Tag: Mexico

This Will Be The Trendiest New Destination In Mexico To Visit For 2024

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Tulum has long been a popular destination in Mexico, and it will be easier than ever to visit this Mexican Caribbean beach paradise with the recent opening of a brand-new airport.

But another underrated destination nearby is poised to become the trendiest new hotspot in Mexico in 2024.

The beach town of Akumal is just 25 minutes from Tulum and has been growing in popularity.

Here’s why it’s set to become even more popular with travelers in 2024:

New Flights Make It Easier Than Ever To Visit

Akumal, a stunning destination on the Riviera Maya, is less than half an hour away from Tulum’s new international airport, which opened on December 1st.

Several airlines have already announced new flights to Tulum from 10 U.S. cities, with new cities being added frequently.

Once the airport officially opens, it’s likely that airlines will continue expanding their presence in Tulum with even more new routes.

This makes it easier than ever to visit Akumal.

Previously, travelers had to fly into Cancun, the largest and busiest airport in Mexico. From Cancun, it’s about 1.5 hours to Akumal.

But now, travelers can fly directly to Tulum and make to easy 25-minute journey to Akumal, significantly cutting down on travel time and hassle.

It’s Cheaper Than Tulum

A huge reason that Akumal will become a top destination in 2024 is because it’s more affordable than the increasingly expensive Tulum.

While Tulum can be a great destination, its ridiculously high prices are causing its popularity to wane as travelers seek out more budget-friendly alternatives.

In Tulum, it’s possible to spend $25 on a five-minute taxi ride or up to $1,000 per night for a hotel room (that may be less than impressive.) But in Akumal, you can get a much better value for your money.

A Destination For Natural Beauty

One of the biggest draws of Akumal is that it’s a great destination for experiencing the natural beauty of the Riviera Maya and the surrounding areas.

Tulum has become highly developed and commercialized, but Akumal is much more natural. It’s known for being a haven for scuba divers and snorkelers.

Some of the best things to do in Akumal include swimming with turtles, exploring the tranquil Yal-kú Lagoon, or visiting Kantun-Chi Ecopark.

The beaches in Akumal are among the most beautiful and pristine in the Mexican Caribbean, and fortunately, they receive far less sargassum seaweed than the beaches of Tulum to the south.

Amazing Resorts In Akumal

Another great reason to visit Akumal is because it’s home to some of the best resorts in Mexico. In fact, Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya was recently rated as the best all-inclusive resort in all of Mexico.

There are several types of accommodations to choose from in Akumal, whether you are looking for an all-inclusive resort where all of your meals, drinks, and activities are included or if you just want a simple hotel or condo close to the beach.

More Laidback Than Tulum

Finally, one of the reasons that many travelers will gravitate towards Akumal in 2024 is because it’s a more laid-back alternative to Tulum.

If you’re not interested in spending crazy amounts of money on dinner, drinks, and nightlife in Tulum, quiet Akumal might be more your speed. While it certainly lacks Tulum’s dining and nightlife options, Akumal is a great place to go if you’re looking to relax and reset.

Wellness and self-care travel was one of the biggest travel trends of 2023, and that’s expected to continue in 2024. More travelers are prioritizing wellness and rejuvenating the mind, body, and spirit while on vacation, and Akumal is a great place to do this.

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December 11, 2023
5 Reasons Why This Cultural City In Mexico Is Breaking All-Time Tourism Records

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It doesn’t have a world-famous resort strip home to all the popular brands in hospitality, like Cancun.

Its wellness scene is nowhere near as developed, if it is existing at all, as Los Cabos.

It does not even have a beach, like fellow Jalisco city Puerto Vallarta.

Yet, for some reason, Guadalajara is smashing tourism records in 2023, with international arrival figures up 18.3% against the already record-breaking 2022, which remains, to this date, Mexico’s best-performing year: so far this year, as many as 4.2 million foreign visitors have landed there.

This may have left some wondering what it is about this inland metropolis that is captivating a growing number of tourists.

Here are 5 reasons why:

Incredibly Historical

Though it is a poorly-disseminated fact among Americans, Guadalajara is, in fact, one of the cultural capitals of Mexico, with a historical relevance comparable to that of Mexico City, having been founded as early as 1532 and having played a key role in the Mexican War of Independence.

It’s here where the country’s first revolutionary government convened, and throughout its History, Guadalajara has hosted migrants not only from Spain, but all over Europe and further afield, drawn to its 18th-century development boom, and they have left a profound mark on the city.

This is evidenced in a diverse demographic, mixed-origin cuisine, and inestimable cultural wealth, offering culture seekers plenty to sample and marvel at, especially if lounging by a pool all week is not their idea of fun.

Beautiful Architecture

With its accumulated centuries of History, it goes without saying Guadalajara has a plethora of landmarks, some of which rank among the most iconic in Mexico: think Guadalajara Cathedral, an imposing 16th-century Catholic effort, or Hospicio Cabañas.

