The adage “been there, done that” definitely doesn’t apply to Mexico. It’s one of those vacation destinations that gets under your skin – a single visit just isn’t enough. If you’ve vacationed in Mexico before but are keen to relive old memories, let us tempt you with these four must-visit places to rediscover.
LOS CABOS
Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo are two of Mexico’s most prestigious resorts, collectively known as Los Cabos. Cabo San Lucas used to be a sleepy fishing village; however, it is now the main cruise ship terminal in the region. Despite its recent status as a tourist attraction, the natural environment is exquisite. This is where the desert meets the sea. The rugged terrain of the Sierra de la Laguna has been designated by UNESCO. hikers who reach its peak are rewarded with spectacular views of the ocean. The water, too, is an incentive. Lover’s Beach and the dramatic wave-cut arch at Land’s End on land serve as reminders of nature’s power.
Sea turtles, humpback whales, and whale sharks entertain tourists at the tip of Bali. Snorkeling and diving are popular activities. Sportfishing for marlin and tuna is another incentive to come.
RIVIERA MAYA, MEXICO
Riviera Maya’s gentle Caribbean waves flow over white sand as soft as sugar while palm trees sway in the breeze–if you thought paradise couldn’t get any better, think again. This resort area offers much more with its Mayan temples, ball courts, and observatories hidden throughout the Yucatan jungle.
Chichen Itza, Tulum, Coba: even though their names are well known worldwide, these sites remain breathtaking destinations that everyone should see at least once.
Beneath them, the limestone rock is riddled with subterranean caverns known as cenotes. Rappel into a dazzling subterranean world and cool off in these hidden pools. With theme parks like Xcaret and Xplor, not to mention a row of top hotels, it’s no surprise why this is one of Mexico’s most popular tourist destinations.
NUEVO VALLARTA
If there’s one thing that Mexico does well, it’s resorts. And Nuevo Vallarta is no exception. Located just north of Puerto Vallarta on the country’s Pacific coast, they share the picturesque Bahia de Banderas.
Nuevo Vallarta boasts a marina and several golf courses, not to mention the obligatory broad swath of sand that visitors love so much. Deluxe resorts line a five-mile stretch of beach; it’s hard to drag yourself away from all the luxury.
The Marieta Islands, located just beyond the bay, are worth a visit. Tourism has contributed to preserving the natural wildlife on these islands and as a result, over 40 species of plants and animals thrive here.
Dolphins, manta rays, sea turtles and tropical fish can be seen year-round; while in winter months humpback whales migrate to the area.
ACAPULCO, MEXICO
Acapulco’s endurance as a resort is a reminder of how great it is, yet these days it caters more to a domestic clientele. However, in the 1950s and 1960s, the international jet set triggered Acapulco’s unstoppable development as a tourism hotspot. The tall buildings along this stretch of Pacific coastline provide lodging, lounges, cocktail bars, and restaurants that help to keep the area vibrant after dark.
None of this would have been possible without the stunning beaches and towering cliffs. The latter is home to Acapulco’s most famous attraction: La Quebrada’s cliff divers. These brave souls plunge 40 metres into an inlet that is only 7 metres wide and 4 metres deep. It takes perfect timing to avoid injury, and it truly is a spectacle that must be seen in person.
PUEBLA, MEXICO
Puebla is a city in central Mexico with a rich colonial history. It’s known for its Talavera pottery, colourful traditional buildings and cuisine. The baroque Santo Domingo Church has 2 bell towers and houses the remains of St. Dominic de Guzmán, founder of the Dominican Order. Puebla Cathedral is an example of Spanish Renaissance architecture. Its interior has baroque paintings and a large organ. In Puebla’s centro histórico, or historic centre, the Zócalo is a main square lined with restaurants and cafes. On its north side is the 16th-century Palacio Municipal, with a mural by 20th-century Mexican artist Diego Rivera. Southwest of the Zócalo is the Casa de la Juventud, a cultural centre in a converted 18th-century palace.
Puebla is about 2 hours southeast of Mexico City by car. It’s also possible to take a bus or drive on the toll road known as the Cuota or Libramiento. Puebla International Airport is East of the city, the Great Pyramid at Cholula is the largest pre-Hispanic pyramid in the Americas.
Finally, Mexico is a country rich in culture, natural beauty, and history. Whether you’re seeking for sun and sand or more adventure, there’s something for everyone. These four places are only a sample of what Mexico has to offer – so get started right away!