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 Cancunwhere 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.
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.
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.
Have you ever wished you could travel the world and experience new things without spending a fortune doing it? It’s a common dream among travel lovers, and it can be a reality if you are willing to give some of your time. Using the app or website, Worldpackers, travelers are able to find experiences all over the world that allow them to volunteer some of their time in exchange for food and accommodation. Typical experiences call for about 25 hours a week of volunteer time and offer one to three meals a day, plus a place to stay.
What Kind Of Experiences Are There?
Many hosts on Worldpackers offer more than just room and board; some of the work you can sign up for is an experience in and of itself! For instance, some of the opportunities available include:
Gardening
Party promoting
Animal care
Bartending
Photography
Painting
Handyman work
Many, many more
How does 25 hours a week of drawing and painting on the walls of a social hostel in Portugal sound? Perks include three meals a day, a free place to stay, free parties to attend, discounts on drinks and tours, free laundry, and three days off a week to explore.
Or how about helping out with content creation for a summer camp in Spain for 25 hours a week with most afternoons free, two days off a week, three meals a day, and a free place to stay?
These are just two of the many experiences available in over 140 countries.
When looking for a place to volunteer, it’s good to make a favorites list so that you have some options to choose from. Once you’ve narrowed it down, you’ll be able to apply to the volunteer slot and reach out to the host. All you need to do is tell them which dates you would like to begin and end your trip. Many of the more popular experiences tend to fill up, so it is good to try to stand out when you reach out and have a well-thought-out profile on Worldpackers. Once you are accepted, your host will send a confirmation. All there is left to do now is meet at the agreed-upon location and date!
How Free is Free?
While Worldpackers is an excellent way to travel the world on a budget, the service does charge an annual membership fee. It isn’t exorbitant and is currently $49.00 per year for a solo traveler and $59.00 per year for couples or a pair of friends. Worldpackers charges this fee in order to support their service, verify hosts and volunteers, and offer an included insurance in case of any mix-ups along the way.
Other costs to look out for when using the service are experiences that don’t include all meals. While not a dealbreaker, food costs can certainly add up while traveling if you aren’t careful. If choosing an opportunity that only provides breakfast, for instance, expenses can eat into the savings offered by using Worldpackers. Some experiences also charge an additional fee when staying, though it is usually only 5 to 15 dollars a day, depending on the experience.
Is It Worth It?
Monetarily, Worldpackers is an excellent way to cut down on costs while traveling all over the world. However, not all costs are financial. Exchanging your time, skills, and energy for food and accommodation may not be worth it for those looking to go on a relaxing luxury vacation.
For those looking for interesting life experiences who don’t mind putting some work in while they travel, Worldpackers may be an excellent way to see more of the world. Hosts welcome volunteers all the time and make an effort to make the experience one that you won’t forget, and the other like-minded volunteers you meet along the way may turn into lifelong friends.
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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
International travel is back with a vengeance now that Covid is yesterday’s news – and a number of airlines are out here offering pretty irresistible flight deals. Whether it’s stopovers in amazing cities with no extra fees, free tickets to some of the world’s top rated attractions or even hotel stays, their customers will be spoiled for choice this summer…
Although entry rules have never been easier to navigate and countless destinations have reopened fully, the price of travel is skyrocketing as a result of a record-high demand. In places like Miami, hotel prices have shot up by more than 50%, making vacations not only less affordable, but even prohibitive for a majority of travelers.
Fortunately, these new flight combo deals will help ease the burden a bit:
What Are Layover Programs And Which Airlines Are Included?
While they are not everyone’s cup of tea, long layovers are a great way to tick yet another destination off the bucket list, usually for no additional costs. It is the ultimate definition of two birds, one stone, allowing connecting passengers to see all the main highlights of a city ahead of boarding their final flight.
Some destinations are, in fact, major ‘layover’ hotspots, particularly in the Middle East, where both West and East-bound routes overlap. In recent years, places like Istanbul and Dubai have gained traction as stopover hubs, mainly due to their strong connectivity and direct links to multiple cities in Europe, the Americas, Asia and Africa.
As these global cities rose in popularity, so did their so-called Layover Programs: the industry’s response to the needs of travelers on brief city breaks. These programs aim to make transiting airports easier, especially during interminable journeys where access to certain services is limited – and they have been revolutionizing long-haul trips since.
In case you missed this piece of news amid the spate of flight cancellations that has plagued airports lately, there are seven popular airlines offering layover programs with hefty benefits. These can range from free overnights in close proximity to the airport, to big hotel discounts and entry fee waivers for a number of tourist sites.
It may sound too good to be true, but we assure you these ‘on the house’ stopovers are very real, and they will come in quite handy now that travel is getting costlier. Ready to find out which airlines have joined the trend?
