Two Tickets To Yucatan Paradise

While the eastern shore of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is renowned for its many different types of saltwater fishing having an incredible assortment of edible species to go after, it is in fact only a minor part of what the Mayan Riviera has to present. In fact, the main attraction of Mexico’s Caribbean coast is the miles and miles of unspoiled, sandy beaches, with world class swimming and snorkeling easily accessible. There is a reason why this is one of the most enjoyed regions of Mexico.  Beach vacation rentals in the area offer ideal bases of operations when seeing this fascinating part of the country.

Chances are you will arrive at the Cancun International Airport, which is where the Mayan Riviera begins. Rent an vehicle and head south on Highway 307, which the Mexican government has a short time ago repaved and maintains in good condition for locals and visitors. This drive alone is worth the trip, since the highway seldom strays more than half a mile or so from the shore. Along the way, you will notice an abundance of beach vacation rentals ranging from lavish to rustic. 

One of the top destinations along la Riviera Maya is Playa del Carmen which translates as “Carmen’s Beach” after the patron saint of Cancun, about an hour south of the airport. Capital of the Mexican State of Quintana Roo, this area is home to outstanding, sensibly priced beach vacation rentals and a few of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. It is also the western terminal for the Cozumel Ferry.  Cozumel is only a few miles off the shore and is where exceptional snorkeling is to be found. This is also home to several retailers providing a large selection of goods and souvenirs. If you are visiting from one of the cruise ships that ply the waters of the western Caribbean, you will not have to pay import tax on these items.

Back in the town of Playa del Carmen itself, the kids will be delighted to visit an authentic petting zoo where they can actually touch a lion and a boa constrictor. And when it is hora de comer (time to eat), there are numerous dining places and cafes at which you and the family can sample the local cuisine while listening to traditional live mariachi music.

This part of Mexico is an exceptional place to learn more about the remarkable Mayan civilization, which gave this part of the Yucatan its name. The ruins of quite a few cities are within a few hours drive or bus ride, that include Chichen Itza, one of the better preserved of the ancient Mayan cities, and Palenque, which has been essentially restored and contains examples of the 3000 year old Mayan ball game of ulama, which is still played by some of the regional indigenous peoples.

While you are there, do not overlook a round of golf at nearby Playacar as well as the Xaman-Ha Aviary and Cavernas Sache, a dynamic underground cave with interesting formations.