Spotlight on

Mexico's Vacation Playgrounds

Mexico's miles of white sand beaches, warm climate and fabulous all-inclusive resorts beckon travellers for a sun-kissed getaway. This fascinating country is rich in culture and history for an enriching experience plus it offers excellent value for your vacation dollar. No wonder it continues to be a favourite holiday destination.

Pier at Cancun Beach
Photo: Mexico Tourism

All-Inclusive Paradise

Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, Pacific Coast and Baja Peninsula have all been well developed for tourism. These areas are home to exceptional vacation destinations featuring outstanding all-inclusive resorts; inviting properties where you enjoy a carefree getaway with a range of entertainment, recreation and dining options. Packages with air add to the ease of your vacation and it's all paid for before you leave home! Paradise has never been so easy to acquire, or so affordable.

From Acapulco to Zihuatanejo

Our preferred partners can take you to Mexico's vacation playgrounds for a revitalizing getaway. Here are a few highlights of the most popular regions:

• These destinations on the Yucatan Peninsula have the added attraction of their Mayan heritage. Day trips to see the ruins of this great civilization area a must.
• The Cozumel Reefs National Marine Park is one of the best diving destinations in the world. Discover an intriguing underwater ecosystem when you snorkel or scuba dive in the remarkably clear waters.

• Golf, water sports and sport fishing are outstanding at Cabo San Lucas. Take a boat trip to the iconic rock formation, Los Arcos.
• A scenic drive along the coast brings you to neighbouring San Jose del Cabo. Discover its authentic charm and history by visiting the church, art galleries and museums.

Breathtaking Beauty; The Temple of Seven Dolls in Dzibichaltun
Photo: Catherwood Travels

• The "Pearl of the Pacific" is the place where culture, history and nature meet. The town is known for its festive atmosphere and varied regional cuisine.
• The centre of the city's vibrant cultural life is the Teatro Angela Peralta, a restored 19th century theatre and a National Heritage Site, well worth visiting.

• Lush vegetation and a mountain backdrop set the scene for this delightful Mexican town. It's a pleasure strolling the cobbled streets to see the colonial architecture, historic landmarks, galleries and shops.
• Sport fishing, water sports, sea life viewing and the Pacific beaches are key attractions.

• North of Puerto Vallarta is the newer vacation playground of Riviera Nayarit. It's in an area of great natural beauty and cultural importance where pre-Hispanic customs and traditions were preserved after the Spanish conquest.
• A destination focused on ecological awareness and adventure, here you can hike, swim with dolphins, surf and go zip lining as well as enjoy the benefits of luxury tourism.

The Ribbon Dance
Photo: Catherwood Travels

• The area around the sophisticated tourist centre of Ixtapa and the quaint port of Zihuatanejo has everything you could want for a fun filled vacation. The beaches are considered some of the most beautiful in the world.
• From pre-Hispanic museums to fantastic golf courses, there's plenty to keep you busy. Attend one of the regional festivals to immerse yourself in local culture.

• Internationally famous, Acapulco is the "Pacific Jewel" of Mexico noted for its range of activities, varied nightlife and beautiful harbour. Once the centre of high-class resort living, Acapulco led the way for the development of Mexico's other beach resorts.
• This city and surrounding area are a good place for the active adventurer. Extreme sports include bungee jumping, river rafting, parasailing and surfing. Don't miss the world-famous cliff divers at La Quebrada. These professional high divers perform daily shows for the public.

• Escape to Huatulco for a more laid back resort experience. Spread across a series of bays along the south-western coast, Huatulco is known for its sunny climate and 36 beaches, some of which are only accessible by boat.
• Eco tours, horseback riding, jungle tours, rafting, historical city tours and an 18-hole golf course will keep you busy when you're not relaxing at your resort.

This is a country with many opportunities for the curious and active traveller. There are many more things to see and do in magnificent Mexico:

• Delve into history
• Visit one of the many artists' colonies
• Shop for silver, leather and handicrafts in the markets
• Go bird, butterfly and wildlife viewing
• Take a cooking class
• Participate in adventure activities like those in the Travel Style article.

For those wanting a private retreat rather than a resort, stylish villas and haciendas are an excellent accommodation option. For more, see our Insider's View article.

Cruising Mexico

With so many significant places to visit along the coast, cruising is a good way to see Mexico. Take a look at our cruise promos for a list of amenity sailings that call at Mexican ports.

Mexico is certainly a diverse and fascinating country with all the ingredients needed for a revitalizing vacation.

By Susan Milne