In Mexico, There’s Something For Everyone

By Jessica Montevago

Steeped in history, surrounded by aquamarine waters, and brimming with culture, there’s always something new and exciting to discover in Mexico. Across the country, travel advisors can find something to meet any client’s interest or budget. Of course, there’s long-time favorites like the sunny shores of the Riviera Maya, Cancun, and Cozumel. But, there’s more to discover—whether it be Mayan pyramids and colonial cities to wild nature.

For lovers of natural wonders

Mexico’s Pacific coastline is home to stunning natural beauty, with mountainous desert and turquoise seas in northern Baja California to lush jungle in Nayarit and laid-back beach towns in Oaxaca. Located off the coast of La Paz, the capital of Baja California Sur, the island of Espiritu Santo is protected by UNESCO as a biosphere reserve and is one of the best protected natural environments in the world. Travelers can immerse themselves in this uninhabited land that is instead populated by reptiles, amphibians, and birds. In the water, sea lions, turtles and dolphins live here, along with whales and sharks during the migration. Easily reachable via a short boat ride, visitors can discover this unique environment by kayaking, camping, snorkeling, or hiking.

For the history buff

With thousands of years of history, Mexico has spectacular ancient ruins once home to indigenous tribes. Many of the remains of great Mayan cities can be uncovered in the Yucatan Peninsula. The most popular of Mexico's ancient sights, Chichén Itzá, is home to a massive step pyramid, known as El Castillo or Temple of Kukulcan, where stone carvings can still be seen. There are 365 steps, one for each day of the year, a testament to Mayan's understanding of astronomy.  At the coastal ruins of Tulum, the largest structure is perched on a cliff overlooking the magnetic turquoise Caribbean Sea. There are dozens of Mayan ruins scattered across Mexico's southern states, from Quintana Roo and the Yucatan, to Campeche, Chiapas, and Tabasco.

For the scuba diver

Mexico has one of the most accessible and exciting scuba dive spots in the world, offering unique marine life encounters in the Sea of Cortez to huge cathedral-like caves in the Mexican Cenotes. In Akumal, a municipality of Tulum located 105 kilometers (65 miles) from Cancún, the warm waters are perfect for diving and swimming with marine fauna, especially turtles, which come to rest and lay their eggs in this spa also known as “The Land of the Turtles.” Divers may also like to visit Puerto Morelos for a chance to dive along the sunken ship of Puerto Morelos, a vessel located in the reef park.

For the family

Mexico continues to be a popular travel destination for families due to its direct economical air options offered from most U.S. cities and the abundance of resort offerings. In the Riviera Maya, well-run kids’ clubs to family-friendly dining venues, these resorts really draw families in. Fairmont Mayakoba is a luxury resort sitting in a private gated resort community, within 240 hectares of tropical forest and surrounded by a pristine Caribbean shoreline. At the Fairmont Mayakoba’s Discovery Club & Adventure Camp, kids 5 to 11 can enjoy adventures in the sacred Mayan jungle and create arts and crafts such as “Penachos,” or Mayan-inspired head dresses.

For the artist

Mexico City is known for its renowned arts scene and rich cultural heritage, with plenty of museums and art galleries to visit. Offering accommodations to match, the five-star boutique retreat Las Alcobas, a Luxury Collection Hotel is in the heart of Polanco in the high-end street of Masaryk. The property has 35 rooms and is full of original artwork by contemporary Mexican artists and architectural touches such as a spiral staircase as a lobby centerpiece.

For the couple

The Marquis Los Cabos is an adults-only all-inclusive enclave that overlooks the Sea of Cortez, perfect for honeymooners or parents in need of a getaway. All suites offer ocean views, a furnished balcony, jetted tubs, and a sofa bed. All Casitas and Master Suites have plunge pools. With two beachfront infinity pools, a match on the onsite tennis court, and à la carte restaurants, there’s plenty of amenities to indulge in.