month stay entering Mexico at any crossing points, including Cancun Airport.

Heading to Cancun this summer? Make sure you read on about the Riviera Maya and all the latest developments to stay on the loop ahead of your beach holidays.

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June 5, 2023
This Small Beach Destination Near Cancun Is Exploding In Popularity Right Now

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The Mexican Caribbean is the go-to spot for Americans traveling abroad.

With its turquoise waters, charming coastal settlements, and wellness scene, there is truly no better place for sunseekers to be, but if Cancun no longer appeals to you, then vacationing in a smaller beach destination away from the big city that’s surging in popularity, this might be your best bet.

Akumal Is The Next Trendy Caribbean Spot

Akumal is one of the trendiest beach resorts in the Maya Riviera, with the Secretary of Tourism of Mexico reporting occupancy rates of 87.6% for the first quarter of 2023.

According to a report issued by the entity, it already outpaces well-established tourist towns like Playa del Carmen, its closest competitor in the Caribbean (86.6%), Cabo San Lucas on the Pacific coast (84.5%), New Nayarit (84.4%), Puerto Vallarta (83.6%), and even the mighty Cancun (80.5%).

As we have discussed previously, while Cancun remains Mexico’s number one sunny hub in terms of overall figures, largely due to its record-breaking tourism – last year, over 30 million arrivals were recorded in Cancun Airport – it has long ceased being the fastest-growing destination.

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For months now, it has been bumped off the number one spot by competing cities as returning travelers and first-time visitors alike look for alternatives to the jam-packed Mayan city.

In a way, it feels like Cancun is yesterday’s news, and places like Akumal, and the lesser-known Bacalar, are finally getting the hype they deserve.

What Can Akumal Offer?

Akumal is a small coastal community of roughly 1,300 inhabitants, sitting between the much busier Playa del Carmen and Tulum, 62 miles south of Cancun.

It straddles both Akumal and Half Moon Bays, two of the most scenic swimming sites in the state of Quintana Roo, where marine life still thrives, and overtourism has yet to drive out a majority of the locals with its associated gentrification.

Due to its size, it can feel more exclusive, with a more limited selection of hotels, resorts, and luxury stays than internationalized Cancun. More specifically, there are only 23 five-star properties listed on Booking.com, against Cancun’s 48 or Tulum’s 32.

Though it is a lot smaller, it is by no means less well-equipped, offering visitors both all-inclusive resorts – the adults-only Unico Hotel Riviera Maya is a perfect romantic getaway for couples – and charming, boutique hotels nestled in the jungle, where you can go ‘glamping’.

Fellow budget travelers, rejoice: unlike other Caribbean destinations, Akumal still warmly welcomes us.

A king room with a garden view at the three-star Akumal Natura Glamping costs a mere USD$84 for an overnight in June, while private stays at the colorful Del Sol Beachfront Hotel are on the market for USD$89.

All in all, whether you’re the splurging type or a budget-conscious vacationer, Akumal has some great deals for you.

Beautiful Natural Attractions

Seen from above, it looks like a beautiful crescent lapped by crystal-clear waters, and although it is a miniature development zone, it certainly has no shortage of attractions.

Other than the beautiful beaches, most notably the landmark Playa Akumal, a sandy extension of coast bounded by the translucent waters of the Caribbean, tourists have access to a monkey sanctuary, inland, shallow, family-friendly cenotes, such as Ya-kul, and relaxation spas.

Basing yourself in Akumal, you can also take a few day trips out to explore the Tulum Ruins or spend a day at the Xel-ha aquatic theme park. Adult tickets start from USD $89, including all food, drinks, and unlimited snorkeling.

But first and foremost, Akumal is a natural oasis where people go to escape the hustle and bustle of Cancun.

If you’re wary of the latter’s mega resorts and Instagram crowds, and you’re hoping to have a more relaxed Caribbean experience, then this is the place for you.

Mexico Is Set For A Record-Breaking Year In Tourism

Overall, Mexico has reached occupancy rates of 60.5% in Q1, 9.5 percentage points higher than in 2022, which indicates the country could be set for yet another record-breaking year once the December count is in.