Guadalajara’s number one point of interest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cabañas once housed one of the largest orphanages and hospitals in the Americas; still, it is only the tip of a monumental iceberg, as it only takes a short stroll around the historic center to be awe-struck.

From the Expiatorio Church to the Neoclassical Teatro Degollado to San Juan de Dios Market, the largest indoor market South of the United States, and all the winding streets lined by brightly-painted colonial houses that connect them, Guadalajara truly has an endless supply of manmade wonders.

Affordable Prices

Over the years, Mexico went from being an affordable tropical destination to one of the most luxurious, and if you’re headed to the Mexican Caribbean or even coastal Jalisco, you should definitely plan on spending a few thousand dollars during your stay, be it on costly dining or expensive resorts.

In Guadalajara, on the other hand, as it does not sit on the overdeveloped coast, consumer prices are within a ‘normal’ range: it is by no means the cheapest destination in Latin America, but tourists can get by on $46 per day for meals, or $791 for the whole week, all included.

The cost of living for locals is even lower, and if you’re visiting for a longer period (e.g. you’re a digital nomad) you should expect to live comfortably off of $1,918 per month; naturally, prices are higher for short-term visitors as they normally spend more on experiences, cultural attractions, and hotels.

Great Connectivity

One of the reasons why Guadalajara is seeing this uptick in foreign arrivals, particularly from the United States, is the great connectivity between U.S. hubs and the Jalisco capital: it is among the best-connected international airports in inland Mexico.

You can fly to Guadalajara from at least 20 departure points across America, including Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco, and more keep getting added: next year, Detroit will receive its inaugural Guadalajara-bound Aeroméxico Connect flights.

Guadalajara also hosts nonstop service from Vancouver, in Canada and a Transatlantic link to Madrid, in Spain, making it one of a handful of non-coastal resort destinations in Mexico that are open to foreign markets outside the United States.

One Of The Top Destinations In Jalisco

Finally, it was recently crowned one of top destinations for tourists, both domestic and international, in the state of Jalisco, alongside Puerto Vallarta, proving they are not exactly intra-state competitors, but actually complement each other.

While Vallarta, and its neighboring Riviera Nayarit, in the bordering state, caters mostly to beachgoers and high-end travelers seeking relaxation and some fun in the sun, Guadalajara’s tourism sector is mainly geared towards culture and immersive experiences.

That’s not to say museums and historical buildings are the city’s only attractions:

Tourists will often visit it for the family-run restaurants and delectable cuisine, as it is the birthplace of the ‘drowned’ sandwich and tejuino, an indigenous corn beverage, shopping, and the exciting nightlife of Chapultepec Avenue.

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December 2, 2023
4 Lesser Known Destinations In Mexico Surging In Popularity Right Now

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Mexico is currently one of the most popular international destinations, having hosted over 30 million visitors last year alone and is poised for additional growth in 2023, and though Cancun and Los Cabos lead booking trends, they’re not the only ones behind this resounding success.

Now more than ever, travelers are seeking more unique, authentic experiences when going abroad, particularly Americans who, for the best part of the previous three years, were forced to be confined at home – unsurprisingly, interest in lesser-known, off-path sites has surged.

In Mexico, it’s the unsung ‘Magical Cities’ that are helping boost recovery, and five in particular are being touted as the next tourist hotspots:

Tequisquiapan

The first one is Tequisquiapan, a traditional municipality in the state of Queretaro, in Central Mexico, famous for its cobblestone streets, rustic buildings with wooden windowsills and wrought iron ornaments, and its colonial legacy.

As reported by Cronica earlier this year, Tequisquiapan is one of Mexico’s criminally underrated wellness hubs, as besides the historical weight it carries as a 300-year-old settlement, it boasts a high number of resort spas and natural hot springs.

For decades now, Mexicans have been driving all the way here from neighboring Queretaro City and as far as Mexico City for weekend escapades, yet Tequisquiapan is only now reaching its global breakthrough.

At this year’s International Tourism Fait (FITUR), held in Madrid, it took home the award for best ‘Wellness Tourism Paradise‘: there are as many as 1,200 hotel rooms available, over 1,000 AirBnB stays, and more than 250 eateries where visitors can experiment with traditional Mexican cuisine.

Tequila

Though Tequila is not exactly an unheard-of gem, being a permanent feature in travel brochures on the cultural side of Mexico, it’s definitely not one to be underestimated amid the ongoing Mexican Reinassance, with over 334,000 guests registered between January and August of this year.

On average, this small, quaint town hosts half a million tourists per year, indicating it is on a clear path towards recovery, if not record-breaking figures come December, and this cannot be solely attributed to the trademark distilled beverage which originated in Tequila:

A perfectly-preserved colonial settlement of Spanish Mexico, home to a beautiful central plaza, regal palaces that combine elements of both Iberian and Moorish architecture, much like continental Spain, as well as the iconic Church of Santiago Apostol, with its striking stone facade.