Here are the details in full:
Airlines Offering Free Hotels And Attractions
Emirates – On Dubai Routes
Emirates is ensuring customers have the best possible connection time in Dubai – even when transit times are long. Dubbing it the Dubai Connect, the luxury-loving airline has a surprisingly generous layover policy in place: all passengers transiting Dubai between 10 and 24 hours are eligible for the program, regardless of cabin class.
Emirates will continue providing the shortest possible connection, but anyone who cannot book seats on the quickest routes will be entitled to ‘complimentary hotel accommodation’, transfers, and even entry visas free of charge. Dubai Connect services can be added on eligible bookings through the ‘Manage’ section at least 24 hours before departure.
In sum, those flying Emirates and staying longer in Dubai now enjoy:
Free hotels (5-star ones for First Class and Business passengers)
Transfers to and from the airport
Visa fees waived
Access to the Dubai Connect Lounge
Free Entry Into The Country’s Top 3 Attractions
Additionally, the carrier has launched a new campaign allowing passengers who book flights through their website to obtain free tickets into the United Arab Emirate’s leading tourist attractions. These include the sky high Burj Khalifa building, the Dubai Fountain Boardwalk, both in Dubai, and Louvre Abu Dhabi, in Abu Dhabi.
In order to qualify, travelers must book flights froom July 1 through September 30, though booking dates, as well as terms and conditions, may vary by region. As reported by the Khaleej Times, once the reservation is confirmed, tickets can be requested via e-mail ([email protected]). The following are required:
Booking reference
Arrival date
Name of the ticket holder
Phone number
Email address
Etihad Airways – On Abu Dhabi Routes
Following a pandemic-induced pause, Etihad Airways is officially relaunching its Etihad Stopovers with some ‘steep’ discounts. The scheme automatically grants Abu Dhabi-bound passengers flying with the carrier a 40% discount at a participating five-star hotel, or a one to two-night complimentary stay in a three or four-star hotel.
On top of that, Etihad is introducing its new Transit Connect. The initiative acts as an extension of Etihad Stopovers and permits guests on ‘eligible routes’ to book a complimentary hotel near Abu Dhabi International Airport for flight connections between 10 and 24 hours, similarly to their competitors. These include:
Centro Al Manhal Abu Dhabi
Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham
TRYP by Wyndham Abu Dhabi
Premier Inn Abu Dhabi Capital Centre
Premier Inn Abu Dhabi International Airport
Ramada Abu Dhabi Corniche*
Ramada Abu Dhabi Downtown
Traders Hotel Qaryat Al Beri
*This one is a dry hotel
As for the 40% discount, it can be redeemed in a total of 23 luxury properties around Abu Dhabi, including the famous Anantara Easter Mangroves, the Crowne Palza Abu Dhabi (Yas Island), Le Meridien Abu Dhabi, the Radisson Blu Yas Island Hotel, the Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche, and the InterContinental.
Turkish Airlines – On Istanbul Routes
Istanbul is unarguably one of the most exciting cities on the planet. A cross-continental behemoth, this metropolis is so vast it reaches beyond the Bosphorus Strait, past Europe and deep into Asia. Even better, all of its numerous landmarks and historical sites can be explored for free with Turkish Airlines’ signature Stopover In Istanbul.
Turkey’s flag carrier lets customers book hotel stays, free of charge, when transiting Istanbul for more than 20 hours. Business Class passengers can choose from a list of five-star hotels for up to two days, while Economy Fare ticket holders may pick a four-star overnight. On the downside, visa fees and transfers are not included.
More information can be found on this link, but here are some of the most important bulletpoints:
Transits must be 20 hours long or over 20 hours
The offer is only available for passengers transferring in Istanbul Airport (IST), on the European side of the city
eVisa fees are not included (a requirement applying to American and Canadian citizens, but not Europeans)
Applications for a Stopover In Istanbul must be submitted via email once booking is completed
In case you haven’t heard, Turkey is fully open for travel, having removed all of its Covid-related entry requirements to welcome foreigners irrespective of nationality or vaccination status (though visa restrictions still apply). Effectively, transiting Istanbul on a Turkish Airlines flight is as simple as it ever was.
Airlines Offering Luxury Hotel Discounts
Qatar – On Doha Routes
Hosting the World Cup later this year, the Middle Eastern country of Qatar is determined to leave a good first impression on foreigners (budget travelers included). Naturally, this involves boosting the attractiveness of Qatar Airways as a flag-carrier, with a massive Stopover discount that is set to make trips to Doha a lot more accessible.
