Increasing numbers of celebrities are flocking to the seaside hamlet of Tulum, Mexico. This trendy hotspot, known for its picturesque beaches, Mayan ruins and beautiful natural cenotes, ranks among Mexico’s most visited locales.

Once a popular destination for bohemian backpackers, Tulum has evolved into one of the country’s most glamorous towns, where Hollywood royalty come to frolic in the sun and surf. 

Tulum: where celebrities relax & adventure

Word has spread of Tulum’s Instagram-worthy white sands, chic shops and ultra-lux lodging, attracting TV personalities, movie moguls, Grammy-winning artists, as well as the NY fashion crowd. So which larger-than-life characters might you rub elbows with in this superstar paradise?

Actresses Heather Graham and Demi Moore (along with daughter Rumer) have been spotted snorkeling in Tulum’s crystal-clear cenotes, while Drew Barrymore has posted several selfies of her forays at a local yoga retreat. The list doesn’t end there! Tulum is a favorite travel destination for model Alessandra Ambrosio, Orlando Bloom, Cameron Diaz, Sting, Reese Witherspoon, Sean Penn, Paris Hilton, Kate Bosworth and Jessica Lange.

Noted shoe designer Brian Atwood has vacationed in Tulum as has Katie Couric and her children. This sun-drenched beach town, just one hour from Cancun, has also lured popstar Justin Bieber, who was actually booted off the Tulum ruins for his bad boy behavior.

Beach lounging, yoga & delicious eats

Tulum also touts itself as an eco-conscious destination, thanks to a commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism. This dedication to environmental preservation appeals to many visitors, including the likes of Leonardo DiCaprio, who makes regular trips to this Mexican Caribbean town.

When not snoozing on the beach, exploring ancient temples, or working on your tan, this is a great spot to practice your downward dog. Tulum is a mecca for yogis, with renowned gurus hosting yoga retreats and workshops throughout the year. Drew Barrymore raves about Amansala’s Bikini Boot Camp, which offers a blend of yoga, indulgent spa services and rigorous cardio workouts.

Dining out in Tulum is a special treat, since the town has been upping its food game. Some of the area’s most-treasured restaurants (where you may bump into a celebrity or two) include:

• The Dining Experience Tulum
• WILD
• Cenzontle
• Habitas
• Mi Amor

Culinary offerings range from innovative Yucatan fare to grilled lobster tacos and Middle Eastern cuisine.

Where to stay in Tulum

When it comes to comfortable accommodations in this celebrity haven, you can’t go wrong with a spacious Tulum villa rental from SeaSide Reservations. Fully-furnished and equipped with all the comforts of home, our luxurious properties – many of which boast spectacular ocean views–can let you vacation like a rockstar, while giving you more bang for your buck.

Read More about Tulum Celebrity Sightings:

1. People, Drew! Reese! Cameron! See Why All The Stars Are Flocking to Tulum, Mexico http://people.com/travel/drew-reese-cameron-see-why-all-the-stars-are-flocking-to-tulum-mexico/amp/
2. NewYorkTrendNYC, New Emerging Caribbean Hotspot: Tulum, Mexico! http://newyorktrendnyc.com/2015/02/10/new-emerging-caribbean-hotspot-tulum-mexico/
3. US Weekly, Plan a Trip to Tulum Like Drew Barrymore, Cara Delevingne, Sienna Miller and More Stars https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/pictures/plan-a-trip-to-tulum-like-drew-barrymore-and-more-stars/

It’s no wonder that Mexico is one of America’s top vacation destinations — endless sunshine, sublime beaches, and it’s nearby. Mexico’s Pacific and Caribbean coasts have amazing scenery, archeological sites and exciting activities, but how do you choose the right spot to spend those precious vacation days? When you think of dreamy beach destinations south of the border, the brilliant white sands of Tulum may come to mind. But over on the west coast, the laid-back shores of Riviera Nayarit have been making waves as the up-and-coming hotpot for intrepid travelers.

So which beach destination is right for you? Let’s take a closer look at Tulum vs. Riviera Nayarit.

