4 reasons to explore Mexico
There’s a reason (or five in our case!) why Mexico remains one of the most popular tropical vacation spots. It has a rich history and culture; hosts lively festivals with lots of colour, music and amazing food and is home to stunning beaches with awe-inspiring landscapes. There are countless fascinating things to explore in Mexico, but we’ve narrowed it down to just four of our favourite spots where you can experience the very best of this vibrant country.
Known as ‘The Capes’, Los Cabos boasts beautiful surroundings no matter which way you look—plus the scenery is complemented by nearly 360 days of sunshine throughout the year. It’s famed for the rock formation that nature has patiently sculpted over centuries, known as the Cabo San Lucas Arch or the ‘End of the World’. There are numerous tours you can take advantage of that will take you on a catamaran ride to the Arch, and along the way you’ll pass by other famous landmarks like San Andres’ cave and Lover’s Beach. If you love animals, there’s even a tour where you can go sea kayaking around the Arch and encounter sea lions. Los Cabos also features options for activity and adventure: from world-class golfing and snorkelling to diving, ATV-ing and more.
Where to stay: Keep enjoying those amazing views of the Arch while floating in Riu Santa Fe’s panoramic infinity pool. The resort’s oceanview suites offer similar beautiful views of the natural rock formation. Plus, during your stay there you can enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine, plenty of daily and evening entertainment and unlimited access to the new and exciting Splash Water World water park that features two refreshing pools and thrilling slides for guests of all ages.
Discover an interesting mix of history, natural beauty and rich culture all in one region. As the birthplace of the Mayan civilization, Riviera Maya combines a rich heritage with plentiful flora, fauna and wildlife. There are plenty of ways to explore its lush landscape. For historical tours, Tulum is one of the most popular Mayan archaeological sites where you’ll feel like you’ve taken a step back in time. If you can’t decide between jungle and ancient ruins, there are tours that allow you to do both! Riviera Maya is also the perfect base from which to explore other world-famous Mayan sites such Chichén Itzá, which is home to famous temples and pyramids such as the pyramid of Kukulkán. A hidden gem is Ek Balam which features some of the best-preserved sculptures of the Mayan era where you can even explore a large underground lagoon. Elsewhere, you’ll find colourful cities and towns like Playa Del Carmen where you can shop until you drop on 5th Avenue, which is lined with stylish boutiques, restaurants, cafes and more.
Where to stay: You can easily walk to Playa del Carmen’s 5th Avenue if you stay at Viva Wyndham Azteca. Alternatively, immerse yourself in Riviera Maya’s nature with a stay at Iberostar Paraiso Del Mar that boasts lush, tropical gardens featuring a waterfall and lake-style pool. Or, experience the best of Playa del Carmen’s shopping and Tulum’s history with a stay at Grand Palladium Kantenah Resort and Spa which is conveniently situated right in between.
A new addition to Mexico’s line up of luxury resort destinations is Playa Mujeres, an intimate and sophisticated resort town that’s home to boutique properties that are designed to make you feel like a VIP. Just north of Cancun, it features pristine white-sand beaches, tranquil settings and leisurely activities like deep sea fishing, golfing and luxury catamaran sailing.
Where to stay: The Renova Spa at Riu Dunamar is a great way to start your luxurious and oh-so relaxing vacation, where you can choose from an array of treatments ranging from massages to facials, beauty treatments, manicures and more. The pampering continues with a soak in the Jacuzzi or you can hang out in the steam room. For dinner, you can enjoy some refined gastronomic specialties, including gourmet Asian and Italian cuisines at à la carte dining venues and succulent steakhouse classics.
This destination earned its title as the 'Pearl of the Pacific' with its serene lagoons and long stretches of soft sand. Not only can you admire its natural beauty, but you can appreciate its 19th century neoclassical architecture and churches as well as quaint cafes and plazas in Old Mazatlan. You might also hear some of the unique Mazatlan music that merges influence from European immigrants with local Latin beats. Mazatlan is also a favourite destination among foodies as you’ll find many beach shacks that serve up the freshest seafood around, as well as fine alfresco dining further in town.
Where to stay: In Mazatlan’s famed Golden Zone, a community of top-rated hotels and resorts, Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay Resort and Spa lets you soak up the sun by a sparkling infinity pool with panoramic views, sip on sommelier-selected wines and fine spirits and participate in exciting activities including kayaking, botanical tours and cooking classes.