Mexico is a land noted for its rich traditions and cultural history, but next time you fly into Cancun or Los Cabos, you’ll be greeted by the latest in computer technology.  The country’s Ministry of Communications and Transportation recently announced that three international airports – Mexico City, Los Cabos and Cancun – have been outfitted with digital biometric kiosks to help expedite the entrance of both nationals and international tourists into the country.

Self-serve kiosks are faster

According to Gerardo Ruiz Esparza, head of the Ministry, these state-of-the-art kiosks are significantly faster and more comfortable than previous devices. Moreover, they will enable quick automated entry of domestic and foreign passengers who do not need a visa to enter Mexico. Rather than waiting in long immigration lines, nationals and visitors can breeze through the automated system in just under three minutes.

The self-serve automated entry kiosks will not only improve visitor experience but help authorities process record numbers of passengers in less time. The 100 kiosks currently deployed will likely process more than 8 million arrivals in the coming year alone. The international terminals in Mexico City, Cancun and Cabo handle nearly 170,000 travelers a day – representing nearly 75 percent of the country’s total tourism that arrives by air. One immigration counter oversees up to 5 biometric kiosks, which will reduce the time spent waiting in line by a whopping 40 percent.

How biometric kiosks work

The new kiosks have a touchscreen multi-lingual interface and have the ability to identify passengers through both biometrics and documents.  Passengers enter their travel information in the system and have their fingerprints scanned. The kiosk captures and uses this biometric data (fingerprints, photo and passport scan) to accurately and securely identify individuals as they enter the country.

With hope, this innovative system will help promote a more convenient and comfortable arrival experience in Mexico, which remains one of the most visited vacation destinations around the world.

Take advantage of direct flights to Cancun

This is great news for anyone who is planning a Mexico getaway to the sun-drenched beaches of the Yucatan Peninsula. If you are looking for warm turquoise waters, some of the world’s prettiest coastline and an endless array of recreational activities, then Cancun is the destination of choice. Located on the Mexican Caribbean, Cancun is a terrific base for explorations throughout the Mayan Riviera, where ancient ruins, pristine islands and friendly locals await.

Getting there has never been easier. A number of airlines offer non-stop flights to Cancun International, and with the new self-serve kiosks, you’ll have your toes in the soft white sands in no time.

Check out these non-stop routes:

• Denver to Cancun (4 hours) — Frontier and United
• Chicago to Cancun (3 hours 45 minutes) – American and United
• NYC to Cancun (4 hours) – AeroMexico, JetBlue and American
• Atlanta to Cancun (2 hours 45 minutes) – Southwest, Delta and AreoMexico
• San Francisco to Cancun (5 hours 20 minutes) – Virgin America and United
• Charlotte to Cancun (3 hours) – US Airways

Additional Resources on Mexico’s automated airport kiosks:

1. Travel Agent Central, Three Mexico Airports Debut New Digital Biometric Kiosks https://www.travelagentcentral.com/transportation/three-mexico-airports-debut-new-digital-biometric-kiosks
2. Hopper, American Cities with Direct Flights to Cancun http://www.hopper.com/articles/814/american-cities-with-direct-flights-to-cancun

Underground Rivers. Tropical Jungle Trails. Colorful Wildlife. Mexican Equestrian Shows. Beautiful Beaches. Snorkeling. Amazing Food. If this sounds like the perfect recipe for family fun, then you can’t miss Xcaret Eco Theme Park – one of Playa del Carmen’s premier tourist attractions.

Explore the magic of Mexico at Xcaret

If you happen to be staying in Cancun, Tulum or anywhere on the Riviera Maya – all roads lead to this spectacular theme park. Xcaret (pronounced eesh-caret) is located 38 miles from the Cancun International Airport and welcomes guests with its unique blend of adventure experiences, nature and cultural offerings. Visitors can easily spend a full day (yes, 8 whole hours) exploring the wonders of Xcaret. There are butterfly pavilions to wander through, turquoise waters to swim in, lazy rivers in which to snorkel and an amazing variety of cultural activities and unforgettable shows.

Cultural activities and performances

For instance, take the “Voladores de Papantla,” an unbelievable performance by “flyers” who play traditional melodies in honor of the sun while suspended hundreds of feet in the air. Witnessing this ancient ritual ceremony is not only thrilling, it provides insight into the traditional culture of Mexico! Xcaret has dozens of awe-inspiring shows and performances to punctuate your day. Admire the graceful horsemanship of costumed riders who move effortlessly with their steeds as they execute surprising moves! There are Pre-Hispanic dances timed to the steady beat of drums that will transport you back to Mayan times and vibrant performances that explain the history and legends from the country’s different cultural regions.  