Tulum: Mayan ruins, crystal clear waters and lush jungle

Location: East Coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, overlooking the Caribbean Sea

Getting There: No flights to Tulum; fly into the Cancun International Airport, which is a 2-hour drive

Beaches:  The white sand beaches of Tulum are Instagram worthy, and the seas are typically calm and safe for swimming

Accommodations: This area is renowned for its all-inclusive beach resorts, luxury condo rentals and lodging with family-friendly amenities. You’ll find accommodations to fit just about every budget.

Primary Attraction: The ancient Maya city of Tulum, one of the best-preserved sites and most beautiful. The ruins are easy to navigate and present numerous photo-ops thanks to its unique setting atop limestone cliffs looking out over crashing surf.

Coolest Activity: Swimming, diving or snorkeling in the cenotes – natural sink holes that are either open like lakes or completely underground, and some even boast ziplines!

Popular things to do: Swimming, stand up paddle boarding, relaxing on the beach, shopping for artisanal goods, catamaran rides, snorkeling, riding bicycles or visiting the Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, one of the area’s top eco-tourism destinations, home to monkeys, crocodiles, pumas and coatimundi 

Atmosphere: Tulum is very family-friendly and has a relaxed vibe. Some describe this Mexican hotspot as a “hippie haven.” There are health retreats, yoga and meditation classes and other holistic offerings.

Riviera Nayarit: Rugged backdrops, juicy waves and fewer crowds

Location: West Coast of Mexico, a 200-mile swath that stretches from San Blas to Nuevo Vallarta

Getting There: Fly into the Puerto Vallarta International Airport, which has many options for direct flights from U.S. hubs 

Beaches: You’ll find both white and golden sands, warm waters and rugged backdrops depending on which hamlet you visit. Some towns like Sayulita are known for wilder waves, making this a popular surfer destination. Within the blue curves of Banderas Bay, there are family beaches, great swimming beaches and others flanked with chic bars and eateries.

Accommodations: There are nearly two dozen towns in the state of Riviera Nayarit. Some feature world-class hotels, luxury all-inclusive resorts and lavish rental properties while others have a handful of modest lodging options.

Primary Attraction: Nayarit is a multicultural and multiethnic state that attracts surfers, golfers, beach lovers, history buffs and nature aficionados.  Many visitors praise the Old World charms of San Blas — a sleepy town that is packed with colonial architecture, lush palms, and extensive mangrove forests.

Coolest Activity: Take a boat trip to Hidden Beach (also known as Lover’s Beach) on the beautiful Marietas Islands where you can snorkel in clear aqua waters.

Popular things to do: Surfing and paddle boarding are the main draws of Sayulita. Recreational activities abound in this vast state. There are wellness spas and championship golf courses. You can go whale watching, sea kayaking, learn about sea turtle conservation or take a wine tasting tour.

Atmosphere: Whether you’re visiting San Pancho, Punta de Mita or Bucerias, you’ll find the ambiance of Riviera Nayarit to be laid-back and friendly.  This destination is still under the tourist radar (for the most part) and is recommended if you want to avoid heavy crowds.

More Resources on Tulum & Riviera Nayarit Travel Highlights:

1. BeMyTravelMuse, 7 Amazing Things to do in Tulum, Mexico https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/things-to-do-in-tulum/
2. GQ, Go to Riviera Nayarit, Mexico’s Lesser-Known Beach Haven https://www.gq.com/story/riviera-nayarit-travel-guide
3. AnnaEverywhere, Ultimate Guide to Tulum Mexico http://annaeverywhere.com/tulum-mexico-travel-guide/#09
4. Barefoot Nomad, What To Do In The Riviera Nayarit – 23 Reasons You’ll Love It Here http://www.thebarefootnomad.com/mexico/what-to-do-in-the-riviera-nayarit-23-reasons-youll-love-it-here/

Looking for a family-friendly destination to spend your next vacation? Head south of the border for some serious fun in the sun! Mexico is a great place to travel with children of all ages, and the country boasts countless attractions that are designed for curious young minds. There are lots of pretty beaches where you can swim, snorkel and boogie board, enormous pyramids to scale, and on top of it all, the locals absolutely adore children (even during temper tantrums).

