Cancun Mexico Vacations - A Great Place To Get Away

Mexico is home to some of the most fascinating and beautiful beaches in the world. Aside from that, it is also popular for its activities and celebrations that reflect the abundance of Mexican culture. One of the most popular ways to experience this firsthand is with Cancun Mexico vacations. Yes, there are other vacation sites in Mexico such as Acapulco, Huatulco, Isla Mujeres, Ixtapa, Cozumel, etc, but there is something unique and special about Cancun, Mexico.

Cancun is one of the most favorite tourist destinations in Mexico for many different reasons. It is a perfect place for people who are active and fun loving. Thousands of vacationers take Cancun Mexico vacations every year because it is so popular with its nightlife, water adventure sports like scuba diving, snorkeling and parasailing, discos, entertainment bars, shopping malls, and others. The place is almost like a one stop shop as it offers a remarkably wide variety of options to the visitors.

An interesting fact about Cancun is that in the past it used to be just a deserted place. With time, we can't really tell what happens next.

A vacation to Cancun takes the visitor to some of the most popular places to see. A typical Cancun tour allows you to witness and experience Paradise Island, the well known dancing dolphins in the turquoise blue Caribbean, the Atlantis Submarine, and of course the Mayan ruins. Tours to ecological parks, jungles, or natural reserves are also included to widen the knowledge of the visitors and at the same time to leave them enthralled by these sights and sites.

While it is true that there are thousands of places to go and enjoy some leisure time away from it all, Cancun Mexico vacations are a good idea to give some serious consideration to. With everything the area has to offer you can be assured of a great time.

An Insider's Guide to Cancun and the Riviera Maya, Mexico

Living in Mexico was an adventurous fairytale; due to the variety of things to do, beauty of the country and the kindness of its residents. I am originally from Ohio but spent substantial time living in Mexico, studying the nature and history of this beautiful place. Here are some ideas and tips I learned from being there that may help you on your next trip to the Yucatan Peninsula.

Using the public bus system is infinitely cheaper than taking taxis everywhere. If you are looking for cheaper transportation to and from the airport, take the bus to downtown Playa del Carmen or Cancun. It is easy and the bus stations are centrally located in both cities. You can choose to ride an air-conditioned bus for a small amount more than the non air-conditioned bus. I would use either, whoever left soonest. There are bus schedules posted for local travel or throughout the country. The nicest buses when I was there were the plush tour buses for longer trips, called ADO. Really nice buses that cost more but are worth it.

If you need to make phone calls in Mexico, buy a phone card there and use them from any pay phone. They can be used to call internationally as well. The locals, many of which do not have phones in their homes, use them all the time. You can buy them in the Casas de Cambio (places where you can exchange your money into Mexican pesos). A note on exchanging your money, check around, to look for the best exchange rates as they may vary place to place.

Those who don't scuba can enjoy the beauty of the underwater coral gardens and scenery by snorkeling. Go to the scuba shops and inquire about what excursions they offer for snorkelers, or ask your resort's front desk if you can sign up for snorkeling tours there at the hotel. Wear sunscreen while doing this daytrip, don't expect a white t-shirt to protect you, because it won't. If you don't use sun protection, you will come back lobster-red, trust me.

A word about avoiding Turista (Montezuma's Revenge, the Tourist Trots). These very unpleasant bacterial infections happen, frequently, to travellers. To avoid spending most of your vacation in the bathroom recuperating, I suggest you don't eat raw fruit (unless it's already peeled), and don't drink drinks that have ice that isn't round, with a hole in it (purified water ice cubes). The large resorts' food is safe, as far as I have experienced. I've stayed in a few before moving to Mexico and never got sick by eating or drinking their food. Big resorts take precautions against contaminated foods and drink. But, out on the street, those bacteria free float into the food offered at taco stands (and I love those, by the way), and wherever fruit is sold. If you buy fruit, peel before eating it. If it isn't peelable, then forget it. Drink purified, bottled water at all times. If you go to day-long trips out in the heat, bring a gallon jug of water, you will need it.