Owing to its rich History, architectural wealth, and the immaterial heritage that is tequila (the drink), made from the blue agave plant, native to the region, Tequila is one of the best destinations to sample some culture South of the border.

Cholula

Perhaps Mexico’s best-hidden secret and one most foreigners are yet to be let in on, Cholula is a literal ‘Magical Town‘ of the state of Puebla that has recently attained the distinction of being the most visited statewide.

Though it is attached to the state capital, Cholula has a unique character, and it stands on its own as a cultural center, divided into eighteen neighborhoods, each of them with its own patron saint, and concentrating both colonial-era and ancient landmarks.

The most impressive of them, the Great Pyramid, is the largest complex of its kind in the Americas, as well as the largest pyramid by volume in the world today.

It may not rise as high as Mayan structures across Yucatan, or the Pyramid of Giza in Egypt, but its base dimensions are much wider.

Other attractions in Cholula include the San Gabriel Franciscan Convent, established by the Spaniards in the 16th century – one of the oldest in the Americas – and the colorful, shop-lined Morelos Street.

According to local authorities, alongside other ‘Magical Towns’ of Puebla, Cholula has attracted more than 1.4 million this year already, 68 percent more than in 2022.

Izamal

Yucatan is best known for Caribbean beaches, state-of-the-art resorts and luxurious shopping, but there’s yet another side to the paradisaical peninsula foreigners are only now starting to discover: it is crammed with picturesque, Instagrammable towns that just ooze character.

One of those is Izamal, ‘The Yellow City’ of Yucatan, where the cobble-laden alleys are flanked by vibrant, jaune-colored houses; two cultures clash – Hispanic and pre-Columbian – and Spanish structures, erected out of Mayan stones, dominate the grid-like, yellow landscape.

Walking around Izamal, tourists will be met with the City of Hills, an archaeological complex that once housed a Mayan outpost before Spanish settlers stormed in and occupied the area, and a large Franciscan Monastery, whose open atrium is second in size only to the Vatican.

This year, the town has been experiencing a popularity boom as demand for cultural expeditions grows out of Cancun, roughly three hours away, and it is set to consolidate itself as a popular destination once the Maya Train launches December 1, with a stop in Izamal.

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December 2, 2023
These Are The Top 3 Beach Destinations In Mexico For Digital Nomads This Winter

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Mexico is the number one destination for digital nomads in Latin America, particularly those coming from the United States.

Not only is it geographically close to their homeland, Mexico offers Americans warmer weather, that slow-paced living they wouldn’t find had they stayed in their birth cities, and a higher quality of life, making it ideal for a temporary wintertime relocation.

Still, where exactly are remote workers moving south of the border to beat those intrusive winter blues? We have 3 major picks:

Puerto Escondido

Straddling Mexico’s gorgeous Pacific Coast, Puerto Escondido is a lesser-known gem in the state of Oaxaca that’s achieved notoriety due to its fast-growing tourism sector, up-and-coming resort zone, and miles on miles of unruffled, spotless sandy beaches.

Though it was founded only in the 1930s, it rapidly grew in relevance as the downscale response to a high-end Huatulco, hosting young surfers and backpackers, as well as Mexican families going on low-cost vacations – and in recent months, also digital nomads.

Affordability is one of the main drives behind the surge in remote workers in this sleepy, once-forgotten beach town, as average monthly expenses total only $2,231, and nomads get to enjoy the same beautiful nature and coastline as they would elsewhere in the Mexican Pacific for far cheaper rates.

According to NomadList, the largest database for digital nomad trends, Puerto Escondido is the category’s third most-loved beach hotspot South of the border.

Members describe it as ‘great fun’, listing the nightlife, the friendliness to foreigners, the high concentration of ‘places to work from’, and the lively social scene as big attractions for potential medium to long-term residents.

Tulum

According to NomadList, the incredibly popular Tulum, a resort town in the heart of the Mayan Riviera, is the second most popular coastal destination for digital nomads in Mexico right now, highly sought-after for its pristine beaches and nomad-friendly infrastructure.

An extremely rare feat, 100% of the digital nomad platform’s respondents approve of Tulum, deeming Quality of Life and Safety there ‘okay‘, highlighting the weather conditions as a positive aspect (a pleasant 84.2 degrees on average), and praising the internet speed (19 Mbps).

In sum, Tulum is perfect for ‘beginners’ as the local hospitality industry is almost exclusively catered to foreigners, making it extremely easy for them to integrate and access services hassle-free, as they normally would at home.

From numerous coworking spots to digital nomad cafes to fast public WiFi on beaches, it’s no wonder Tulum is such a strong contender for the favorite.