Attractions for nature lovers

Xcaret is a magical place for children of all ages, and has numerous wildlife attractions and exhibits designed for curious young minds. Start your morning at the enormous Butterfly Pavilion – one of the world’s largest – where over 20 species flit around waterfalls and lush vegetation. Delve into the underwater world at the park’s coral reef aquarium that houses more than 5,000 species. Next stop is Manatee Lagoon – a favorite for visitors of all ages. Admire these beautiful, docile marine mammals in a natural habitat and watch as they glide through the water.

Smack dab in the middle of the park is Jaguar Island, surrounded by crystal clear rivers. These impressive cats play an important part in Mayan culture and can be observed as they stealthily meander through leafy jungle.  

Xcaret is one of the best places to understand the tremendous biodiversity of Mexico. Here, you can see endangered sea turtles, bats, monkeys, tapirs, pumas and dolphins!

Water activities galore

Aquatic activities are one of the highlights of this eco theme park. Admission grants you snorkel equipment for an exciting foray into the Blue River, Manatee River or Maya River which all flow underground next to mangroves dotted with pink flamingos. Lifejackets are also provided so little ones can float and swim through these winding freshwater systems.

Dolphin encounters are another hot attraction at Xcaret. Watch them jump and dance, shake their fin and even get chances to swim with them.

Your smallest animal lover will adore the park’s Adventure Kids program.  A special pond area has docile stingrays and other marine creatures that children can feed and touch. This hands-on experience is designed to be fun and educational as kids learn more about nature.

Family-friendly fun on the Riviera Maya

Xcaret has several buffet-style restaurants that serve up delicious cuisine and lots of smaller snack bars (some with gorgeous ocean views) famous for their juicy hamburgers. Bring a hearty appetite and wear comfortable walking shoes on your daytrip to this must-visit eco park!

Read More about Xcaret Park:

1. Xcaret.com, Xcaret, The pride of Mexico! http://www.xcaret.com/?langRedirect=1&_ga=2.231722783.104226057.1524072087-1715969785.1524072087
2. TripAdvisor, XCaret Eco Theme Park https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g150812-d152777-Reviews-Xcaret_Eco_Theme_Park-Playa_del_Carmen_Yucatan_Peninsula.html

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

Nearly 45 percent of Millennials are planning a family vacation this year, according to a new report from AAA Travel. This jet-setting generation is part of 88 million Americans who are saving their dollars for a relaxing getaway in 2018. Millennial (those born between 1982-2002) travelers are trailed by Gen Xers and Baby Boomers, who logged in at 39 percent and 32 percent, respectively. 

In summing up their latest research, AAA Senior Vice President of Travels Bill Sutherland says that Millennials – just like their parents and grandparents before them – view a family getaway as a prime opportunity to reconnect with loved ones while creating lasting memories. “No matter their age, families are going on not just one, but multiple vacations throughout the year to revisit favorite destinations and experience new places,” added Sutherland.

Family vacations abroad a big trend in 2018

AAA says that family vacations abroad will be a big trend this year. Of all the holiday-goers, a whopping 35 percent plan to explore international destinations, marking a 9 percent uptick in the past two years.

So where are Millennials, Gen Xers and Baby Boomers flying to for their family fun abroad? According to advance flight bookings, the top three international destinations will be: Cancun, the Dominican Republic’s Punta Cana, and Montego Bay in Jamaica.

Three-quarters of those polled are planning family vacations in places they have never before visited. This overwhelming desire for new experiences explains the recent boom in Mexico tourism, especially in sunny resort towns like Cancun.

Cancun – more than a Spring Break destination

Boasting plenty of sun, picturesque beaches, trendy bars and modern amenities, Cancun is perhaps most noted for its hordes of Spring Breakers. But partying college students account for a mere fraction of Cancun’s annual visitors. Less than 2 percent of the 5 million Cancun tourists come for Spring Break. The rest are families, honeymooners and other travelers who have come to admire the historical attractions, the Mayan culture and the mind-blowing array of outdoor adventure.

The Cancun Tourism Bureau says that families are attracted to the Yucatan Peninsula for a number of reasons. The tropical climate is one selling point, but it’s an array of family-centered activities and attractions that really interest visitors. There are eco-parks where you can zipline in the jungle, Nature centers where kids can swim with dolphins, and enchanting Mayan ruins within a short drive.

Boasting cool theme parks, gourmet dining and a diverse range of water sports, Cancun is undoubtedly one of the best places for a family vacation in Mexico! For the best deals on luxurious Cancun vacation rentals, contact Sea Side Reservations today!

Top things to do in Cancun

The lovely white-sand beaches are key selling points to most Cancun vacationers. Here are a few other highlights to consider on your next family holiday.