Hire only qualified tour guides through reputable agencies (usually found through the hotels or your travel agent). Don't use freelance tour guides because I was told when living there that some will make information up as they go along. Independent tour guides will approach you at places like the ruins of Coba, Chichen Itza and Tulum, for example. Go with a tour group to these places. I liked the Apple tours, but there are many others that are good, too. Ask around to see who are most highly recommended. Chichen Itza is a big site, worthy of seeing, if you are going to choose a sight to see. The pyramid there, called El Castillo, is spectacular. I have been inside it (very, incredibly claustrophobic if you decide to brave it up the narrow stairway inside) and on top of it (steep stairs lead up to a few small rooms on the top, where nobility would perform rituals, etc.) Take a camera and stop at the nearby hotel for lunch if you have the chance. There was a show there where dancers in Mayan dress entertained us as our group ate there. It was a good break from the heat of sightseeing this ancient city. Word to the wise, bringing a family-size vat of sunscreen wouldn't be a bad idea. And as much water as possible. Walking around the site all day will dehydrate and bake you if you aren't careful.

Check out the cenotes (lakes of brackish water in the jungle), accessed by taking buses or taxi, along the Playa del Carmen-Tulum corridor. I liked going to the Cenote Azul or the Cenote Dos Ojos. Cenotes attract nature, and while visiting them, I saw a variety of fascinating flora and fauna from basilisk lizards to a diving duck. Cenotes are the entrance points to underwater caves, which are only safe to go to with certified dive experts. Underneath the Yucatan peninsula there are a large network of underground caves that expert divers like to explore. Do not attempt to dive these on your own, because it is dangerous. If you want to see what an underground cave is like, go nearby to the nature park of Xcaret, where there are underwater caves for the public to swim in.

Speaking of Xcaret, it is a must to visit if you love nature. It is full of educational activities and fun things to do for the whole family. Expect to spend an entire day there. There is swimming with dolphins, horseback riding, exploring an ancient Mayan village, seeing Mayan dancing shows, snorkeling in a large lagoon, all built into the jungles. It is a top-class place, and even has its own small zoo, butterfly garden and aviary. I know, I used to be the main illustrator for the park years ago. The restaurants are atmospheric and the food is good. Don't forget to see the Mayan musicians do their flying pole exhibition, which is done all day long. They start on top of a pole, and "fly" down, while playing their instruments, while hanging from ropes by their ankles. You won't see anything quite like it out of this region. Xcaret has a variety of natural history exhibits near their large gift shop. It is a "must" for all.

If you want a fun trip by boat, go to Playa Linda (in the Hotel Zone of Cancun) and hop a boat over to Isla Mujeres. Aqua Tours has a big, luxurious yacht that goes over there a few times a day. On the way to the island, you are served drinks, are entertained by the staff and get a great view of the Cancun coastline. Once at Isla Mujeres, you are taken on excursions to places like Tortugranja (a sea turtle farm, where they raise endangered sea turtles from small to large), or Hacienda Mundaca (a supposed former estate of an ex-pirate, who built it for his love interest, according to local legend). They offer snorkeling, too. It's a fun day trip, and the shopping is pretty good on the island, too.

Another interesting place to visit is Merida, the capital city of the state of Quintana Roo (where Cancun is located). It reminded me of Europe, with its lovely, large mansions,outdoor cafes and stately buildings. There, you will find the United States embassy, among others. If you need to replace a lost passport or talk to embassy officials, this is where you want to go. It is a very international place, worth the very long bus ride from Cancun.

Downtown Cancun has a few interesting places to shop. There are authentic food and crafts at Plaza 2000, or see Chedraui (a department/ grocery store), or Pelicano (another general merchandise store). I haven't been to Cancun since the devastating hurricane there, so check to see if these places are still in operation, if so, they are definitely worth going to. Take a bus or taxi to these places, to get a more "authentic" Mexican experience. Staying just in the Hotel Zone is fun, but not a slice of everyday Mexican life. Try some of the great food stands where the locals go. I love the chicken cooked on spits everywhere, called "Pollo Rojo" (red chicken) due to the spices used. It is to die for and incredibly cheap. If you see people on the street selling tamales, try them, they are excellent and really cheap. I could easily eat my way through Mexico by living on tamales (meat inside a corn-based "cake") and empanadas (meat turnovers) alone. If you buy bakery items in Mexico at the grocery stores, bear in mind that they use much less sugar than Americans are used to having, in their recipes. I like the Conchitas, breads shaped like shells. If you want sweets, buy the cakes sold under the brand name
"Bimbo" (yes, that is the name of it). It is a major bread and snack food producer in Mexico.

