Travel and Vacation Digest » Cancun

Spring Break In Cancun

Ed — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 19:34:01 +0000

Cancun, Mexico has become one of the most popular travel destinations for college students looking for an outlet to burn off some steam during their spring break. College life can be extremely stressful and most colleges give their students one week a year off in the spring and this time has become synonymous with hedonism and excessive partying. The week chosen for spring break varies from school to school making the spring break season typically an approximately two month long event. Spring breaks can begin as early as late February or as late as early May depending on the university. Although this may be a dream come true for many young people, older travelers may be very disappointed to learn that they have stumbled into Cancun during the annual spring break season.

Those who are looking for a quiet and relaxing vacation are advised to avoid Cancun during the typical spring break season. Although the beaches are beautiful, the weather is gorgeous and the surroundings are still picturesque the crowds that spring break attracts may make even the most beautiful setting seem not so attractive to some people. Many resorts cater to the spring break crowd making it difficult for those who do not want to be a part of the spring break scene to enjoy their vacation. The beaches and pools are usually overcrowded with young adults enjoying a break from school combined with easy access to alcohol. This combination usually results in a loud and boisterous atmosphere that does not appeal to those who are looking for the tranquility that they have come to expect from a beach location.

However, those who are looking to participate in the spring break atmosphere at its finest simply cannot pass up the opportunity to spend their spring break in Cancun. Here they are likely to find a large group of other college students with the same ideas of fun on their mind. Many resorts take advantage of the crowds and try to accommodate the spring break revelers with special deals on lodging, drink specials and organized games geared at attracting the attention of the spring break crowd. The theory behind this is that spring breakers who have a great time on their first spring break trip to Cancun are going to be more likely to return to Cancun for their subsequent spring breaks.

Although most of the people on spring break are just there to have a good time, it is wise to follow a few safety precautions when you travel to Cancun for spring break. First traveling with a group of close friends and staying near them during your vacation is recommended. There really is safety in numbers and you and your travel companions are wise to stay together during your trip. Also, you should carefully monitor your alcohol intake while on spring break. Alcohol has been proven to weaken your inhibitions and too much alcohol may result in you making faulty decisions. Also, alcohol combined with the heat and humidity of the location could make you prone to severe medical problems including dehydration and heat stroke.

Spring break in Cancun is a dream come true for some and a complete nightmare for others. If the spring break atmosphere is not something you enjoy, you would be wise to avoid this area during the spring months when resorts are likely to be overcrowded with college students looking to have a good time. However, if you are searching for a place to enjoy a stereotypical spring break, Cancun is the place for you.

The White Sands Of Cancun

Ed — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 11:07:01 +0000

Imagine water so clear you can see brightly colored fish swim beneath. Imagine sand so white that the starfish clinging to it, pale in comparison. If you have ever seen pictures of paradise in magazines, chances are, you were looking at the beaches of Cancun.

In 2005, hurricane Wilma doubled the size of the sandy shoreline in Cancun. After complete restoration, Cancun' beaches are bigger and better. Although the beaches are considered public property, some access has to be maneuvered through the hotels. A walk down the talc sand will lead you from one beach upon another.

In the hotel zone, you will discover 14 miles of coastline looping around an inland lagoon known as Laguna Nichupte. What could be more perfect than basking in the sun by the ocean and then indulging in jet skiing or kayaking in the beautiful fresh water lagoon? Topless sun bathing is typical on some of the beaches in Cancun. Although with a stroll or a bus ride, you can find a beach suited to you.

While in Cancun, check out one of these great beaches:
Playa Langostos: This beach rises to the top as one of the most loved beaches in Cancun. It provides dolphin adventures, a petite shopping area, restaurants, outdoor showers and a cove. This beach is lined with tropical trees and latched roof caba

Memorable Nightlife In Cancun

Ed — Wed, 20 May 2009 07:03:01 +0000

If your looking for a crazy night out in Cancun, then the infamous 'Carlos and Charlie's' should be your host for the night. There are three different bars with one overlooking the lagoon. The guests are entertained by gregarious wait staff putting on shows and hosting games. One drink could lead to a whole night spent at 'Carlos and Charlie's.' It is a restaurant, a bar and a place to dance. The band is dressed up in chef's clothes and the tequila runs like a stream. There is a giant palapa with lagoon slides out of the bar. This place is the one stop any traveler looking for a memorable vacation must go.