Check out 5 of our favorite places in Mexico to travel with kids!

Riviera Maya

Just south of Cancun lies the Mexican Riviera—home to nature-theme parks, pristine snorkeling coves, Mayan ruins and miles of picture-perfect beaches. Start your holiday off at Croco Cun in Puerto Morelos, where the little ones can hand feed monkeys, touch baby crocodiles and learn about native flora and fauna at this wildlife reserve. Another family favorite is Xcaret eco-park, home to a massive butterfly garden, a lazy river that winds through underground caverns, and a dolphin encounter program. Don’t miss the clifftop Mayan ruins of Tulum, which overlooks the Caribbean Sea. Beat the heat and the crowds by arriving early in the morning. The beaches at Tulum are nearly deserted and a terrific place to build sandcastles and splash in the surf.

Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta, situated on the lovely Banderas Bay, is another excellent spot for a family vacation in Mexico. This laid-back hamlet offers the perfect blend of historic charm and beach atmosphere. Take a stroll down the cobblestone streets of Viejo Vallarta, and then head to the bustling oceanside promenade (El Malecon) for an ice cream and a chance to watch Mariachi bands in action. Plan a trip to Las Caletas beach for day of swimming, sunbathing and family fun. There’s a playground and snorkeling equipment available to rent. Vallarta Adventures has a dolphin interactive program and children ages 8 and up can zoom through the tropical forest on their zip-line canopy tour. If you have small children in tow, try out the zippy slides at Splash Water Park, which also has sea lion shows.

Oaxaca

Every part of this vibrant colonial city is an adventure. Packed with colorful markets, museums and handicraft stores, Oaxaca has many attractions that will hold the interest of tweens and teens.  If you are a family of foodies, this is the place to be! Beyond amazing street eats and restaurants, you’ll find Mexican cooking classes offered by leading chefs. There is a chocolate factory (Oaxaca is famous for its delicious chocolate), where you can order delectable cacao concoctions filled with vanilla, almonds and cinnamon. Spend a day visiting the fascinating ruins of Monte Alban, where Zapotecs lived from 500 B.C. until 1500 A.D. The sprawling site features spectacular mountain views, and chances to explore the excavations of ancient tombs.

Cancun

Cancun is the ultimate destination for a no-fuss family beach getaway. Whether you live in Atlanta or San Diego, direct flights are easy to come by and surprisingly affordable. One of the biggest perks of Cancun – aside from its picturesque white-sand beaches – is the sheer number of kid-friendly activities. There are several water parks, interactive aquariums where children can swim with dolphins and feed sharks, and even a Jolly Roger Pirate Show. When you’re not playing at the pool or beach, plan a day trip to the great Mayan wonder of Chichen Itza – ac cultural must-see for the kids. Isla Mujeres is another hotspot for visiting tourists. You can reach the island via water taxi or ferry and spend the day relaxing on the beach, shopping and zipping around on rented golf carts.

Read More about Family Vacation Spots in Mexico:

1. TripSavvy, Must-Visit Mexico: The Best Family Vacation Spots in Mexico https://www.tripsavvy.com/mexico-vacations-for-families-3267056
2. GlobeTotting.com, Mexico: Take the Kids to Tulum! https://globetotting.com/my-family-adventure-travels-in-tulum-mexico/
3. SFGate, Top 10 destinations for family fun in Mexico https://www.sfgate.com/mexico/mexicomix/article/Top-10-destinations-for-family-fun-in-Mexico-2516070.php

International tourism in Mexico reached record highs in 2017, as the country welcomed over 39.3 million travelers from around the world. According to Tourism Minister Enrique de la Madrid, these historical numbers of foreign visitors reflect Mexico’s wide range of modern, environmentally responsible tourism offerings. The tourism sector is now a significant contributor to Mexico’s income, and has helped boost the country’s gross domestic product by 2.5 percent each year.

International tourism skyrockets

At present, some 10 million Mexicans benefit directly or indirectly from revenues generated by the tourism industry. Last year, the country netted over 21 billion U.S. dollars from international tourist dollars – an 8.3 percent increase over the previous year.

