Mexico seems to be on everyone’s lips right now. With flights connecting through Europe, this destination is on the rise.
Although South Africans do require visas, these aren’t too much of a stress to obtain, and those lucky ones that have an EU passport or US visa in place, don’t need to worry.
Mexico is known for its outstanding beaches, enticing cuisine and incredible culture. Only those who have visited, will understand that dancing really is part of everyday life and that the locals like to salsa at any and every occasion. You can’t help but join in, especially after a few local margaritas!
Cancun is situated in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula and is the top tourist destination. It brings together gorgeous natural settings with first-class accommodations, and the rich, mysterious world of the Mayans. Families, groups of friends and couples from across the globe choose to travel to Cancun because of its perfect balance between relaxation and endless entertainment options. Most resorts offer an all-inclusive meal plan, which suits us South Africans perfectly, as we can then budget accordingly! There are well known international hotel brands that have their resorts here…from Club Med to the Westin or Hyatt – as well as smaller resorts; the list is endless.
It’s worth taking a trip out to the Tulum Mayan Ruins when visiting Cancun, even better is spending a few nights at one of the beach resorts there! Tulum used to be an untouched backpackers’ haven, around 20 years ago, but is now quite a bustling town.
The Ruins are perched over the sea in a breathtaking spot. Talk about Instagram’able spots, this is definitely at the top of the list! Guides are available at the entrance if you are keen to really understand the historical significance of the Ruins, but doing your own thing is always a pleasure too. Don’t forget to bring your swimwear and hit the incredible beach, only accessible from the site. Whilst in the area, you must also try and visit a cenote! The cenote choices in the Tulum area are vast and diverse as there are literally dozens of incredible locations nearby. You can swim, scuba dive, snorkel or just walk through one of these breath-taking and powerful forces of nature.
Playa Del Carmen is also a great beach spot to venture down to when in Cancun, or as an alternative if you are looking for something on a smaller scale to Cancun. Playa del Carmen is known mainly for white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and a laid-back bohemian vibe, and also started off as a small fishing village, not so long ago. 5th Avenue is the place to be. Restaurants and gift shops jostle each other for space along the pedestrian walkway. There are all types of restaurants for every taste and budget spread out through town. There are also a variety of hotels available, to suit most budgets.
Our favourite little spot in Mexico…
Isla Mujeres is a real escape for travellers seeking a blend of local charm, fantastic cuisine, and postcard-perfect beaches… and that island lifestyle that has you wearing flip-flops every day. This unique, gorgeous little five-mile-long island sits just a 20-minute ferry ride off the coast of Cancun. Even though ‘downtown’ and limited to just a few square blocks, it provides plenty to explore. Shops line the main roads and side streets and there is an incredible vibe going on between tourists and local salesmen. Down the centre of town runs pedestrian street Avenida Hidalgo with its row of excellent restaurants and bars; there is lots of options for daytime lunches and snacks, but the area really comes alive at sunset when the entire island appears for an evening of cuisine, dancing and live music. The local music talent is incredible! It’s definitely worth spending a few nights here, if you can squeeze it into your itinerary.
So, there is our little recap of our favourite Mexican beach breaks, if you haven’t decided on where to head in 2022, add Mexico to the list. We assure you it will not disappoint!
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