Heading to Cancun? I’m willing to bet you already have the important stuff covered for your escape to this Mexican paradise. Pool time? Of course. Margaritas? Obviously. Beach activities? Yep! You’ve probably even considered an excursion or two (hello, Tulum) to indulge your adventurous side. But wait, there’s more! Don’t forget to include these extraordinary ideas on your Cancun itinerary; we promise none will disappoint.
Live Like the Rich and Famous …
without spending like one. Cancun is famous for its epic all-inclusive resorts, and the best part about the whole luxurious experience is that it’s actually affordable. Say ‘hola’ to private resort-only beaches, jetted bathtubs, indulgent food and drinks and so much more. Bonus points if you choose an adults-only property that makes you feel like a king or queen before returning home to your everyday duties. A personal favorite is Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya, a pit-stop prize on the current season of The Amazing Race featuring 7 restaurants and 11 bars, beachfront dining, a full-service spa, theme night, day and night activities and views that will leave you breathless.
If the view and service are good enough for this wise traveler, we’re willing to bet you’ll enjoy it too!
Be Mesmerized by Mayan Culture …
while joining the Temazcal ritual, an ancient Mayan ceremony that will definitely cause you to break a sweat (in a good way!) The pre-Hispanic ritual is performed for both physical and spiritual healing. Once you step into the tiny stone hut that only fits a handful of people, you’ll immediately feel the heat — brought about by volcanic rocks splashed with water to create a sauna-like effect. But this is no traditional spa sauna treatment. Here you’ll experience a source of energy and health through a cleansing ceremony and purification you’ll never forget.
Make a Spa Date for Two …
as you revel in a more traditional relaxation experience. Cancun is the perfect place to indulge in a couples’ massage. Not only is it romantic and oh-so-relaxing, but it’s also affordable! When I’m having a stressful day, I still think back to the massage my husband and I enjoyed beachside during a trip to Cancun. I’m not sure if it was the massage itself or closing my eyes and taking in the natural sounds of Isla Mujeres that left more of a lasting impression! (If you want to visit Isla Mujeres yourself, it’s just a short ferry or catamaran ride away.) Either way it was an unforgettable experience that I would recommend for anyone. Seeking more than a massage? Take a full wellness journey while in Mexico with these tips from our own Gnational Gnomad, Spa Travel Gal.
A couples’ massage with a view? Don’t mind if we do.
Watch an Awe-Inspiring Show …
with a unique dinner experience, too. A stay at one of Vidanta Riviera Maya’s five resort hotels (such as the luxurious Grand Luxxe or the family-friendly Mayan Palace) means you’re only steps away from the spectacular stage that hosts Cirque du Soleil JOYA, Mexico’s first Cirque du Soleil resident show. Throughout the show you’ll follow an adventure through the jungle, under the sea and across history, paired with the fantastic acrobatics Cirque du Soleil shows are known for. The evening reaches even new heights when you realize the show is paired with a divine three-course meal — now this is how you celebrate the arts!
The Roaming Gnome hasn’t stopped talking about his experience at Cirque du Soleil’s JOYA since returning from his recent trip to Cancun!
Swim with Sharks …
the harmless giant ones, that is. Another Cancun moment you’ll never forget is taking a plunge into the ocean to float alongside whale sharks, a peaceful creature that will completely change the way you look at “sharks.” As the largest known fish species, you’ll be in awe of how small you feel next to them, while simultaneously big and bold — you did swim with sharks after all. I know it’s a snorkeling experience I’ll treasure forever … and look forward to doing again.
Get up close with the ocean’s gentlest giant.
Admire Maroma Beach …
atop a camel’s back. That’s right, why not take a camel riding tour to discover the pristine beaches of Maroma? This hidden oasis offers 500-plus acres of peaceful views, including turquoise waters, dense jungle vegetation, and plenty of local wildlife. It truly is Mother Nature in all her glory. Add a camel who will take you along for the ride of your life as you ooh and ahh at this Caribbean majesty, and you’re in for a treat!
Imagine this scenery, atop a camel. Pretty unforgettable, right?
Savor a Private Beachside Dinner …
with the one you love most. Crashing waves. Candlelight. Culinary masterpieces. What’s not to love? Especially if you’re visiting Cancun with someone special, a private beachside dinner is a must-add to your to-do list. You’ll have the opportunity to enjoy spectacular sunsets and incredible oceanviews, while sinking your toes into the sand and your teeth into something delicious. It’s a truly blissful moment for all the senses, and so much better than your average restaurant experience. Ask your resort if they offer this experience.
I’ll cheers to that sunset any day.
Walk Amongst Crocodiles …
if you dare. A favorite stop among the animal loving travelers, Cancun is your chance to walk with crocs — and we’re not talking about the comfortable clogs your dad sports. The Croco Cun Zoo offers interactive guide tours that allow guests to touch, hold and feed wildlife, view wild spider monkeys in their natural habitat and learn about the conversation efforts taking place to keep these animals safe for years to come.
Or Hang with Iguanas …
for a less intimidating reptile encounter. You’ll spot them all over Cancun, but most prominently at El Rey Ruins. These are among one of the smaller excavated Mayan ruins to explore in Cancun, but it’s the insane amount of iguanas you’ll find here that bring out the crowds. Go ahead and grab a selfie with one of the friendly residents, your followers will love you for it.
These little guys are so cute, you’ll wish you could bring one home with you!
Jump into Adventure …
as you scuba dive in a cenote or explore the MUSA Underwater Museum. There’s a no shortage of water activities to enjoy here, and these two are among the best. There are literally thousands of cenotes — natural caves filled with fresh water — in the area to discover. Gran Cenote is an easy favorite … it’s beautiful, simple to find and just outside of Tulum if you’re already heading there. Another great option is Dos Ojos Cenote, right across the street from the popular Xel-Ha park, another must-do for adrenaline seekers.
Gran Cenote is a beautiful spot for snorkeling, diving or simply relaxing!
To find the underwater museum you’ll need to make the trek between Cancun and Isla Mujeres, but it’s worth it … as you discover over 500 sculptures completely hidden underwater to make it one of the largest underwater art attractions in the world.
Adventure … romance … or relaxation? Which of these will you be adding to your Cancun escape? Tell us in the comments below, or share your own unique ideas!
Gina Tagliarino, Travelocity Sr. Creative Copywriter
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