Mexico is now ranked the 8th most popular vacation destination in the world. Given its proximity to the U.S., it’s no surprise that Americans make up a large portion of international tourists. In 2016, nearly 8 million Americans visited Mexico’s world-renowned beaches, resort towns and Mayan ruins.

National tourism figures indicate that Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, the Riviera Maya, Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit were the best performing markets last year. With no shortage of adventure activities, archeological attractions and natural beauty, these vacation hotspots offer something for everyone.

Mexico promises an enticing mix of contemporary arts and Meso-american cultures, a place where you can explore ancient Mayan pyramids and play a round of championship golf in one day. Whether you’re visiting the Baja California coastline or snorkeling the crystal clear waters off the Yucatan Peninsula, you’ll find this country to be a fabulously friendly and easy place to travel.

Travel hotspots in Mexico

Renowned for their sublime beaches and vibrant nightlife, Cancun and Playa del Carmen have remained perennial favorites for tourists. But increasing numbers of families and solo travelers are choosing a more laid-back vibe on the west coast’s Riviera Nayarit. Towns like Puerto Vallarta have just the right blend of restaurants, kid-friendly attractions, and tourist amenities to complement its provincial village vibe.

On the other side of the peninsula lies La Paz, which is quickly earning a reputation as a top-notch destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. Popular tours in La Paz include boat trips to Espiritu Santo Island, where guests can swim with the sea lions and dive among sunken ships, as well as whale watching excursions.

Over on the sun-drenched Yucatan Peninsula, the ancient Maya cities of Tulum, Coba and Chichen Itza are a short drive from Playa del Carmen, which offers a stunning assortment of luxury resorts and villas. Visitors can also take a boat ride to the beautiful Isla Mujeres for a full day of snorkeling in turquoise waters.

Wherever you decide to travel in coastal Mexico, Sea Side Reservations can help you find the perfect accommodations for a truly spectacular vacation that is well within your budget. With luxury beachfront rental properties in Los Cabos, La Paz, Puerto Aventuras and everywhere in between, we are Mexico’s #1 provider of vacation rentals.

Additional Resources on Mexico Tourism & Travel:

1. Xinhuanet, Mexico tourism numbers hit record high in 2017 http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2018-02/23/c_136993890.htm
2. Journey Mexico, MEXICO TOURISM: FACTS & STATISTICS 2016 https://www.journeymexico.com/blog/mexico-tourism-facts-statistics-2016
3. Deutsche Welle, Mexico marks record number of foreign tourist visits, revenue in early 2017 http://www.dw.com/en/mexico-marks-record-number-of-foreign-tourist-visits-revenue-in-early-2017/a-38807362

A scenic 60-minute boat ride from La Paz lies Isla Espiritu Santo – one of the most beautiful islands in the Sea of Cortez. Void of hotels, shops or other tourist trappings, this uninhabited island remains an unspoiled paradise in Baja California Sur. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995, Espiritu Santo is home to windswept beaches, Martian-like desert landscapes, coral reefs and a staggering array of flora and fauna.  Here you can swim with sea lions, kayak along the rocky shoreline, watch nesting frigate birds and snorkel with colorful fish, sea turtles, manta rays and other marine life.

La Paz day trip to Espiritu Santo

Experience nature in all her glory on a day trip to this protected marine park, which is regarded as one of Baja’s most important eco-tourism destinations. The island’s turquoise waters, striking rock formations and pristine coastline have an otherworldly beauty, and its relative isolation gives a sense of being in the wilderness.

Various companies in La Paz offer half and full-day excursions to Espiritu Santo Island, with plenty of chances to swim, snorkel, kayak, hike, and take in the amazing scenery. The journey is made on local fishing boats known as pangas that cruise past the island of San Rafaelito, before heading to the spectacular Balandra Bay – where you can snap pictures of an iconic mushroom-shaped rock formation.