Under this program, all passengers booking tickets through Qatar Airways with a minimum transit time of 12 hours in the Qatari capital will be able to book a stay in a 5-star hotel starting at only $54,00. There are three packages available, and prices vary based on hotel classification and the length of the stopover:
Standard Packages (4-Star)
Starting at $14,00 for 1 night
Starting at $22,00 for 2 nights
Starting at $46,00 for 3 nights
Starting at $69,00 for 4 nights
Premium Packages (5-Star)
Starting at $21,00 for 1 night
Starting at $36,00 for 2 nights
Starting at $66,00 for 3 nights
Starting at $97,00 for 4 nights
Luxury Packages (5-Star)
Starting at $54,00 for 1 night
Starting at $103,00 for 2 nights
Starting at $166,00 for 3 nights
Starting at $230,00 for 4 nights
Once they select their package and the duration of the stopover, which can be as long as four nights with no additional airfare fees, guests are free to ‘enhance’ their journey with add-ons, such as breakfast, a Discover Doha Tour, and airport transfers. Additional fees may apply and travelers are reminded Covid entry requirements remain in place.
Airlines With ‘Free Of Charge’ Stopovers
Iberia – On Madrid Routes
Iberia may not offer free hotel stays or airport transfers like Etihad or Emirates, but its ‘Hola Madrid’ Stopover program is still incredibly popular among transiting passengers in Spain. At no additional cost to the price of tickets, passengers can spend up to 6 nights in the Spanish capital, one of Europe’s most sought-after cities.
During the long stopover, other benefits apply, including up to 40% of discount on accommodation and free public transport for two days. Fortunately for budget travelers, Madrid is not nearly as expensive as Ibiza or Palma de Mallorca, and Spain’s simplified entry rules make it an easy country to visit.
TAP Air Portugal – On Lisbon, Porto Routes
Portugal’s TAP is another airline promising long city layovers at no additional costs this summer. When booking flights through TAP connecting in mainland Portugal, tourists have the option to extend their stay for up to five days in one of two of the most popular Portuguese cities: the picturesque Lisbon or the trendy Porto.
Lisbon is Portugal’s capital and an ideal destination for food and History enthusiasts. Strolling up the city’s hilltop Alfama district, visitors can find countless bakeries serving traditional Portuguese pastries, including the world-famous pastel de nata. Up North in Porto, the Dom Luis I Bridge spanning the River Douro and baroque buildings dominate the landscape.
Icelandair – On Iceland Routes
Few countries in the world are as mystical – and enticingly mysterious – as Iceland. Northern lights, rotten shark dishes, sledding tours, unique natural landmarks and amusingly quirky, friendly locals: it truly has it all. Luckily for those transiting Iceland, Icelandair allows stopovers of up to 7 days at ‘no additional airfare’.
Ahead of resuming the journey to their final destination, travelers on a long vacation have the opportunity to bathe in one of Iceland’s countless geothermal pools, engage in some sightseeing in the compact capital region of Reykjavik, and marvel at the wonders of the aurora on clear nights. It might also be worth mentioning Iceland has scrapped all Covid restrictions.
Bottom Line
When booking international trips throughout 2022, we urge all our readers to purchase health insurance in advance and check both health, and non-health related entry conditions in place at their final destination. Lastly, all flight deals mentioned on this article remain subject to change and/or availability. Therefore, following airline updates is advised.
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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
With the Summer vacation season officially in swing, it is getting more difficult to find luxury hotels for affordable prices. With rising airfare costs, hotel rate increases, and gasoline prices soaring, it may seem impossible to find hotels offering good deals. However, below is a list of luxury hotels offering unique packages to help vacationers book a fantastic getaway without breaking the bank.
A brand-new private beach, world-class casino, and stylish Hilton hotel await those visiting Resorts World Bimini. As the closest Bahamian island to the U.S., guests can enjoy a unique 25-minute seaplane ride from Fort Lauderdale as part of the Resort’s Fly & Stay package they are offering for the summer. Starting at $499 per person for round trip flights and 2-3 nights of accommodation, these are the lowest rates ever offered by Resorts World Bimini. Visit Resorts World Bimini to book soon, as summer prices are only valid for visits through the end of July.
There’s no need to go all the way to Key West to have an incredible experience in the Florida Keys, and Playa Largo Resort & Spa is making it more affordable. The resort is offering guests a $100 gift card to help alleviate the cost of gas as it participates in Marriott’s “Great American Road Trip” initiative. Just an hour south of Miami by car, the resort boasts a waterfront zero-entry pool, a private beach, and a 15-slip marina for the fishers and watersport enthusiasts of the group. Use promo code TRS to book the Great American Road Trip Offer at www.playalargo.com.