• Boat trip to Isla Mujeres, where you can snorkel in clear waters
• Swimming with dolphins at Delphinius Dreams
• Visiting the “hands-on” interactive aquarium at La Isla Shopping Center
• Taking a day trip to the Mayan site of Chichen Itza
• A full day at Xcaret Ecological Park 

Additional Resources on Millennial Family Vacations:

1. TravelAgentCentral, Stats: 44% of Millennials Planning Family Vacation https://www.travelagentcentral.com/running-your-business/stats-44-millennials-planning-family-vacation
2. MiniTime, 10 Reasons to Visit Cancun with Kids http://www.minitime.com/trip-tips/10-Reasons-to-Visit-Cancun-with-Kids-article
3. US News, Best Places to Visit in Mexico https://travel.usnews.com/rankings/best-mexico-vacations/

It’s official: the top three international destinations American college students are flocking to for the annual rite of Spring Break are all in Mexico, according to a new survey.

Researchers analyzed U.S. travelers’ Spring Break travel plans in 2018, and their study yielded some great news for vacation home owners south of the border, as they can accommodate large groups of budget-conscious Breakers. Worldwide, the top three destinations are in Mexico, with Cancun leading the pack (14.2 percent), then San Jose Del Cabo (6.3 percent), and Puerto Vallarta (5.1 percent).

Rounding out the list of leading international destinations are Higuey, Dominican Republic (4.9 percent); Montego Bay, Jamaica (4.8 percent); Aruba, Aruba (4.5 percent); Nassau, Bahamas (4.3 percent); Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands (3.4 percent); and Cayman, Cayman (3.3 percent). The only European location that made the Top 10 list is London, United Kingdom (2.8 percent).

Researchers reviewed trips planned for the Spring Break season (February 23, 2018 through April 16, 2018) for travel between five and eight days in length. The results revealed that Orlando (9.5 percent) was the number one domestic destination for Spring Breakers. Following in popularity are Phoenix (5.2 percent), Honolulu (4.7 percent), Fort Lauderdale (4.4 percent), Las Vegas (4.2 percent), Fort Myers (4.1 percent), New York (3.8 percent), Los Angeles (3.4 percent), Miami (3.3 percent) and Maui (3.2 percent).

Spring Breakers Choose 8-Day Vacations

The findings also uncovered the most popular days to fly for Spring Break travel in 2018. The busiest travel day anticipated for domestic (4.1 percent) and international flights (5.69 percent) is March 10, 2018. Also, the study found most Spring Breakers are taking a five-day trip for domestic destinations (31 percent) and an eight-day vacation for international destinations (52 percent).

Mexico’s plentiful sand and surf were major factors in its stellar ranking. The survey also indicates a renewed confidence on the part of Americans traveling to the country, despite recent safety concerns.

“Americans are opting for sun and fun this Spring Break, with a majority of travelers planning domestic and international beach getaways, whereas last year many travelers opted for a ski destination,” one researcher concluded.

Bring on the Breakers!

Sea Side Reservations caters to Spring Breakers and travelers of all ages, offering incredible deals on vacation rentals at all the hottest destinations in Mexico, including Puerta Vallarta, Cancun, and La Paz, just to name a few. Since 1996, we’ve been bringing property owners and guests together, offering affordable rentals in beautiful villas, furnished condos, and beachfront homes, steps away from all the attractions visitors want to experience.

 

More Information on Spring Break in Mexico:

1. Coastal Living, “Top 10 Spring Break Destinations in Mexico,” https://www.coastalliving.com/travel/top-10/best-spring-break-destinations-mexico
2. Chicago Tribune, Spring Break Beyond the Beach: Why more travelers opt for active trips, http://www.chicagotribune.com/lifestyles/travel/ct-active-spring-break-20180208-story.html

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

Holbox Island is a 26-mile stretch of unspoiled paradise in the Gulf of Mexico. While intrepid travelers know about this hidden gem (including how to pronounce its name: “ol-bosh”), Holbox has yet to become a beacon on the Yucatan tourist trail. But like many “undiscovered” places, this may soon change as word begins to spread about the island’s tranquil palm-lined beaches, azure waters and abundant wildlife.

About Holbox Island

This enchanting isle is part of the Yum Balam Flora and Fauna Protection Area and located roughly 40 miles from Cancun. A shallow, green lagoon separates this small island from the mainland. Every year, thousands of migrating flamingos find sanctuary in this lagoon estuary, which also attracts pelicans and other avian life.

Mass tourism has yet to take hold on Holbox, where fishing is still the main industry and residents are on a first name basis. Like other Caribbean islands, Holbox has gorgeous white sand beaches, brightly painted homes and a laid-back atmosphere. It has a handful of restaurants, bars and hotels but little in the way of infrastructure. In fact, there are very few cars on the island, adding to its rustic appeal.

