Cancun is one of the most popular and bustling travel destinations that can be explored during Mexico holidays. This place is famous for its spectacular beauty, waters and all-inclusive resorts. Same like other travelers, I had heard a lot about Cancun before I actually decided to visit it. Most of the people and researches declared it to be a perfect place for a beach getaway where you can not only relax and swim but also try exceptional food and drinks. That is why, I made up my mind to book Mexico holiday packages and to my surprise, my trip turned out to be more than just a typical vacation.
Below, I am going to share with you the main highlights of my trip, what I saw and felt, as well as a few surprises that I wasn’t expecting on my way.
First Impression
The moment I landed in Cancun, I still remember the warm air and tropical vibes. The airport was filled with tourists from all across the globe. On my way to the hotel, I noticed the completely developed accommodation system here as most of the resorts were lined across the coast, offering complete ocean views and were fully surrounded with palm trees.
It looked almost the same like those pictures I had seen before, or I would say, even better than that! Everything on my way seemed super-clean, organized and tourist friendly. The very moment I left the hotel zone for the first time, I was amazed to know the other side of Cancun too, which was less polished, rawer and more authentic.
The Hotel Zone vs. the City
Most of the people who visit Cancun mostly stay in the hotel zone and I can clearly see why. It is not only secure and comfortable but also well-equipped with all the modern amenities and key attractions you require for an ideal stay. As my hotel was also located in the same area, I thoroughly enjoyed an endless access to the beach and got to witness the beauty of the sunsets and different shades of blue in the sea that I had never seen before.
When I visited the city side of Cancun where the locals live and work, this part seemed quite a different side of Mexico to me, with busy streets, older buildings and a calm atmosphere. Though it didn’t look that polished like the hotel zone, still it felt more natural. There were small restaurants lined up in the streets where the food was quite cheap and in a great variety. This contrasting mix of the local side and tourist side was one of the most unexpected surprises for me during my trip to Mexico.
Food Experience
Same like others, food was one of the best parts of my trip. There is no doubt in the fact that Mexican cuisine is highly popular all across the globe. My expectations from food were really high and I was amazed to check out the richness and variety of Mexican food. The food was fine at the resort, with both local and international classics.
The real magic happened outside the tourist area where I tried delicious items like fresh ceviche and homemade tortillas. I also visited a local market named Mercado 28 where you can not only enjoy some amazing food but also get a chance to interact with the locals. I sat at a small table and ordered fresh grilled fish and a cold drink. The food was though not fancy but totally full of flavors and one of the best meals I had in Mexico.
Natural Beauty
No doubt, Cancun is full of things to do and one of the best parts of my trip was the short-day trips. I explore Isla Mujeres- the island that had a slow pace and less noise. Booking a bicycle allowed me to roam freely and stop by the quiet beaches and small cafes. Another highlight was swimming in a cenote that is mainly found all over the Yucatan Peninsula. The cool water made me feel relaxed inside out and, in my mind, I appreciated the beauty of the place.
What Surprised Me?
Before I visited Cancun, I was expecting routine vacation stuff like beaches, food and sun. I got all of that, but was surprised to discover how Cancun is made of so many sides, like the shiny hotel zone specified mostly for the tourists, the real city where people live and work and the complete nature, culture and history of the region. I truly enjoyed simple things such as a walk at the beach during sunrise, a plate of tacos, and me-time in a cenote. These experiences were not costly at all but stayed with me the most.
Final Words,
Cancun is one of the best places for parties, luxury resorts and quick getaways. My time here truly taught me to be more curious and explore what’s beyond the surface. If you ever have plans to visit Mexico, I recommend you to step out of your comfort zone at least once. Try the local food and take a trip to nearby island or cenote. You might be surprised to find many new things, same like me.
Got any plans to visit Cancun or any other part of Mexico? Book your Mexico holiday packages with Virikson Holidays if you are a travelers from the UK like me, and I assure you this is going to be the best trip ever for you and your loved ones.
