Riviera Maya, Mexico

OLE’

When many people think of Mexico, they think of Cancun and spring breakers. But just south of Cancun is a gorgeous destination that offers relaxation, tranquility, ancient Mayan ruins, and some of the best beaches in the world. This area is Riviera Maya, Mexico, and tourists are flocking here for honeymoons, destination weddings, and low-key family vacations. With the cost of air travel soaring, many people are looking for closer destinations that offer a tropical atmosphere coupled with great value. Riviera Maya offers just that.  There are many properties here to meet your vacation needs ranging from budget to luxury for singles, couples, and families. Popular resorts like Iberostar, Secrets, Dreams, Grand Palladium, Barceló, and RIU have a major presence here. Along this Mexican coast, Discovery Channel recently named Maroma Beach the #1 beach in the world. Having traveled there, I can attest to its truly amazing beauty. The beach features white powdery sand, virtually no sea shells, and gorgeous turquoise water.

Water sports are popular along the beach, most of which are included at no additional cost at an all-inclusive resort. Kayaks, Hobie Cats, windsurfers and snorkeling equipment are typically offered. Some resorts have protected reefs right along their beaches where you can snorkel among tropical fish and coral. The Riviera Maya Sea Turtle Protection Program is also offered at many resorts where you can release newly hatched baby sea turtles back into the ocean. If you are lucky enough to be staying at such a resort during this time (late summer-through early fall), this is wonderful experience to participate in. Security guards carefully watch for the turtles to lay their eggs. Once they do, the nests are then moved out of harm’s way until the eggs hatch, approximately 45 days later. Participants can them name and release their very own sea turtle back into the waters.

For those wanting to experience a little more nightlife than the resort offers, Playa del Carmen sits about halfway between the resorts in the Riviera Maya area. Here you will find Senor Frogs, Carlos and Charlie’s, and many other bars, restaurants, and shopping venues throughout this charming town. You can buy Mexican arts and crafts, sample tequila, and even stop by Walmart for any items you may have forgotten for your trip. You can reach Playa del Carmen by taxi and collectivos (local transportation), and some resorts even offer a free shuttle here.

If you are interested in touring the ancient Mayan ruins, most vacation packages offer optional tours to Tulum and Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Be prepared though for an all-day excursion to view these amazing structures of the past. Also in the area is Xel-Ha and Xcaret Ecological Park. You can spend all day at these parks snorkeling, swimming with dolphins (extra), exploring underwater caves/cenotes, and viewing land and aquatic animals.  You can also cliff dive at Xel-Ha and watch a nightly Mexican folklore show at Xcaret.

Mexico offers a tremendous value to the American traveler. With so many resorts competing for your business, great rates are often available. Honeymooners are especially catered to and offered extra amenities like free room upgrades, fruit baskets, rose petals, or breakfast in bed. These specials aren’t freely advertised so make sure you ask your travel agent about them. If you are looking to have a destination wedding, properties like Palace Resorts, Secrets Resorts, and Dreams Resorts offer free wedding packages when you book a qualifying stay. Finally, if you want to take your family along on your next trip, be sure to ask which resorts are offering promotions where kids eat, stay, and play for free.

If you have any additional questions regarding the Cancun or Riviera Maya area, please feel free to contact me.

Happy Traveling!

Christina