The only downside? Renting long-term and consumer prices can be quite expensive, and nomads are advised to budget at least $3,393 per month.

Playa Del Carmen

The unofficial expat capital of Mexico, Playa Del Carmen is listed as the leading beach destination in the country by NomadList, as well as the fourth most popular overall, barred from the top three by the mighty Mexico City, its cultural competitor Guadalajara, and off-path Oaxaca City.

Carmen is liked by over 90% of NomadList members, a lower percentage than Tulum’s universal acclaim, but it does fare better in more subcategories, such as affordability – nomads can live here on $2,640 per month – average internet speed (47 Mbps), and walkability (Great).

Safety perception is yet another determining factor in Carmen’s success, as the beach town is heavily policed day and night by local security enforcers, whose sole aim is to keep visitors safe – in fact, time and again, it’s featured among Mexico’s safest coastal destinations.

Additionally, the fact that American nomads are eligible for a six-month stay in Mexico visa-free makes Carmen incredibly popular, more so than its Caribbean counterparts, especially now that Cancun International Airport allows U.S. passport holders to simply scan their way into the country.

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November 21, 2023
Why This Lesser-Known Coastal City In Mexico Should Be Your Next Destination

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Mexico is home to some of the best coastlines on the continent. People flock to beaches all over the country year-round for the perfect beach getaway.

Cancun, Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta, and many more beach destinations bring in millions of tourists.

Although, there is one sleepy coastal town ready to become your next getaway. If you were to open a map of Mexico, it is highly unlikely this place would catch your eye.

With so many cities to choose from, this town isn’t even in bold letters on the map. But don’t let that fool you. This pueblo magico is absolutely gorgeous and easy to reach.

The lesser-known coastal city of Loreto is approximately 6 hours north of Los Cabos but has its own international airport.

Here is why Loreto should be your next destination:

More Flights from The U.S.

Earlier this year, American Airlines announced new flights launching to this small beautiful town. Even though the population is less than many U.S. cities without a Walmart, it’s definitely worth a visit.

Roughly 20,000 people call Loreto home and you will love it. Check your flight options for your next Mexican getaway.

You will find American flying direct with season routes from Dallas, but their main route is from Phoenix. This marks the second flight launch to awesome destinations in Baja from American this year.

Alaska Airlines also flies direct routes from Los Angeles and seasonal routes from San Francisco.

Of course, with the recent upgrade from the FAA, it is deemed perfectly safe to take an airline of Mexican origin, such as Viva Aerobus, Volaris, or Aeromexico too.

In other words, it’s far more accessible than one might think given its petite size.

Pure Bliss In This Small Coastal Getaway

Many of the top beach destinations around the world have one common flaw – crowds! Here in Loreto, that’s not a problem at all, even when exploring it’s charming downtown district.

Loreto is a place to get out in nature to experience pure bliss and serenity among crystal blue waters and extraordinary sights.

There are a plethora of tranquil beaches to choose from for a relaxing getaway in the sun and sand. Yet, Isla Coronado is on another level.

A tour can be arranged to cross the stunning blue waters to this picture-perfect spot in about 45 minutes by boat.

This is the perfect place to enjoy white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and snorkeling.

Resorts Rivaling Other Mexico Hotspots

Those who have already discovered this treasure have probably stayed at Villa del Palmar at the Islands of Loreto – a beachfront all-inclusive luxury resort.

Rivaling many other Mexican beachfront resorts, this place is absolutely immaculate and provides an awesome escape for anyone who visits.

Tucked away from the city, this resort is set upon a peaceful beach near some of the region’s top golf courses and offers all the bells and whistles you would expect from a high-end resort.

There are others to choose from spread out along the idyllic coastline, such as Hotel Loreto Bay Golf Resort & Spa.

Resorts may be few and far between compared to other Mexico hotspots, but the ones here are still top-notch and hold rave reviews from guests.

Awesome Wildlife Experiences

Loreto is one of the premier destinations in Mexico for experiencing wildlife, in particular, marine life. There are a variety of ways to venture out and see amazing animals up close without harming them.

Many tourists choose to take a glass-bottom boat or another boat tour catered to exactly what you would like to see, such as whale watching.

The Sea of Cortez is teeming with life. The region is home to dolphins, sea turtles, manta rays and many species of whales, such as humpbacks, orcas, and grey and blue whales.

Loreto is always welcoming of adventures, so you can simply rent a kayak as well to head out on your own to spot sea life on your own or go fishing, another popular activity.

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November 20, 2023
Why This Stunning Beach City Continues To Be The Most Popular Destination In Mexico

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Historically, Mexico City has been Mexico’s number one tourist destination.

It is, after all, the country’s capital, its largest metropolis, as well as its main cultural center and entry point, but it seems as if CDMX’s decades-long reign is coming to an end.

As a matter of fact, it might as well have ended already.