Swimming with sea lions

A large colony of sea lions, numbering in the hundreds, bask on the banks of Los Islotes, where the real fun begins. Snorkeling with these inquisitive, acrobatic mammals – which have been known to “kiss” snorkelers on the mask—will undoubtedly be the highlight of your trip! Sea lion pups are exceptionally frisky and a delight to watch. Wet suits are provided during windier months, but average water temperatures hover between 73-84 F. Keep an eye out for huge parrot fish, grouper, rays and angel fish.

Depending on the season, travelers may catch a glimpse of pilot whales, dolphins or whale sharks – the planet’s largest fish. Experienced tour guides explain the history of the island and prepare a delicious picnic lunch on the white sands of Ensenada Grande – rated by Travel Magazine as Mexico’s most beautiful beach!

A getaway to Espiritu Santo Island should be on everyone’s bucket list. If you’re into scuba diving, this island provides phenomenal opportunities to see Mobula rays, hammerhead sharks and whale sharks. The visibility is the best (average 80 feet) from July through December.

Espiritu Santo Island Quick Facts

• Located in the Sea of Cortez, Baja California Sur
• An hour’s boat ride from La Paz
• Mexico’s 12th largest island with a land area of 31,000 square miles
• Designated a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1995
• Connected to Isla Partida by a small isthmus
• Both Espiritu Santo and Isla Partida are uninhabited
• Overnight camping available
• Home to diverse marine life: sea lions, sea turtles, sharks, dolphins, whales and rays
• Only known habitat of the black jack rabbit
• Half and full day eco tours available from La Paz 

Read More about Espiritu Santo Island:

1. ThePlanetD, An Unforgettable Adventure at Mexico’s Isla Espíritu Santo https://theplanetd.com/isla-espiritu-santo-mexico/
2. TripAdvisor, Isla Espiritu Santo https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g150771-d153205-Reviews-Isla_Espiritu_Santo-La_Paz_Baja_California.html
3. com, Espiritu Santo Island Day Trip http://bajaex.com/expeditions/day-trips/espiritu-santo-island-day-trip/

Mexico’s picturesque Riviera Maya is one of the most romantic locations to get married, reports a recent study by Delta Vacations. According to the findings, number two on the list for destination wedding bliss was the Dominican Republic’s beach resort town of Punta Cana.

“With year-round temperate weather, a plethora of excursions, an array of accommodations of all types and unforgettable scenic backdrops, it’s easy to see why many couples choose to get married in these destinations,” Elizabeth Moriarty, Delta Vacations Vice President, stated in the latest issue of Travel Agent Central.

Most Romantic Destination Wedding Locales

Delta Vacations determined their “Top 10” list of most romantic locales for tying the knot based on clients with wedding packages in the Caribbean, Latin America and the U.S. Destinations were ranked based on the number of nights stayed.

Cancun and Los Cabos, Mexico also made the cut, ranking at number 5 and 9 respectively.  The results speak to the increasing interest in Mexico for more than just a short getaway with friends and family. Bridal authority TheKnot reports that Mexico is one of the most frequented international destinations for a wedding abroad, with nearly 20 percent of couples heading south of the border for their special day.

It’s no surprise that Mexico is gaining traction among love birds who want to celebrate their happy day in a place with enchanting beaches and natural beauty. Coastal Mexico boasts everything a discerning bride-to-be could want: breathtaking scenery, luxury accommodations and an idyllic backdrop for wedding photos. Cancun, Cabos and the Riviera Maya have balmy temperatures throughout the year, giving couples the added freedom to plan a fall or winter wedding – but one where guests can wear shorts and sandals!

Top Places in Mexico to Tie the Knot

Couples yearning for a romantic beach ceremony south of the border have plenty of options. Take a look at some of the best cities for a destination wedding in Mexico, as rated by couples on Ranker Travel:

• Cancun
• Riviera Maya
• Ixtapa
• Puerta Vallarta
• San Miguel de Allende
• Isla Mujeres off the Yucatan Peninsula
• Guadalajara
• Playa del Carmen
• Xalapa
• Cabo San Lucas
• Manzanillo
• Morelia

Personalize Your Dream Wedding

Professional wedding coordinators say that May is the most popular month for destination weddings in vacation hotspots like Cabo and Playa del Carmen. The Spring Break crowds are gone, the weather is still glorious but not sizzling hot, and airfares tend to be lower at this time. Of course, couples can opt to book an all-inclusive wedding package, or something more a la carte.