Liven up your vacation with a stay at W Fort Lauderdale, located right on Fort Lauderdale Beach. Spend a day in the sun at the hotel’s popular WET East, an Instagram-worthy pool with decorative tiling, luxurious daybeds, and live DJs. For much-needed relaxation after a day of fun, head to AWAY spa for a massage before getting ready for a night out. Take advantage of the biggest savings by using the “Linger Longer, Save More” offer for stays Sundays through Thursdays. Use code D3Q to save up to 25% off per night on all room types when booking at W Fort Lauderdale. Be sure to book by June 30th to enjoy summer savings.
The Island of Curaçao is ready to welcome the world back with open arms after years of the pandemic. Crystal clear blue waters and over 70 cove-like beaches await travelers heading to this inviting destination. For those who enjoy exploring what lies below, there are over 65 unique diving sites. For up to 40% off at hotels including Dreams Curaçao, Renaissance Curaçao, and Avila Beach Hotel, head to the Curaçao Tourist Board’s brand-new digital dealsportal.
Blues, barbeque, and amazing views are in store for guests of the Hyatt Centric Beale Street. Sitting on one of America’s most iconic streets, Beale Street is known as the home of the blues and is the perfect place to call home during a visit to Memphis. Travelers can save this summer by taking advantage of the Summer Beale Deal, which takes 50% off their Sunday night stay. Guests must stay three nights in a row to use this deal, with one of those nights falling on a Sunday. Use the code SUMBD to book this deal at Hyatt Centric Memphis through August 22nd, 2022.
For an active vacation in a beautiful setting, travelers will love the award-winning Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club. Activities include the only Nicklaus Design golf course on Cape Cod, nine tennis courts, six pickleball courts, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, access to 26 miles of trails for biking and hiking, five pools, and even beach bonfires to cap the day off with a beautiful sunset in the sand. The property is offering a Summer Splash package for 10% savings on room rates, which includes two adult tickets. To take advantage of this deal, head to Ocean Edge Resort And Golf Club
Travelers looking for a more tropical vacation will enjoy the newest luxury hotel in Cabo, Corazon Cabo Resort & Spa. Views of the iconic Arc of Cabo San Lucas can be enjoyed at Rooftop 360, the highest rooftop terrace in the city. Guests can enjoy Corazón Beach Club, the largest beach club on Medano beach, two oceanfront infinity pools, live music, luxurious spa offerings, and much more. The resort is offering 25% off beachfront luxury accommodations when you stay for four or more nights as part of its Stay & Play Longer package. Bookings can be made at Corazón Cabo Resort & Spa.
For a taste of the Caribbean in a domestic location, travelers can head to Southernmost Beach Resort in Key West. With three pools, a tanning pier, a private beach, three bars, and a restaurant on-site, guests will have plenty to look forward to on arrival. Located on Duval Street, Southernmost Beach Resort is the perfect base camp for exploring all Key West offers. Book the resort’s “Stay Longer and Save More” package for up to 20% off when staying three nights. Bookings can be made at Southernmost Beach Resort with no code required.
Located in the heart of the entertainment district in Fort Lauderdale’s tallest skyscraper, Hyatt Centric Las Olas takes inspiration from the area’s yachting culture and waterfront location. Everything from the architecture to the lighting speaks to life on the water. A pool with incredible views of the city, a secret speakeasy, and direct access to the downtown scene are just some of the incredible amenities guests can look forward to. Stay two nights and get the third for 50% off when booking June 1st – July 31st and staying July 1-Sept 30 at Hyatt Centric Las Olas Fort Lauderdale.
For the ultimate shopping and dining getaway, travelers can head to Thompson Buckhead, which is in one of Atlanta’s most upscale neighborhoods. Catch some sun on the rooftop pool before heading out for a night on the town. The hotel’s “Sip & Sun” summer offer promises relaxation as you forget about the bustling city below and includes deluxe accommodations and a cabana rental with a chilled bottle of champagne. Use promo code “SIPSUN” to book your stay at Thompson Buckhead.
For travelers who can’t stand to leave pets behind while vacationing, AC Hotel Columbus Downtown is offering the “Bring Your Fur Baby” pet package. When entering the room, your fur-baby will find a plush dog bed to snooze on, two doggie bowls, and Ohio-shaped pup cookies from the local Nom Nom Nom Bakery. For booking, head to AC Hotel Columbus Downtown
Zihuatanejo has long been a hideaway for creatives like Andy Warhol and Betsy Johnson and is the ultimate escape for those looking to get away from it all. Thompson Zihuatanejo is offering the ‘Redemption Package’ this summer. As part of the package, guests will be greeted with tequila and pozole upon arrival, take a cooking class on the beach with Chef Javier Cerrillo, enjoy a private yacht trip to the iconic La Saladita beach, and a relax during a session at the resort’s spa for two. Guests will find daily wellness treasures awaiting them in their suite, which includes its own private plunge pool and private terrace. For booking, visit Thompson Zihuatanejo
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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
