Traveling Soul
Escape to Paradise
The Ultimate Cancun Travel Guide
As a passionate traveler, I'm always on the lookout for the next dreamy destination to share with my fellow travel enthusiasts. Today, I want to take you on a virtual journey to a place that has captured my soul -- Cancun, Mexico!🇲🇽
This breathtaking destination promises unforgettable experiences, from its turquoise waters to its vibrant culture and world-class resorts. It's more than just a travel destination; it's a dream come true for those seeking a blend of natural beauty, adventure, culture, and relaxation. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Cancun has something for everyone.
🌟What to Bring
Finances play an essential role when traveling. To enhance your journey, it's recommended to secure a supply of Mexican pesos or US dollars in advance. Many locations in Cancun are cash-only and since many travellers may choose to stay in all-inclusive accommodations, tipping often becomes the only expense within the hotel. As a result, if you don’t have enough cash with you, your overall experience might be diminished. Further, using cash also reduces the risk of credit card skimming abroad . There are some ATMs around the hotels and the airport, but the exchange rate and procedures are not very cost effective, so it is highly recommended to prepare cash in advance before you leave!
🌟Where to Live
Hotel Zone is where many tourists choose to stay. It's a long strip of hotels, resorts, and beautiful beaches. It's great if you want to be right by the action, but it can be crowded and expensive. It's recommended that you look for deals during the off-season. Another option is Playa del Carmen. While it's not technically in Cancún, it's a popular choice for travellers. It's about an hour away, but it offers a more relaxed atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and plenty of activities. It's a great place for those who want a balance between a resort and a local experience. Apart from that, Tulum is also a good choice. About two hours south of Cancún, Tulum is famous for its stunning beaches, Mayan ruins, and eco-friendly hotels. It's ideal for travellers seeking a more laid-back and bohemian atmosphere.
During my unforgettable journey through Cancun, one resort stood out as the ultimate gem – Xcaret Arte. While families with children may opt for Xcaret Mexico, the Xcaret hotels, located about 8 miles south of Playa del Carmen (approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from the Cancun airport), offer a range of options. Among them are Hotel Xcaret Mexico (ideal for families), Hotel Xcaret Arte (an adults-only paradise), and the ultra-luxurious La Casa de las Playas.
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My personal haven was Hotel Xcaret Arte, which takes center stage in this review. One of the standout features of this resort is the complimentary, unlimited access it provides to all the enchanting theme parks owned by Xcaret. Within the main campus, you'll discover three distinct "eco-parks": Xcaret Park, Xplor/Xplor Fuego, and Xenses. Beyond these, numerous activities abound. Embark on a catamaran or ferry voyage to Isla Mujeres (Xailing), dive into the world of snorkeling and interact with dolphins at Xel-Ha, savor a Mexican "floating fiesta" at Xoximilco, explore the wonders of Chichen Itza with Xichen, or immerse yourself in the various cenotes (Xenotes).
Xcaret Arte also boasts a collection of around 10 fine-dining restaurants, proving that quality takes precedence over quantity when it comes to gastronomic experiences. What's more, transportation is a breeze from the moment you book your stay. The hotel offers complimentary shuttle services that seamlessly connect the airport, the resort, and the parks. Even if you prefer a more leisurely stay at the hotel, you can indulge in a range of soothing activities, including pottery painting and kayaking. Rest assured, your time here promises boundless fun and relaxation!
🌟Where to Go
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Cancún is a renowned vacation destination, known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural experiences. Cancún offers a diverse range of experiences, from cultural exploration to thrilling adventures and tranquil beach days. Whether you're looking for relaxation, adventure, or a mix of both, there's something waiting for you!
Must-Hit Recommendations:
Xcaret
This eco-archaeological park offers a blend of nature, culture, and adventure. Swim in underground rivers, explore Mayan ruins, and witness incredible cultural shows.
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Xplor
Offers a wide range of adrenaline-pumping activities and experiences in a lush and beautifully preserved natural environment. Some standout activities include zipline, underground river rafting and monster truck.
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Cenotes
Dive or swim in the region's stunning cenotes, natural sinkholes. Dos Ojos, Gran Cenote, Suytun Cenote and Ik Kil are must-visit cenotes for an otherworldly experience.
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Playa Delfines
Known for its iconic "Cancún" sign, this public beach offers powdery white sands and turquoise waters. It's perfect for sunbathing and taking in the stunning views.
Playa Norte
Located on Isla Mujeres, this beach is celebrated for its calm waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Take a ferry to Isla Mujeres for a relaxing day trip.
Chichen Itza
A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza is a remarkable archaeological site showcasing ancient Mayan architecture.
Tulum
Visit the cliff-top Mayan ruins of Tulum, overlooking the Caribbean Sea. It's a picturesque site with historical significance.
Cancun had exceeded my expectation, leaving me with memories I'll cherish for a lifetime. My final day in this tropical paradise was spent lazing on the powdery white sands of the beach, feeling the gentle breeze on my skin and listening to the soothing lullaby of the waves.