Mexico offers endless possibilities to customize a dream wedding (and honeymoon) in paradise, and caters to all tastes and preferences.

Read More about Top Mexico Destination Wedding Locales:

1. TravelAgentCentral, Stats: Riviera Maya, Punta Cana Top Destination Wedding Locations https://www.travelagentcentral.com/running-your-business/stats-riviera-maya-punta-cana-top-destination-wedding-locations
2. TripSavvy, DESTINATION WEDDING STATISTICS https://www.tripsavvy.com/wedding-statistics-and-honeymoon-facts-1860546
3. Ranker, The Best Cities in Mexico for Destination Weddings https://www.ranker.com/list/best-cities-in-mexico-for-destination-weddings/ranker-travel

More couples are trading in conventional hometown weddings for week-long celebrations in exotic lands. Destination weddings are a great way to visit amazing locales while bonding with your closest family and friends. According to TheKnot, more than 50 percent of American brides-to-be fancy a casual bash over a black-tie affair, which explains why many are seeking laid-back destinations where the weather is warm and the beaches always inviting.

Millennial couples, in particular, are fueling the popularity of tying the knot abroad. It’s no surprise that many are planning on saying “I do” in Mexico, given its world-famous beaches, natural beauty and proximity to the U.S.

A tropical beach ceremony in Cabo San Lucas or Puerto Vallarta has lots of appeal for adventure-loving couples, and believe it or not, far-flung nuptials are often more affordable in the long run.

Here are a few important things to know when planning a destination wedding in Mexico.

Start planning early

Ideally, couples will have the wedding date nailed down as early as possible. This will allow you to scope out and book the perfect venue and ultimately secure better rates. Try and send out your Save the Dates at least 9 months in advance, which allows guests ample time to arrange accommodations and flights.

Research the weather

Weather plays a large factor in any wedding celebration, especially for those who want a sunny barefoot bash on the beach. Generally speaking, it’s best to avoid the rainier months of July-October that also coincide with hurricane season. The months of May and November may be perfect for a sunset ceremony on the Riviera Maya, but weather patterns vary from the Yucatan Peninsula to Baja California. Do your research first to ensure the best odds of a rain-free wedding. 

Have marriage paperwork in order

Mexico has specific requirements for a legal civil marriage, and these can vary from state to state.  

Necessary documents include:

• Current passports that are valid for at least 6 months
• Certified copies of your birth certificates that must be notarized and translated by the local Mexican consulate
• Medical tests: some states require couples to have a blood test and chest x-ray two days prior to the event
• Marriage Application form available at local registry
• Copies of your Tourist travel permits (FMM cards)

In addition, foreigners who are marrying in Mexico must have four witnesses present at the ceremony. Ensure that each has a valid passport or government-issued ID.

Consider a wedding coordinator

Professional wedding coordinators can prove invaluable when marrying abroad. Using their local expertise, they can hire the most reputable vendors, inform couples on local marriage requirements and ensure your big day runs like clockwork. A local planner is experienced to handle all the details, saving you considerable time and stress.

Possible waiting period  

If you were previously married and divorced, Mexico imposes a 12-month waiting period before you can legally apply for a marriage license. Authorities will require a certified copy of the divorce decree.

Additional Resources on Mexico Destination Weddings:

1. BrideBox, How To Plan A Destination Wedding In Mexico http://www.bridebox.com/blog/plan-destination-wedding-mexico/
2. TheKnot, Having a Destination Wedding? Read This First https://www.theknot.com/content/why-have-a-destination-wedding
3. TheKnot, Marrying in Mexico: An Overview for Destination Weddings in Mexico https://www.theknot.com/content/destination-wedding-in-mexico

There are many travel trends making headlines this year, from rural tourism and volunteer vacations to foodie-inspired trips. But there is another movement making waves across the hospitality industry, giving a huge boost to tourism in Mexico and other vacation destinations: multi-generational family travel.