Enjoy your stay in the lovely Mayan Riviera. Walk the beaches and admire that stunningly turquoise water, it is truly paradise. Enjoy the hospitality of the friendly and helpful Mexican nationals. Remember to have fun, but remember, it is a foreign country, so obey their laws and be respectful of the differences in culture. If you go, you'll want to go back again and again. I know I did. The more you go, the more you know. Living in the Yucatan was an unforgettable experience, visiting there is too, so make it a memorable trip for yourself by seeing as much of it as you can. You won't be disappointed.

Cancun - Mexico Travel Best Beach Hotel & Drinking

Before Mexico's Riviera Mayan became famous as a region, Cancun already was attracting legions of American travelers looking for a beach vacation. Cancun still has the most breathtakingly-beautiful beach, and more of just about everything than anywhere else in the country.

Cancun has the finest accommodations in Mexico. The Zona Hotelera, where the best hotels stand, is a 14-mile strip of sandy-white beach lined with luxurious places to stay. Boulevard Kukulcan, the main thoroughfare, is itself tastefully landscaped and decorated with palm trees, bushes and waterfalls. The hotels in this area are fabulous but also very expensive. The devastation wrought by Hurricane Wilma in 2005 hastened renovations and new development, as extravagance became the norm.

The Ritz-Carlton Cancun is one hotel that gets rave reviews. Its architecture pays homage to Mexico's Spanish heritage, but its centerpiece is its powdery white-sand beach. The hotel's primary restaurant, The Club Grill, is highly acclaimed and has earned the prestigious five-diamond award.

Le Blanc Spa Resort is an all-inclusive property on the Zona Hotelera that is one of Cancun's finest. Its spa and fitness center are extraordinary, as is Le Blanc's service. Another top hotel choice is the JW Marriott, with its marble lobby and luxurious guest rooms. The JW Marriott's Gustino restaurant serves the finest Italian cuisine in Cancun.

Cancun is also an epicurean's paradise. Fabulous restaurants abound, especially on Boulevard Kukulcan, where the major hotels are located. Casa Rolandi, a Swiss/Italian restaurant, is the cream of the crop. The fresh Caribbean fish, veal and other meat dishes are outstanding, as are the desserts. Casa Rolandi also features an extensive wine list.

Lorenzillo's is a premier choice for seafood and is best known for lobster. Harry's Prime Steakhouse has a far-reaching reputation as the go-to place for superb steaks, but the fish is excellent also.

Nightlife is a big part of the Cancun scene. Several clubs are located in major hotels, and standalone mega-clubs include The City, CoCo Bongo and Bling. The Bar Hopper Tour takes the party crowd to Congo Bar, Senor Frog's and CoCo Bongo in one evening.

The adjacent Caribbean Sea adds tremendous value for fans of boating and water sports. Perhaps the most popular boat trip is a ride to nearby Isla Mujeres, home to a laid-back former fishing village with shops and restaurants. Isla Mujeres, which also has hotels and an excellent beach, is a vacation destination in its own right. Other boat outings include an evening party aboard the Caribbean Carnaval as well as a night of games and a pirate show on the Captain Hook.

Several vendors offer a Jungle Cruise, where two people drive their own speed boat across the lagoon and through a large coral reef. Other Cancun adventures include night fishing and snorkeling.

Wear Your Bottom the Cancun Way

As I watch the booties parading down the coast, silhouettes of glory wearing only thongs and g-strings, and some nasty-looking bandannas, I can imagine how far the bikini has evolved from a humble hipster with a Bandeau top to a micro-thong with all "bottom" classifications to define them. Cancun-bikini.com knows just the right label to underscore your booty: Are you into a Rio or Brasilian bottom? Do you dig flashy neon pink Euro bikinis? Or do you plan to show off with your classic American sandwiches? Let Cancun bikini.com defines the shape, color and size female Kombikini solids, prints and Xtras.