The next must go-to nightclub is 'CoCo Bongo.' This massive place has five dance floor and production acts unlike anywhere else. It is advised to head there early, score a private table, and buy your liquor by the bottle. Settle in and watch as flying trapeze swing over your head. Acts include everything from Madonna to Mask. You might even have superman deliver your drinks to your table. In this wacky, energized world, craziness goes into the wee hours. It reminds one of 'Circus de Soleil' combined with a concert.

'Senor Frog's' is third on the list for a roaring good time in Cancun. You can expect to get pulled into a conga line with the whistle girls. This bar has a long tube which whisks enthusiastic party goer's into the lagoons.

The 'Bulldog Café' is a funky kind of party place. This dance club has infused oxygen, laser shows and even VIP Jacuzzi's for all night fun. The music ranges from disco to hip hop. Large video screens hover over dancers. The Bulldog is huge and able to hold over 2000 patrons.

Currently Cancun's hottest club is a place called 'The City'. It is a day and night club of over 25,000 feet in space. It includes nine bars. The music is delivered by guest D.J.'s, with some of the world's most famous hosting music throughout the night. In the day time there is a wave pool for boogie boarding and a high waterslide. Beach cabanas surround the pool. At night you can settle in on one of the comfy couches and enjoy drinks. This club should not be missed.

Folkloric Ballet is for those wanting a calmer, more cultural nightlife. Many hotels host what is called 'Mexican Fiesta Nights'. It includes dinner and a colorful dance show. For more performing arts, consider going downtown where the locals go to 'Parque de las Palapas'. The tropical music is free and dancing goes on into wee hours. If your skeptical about venturing out to Cancun's bars, there is are bar leaping tours available. These tours include two hour stops at all the most popular bars in Cancun. Many travelers choose lobby bar hopping as a way to introduce them into Cancun's active nightlife. What happens at night in Cancun is part of the main draw to this tropical nirvana.

Finding Your Place In Cancun

Ed — Fri, 01 May 2009 18:17:01 +0000

Scattered all along the white sand beaches of Cancun are the hotels and resorts catering to those escaping into paradise. Each hotel uniquely defines its position within the tropical setting. They are individualistic in their amenities and activities. Finding the right hotel is essential to a perfect vacation. Kukulcan Boulevard is the main strip through the hotel zone, from beginning to end. Some of the best hotels include ocean and lagoon access.

Club Med is the last hotel on the farthest south end. White sand and rocky shores beget the best fishing from shoreline. It is located at the east end of point near Punta Nizuc. Punta Nizuc has world renown snorkeling in Cancun.

Two of the most popular hotels on the southern tip of the peninsula are the Fiesta Americana Cancun and the Fiesta Americana Coral Grand. These amazing hotels are made of gardens and views in a prime location. The Nichupte Lagoon graces the inner edges which seem to capture paradise all on its own. Layered pools surrounded by lush gardens in a resort atmosphere remind you it couldn't get any better than this. Recreational activities exist for both the lagoon and ocean both of these luxury accommodations are in the heart of the hotel zone and surrounded by sunny beaches, cultural restaurants and active nightlife.

Sunset Lagoon Hotel: Situated at the north end of Nichupte Lagoon is a perfect location for a stay in Cancun. This quiet place is host to the Admiral Yacht Club and offers its guest a plethora of water activities. There are bicycles available for cruising the strip. You can indulge in their prestigious spa services or play golf.

If you venture to the northern end of Kukulcan Boulevard, on popular Playa Delfines beach sits three perfect hotels:

Oasis/ Grand Oasis: This is an all inclusive resort include a golf course into its design. This luxurious hotel has nine restaurants and twelve bars. Water sports abound with activities like windsurfing at the nearby marina. This aesthetically pleasing hotel is a tropical oasis.