A survey conducted by Yesawich, Pepperdine, Brown & Russell found that nearly 80 percent of all travelers took at least one holiday with extended family in the past five years, and these vacations often included other families as well as friends.

Dubbed “togethering,” this trend is fueled – at least in part – by increasing numbers of Millennial parents who want to reconnect with older relatives, or extended family they rarely get to see. It is not uncommon for large groups to include grandparents, grandchildren, uncles, aunts and cousins.

Togethering joins multiple generations

In addition, Millennials tend to favor “togethering” travel with their parent-friends and their children, resulting in an upswing of joint-family vacations. Travel industry experts predict that “togethering” will continue to gain traction as more families seek to spend leisure time with friends and relatives, enjoying new experiences together.

Data has also suggested that Millennials place more importance on “experiences” over “objects,” and prefer to spend their discretionary funds on large family holidays, allowing distant relatives across several generations to reunite in a communal experience.

In lieu of get-togethers in hometowns, more families are booking destination vacations, particularly around the holidays when they have extra time off. Hotel and vacation rental occupancy rates have been rising during Thanksgiving and Christmas, times when most families usually head home.

Multi-household vacation rentals

With its breathtaking beaches, fascinating culture and kid-friendly adventure tours, Mexico offers the perfect backdrop for “togethering.” From Oaxaca and Los Cabos to Puerto Vallarta, travelers will find plenty of well-equipped accommodations that cater to large groups.

Some of the more popular lodgings are rental villas and condo units, which offer ample space for families and friends to relax together, and cook meals on their own time.  Moreover, vacation rentals tend to be more cost-efficient compared to an all-inclusive resort or hotel, sometimes by as much as 40 percent!

For those considering a “togethering” holiday south of the border, Sea Side Reservations has a wide array of vacation rentals in Mexico’s most enchanting towns, from Baja California to the Yucatan Peninsula.

More on Multi-Generation Family Vacations:

1. Hospitality Trends, Togethering: The New Trend In Family Vacations https://www.htrends.com/trends-detail-sid-7776.html
2. US News, 9 Travel Trends to Watch in 2017 and 2018 https://travel.usnews.com/features/9-travel-trends-to-watch-in-2017-and-2018
3. PeterAMayer.com, “Togethering”: the Trend of Communal Travel https://www.peteramayer.com/insights/togethering-the-trend-of-communal-travel/

The MesoAmerican ruins of Teotihuacan, located outside of Mexico City, are one of the world’s most visited archaeological sites and among the largest cities in the ancient Americas. Archeologists knew little about this mysterious culture and its people until a chance discovery some 11 years ago. Unusually heavy rains formed a sinkhole, which led scientists to a massive tunnel 60 feet below the temple complex. Over the next decade archeologist Sergio Gómez Chávez and his team unearthed a treasure trove of artifacts dating back more than 1,800 years, some of which are currently on exhibit at San Francisco’s de Young museum.

Treasure trove discovered in Teotihuacan

Among the captivating items discovered were crystals fashioned into eyes, ornate jade statues and necklaces made of human and crocodile teeth. Within the tunnel lay an incredible man-made landscape filled with miniature mountains, walls embedded with fool’s gold (powdered pyrite) and pools of liquid mercury.

This subterranean discovery offered clues about this once populous metropolis, which has been shrouded in mystery for centuries. At its peak, Teotihuacan was home to more than 200,000 residents and covered 21 square miles, making it the biggest city in the western hemisphere.  

The name Teotihuacan translates to “birthplace of the gods,” a title bestowed by the Aztecs who revered the stunning architecture of the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon.

For those who are unable to visit this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site in Mexico, the exhibit ‘Teotihuacan: City of Water, City of Fire’ will be on view at San Francisco’s de Young museum until February 11, 2018.

Teotihuacan exhibit in San Francisco

This exhibit marks the first display of Teotihuacan artifacts on the U.S. mainland for more than 20 years. Organized through a joint partnership between San Francisco’s Fine Arts Museums and Mexico’s Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia (INAH), the exhibit will feature never-before-seen relics, ceramics, paintings, mural fragments, and stone sculptures along with ritual items from the site’s three pyramids. The exhibition will provide a unique opportunity for audiences to learn more about the ancient city of Teotihuacan and its role in Mexico’s cultural landscape.

