Here’s where to go when you get to Mexico!
Mexico is – if nothing else – huge. And unlike a lot of the world’s biggest countries (Russia, Canada, and the USA – because of Alaska) it’s not just a frozen wasteland. Pretty much every part of the country is inhabited, and pretty much every part of the country has things going on. In fact, a trip to Mexico without a guide wouldn’t just be foolish – because you’d miss out on so much – it would be downright intimidating!
The best way to see Mexico is – simply – to make more than one trip. Pick one or two places off of this list that sound nice – and limit your touring to them. Actually find time to relax during your vacation, instead of always running around. Trust that this warm, wonderful country will be calling you back, and that you’ll return.
All that said, here are my top 5 must-see spots for your many visits to Mexico:
1. Cabo
Many people – even if they’ve heard of nothing else in Mexico – know about Cabo San Lucas. But, while it’s renowned as a spring break party spot, there’s much more here. Go clubbing galore – but also check out this city’s fantastic, luxurious hotels and top-notch golf courses.
If you’re looking from a respite from Cabo’s nonstop fiesta, stay in nearby San José del Cabo: just 30-minutes away and a great place for relaxation.
2. Cancún, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and the Riviera Maya
That whole 130+ miles (220 kilometers) of beach – from Cancún to Tulum – is worth a stay of a week, or maybe even a month. The sand is spotlessly white, and coconut palms abound. After all, this is the Caribbean!
The Caribbean coast – and the Yucatán Peninsula – is a wonderland of pristine beaches and beautiful jungles, mystical
Mayan ruins and sinkholes (cenotes) filled with water where you can plunge in for a swim. Even if you visit nowhere else in the country – Cancún is a must-see!
3. Cozumel
This island is a famous stopping point for Caribbean cruise ships – but it’s a great trip from the mainland, too. Only a 20-minute ferry ride from Playa del Carmen! The highlights are the wonderful reefs that surround this Caribbean jewel, around which there are wonderful spots for snorkeling and scuba diving. The marine life that you’ll see is unbelievable.
4. Mexico City
Once the Aztec capital of Tenochtitlan, this mountain city – the country’s most populous – is loaded with culture and history. Aztec sites and ruins, fantastically fabulous food, and world-class hotels. Don’t miss the Palace of Fine Arts and the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe. And definitely consider a food tour – where you’ll be introduced to Mexico’s finest.
One thing to know is that Mexico City is at a high elevation – 2,240 meters, or 7,350 feet. If you’ve ever had shortness of breath or altitude sickness, keep this in mind before you sign up for any extensive walking tours, hikes, or extreme sports in the city!
5. Puerto Vallarta
There’s a lot more here than the wonderful Pacific Ocean. There’s wonderful, authentic regional food and Tequila tastings. Check out the landmarks, like Los Arcos and the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe – all of which make for wonderful photo-ops.
And then there’s the ocean. There are wonderful beaches – rivaling any in Cancún, except the backdrop is the Sierra Madre mountain range. Or head out on a cruise to one of the nearby islands or a whale watching tour.
So… what do you think about my top 5 Mexican spots? I’m almost sure you have some favorite spots that aren’t on my list, right?
Check out my Mexico Travel Guide for more great spots. And when you’re ready to visit some part of Mexico, let SelfishMe Travel help you design your next best vacation by booking a complimentary discovery call with me.
CREDITS: This blog post was created by the Travel Agent Society and sold to SelfishMe Travel in 2021.