According to the latest data informed by the Ministry of Tourism (Sectur), Cancun, previously Mexico’s second-best offer, now concentrates a majority of foreign arrivals into Mexico, as well as boasts the busiest air traffic.

So far this year, it’s hosted 7.48 million international visitors, a majority of those hailing from the U.S. and Canada, against CDMX’s 3.13 million, and increasingly trendy Cabo’s 1.72 million. This irrefutably makes it Mexico’s leading destination.

The question is: why is Cancun still so popular, and why does its popularity keep increasing?

Cancun Is Mexico’s New Number One Tourist Hotspot

As new numbers released by Sectur suggest, Cancun is Mexico’s number one destination, surpassing the cultural hotspot that is Mexico City and the wellness hub that is Los Cabos.

In a way, it’s not hard to see why:

This is a city is famous for an elongated Hotel Zone bounded by the Caribbean Sea, home to some of the most traditional and luxurious hospitality brands, from your Rius to Hiltons, Le Blancs and JW Marriots: it is somewhere most Americans go for living it up and splurge on world-class amenities.

When they book a getaway to Cancun, they know just what awaits them: one week in a state-of-the-art beachfront resort with access to a private, white-sand beach, sumptuous buffets with exquisite chef-curated assortments, and award-winning catering.

Cancun is an easy enough vacation.

Why Do Americans Love Cancun?

A majority of guests in the Caribbean city are U.S. and Canada passport holders, who don’t normally get lots of opportunities to go abroad every year, and when they do, they will deliberately go for the less stressful, most obvious pick.

Not that that’s inherently a bad thing.

Cancun’s all-inclusive resorts are the perfect place for escaping your mundane worries and treating yourself, whether it’s the beach bar margaritas at sunset hours or a one-hour-long deep tissue massage at the spa center, and they are simply worth every penny.

Nowhere else in Mexico has a hospitality industry as developed and as well-equipped as Cancun and its accompanying Mayan Riviera.

Then, there is the region’s diverse tourist offer.

Cancun Is So Much More Than Just Beaches

Though many visitors will be reluctant to leave their hotel premises and may be looking for a sunny break exclusively, this does not mean Cancun and the wider Mexican Caribbean do not have more than beaches to offer.

The modern city has developed on one of the most historically significant parts of Mexico: the Yucatan Peninsula, which was previously ruled by the native Mayan peoples.

Prior to the arrival of colonizers and the Hispanicization of Mexico, the Mayans were the ones who controlled the Yucatan, and further down the map of the Americas, the Central American isthmus for more than a millennium through their highly advanced cities and trade routes.

These may be now mostly lying in ruins, and only a shadow of their past glorious self, but important Mayan cities can still be admired all across Yucatan, within short driving distance of Cancun.

The most iconic ones are Chichen Itza, a popular selfie spot for tourists, with its landmark step pyramid and ancient temples, and the Tulum Archaeological Site, located in the lively resort town of Tulum.

Tulum’s postcard-picture ruins sit on the edge of a prominent cliff overlooking the bright-blue Caribbean, and they are easily some of Mexico’s most easily recognized monuments and a national treasure.

Breathtaking Tropical Nature

Other than Mayan ruins, Cancun visitors also have a plethora of natural attractions to discover around the Mexican Caribbean during their stay, including idyllic islands, underground cenotes – natural limestone-formed reservoirs of typically crystal-clear waters – jungle reserves, and walking trails.

Additionally, there are several picturesque colonial-era towns a short two to three-hour drive away from Cancun, such as Merida, where you will find the oldest cathedral built in the mainland Americas, and Valladolid, with a historic center filled with 16th-century colonial mansions.

Numerous tour companies offer day tours and different activities, and it’s truly up to you how you make your Cancun trip more interesting, based on your own personal preferences.

Your hotel concierge may be able to assist you with bookings, or you can book activities directly via reliable third parties.

Cancun Is Reinventing Itself

Finally, Cancun keeps getting popular and growing as a destination because it keeps reinventing itself and improving tourist infrastructure.

One such example is the Maya Train, a scenic railway set to start operating this December, linking Cancun to all of the trendiest spots on the Mayan Riviera, including the smaller beach towns of Tulum and Playa Del Carmen and the colonial settlements in Merida and Valladolid.

Cancun is one of the most tourist-friendly destinations South of the border, and it’s truly no wonder Americans keep flocking to its beaches even though it’s been a household name for years on end now.

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November 18, 2023
6 Reasons Why You Should Visit This Stunning Colonial City In Mexico

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The Yucatán Peninsula is rightly a favorite among American travelers throughout the year, especially in winter.

With vibrant and beautiful coastal resorts to choose from, including Chetumal, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and Cancún, this part of Mexico is hard to beat.

But away from the sun-kissed shores, there are some fascinating destinations in the interior of this region that are absolutely worth exploring, and one of those is Mérida.