In beach areas, an average of 142,685 rooms were filled, against 124,300 in the previous year, at a year-on-year increase of 14.8%. In terms of occupancy, this means an even higher rate of 71.7%, surpassing that of the national average, which accounts not only for coastal zones but also for inland destinations like the country’s capital, Mexico City, or the beautiful Guanajuato.

Though it faces strong competition, Akumal has resurfaced as one of the leading beach zones amid Mexico’s post-crisis tourism revival.

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June 2, 2023
These Are The Best Beaches to Visit Around Cancun For Less Seaweed
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Having their beach holidays ruined by seaweed is one of the main concerns for Americans heading to Cancun. Authorities may have implemented a number of measures to ensure that the sea retains its turquoise hue, but the arrival of some sargassum is still inevitable. Fortunately, there are four beaches in the area expecting less seaweed for the season.

Sargassum is a smelly brown algae that reproduces and makes landfall along the Mexican Caribbean when sea temperatures begin rising between April and October. Despite being harmless, beachgoers often complain about the algae’s putrid smell, compared to rotten eggs, and how it ruins the pristine look of the white sands.

This year, the phenomenon recurred earlier than expected, but there are still a handful of swimming spots the invading agent has missed:

Sargassum Arrives Earlier To Cancun

Whether it’s adding new barriers, investing in state-of-the-art technology, or manually removing the algae, the Quintana Roo Government has made fighting sargassum a top priority, especially after reports showed a record increase in algae levels would impact vacations in the Mexican Caribbean in 2023.

Sargassum season usually begins in April, culminating in the Northern Hemisphere summer before fading in winter, when landfall rates are negligible. This year, however, the seaweed arrived two months sooner, with the Cancun Sun reporting that some beaches in and around Cancun are facing ‘unprecedented quantities’ of the algae for the month of February.

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According to the latest update issued by the Quintana Roo Sargassum Monitoring Network, Playa Ballenas and Playa Delfines, two of the most popular beaches within driving distance of Cancun, have ‘abundant‘ levels of seaweed, which could be high enough to disrupt vacations and lead to closures. Four beaches seem to have been naturally shielded from the dreaded macro-organism, though.

They are:
- Playa Centro
- Playa Sur
- Playa Las Pedras
- Playa Langosta
These Four Beaches Will Be The Least Affected This Season

Both Playa Centro and Playa Sur are beaches in Isla Mujeres, an island municipality off the coast of Cancun famous for its laid-back nature and luxury resorts that are more recluse. Due to its strategic location in an area where currents are not as powerful, Mujeres sees very little, if any, brown algae lining its shore.

But why? seeing that it is so close to shore and the Cancun coastline is normally lined with dark patches?

One of the highest risk factors for sargassum landfall is strong winds and agitated seas, which bring the sargassum deposits ashore. Not only the aforementioned sandy crescents but the whole of Isla Mujeres has the least amount of sargassum in the entire Riviera Maya this season, making it the ideal destination for American sunseekers heading south of the border.

On the mainland, the other two beaches, Las Perlas and Langosta, have been reporting ‘manageable’ sargassum levels. This means that seaweed cannot be avoided, but the impact is not so serious as to require the deployment of a round-the-clock cleaning task force or the introduction of heavy machinery to tackle the issue.

The report also indicated ‘low to non-existent’ sargassum in Holbox, yet another small island close to Cancun. Holbox is famous for being a car-free haven, and it’s been recently recognized by Travel Off Path as one of Quintana Roo’s top five underrated beach destinations.

In sum, your best bet for escaping the smelly algae when vacationing in the Mexican Caribbean is picking one of its paradisaical islands.

How Well-Equipped Is Cancun?

Sargassum is a natural phenomenon in the tropics that regularly affects the Caribbean coast of Mexico, as well as neighboring countries, particularly in the lead-up to the humid summer months when the sea becomes warmer, and algae tend to spread at a faster rate. Other studies have suggested that, as a result of numerous factors, including global warming, 2023 might be ‘even worse’ than previous years.

Luckily, Cancun and the surrounding towns have risen up to the challenge and are better equipped to manage the crisis. Over 150 cleaners have been employed in Cancun in the last few months to keep beaches untarnished, while Playa Del Carmen, where the concentration of sargassum is usually higher, has seen the installation of containers to store the material.

One thing is for certain: the local Government is sparing no effort in ensuring sands are as white as they can be and the oceans remain crystal-clear.

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February 17, 2023