Cancún, Mexico is one of the best tropical destinations that you don’t have to travel too far to get to. While you’re technically leaving the country to visit Mexico, it still feels like you’re close to home. Known for its beaches, resorts, and nightlife, Cancún is the perfect place to book a summer vacation and it’s one of the most affordable destinations in North America. In addition to water sports and lush resorts, there are tons of archeological sites waiting to be explored and one of them happens to be one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. Here’s everything you need to know before booking your Cancún vacation.
Best Time to Visit
December to April is the peak season to visit. The crowds may be heavier, but the weather is amazing and you can find cheap flights and better room rates. Try to avoid the city from mid-March to early April as that’s when spring breakers come. During the late spring, summer, and fall you can find significant discounts, but it’s really hot during the summer and there are storms in the fall.
How to Get Around
The best way to get around Cancún is by bus. One-way fares are just 12 pesos, which is around 60 cents! The only time you should splurge for a cab is to get to and from the airport. We don’t suggest renting a car because driving in the city is intimidating with the narrow roads and speedy traffic.
Where to Stay
NIZUC Resort & Spa
This 5-star hotel has the best of both worlds—seclusion and luxury. The hotel has 274 villas and suites that have garden or ocean views and the private pool villas have infinity pools with waterfalls. The resort has two private beaches, five pools, a spa, and six restaurants.
The Ritz-Carlton, Cancun
The Ritz-Carlton, Cancun has lavish accommodations—each room has a bathtub and separate rain shower and furnished balconies or terraces overlooking the Caribbean Sea. The hotel has six dining options, a pool deck with two pools, and a tennis center.
Le Blanc Spa Resort
This 5-star adults-only, all-inclusive resort has lavish amenities including all rooms that come with butler service, an LED TV, and BVLGARI toiletries. Other hotel amenities include a spa, three pools, and four restaurants.
What to Do
Chichén Itzá
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. It’s a large Mayan archaeological site and it’s on of the most recognized landmarks on the Yucatán. The focal point is the pyramid-like El Castillo that was once a Mayan temple to the god Kukulkan.
Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres, the Island of Women, is a great escape from the beaches and nightlife of the city. Be sure to check out Punta Sur, which is home to an ancient temple honoring the Mayan moon goddess, and is surrounded by cliffs and amazing views, and Garrafon Natural Reef Park, which has tons of fun adventure activities.
Playa Tortugas
This beach is known for its clean sands and relaxed atmosphere. Playa Tortugas has tons of open-air restaurants and a pier where you can bungee jump.
What to Eat
Marquesitas
These local treats are crispy crepes that are rolled up and traditionally filled with melted shredded cheese and a sweet filling. Watching them get prepared is almost as fun as eating them. Popular toppings include Nutella, peanut butter, jam, chocolate sauce, and cajeta.
Cochinita Pibil
This traditional Mexican slow-roasted pork dish is prepared by marinating the meat in citrus juice seasoned with annatto seed and roasting the meat while it’s wrapped in a banana leaf.
Panuchos
This tortilla dish consists of refried beans topped with chicken or turkey, cabbage, red onion, tomato sauce, cheese, jalapeño, and avocado.
