Mexico is more than just mojitos
I have recently returned from a trip to Mexico with 9 of my Travel Counsellor colleagues. We met at Gatwick to begin our exciting trip to Cancun. Having already checked in online I had my boarding pass and just needed to print my luggage label from the self-service check-in point and drop my bags off. This process is so simple, quick and really efficient.
Upon arrival the first thing to hit you is the temperature and humidity. During my stay the humidity was around 85% and hot hot hot!
From the airport to downtown Cancun is approx. 30mins, however the start of the main ‘hotel zone’ is around 15mins. A highlight of the short journey was the amazing view – just like a postcard! The sea is so blue and the beaches are bright white and so long. This was a real WOW moment.
Before I knew it we had arrived at our first hotel, the Fiesta Americana Condesa. Like most of the hotels in Cancun this is a 24hr all inclusive hotel which offers a range of dining options and plenty of activities as well as entertainment. My room was spacious and had fantastic views of the ocean.
The second hotel we stayed in was the Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Resort & Spa, located in the heart of downtown Cancun. This all-suite property is near a great variety of shops, bars and restaurants. Whilst we stayed on a B&B basis, it offers two restaurants which are beautiful. My room was well appointed and large. If you like a spa hotel you will not be disappointed here. I have to say this is by far the largest spa I have ever seen in a hotel. Another WOW moment!
Our final hotel was the adult’s only Live Aqua hotel which again is very central and is opposite the Isla Mar Shopping centre. It has a very calm and relaxed atmosphere. The rooms were modern and contemporary and as a nice touch every room has an oil burner. Each night a selection of oils are provided and you can choose your favourite. During the turn-down service, they burn the oil for you and run a bath ready for your return. It’s fantastic – a perfectly tranquil end to the day
On the second day of our trip we went to XEL HA in Riviera Maya. It is classed as one of Mexico’s natural wonders and is the world’s largest natural Aquarium. The natural water park is about an hour and a half drive from Cancan and has many beautiful inlets, lagoons and caves. If you want you can snorkel, swim with dolphins, experience the zip wire, have encounters with stingrays and even cliff jump. Alternatively you could just relax and sunbath in one of the hammocks around the lagoon or ride the lazy river on one of the many inflatables provided. There are over 400 species of plants and fish living in this area. The park is all-inclusive and there is a choice of 2 restaurants. Towels are also provided for and there are full changing room facilities with showers to freshen up at the end of the day.
Our next stop was the natural park XCARET. It may appeal more to families with younger children as there is lots for them to do including a butterfly pavilion, coral reef aquarium , beach area, flamingos, spider monkey island , deer shelter, Tropical Jungle trail, Manatee and stingrays Lagoon, as well as a wildlife breeding farm. There is also the opportunity to swim with sharks. You can swim through the underground caves and rivers.
That evening I experienced the Xcaret Mexico Espectascular show. It’s acted out by 260 performers and portrays the traditions and history of Mexico through the ages right up to modern times.
Another excursion I would highly recommend was a day out on the Albatros Catamarans to Isla Mujeres. This is a beautiful idyllic Island which boasts crystal clear waters and pure white powdery sands. We spent the whole day on the Catamaran. During the course of the day our group enjoyed being able to snorkel, power sail, and swim in the amazing clear warm blue sea which was fantastic. If activities aren’t for you, then just lying on deck and taking in the sun and the scenery is a fabulous day out in itself.
If you like a bit of history head to Tulum. Tulum is the site of archaeological ruins and is about an hour and a half by bus from Cancun. Tulum means wall or fence and it is in fact the old walled Mayan city. Unfortunately it did rain. June – November is actually classed as the rainy season. However, this was the only bit of rain I had seen since arriving in Mexico having enjoyed glorious sunshine prior to this.
Fancy a night out, then head to Coco Bongos! This was an amazing experience! It is a show and disco in Cancun that starts at 11pm and goes through to the early hours. If you like loud music, a few drinks and some great entertainment then you’ll love it. There are acrobats who fly across your head, landing on your tables, several different themed shows and waiter service for the drinks (depending on your type of ticket). I loved it! And for those that know me...I was lucky on this trip I only got a couple of mozzie bites whilst at Tulum. This was due to the rain and being surrounded by jungle!
So as you can see there's more to Mexico than just mosquitos and mojitos! If you are interested in a trip to Mexico then just get in touch as I’d love to have a chat with you about. I now have plenty of insights and tips to share. I look forward to hearing from you!