Let's talk about bikinis. Bikini Bottoms in Cancun are your most valuable assets, and you have chosen have a range to put the spotlight. One of my favorites is the bottom Hipster - aquamarine swimming wear a beautiful sport that embraces the form at the same time, all eyes glued to trim your Fanny. The Bottom Hipster developed byHip Huggers, and spawned a couple more radical-looking retro bikinis called the Hot Pants and Shorties. Sure enough, these retros reminded us of the beach beauties of the 70's and 80's -- but the glam never fades. Some may call them conservative but the punk attitude sets these hip-hugging karenas apart from the rest.

Most Cancun-bikini swim wear are made up of quality nylon and spandex for that smooth water glide. How can the men resist? The bands and strings are easily adjustable to fit your shape. Of course, if you're on the chunky side, your best bet is the Kombikini Xtras. These are plus size swim wear whose wrap skirts and mesh pareos make my mouth water! I mean, how can you go wrong with an incredible blue, neon green, or pink top and a matching mini that virtually de-emphasizes your flab? If there's such a thing as a shape-altering bikini, this is it. The mesh allows the beach hunks to espy your precious booties while keeping everything under subtle Wraps.

The bikini is a collection of Cancun-a-fair test of the quality of your sex appeal. Most of the beach fashion guru will tell you that if you had short legs, you should only wear thong bottom with a very high cut legs to reveal her long legs. But if you want to go iron, raise your other activities. For example, offers Cancun Halter Top Scoop Halter Top and Bikini triangle top contributing to the split shift in focus from short legs, your awesome. Fromcourse, these tops come in all colors from mango to royal blue and breast sizes from small to large. My favorite among these is the Halter Top, which is a tad more comfortable to wear than all the rest while making small breasts appear pendulous and shapely. I give the Halter Top Kombikini a total plus for fashion sense.

The Mexicans of Cancun may find it difficult to make the Kombikini Prints sound appealing to Americans and other non-Latin beachcombers, but we'll make it easy for them. How about we let Cancun-bikini.com take care of the job? Cancun-bikini literally changes the face of Bahía de Mujeres by allowing ladies wearing printed bikinis of otherworldly names to invade the beach. I must say I don't care if it's a Wahine or Marengo -- I'm going to have a heart attack. You can't possibly wear this Kombikini Prints and attempt to hide.

Want to look like a mermaid in the glistening turquoise waters? Wear your Aqua Sol -- the Cancun-bikini equivalent of Halter Top paired with a Brasilian and American bottom as well as a mini-wrap skirt. If you don't like being the Blue Goddess, bestow the waters with your beauty wearing your Eclipse or Opium bikinis. These dotted ultramine arrangements are fitting and friendly with the sea. If you want to go with the flow and sport an attitude, check out the Sambuca and Fast Lane bikinis. Guys will go "Whoa!" over these bikinis inspired by the American love for fast cars and midnight clubs.

There's nothing wrong with becoming one with Nature, either. So go ahead and don your Savage, Camouflage, and Wahine swim wear. Wahine is a Pacific Islander term for "woman." Shoot -- won't these bikinis make you feel anything less than feminine? Mexicans sure have a certain love affair with flowers, too. Witness Cancun-bikini's flower print collections: Marengo, Mayberry, Cannabis, and Flower-Power. Talk about the right bikini at the right place and time.

Villas In Cancun

Have you ever dreamt of staying in a private villa overlooking the pristine blue waters of the Caribbean? Well, if you want to find a villa in Cancun you're in luck! In fact villas in Cancun are some of the finest properties on Earth, not to mention the Caribbean, and your privacy and comfort is guaranteed while every amenity remains at your fingertips as though you were in a five star hotel! Many villas are privately owned, and there are many to choose from if you are interested in renting a private villa or mansion for your next vacation in Cancun, Playa del Carmen or the Mayan Riviera, which are all some of the Mexican Caribbean's best locations.

A villa in Cancun will allow you to discover the tropical nature of the Mexican Caribbean unlike any other vacation option. Villas in Cancun and the surrounding areas offer everything you could dream of for your next vacation - private white sand beaches, space to truly relax and The experience of being appointed, luxurious, private pool and a beautiful but a few.