Rich in colonial history, this picturesque destination is an epicenter of culture in the region. It’s not only a great launchpad to explore the whole peninsula from, but is a captivating place to see in its own right too.

Here are six reasons why you shouldn’t miss Mérida during a trip to the Yucatán Peninsula:

Close To Big Attractions

Mérida lies in the northwest corner of Yucatán state, close to the north coast of this peninsula.

Whether it’s pristine beaches or ancient ruins that take your fancy, Mérida’s location is an ideal base to explore the wide range of attractions in this amazing region of Mexico.

Mérida is about 75 miles east of the iconic Maya ruins at Chichen Itza and 50 miles north of the ancient city of Uxmal.

It’s also very close to many different cenotes (natural sinkholes, many of which you can swim in) – one of the closest being Cenote Xlacah.

Learn More About History

There’s no shortage of interesting historical sites in Mérida; even the main square – Plaza Grande – has hallmarks of both ancient and colonial history.

The Catedral de San Ildefonso is perhaps one of the most striking buildings – this cathedral was built on the site of a former Maya temple and even used some of the temple’s stone in its construction.

Elsewhere, buildings such as the Palacio Cantón, Casa de Montejo, and Teatro Peón Contreras give more insight into the history of this city.

The main attraction you should not miss is the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya – one of the best museums on Maya culture in the world with more than 1,000 different artifacts. If you want to immerse yourself, this is the place.

Live Like A Local

Mérida is one of those towns where it’s easy to feel like a local simply by being there for a few days.

Walk around the lively markets, take in the almost-nightly free music and entertainment in the plazas, or enjoy the hum of the city center crowds on the car-free Sunday mornings.

Despite its size and stature as the capital city of the Yucatán state, Mérida manages to maintain a small-town atmosphere with friendly folks and a strong sense of community.

Fantastic For Foodies

Mérida is one of the best places to sample the delicious food of the Yucatán, with plenty of restaurants and food vendors catering to all budgets.

One of the most iconic dishes is cochinita pibil, which is a barbecued pulled pork dish that has a deep and earthy flavor with varying degrees of spiciness.

Another highlight is sopa de lime (literally lime soup). It’s kind of what the name suggests, but usually has some meat such as chicken or turkey in it too.

The refreshing citrus flavor of this one comes from the Yucatecan limes of the region.

More Flights Being Added

While Cancún is the most obvious airport to fly into this part of Mexico, there is also an airport in Mérida, which is currently expanding its offering of flights with help from the local tourism organization.

It was recently reported that the airport here will soon have direct flights from Miami, Orlando, and Atlanta via Mexican airline Viva Aerobus and U.S. airline Delta.

This extends the list of American cities from which you can fly directly to Mérida, which already includes Houston, Denver, Dallas, Los Angeles, and New York (Newark).

Good Transport Links

There are multiple reliable and affordable bus services that connect Mérida with Campeche in the west, and Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Chetumal in the east.

The city and wider area are also well serviced by taxis or other hired vehicles. You can even find ride apps such as Uber or Ryde & Go in operation.

If you are planning to visit an attraction that is a couple of hours drive away from Mérida, then a bus is usually a good option – that or hiring a driver between a group.

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November 14, 2023
This Is The Most Popular Destination For Digital Nomads In Mexico

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Mexico is currently one of the top destinations for digital nomads, especially those coming from the States.

It is world-famous for its warm climate, vibrant culture, attractive consumer prices, and great quality of life, but as recent migration trends have shown, there is one city in Mexico that nomads have shown a clear preference for when making the move South.

Home to over 20 million locals already, Mexico City now has a thriving community of remote workers, but why is it so popular among this subcategory of expats, and why have they seemingly embraced it as a safe haven?

CDMX Is Mexico’s Nomad Capital

According to a report by the World Population Review, the population of Mexico City has grown by about 600,000 people from 2019 to 2022 – coincidentally, or perhaps not, the period that comprised the global pandemic, and the rise of the digital nomad.

While it is not possible to establish how many of those expats are working remotely and have deliberately chosen Mexico City (CDMX) as their home base, we can infer the number is high, with as many as 150,000 nomads living in the capital ‘at any given time‘.

So what makes CDMX so irresistible?

First of all, we must take a closer look at the nomad trend itself.

Mexico City Just Ticks All The Boxes

It’s no surprise nomads have historically chosen destinations where there is a big, consolidated expat community, not only because they feel more welcome, and it’s easier to integrate and immediately feel at home, but because services tend to be better.

Cities that are used to the presence of foreigners are likely to have higher rates of English speakers, as they are more multicultural, and they usually have better infrastructure, as the influx of dollars, and the market’s overall competitivity both foster economic growth.

On Nomadlist, the leading platform for digital nomads in the web, Mexico City reaches ‘great’ status in the ‘community score’.