Cancun Hilton: Sitting in stone's throw of Caesar Park Golf Club and Playa Defines beach, you can always count on Hilton hotels to deliver a beautiful park like setting. In the hotel's 150 acres, expect to see Mexican hacienda architecture. For complete pampering, indulge in their spa amenities in the Zen gardens. The infinity pools melt into the Caribbean ocean, while Mayan ruins wait for you next door. This amazing hotel has a mix of poolside bars and seafood grills.

Crown Paradise Club: Another all inclusive resort of magnificent proportions. Located by Playa del Ray beach, this hotel touches the sky with its towering levels and unique horse shoe shaped design. Inside their doors, you will find a variety of themes in restaurants and bars. Hop on a mechanical bull or sit in the quiet piano bar. If salsa is your dance, Crown Paradise has meringue music playing until wee hours of the morning. They have a mini-club for children with pool and craft activities. This hotel has thought of everything for the Cancun visitor.

Cancun Cuisine

Ed — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 09:28:01 +0000

Getting the most from your vacation in Cancun means to try out local flavor in dining. A pleasant variety of restaurants line the streets of Cancun waiting to show off it's cooking to a hungry tourist.

For Caribbean flavor, then La Habichuela is your meal stop. Its romantic setting under the stars has been in operations for over 29 years. It is a favorite return for tourists who come back especially for the "Famous Cocobichuela". A house specialty made with chunks of lobster and shrimp cooked in a curry sauce, served in a coconut shell and topped with tropical fruits. Their menu offers a grand choice in seafood prepared with ingredients only found in tropical regions. This family owned restaurant boasts of it being a place "Where you are treated like a Mayan King."

If "south of the border" is your food fare, then La Casa de las Margaritas will have you in awe as you walk thru their doors. Each area of the restaurant has immense detail to the Mexican culture. From the architectural design to the costumed wait staff you are reminded of where you are. Music plays as you feast on their dishes. Indulge in shrimp tacos or tequila chicken. They also offer a full "cantina."

For authentic Mayan cuisine, consider Pacal's. The owner Augusto Pastaccini spent years studying the ancient exotic cuisine of the Mayans and now brings it to current day cuisine. The "Cochinita Pibil" is a favorite of locals. It is tender shredded pork baked in banana leaves with Mayan ingredients. Also popular are "Papadzules", corn tortillas filled with hard boiled eggs, covered with a pumpkin sauce and garnished with fried tomatoes. Pacal's loyal customers say you will never get a meal like this "back home."

Some of the best Yucatecan cuisine comes out of a little place called Labna. It is located on the side of La Habichuela. This restaurant combines Mayan fare with Mexican flair. On their menu is deep fried turnovers filled with shark and blanketed with tomato sauce. For the experimental soul, they create a cactus salad pork rinds and cream cheese. They also offer classic cuisine such as chicken in mole sauce.

The most fascinating ingredients are found in this region's cooking. Recipes unseen anywhere else. Many of Cancun's restaurants share commonality in using rare spices and tropical fruits native to their country. Cactus, bananas, and poblano peppers grace many dishes. Seafood is abundantly available and is prepared creatively in a wide diversity of menu items.

If you love lobster, you are going to see it in almost every restaurant in Cancun. You will witness it prepared in ways beyond the traditional methods at the Lobster Shack. You may also have a visitor from the lagoon the Lobster Shack sits on. Crocodiles frequent the restaurant, but they are kept at safe distance from the customer. This restaurant makes for a unique dining experience.

While in Cancun, venture out and experiment with local cuisine. The dishes may make your vacation complete.

The Secrets Of Cancun

Ed — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 15:52:01 +0000

Cancun is not the place to be bored. Aside from the thinking your in paradise with shorelines and seas reminiscent of nirvana, this place holds a treasure chest of attractions.

