R&R
Recs & Regrets
Mexico
Yucatan, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Chichen Itza, Cozumel, Cancun

Mexico Travel Guide

Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula captivated us with its perfect combination of ancient Mayan culture, pristine Caribbean beaches, and incredible cenotes. From the iconic ruins of Chichen Itza to the bohemian beach town of Tulum and world-class diving in Cozumel, Mexico offered endless adventures and amazing food.

Top Highlights in Mexico

Exploring the magnificent Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza and Tulum

Swimming in crystal-clear cenotes - natural limestone sinkholes

World-class scuba diving and snorkeling in Cozumel

Experiencing authentic Mexican cuisine and fresh seafood

Relaxing on pristine white sand beaches of the Riviera Maya

Discovering the vibrant nightlife of Playa del Carmen

Essential Travel Tips for Mexico

Mexican Peso (MXN) - better rates than USD, cards widely accepted

Cenotes require biodegradable sunscreen only - protect the ecosystem

Tulum ruins best visited early morning to avoid crowds and heat

Cozumel diving world-renowned - book advanced dives ahead

Street tacos are incredible - try cochinita pibil and al pastor

Collectivos (shared vans) cheap transport between towns

Suggested Mexico Itineraries

Yucatan Cultural & Beach Adventure

5 Days

Day 1: Arrival in Playa del Carmen

  • Morning: Fly into Cancun, bus/taxi to Playa del Carmen
  • Afternoon: Explore Quinta Avenida pedestrian street
  • Evening: Fresh ceviche and margaritas at beachfront restaurant

Day 2: Chichen Itza Wonder

  • Early morning: Day trip to Chichen Itza (beat the crowds)
  • Morning: Explore El Castillo pyramid and Great Ball Court
  • Afternoon: Cenote Ik Kil swimming and lunch
  • Evening: Return to Playa, dinner at local taqueria

Day 3: Tulum Ruins & Beach

  • Morning: Early visit to Tulum ruins overlooking Caribbean
  • Afternoon: Tulum beach relaxation and swimming
  • Evening: Bohemian dinner in Tulum town, mezcal tasting

Day 4: Cenote Adventure

  • Morning: Gran Cenote snorkeling with turtles and fish
  • Afternoon: Dos Ojos cenote cave diving/snorkeling
  • Evening: Traditional Yucatecan dinner - cochinita pibil

Day 5: Cozumel Diving

  • Morning: Ferry to Cozumel island
  • Day: Two-tank diving - Palancar Reef and Santa Rosa Wall
  • Evening: Fresh seafood dinner, ferry back to mainland