The exhibit contains 200 artifacts crafted from a variety of materials, including jade, marble, obsidian, alabaster, green stone, slate, shells, lime and volcanic rock. Many of these discoveries are thought to have religious significance, perhaps being used for ritual ceremonies and events.

The de Young exhibit will also feature four greenstone statues adorned with garments and beads, believed to be the earliest shamans of Teotihuacan.

While these impressive archaeological discoveries shed light on this once powerful cultural center, many mysteries remain.

Additional Teotihuacan Resources:

1. The Guardian, Lakes of mercury and human sacrifices – after 1,800 years, Teotihuacan reveals its treasures https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2017/sep/24/teotihuacan-pyramids-treasures-secret-de-young-museum-san-francisco
2. KQED.org, Recently Discovered Treasure Trove in ‘Teotihuacan’ https://ww2.kqed.org/arts/2017/10/12/de-young-hosts-recently-discovered-treasure-trove-in-teotihuacan/
3. SmithsonianMag.com, Secret Tunnel Found in Mexico May Finally Solve the Mysteries of Teotihuacán https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/discovery-secret-tunnel-mexico-solve-mysteries-teotihuacan-180959070/

Ecotourism combines the best of environmental conservation and responsible tourism, offering travelers a unique cultural experience. Mexico, like many Latin American countries, has become one of the top destinations for eco-minded travelers who want to explore the great outdoors and marvel at Mother Nature’s wonders, with minimal impact on local communities.

Mexico’s eco-tourism industry has grown considerably over the past decade, offering visitors a slew of outdoor adventures and wildlife tours that showcase the country’s spectacular natural sites. Here are 4 amazing eco-adventures in Mexico to add to your bucket list!

Monarch Butterfly Migration in Michoacán

Journey to the rural forests of Michoacan, where millions (and perhaps billions) of monarch butterflies converge to spend the winter. Learn more about these phenomenal butterfly gatherings while visiting butterfly biosphere reserves in the charming towns of Patzcuaro and Morelia –a  UNESCO World Heritage City.

Olive Ridley Sea Turtle Conservation

Witness another natural marvel on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, where thousands of Olive Ridley turtles storm the beaches to nest. The World Wildlife Foundation offers a backstage conservation tour that includes beach patrols, chances to watch female turtles dig their nests and lay eggs, plus the opportunity to help new hatchlings make their way to the sea. Most of the excursions center around Puerto Escondido and La Escobilla beach.

Chiapas Zipline Adventure

Some of Mexico’s most popular eco-tours also include hair-raising adventure. Chiapas is home to the exquisite Mayan ruins of Palenque, where stone temples rise hundreds of feet above dense jungle. Tour operators offer a combo adventure that includes a guided walk through the ruins, followed by a zip-line canopy tour and a hike to a 100-foot waterfall with inviting swimming hole.

Tulum Jungle Tour

The Tulum Jungle Maya excursion is guaranteed to get your adrenaline pumping, and boasts not one but three different adventure activities! After exploring the impressive archeological site of Tulum, which overlooks one of the world’s most gorgeous beaches (according to National Geographic), you’ll snorkel among rock formations in the world’s longest underground river. An all-terrain vehicle takes you deeper into the jungle where two more activities await: rappelling down into underwater caves and flying high over the rainforest via zipline. This half-day eco-adventure ends with a Mayan purification ceremony attended by a local shaman. If you’re staying in Cancun, Playa del Carmen or anywhere along the Riviera Maya, this tour is a must!

Additional Mexico Eco Tourism Resources:

1. Journey Mexico, MORELIA AND THE MONARCH BUTTERFLY MIGRATION https://www.journeymexico.com/itinerary/morelia-and-the-monarch-butterfly-migration
2. Viator, Mexico Eco Tours https://www.viator.com/Mexico-tours/Eco-Tours/d76-g9-c119
3. TripAdvisor, Top Eco Tours in Mexico https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g150768-Activities-c61-t216-Mexico.html