If for an ideal place to spend a public holiday or a gorgeous weekend in a special house more high quality, is in the world, look no further than renting a villa in Cancun for your next Special Escape from the hustle and bustle. In fact, many villas in Cancun also offer a part-time or full domestic staff on each of your guests' wishes! Although hotelsoffer room service and spa services, why would you want to stay in a crowded hotel when you can have the same amenities in a private, nicely constructed, fully decorated Cancun Villa? Rest assured that the feeling of privacy that you will get whey you stay in a villa is completely priceless and will allow you to completely relax and be at one with nature.

Spring Break Cancun

One of the hottest spring break destinations is Cancun, Mexico. Every year in the spring, thousands of college students draw to Cancun for lots of fun adventures and parties. If you want to be a part of the festivities, you may want to do some more research about spring break in Cancun. This trip will be one that you may not remember, but also one that you will you never forget.

This popular tourist spot will amaze you. Cancun is a sunny paradise that has miles of white sand beaches and a nightlife like no other. Most people during the day will be caught sipping on cocktails, tanning in the hot weather or taking a dip in the Caribbean Ocean. Beyond that, there are plenty of other daytime activities to get involved in if you are not too hung over from the prior evening activities. These activities include swimming, diving, boating, jet skiing, horseback riding, golfing and much more. You could also take a tour of the Ruins along with visiting other historical sites. Sometimes just walking around Cancun and meeting people can be interesting and fun.

This is all ok! But don't forget the nightlife that is waiting for you. Cancun brings on a whole new adventure at night, finding a bar or dance club won't be any problem. Cancun is packed full of them. You can have anything, but beware of the tequila. Most people will be friendly enough to point you in the right direction if you are lost. If you can remember, try to record the name of some of the bars or other sites along the way. That will help you or any other friends to find some of the hot spots when you return.

Also remember to be safe on your spring break. You can do this by always being around other friends when going to places. Spring break is one of the most popular times so their will be lots of people. You should also get in the habit of telling people when and where you are going to. Cancun is a big place with many fun activities awaiting you. Just try to know your limits with alcohol and have lots of fun. Cancun will take care of the rest and you will have memories that will last for a lifetime.

Cancun Hotels: The Riu Cancun

The Riu Cancun hotel has world renowned excellent service and an absolutely stunning architecture. Set in the middle of a strip separated by thousands of miles of Caribbean on either side this is one of the most luxurious resort in the area.

Their contemporary yet modern rooms provide a unique and astronomic feeling no matter what style of room you choose Standard, Standard with an Ocean View, or Junior Suite Ocean View, each coming with its own mini-bar. And with their superb all inclusive package you will be able to fill the mini-bar rather quickly with unlimited alcohol until 2 am and regular mini bar and liquor re-stocking; not only do you get unlimited drinks but also access to a whole strew of activities and shows including daytime adult entertainment, live music, and a "Pacha" Disco. With each room at the Riu Cancun you can choose from a magnificent King Sized bed or Two Double Beds and all rooms come with a fantastic view with a private balcony.

For the Kids the Riu Cancun Resort has an invitingly exciting Kids Club, and while the kids are busy enjoying themselves, treat yourself to the superb pool, or satisfying spa. Or tackle a game of tennis on one of the two lighted tennis courts, windsurfing, sailing, or even take scuba lessons. The list is nearly endless.

And if you thought you had your days packed, wait till you see the nightlife at the Riu Cancun. Choose from an exquisite selection of restaurants (which we'll get to shortly) then take yourself for a night of dancing and disco; with the Salon Bar & La Punta it's never a dull moment when you indulge in an exotic cocktail or two with excellent music too in the latter of the two bars, also El Faro allows you to enjoy your favourite drinks while relaxing by the pool and beach area while Wet & Drinking gives you the opportunity to enjoy great beverages (alcoholic and non) right inside the gorgeous pool. If Disco is more you're thing try Discos Pacha and enjoy funky music with the latest in lighting and sound equipment.

Riu Cancun Restaurants & Bars

The restaurants give you just one more reason to go sleep with a satisfied grin on your face.

* Carazone: A fine romantic restaurant with a Brazilian dinner.

* Don Juan: With its sophisticated yet homey look, you'll have no trouble enjoying its excellent international cuisine.

* La Mision: To feel the ultimate in extreme service and special attention to detail visit the La mission and enjoy excellent steaks and a Mediterranean cuisine.