A secret place outside of Cancun is Akumal. It is a small native town off highway 307 not well known to tourists. This little native village is friendly and has preserved unspoiled beaches. If you are looking for serenity or a private party, these beaches exist for you. The restaurants are of sandy floors and surrounded by palm trees. The real Mexico exists in Akumal as areas around it become developed with tourist attractions and resorts. There is no pollution and plenty of fishing or swimming. High rocks tower proudly for you to jump into the crystal waters below. This unhurried environment will lead you to homes of sea turtles and howler monkeys. The locals sell their goods on the streets. It is a sleepy little place to go through paradise at your own pace.

Another place off the beaten path is a quaint little fishing town called Puerto Morelos. It is a day trip from Cancun, but the trip is worth it. Things cost less here than tourist guided areas. You can bargain your goods with the vendors or embark on a trip through the jungle on an ATV. The fishing here is laid back and promises catches like blowfish and barracudas. The scenery is breathtaking without all the stampeding of tourists. The day flows lazily on with native cuisine in the small local restaurants. Relax and become a part of this secret place.

For some people, the perfect moment is captured on horseback wading through the transparent waters of the seaside. The most incredible experience waits then for those that love horses at Rancho Loma Bonita. Galloping through the ocean on horseback should be on your list of things to do in your life. It is here at Rancho Loma Bonita that magic wished happens. If horses scare you, then ATV's are available to zoom down the beach line as well as many dunes in the area. There are also jungle paths and fields for both horses and ATVs. After experiencing a ride of a lifetime, they cook for you, providing a feast as an ending to a perfect day.

Plaza De Toros, is what Mexico is known for…bullfights. Located in downtown Cancun sits a massive old world building which is home to daily bullfights. Flashy costumes and dancing complement pre show entertainment. Mexican cowboys perform stunts as you wait for the main event of the feud between matador and bull. On the backside of Plaza De Toros is the restaurant Los Indios. The atmosphere is native Mexico, and the food is inexpensive. If you strong of heart then a bullfight may be your Cancun action.

Although Cancun is famous for white sands, transparent blue waters, and vivid nightlife, there are corners to explore. For those seeking less traveled roads, consider searching out the secret places of Cancun.

Playtime In Cancun

Ed — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 16:51:01 +0000

Vacations in Cancun equal fun. In a balmy climate of famous white sand beaches, there is something for everybody. The transparent blue Caribbean Sea surrounds a fresh water lagoon creating a world of water activities.

Start your day inside the Nichupte Lagoon. Water sports wait in wave runners and kayaking. The bay is plump with places to rent water toys. Consider taking in the sunset in a 2 person boat, or rent a jet boat and zip through the world's second largest coral reef. Not sure if you want to handle a boat yourself? Then take a wild jet boat ride on the infamous Shotover jet ride. An expert driver takes you speeding through the lagoon's mangroves. Also a sure bet is a try at parasailing. If you require transportation to the lagoon, mopeds and bicycles are readily available. The Nichupte Lagoon gives you a bounty of choices in local cuisine, whether it's a taco stand or a sit down hacienda.

If you're thinking of water on the ocean side, indulge your adventurous spirit in sailing or head out on a yacht for the best in fishing and snorkeling. How about a dinner cruise on a catamaran to Isla Mujeres? Cultural shows and dancing wait to include you in. The Subsee Paradise is Cancun's premier glass bottom ship. For over a half hour you will be whisked through the coral reefs loaded with marine life.

If you love the boat tours, take a ride thru the Isla Contoy National Park. Embark on an adventure through a tropical habitat pure in beauty. Still in its natural state you can learn about the numerous species and fauna alive there. Located 45 minutes north of Isla Mujueres, it also is wrapped in white sand beaches. It is a favorite for birdwatchers with over 90 species of birds to watch in their ecosystem. Your dinner is prepared on the boat by your captain.

At day's end, if you are still feeling the ocean try the night fishing. You will have the opportunity to fish for shark, snapper or many other marine sea creatures. Whether novice or expert, everyone can fish in the Caribbean waters. The captain happily cooks your catch for you.

Underwater adventurers will want to want to venture beyond the coral reefs in Cancun. For unusual dives in the turquoise waters, there are old ship wrecks to explore or cenotes. Cenotes are sinkholes naturally made and found close to the peninsula. More unique diving exists in cavern diving. Swimming through shallow underground waters, the cave enthusiasts will be content with all the diversity in mineral formations. There is also night diving available in Cancun for those brave at heart.