Quality of life is yet another factor in the decision-making process, as there is no point moving city, or even more drastically, moving country if you are not going to have access to equivalent or better services, or you will meet other significant challenges you wouldn’t have had you stayed home.

This is a sprawling capital city with a wide range of services available: whether you feel more productive in coworking spaces, cafes, or public libraries, you will have no shortage of options to pick from relocating to Mexico City.

The overall ‘Quality of Life Score’ on Nomadist is an acceptable ‘okay’, probably kept from being ‘great’ by Mexico City’s crime levels, urban pollution, and chaotic traffic, but we must take into consideration this is a city larger than New York, and big city problems are expected.

With that being said, the low cost of living, the year-round balmy temperatures, and the food safety – all categories CDMX apparently excels at – help balance the score.

CDMX Is Cheaper To Live In

In fact, affordability is one of the main reasons why nomads are flocking into Mexico City, despite recent reports of gentrification.

While prices may have increased since Americans started moving to the capital region in droves, importing their high living standards and expenditure and thus bringing up prices for locals and budget-conscious nomads alike, CDMX is still fairly affordable.

You are expected to spend, on average, US$1,914 per month residing in Mexico City.

Last but not least, nomads are actively seeking destinations where they won’t have to struggle to find that cozy nook to work from when they need some time away from their B&B, and the cultural and financial heart of Mexico has a plethora of work-friendly spots you could never exhaust.

Additionally, these long-term travelers favor cities and countries with reliable internet, seeing that having a stable connection is paramount when you’re a digital nomad.

Lucky for them, CDMX has a ‘good’ average internet speed at 11 Mbps.

As you can see, Mexico City is a textbook example of a successful, self-made digital nomad capital.

CDMX Is Easy To Migrate To

In the last three years, the number of Americans applying for or renewing residency visas in Mexico soared by about 70%, as per data released by Mexico’s Migration Policy Unit, and there’s no doubt digital nomads make up a sizable portion of that sum.

In reality, however, it is still impossible to determine how many of them are actually living in CDMX or Mexico as a whole, as the vast majority will be living South of the border only temporarily under tourist visa rules.

Mexico has one of the most generous visa policies in the world, allowing Americans to enter visa-free for up to six months – and it only takes a quick search at Facebook groups for residents in Mexico or Telegram transmission channels to see that there may be millions more than the official figure.

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November 12, 2023
This Lesser-Known Colonial Destination In Mexico Is Surging In Popularity

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Mexico may be the number one destination for Americans going abroad, hosting tens of millions of tourists every year, but while resort zones along the coast concentrate the majority of tourist arrivals, other lesser-known spots in the hinterland have been largely ignored for years.

This year, this trend has changed.

Now more than ever, U.S. vacationers are keen on exploring different parts of Mexico and experiencing the country beyond their luxurious enclaves, and that’s when this incredibly exciting yet lesser-known colonial city has come into play:

One Of The Last Hidden Gems Of Mexico

Located in North-Central Mexico, a 2-hour drive from equally underrated Aguascalientes, Zacatecas has never been traditionally promoted as a tourist destination on the international stage, even though it is one of Mexico’s most culturally wealthy and historically significant cities.

It’s a remarkably popular cultural destination among Mexican locals themselves, but there’s no denying international tourism in Zacatecas, particularly concerning American visitors, has been severely limited, mostly due to poor promotion.

Now, its potential looks set to be fully unleashed as the local Government turns its focus to tourism, formally identified as one of the main drives behind the city’s economic growth this year, and campaigns to position Zacatecas as a ‘romantic‘ city break.

So what makes it so unique, and what have Americans who restrict their movements to the Yucatan Peninsula, or Mexico City at best, been missing out on all these years?

One Of The Oldest Settlements Of The Americas

Firstly, Zacatecas is one of the oldest European settlements in all of the Americas, and this alone warrants consideration, especially if you’re passionate about Mexican culture.

It was originally founded by the Spanish settlers in the mid-16th century, and like many of its sister cities in Spanish America, it went on to become an important trading hub and a rich mining center due to the area’s abundance of silver and far rarer minerals.

While most of the riches flowed across the Atlantic into mainland Spain, Zacatecas did flourish as an important center of Baroque art upon the rise of a now-defunct empire, housing some of Mexico’s prettiest civic buildings and one of its best-preserved Old Towns.

The Centro Historico in Zacatecas is, in fact, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993 in recognition of the city’s 16th and 17th-century landmarks and its colonial townscape, dominated by narrow alleys etched onto steep slopes and a magnificent Spanish cathedral.

Unlike other historical cities of its standing, however, Zacatecas has evolved with the times without sacrificing its past.

A Historic City That’s Evolved With The Times Without Losing Its Essence

Its famous Plaza de Toros, inaugurated in 1866, is now home to the Quinta Real Zacatecas Hotel, while several other historical structures in the center have been repurposed and now either house shops, cultural centers, or other organizations, without defacing the building or changing its facade.

Walking picturesque Downtown Zacatecas, you may have the impression not much has changed since the Spanish conquered Mexico and laid the first stone in the centrally-located Plaza de Armas, yet it only takes a furtive peek beneath the surface to learn this is a creative, youthful city.

Yes, there are beautiful colonial mansions, a Spanish-styled Hidalgo Avenue lined with boutique shops, a historic Central Market, temples, and every other possible feature you would expect a colonial city to have, but it is more than a mere open-air museum.

This is a metropolitan area home to over 1.6 million people, after all, and there is no shortage of nightlife spots, particularly in the Historic Quarter, points of interest further afield, and artsy, modern districts to explore.

Nonstop Flights From The States

Luckily for Americans, Zacatecas is served by its own international airport.

Naturally, as this is a smaller destination, it does not boast the same flight frequency, nor the impressive connectivity Cancun, Cabo, Mexico City, or other far more popular vacation spots do, but it does host flights from Dallas/Fort Worth, Chicago O’Hare, Chicago-Midway, Los Angeles, and San Jose (CA).

Discover more historic colonial cities you can fly to directly from the United States here.

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November 5, 2023
5 Destinations In Mexico Perfect For A Festive Winter Getaway

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Mexico is America’s destination of choice not only for its immaculate beaches and world-renowned resorts but also for the beautiful culture throughout the country.

Some travelers choose Thanksgiving for a fun fall getaway, but others wait until the next round of holidays in December.

There may be no better time to experience Mexico’s rich history and traditions than by immersing yourself in fun seasonal festivities come Christmas time.

Here are 5 destinations in Mexico perfect for a festive winter getaway:

Mexico City

Mexico City is wonderful any time of year, but December unleashes a new personality. The famous Zocalo transforms into a winter wonderland of neon lights, a massive ice skating rink, and of course, a huge Christmas tree as the centerpiece.

The always bustling city permeates even more energy full of Christmas spirit in some of the top neighborhoods, such as Polanco, Rome Norte, and Condesa.

For a holiday trip full of cultural experiences, this is the place. As many as 3 million people visit the Basilica of Guadalupe.

Mexico City takes holiday traditions very seriously, and tourists can witness authentic traditions most of December, such as Las Posadas.

Plus, the weather here will beat anywhere in the U.S. with frigid winters.

San Miguel De Allende

Another cultural gem full of holiday spirit is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of San Miguel de Allende. A smaller city located in the state of Guanajuato, this trendy city is used to welcoming Americans.

It’s no different during the holiday season, and they go all out, turning the city into Mexico’s version of a winter wonderland.

The already impressive architecture is the star of the show with new, vibrant decor reflecting the holiday season.

But the ground level is where all the action is, with locals dressing up in Christmasy costumes, theatrical displays of classic Christmas stories and of course, endless Christmas songs.

Not to mention, food stands with seasonal treats such as ponche, a mulled brandy and fruit drink served with and without alcohol for those wary of making the naughty list.

Oaxaca

Perhaps the capital of culture in Mexico is none other than the lovely city of Oaxaca. The secret has been out on Oaxaca for quite some time now, but it packs a punch for the holiday season too.

This tourist hotspot is a joyous place to celebrate the season both religiously and socially. Streets are packed with patrons in the holiday spirit heading out to either a local watering hole or to partake in religious traditions.

Maybe even both. Hey, no judgment here! Oaxaca is one of the liveliest places in Mexico for holiday festivities, with vibrant streets lined with Christmas lights and decor.

Taking in the visual displays alone will have you booking your next Christmas trip to Oaxaca while you’re still here.

Los Cabos

Those not a fan of winter weather at home should escape to sunny Los Cabos for the holidays. While it may not be a cultural hub like other festive Mexican destinations, that doesn’t mean it lacks fun festivities.

You may not easily find authentic traditions, but the luxe resorts are sure to deck the halls to put guests in the holiday spirit.

Cabo is wonderful in December, not only for the holiday vibes but the city is always buzzing. Whether in Cabo San Lucas or San Jose del Cabo, you are sure to find fun ways to spend your time.

Resorts are likely to hold holiday-themed events specially catered for vacationers wanting to escape cold weather, all while celebrating the magic of the season.

Quintano Roo

Home to mega-popular destinations such as Cancun, Tulum, Cozumel, and Playa del Carmen, vacationers visit the state of Quintana Roo year-round.

Just like Cabo, this region is perfect for escaping the bitter cold. These cities are prepared for an influx of guests and offer parades, street fairs, and fireworks to celebrate not only Christmas but the new year.

No matter which city you decide to make your stay, you will be home to world-class beaches and resorts that will hold festive events to make lasting memories.

You really can’t go wrong with any of them, but December may be the perfect time to visit Tulum, as it is the trendiest city in Mexico this winter.

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October 25, 2023