When play time has left you to wind down some, the talc white sands kissing the sea will be waiting for you. Nothing ado but grab a drink from the thatched rood caba

The Parks Of Cancun

Ed — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 03:57:01 +0000

Think of Cancun and you visualize brilliant shades of blue waters gently breezing onto fine white sands. But there is so much more to Cancun. The natural parks are bursting with activities, events, and cultural explorations. While in Cancun, be sure to visit one or two of these parks to make your vacation complete.

Tulam and Xel-Ha
Tulam, once a Mayan port in ancient civilization, still shines with the Mayan culture. A large Mayan temple called "El Castillo" guards over the ocean. Visitors will be in awe over the picturesque points of Tulam. There are many archeological sites to explore. The views take you on top of cliffs looking down on the sea.
Xel-Ha is in the same neighborhood as Tulam, in the Riviera Maya, and is your stop after Tulam. Snorkeling and swimming are the key focus in Xel-Ha. Miles of mangroves exist for tubing or floating. Xel-Ha has an enormously long floating bridge inside its waters.

Sian Ka'an
Get ready for a jungle adventure in Cancun to one of the biggest natural reserves in Mexico. Backpacking to the jungle's top lookout tower is available. A boat expedition heads down the water canals of the reserve to the Mayan ruins. It is here you can explore the rich history of the ancient Mayan culture. There is also snorkeling available into the underground caves and cenotes. The shallow surface waters will show mineral formations centuries old. Hundreds of birds call this area home. At any time a parrot could rest upon your shoulder.

Rio Lagartos
If you love pink Flamingos, then you can see thousands of these distinctive birds at this wildlife refuge in Cancun. From April to August Flamingos build mud nests on the shallow shoreline. This park was built in 1979 and contains over118,000 acres of natural preserves. It is home to jaguars, turtles, and 200 species of birds. There is an eco diverse environment which includes coastline, jungle and swamps.

Garrafon National Reef Park
When the boat cruise takes you out to Isle Mujeres, take some time to wander through Garrafon. On the Isle Mujeres there is much to see and do. A Mayan temple exists down from Blue eye caves. There is a panoramic tower and a climbing bridge. This visit also includes talking parrots, and glass bottom kayaks. Snuba diving and bungee jumping are part of the activities happening at Garrafon. Turtle farms and swimming with dolphins give you a first hand look at Cancun's marine habitats.

Aktun Chen
Check out this natural park with 5 million old caves. The underground caves have rivers running through them. The outside of the caves is home to monkeys, wild boar, deer, and many more animals living unconfined in the jungle environment. This park also has a large snake observatory which includes 15 different species of native snakes. You will love listening to the monkey's howl as you leave the caves. Nature trails exist through the 988 acres to take you all through this riveting natural reserve.

Cancun A World History

Ed — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 01:56:01 +0000

Aside from the beautiful beaches, Cancun is a place surrounded by sacred history. Before this land gave way to modern day tourism, it was home to lost civilizations. Once you have arrived in Cancun, take a day trip outside the city to explore Mexico's archeological ruins. History can be touched at the ruins of the ancient Mayans. The Mayan people known for their religious practices and accurate calendar forecasts have left behind clues to their existence. Inland from Cancun, archeological sites are scattered for the inquisitive traveler to explore.

Chichen Itza, an ancient Mayan colonization, lies untouched within the jungles of Mexico. The pyramid known as El Castillo, sits mysteriously reaching for the sky. The tourist is welcomed to the steps of the pyramid willing them to climb towards the heavens. El Castillo is a haunting reminder of the brilliant humans who lived before us. A guided tour of this ruin is a personal life experience into truths we have yet unveiled.

More complex and majestic is the ruins in the lost city of Uxmal. If you venture here, plan on spending a least a day. This is considered to be one the best archeological finds ever. Uxmal was thought to be one of the largest cities ever during the Late Classic period. The Pyramid of the Magician towers over all the trees and has five temples built into it. There are many structures surrounding this pyramid, defining Uxmal as a lost city. Other places for travelers to capture here include The Nunnary Quadrangle, The Palace of the Governor, House of turtles and House of doves. The Great Pyramid and the Temple of the Phalli both command the attention of the inquisitive tourist. It is said that human sacrifice was ritualistic in the city of Uxmal.

A smaller Mayan site called Xel-Ha is located on the inland highway of the Yucatan Peninsula. It is surrounded by an ecological park given the same name. A beautiful drive along the coast will take you by a temple ruin where a painted picture of the god, Tlaloc, reigns over the seas. If you are headed down the coast to Xel-Ha, a little ways further will lead you to Tulum, another Mayan mystery. There you will discover ruins overlooking the Caribbean sea, guarding the secret religious rituals of the ancient Mayan culture. The Temple of the Descending God decorates the landscape with ornament masks of lingering secret world.

This region is known as Maya World, and is home to over 3,000 archeological sites left by this historical civilization. Cancun hosts a variety of tours taking the traveler in every direction to places of the past. Cancun offers the tourist adventures and activities unlike any other vacation. Yet, without venturing far, you can enrich your vacation experience with a walk through history. The Mayan culture left a little of themselves behind, from the calendars we use today to the ancient cities where they lived. There is still so much to learn and understand about these people. A visit to their ghosts enriches our own world.

About Cancun

Ed — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 13:33:01 +0000

At the end of Mexico in the state of Quintana Roo is the coastal city of Cancun. The older part of Cancun city is connected by bridges to the newer Cancun which was developed as a resort destination for tourists. Cancun was begun in 1970, and then American developers came in the 1980's to provide a flourishing tourist community. Its growing popularity attracted investors from international companies all over the world. In the last 30 years, Cancun's population has grown to 600,000. Many Americans have chosen to relocate to this paradise location. In 2005, Hurricane Wilma hit the tropical regions and heavily damaged much of the coastal area. Much restoration occurred to bring the sandy shorelines back to normal operations. The beaches became much wider after Hurricane Wilma.

Tourism is the number one reason for a booming economy in Cancun. The hotel zone is located coastally and boasts a shape of a seven, if one was to look at it from an aerial view. Inside the seven shape exists Nichupte Lagoon. This is a freshwater lagoon which hosts many water activities to the tourists. To get to the older Cancun, two bridges exists connecting the hotel zone and inner Cancun city.

Less tourism exists in the older parts of Cancun, so more cultural flavor can be observed. Traditional Mexican and Cuban restaurants can be accessed as well as shopping. Flea markets and international chains are less expensive tourist fare. Also downtown is the bullfight arena which puts on daily shows. There are a variety of local bars and restaurants in the downtown area.

Aside from the talc beaches and active nightlife, many tourists travel to Cancun to learn about the ancient Mayan civilization first hand. The Mayan ruins are scattered all throughout the Yucatan peninsula. Ruinas del Ray is the closest ruins in Cancun, located right in the heart of the hotel zone. El Ray and El Meco ruins remain standing just outside the city limits of Cancun. In Tulam, a little north of Cancun, exisrs a more substantial archeological site for exploring the previous life of the Mayans. For day trips, it is highly recommended to spend time in the lost city of Uxmal or at Xel-Ha.

Xel-Ha and Xcaret are big draws for Cancun visitors. Both incorporate natural reserves, Mayan ruins and theme parks into one package. Thousands of tourists make these two places high on the must-do list. These natural parks offer amenities which combine marine life with humans, such as swimming with dolphins. Xel-Ha and Xcaret have preserved the natural eco-diverse environments of the jungles and sandy coastlines beautifully. The popularity of both attractions is because there is so much to see and do within both theme parks.

Cancun will continue to gain popularity as long as Mother Nature remains kind and humans likewise. The visual attraction to Cancun is the numerous Caribbean shorelines made of white sand and crystal turquoise waters. It is everything else built into it as a bonus, which drives thousands of tourists to its location yearly.