Walking is the preferred method of transportation on Holbox given its diminutive size (only 4 miles across at its widest point). Golf carts and horses are also available to guests, as are kayak rentals for exploring the mangrove estuaries. To this day, more than half of the island remains untouched by developers, leaving miles of virgin forest, beach and wetland for residents, visitors and native wildlife.

Incredible wildlife watching

Many day trippers are drawn to the diverse range of animal life on Holbox Island. Four types of endangered marine turtles nest on the isle’s protected beaches. The dense jungles are home to pumas and a species of giant otter that are seldom seen elsewhere. There are 150+ bird species on the island, including herons, ibis, white egrets, roseate spoonbills, pelicans, sea swallows and bright pink flamingos. From May through September, giant whale sharks can be seen feeding on the plankton-rich waters that surround Holbox and adjacent islands. Flamingos are easily spotted by kayak, and local pangas (small boats) ferry visitors to the best areas for observing local fauna.

On the western side of the island, the waters are so clear you can see vibrant starfish, sea urchins and tropical fish, and the waves are calm enough for young swimmers.

How to get there from Cancun

If the idea of a mini-escape from tourist crowds sounds appealing, Isla Holbox is sure to please. Visitors come to unwind, get back to nature and revel in one of the Yucatan’s best kept secrets! Getting here is easy from your Cancun vacation rental.

Private charter flights depart daily from the Cancun airport; the scenic trip to Holbox is just 20 minutes!

The relatively new Yucatan motorway has shortened driving times to Holbox from Cancun, Playa del Carmen and other tourist destinations. For those who have rental cars, the approximate travel time from Cancun’s hotel zone is about 2.5 hours one-way.

Additional Resources on Holbox Island:

1. The Telegraph, Great Escape: Holbox, the idyllic Mexican island http://www.telegraph.co.uk/luxury/travel/holbox-mexico-island-casasandra-hotel-review-cancun/
2. HolboxIsland.com, Holbox Island http://www.holboxisland.com/destination/
3. Lonely Planet, Isla Holbox https://www.lonelyplanet.com/mexico/yucatan-peninsula/isla-holbox

From the sunny beaches of Cancun to the enchanting ruins of Teotihuacán, Mexico has plenty to offer visitors. But what if you’d rather head off the beaten path? There’s certainly plenty of options to choose from. Mexico is an incredibly beautiful country, filled with diverse attractions that are sure to please any nature lover, history buff, and thrill seeker. Start your trip planning by learning a bit about Palenque.

Ancient city of Palenque

Palenque is in the Mexican state of Chiapas. According to CNN Travel, it takes its modern name from a nearby 16th century Spanish town. Its Mayan name is thought to be Lakamah, which means “big water.” Palenque was excavated during the 20th century, and today visitors can marvel at the beauty of this once-busy political center. Archaeologists have dated the peak period for the city at 226 to 799 Common Era (CE). It’s thought that the city was abandoned by 900 CE.

It was in the back of the Temple of the Inscriptions that an archaeologist detected a hidden passageway, which led down to the tomb of Emperor Pakal. Scholars have used the rich treasure trove of hieroglyphs found at Palenque to uncover hundreds of years of Mayan history. And in fact, the ornately carved lid of the emperor’s tomb made a significant contribution to the conspiracy theories about the Mayan calendar and its predictions about the end of the world.

One particular group was so convinced that the world would end in December 2012 that they traveled to Palenque, some with one-way tickets. Undoubtedly, confusion reigned supreme the following day!

Cave of the Swallows

If you’re an adventurous type of traveler, consider heading to San Luis Potosi to visit the largest known cave shaft in the world. The Cave of the Swallows is so enormous that the Chrysler Building could fit inside it. The tallest side is an astounding 1,092-foot drop. The beauty of the rock formations inside the cave shaft isn’t the only reason why it’s enchanted visitors for years. Visit it at dawn or dusk, and you’ll see thousands of birds dive-bomb into it.

Yaxchilan

Also in the Mexican state of Chiapas lies the ancient ruins of Yaxchilan. It’s an impressive collection of structures located within the Lacandon Rainforest on the banks of the Usumacinta River. More than 100 monuments stand guard in this ancient city. You can thank Lord Shield Jaguar II, whose 60-year rule began in 681 CE, for some of the most impressive sculptures and buildings found here. Take note of the many carved lintels, some of which depict the sacred ritual of bloodletting. The elites of Mayan civilization regularly engaged in bloodletting ceremonies, as they were thought to maintain order.

Book luxurious, safe accommodations anywhere in Mexico

With Sea Side Reservations, you’ll have easy access to affordable accommodations wherever your travels south of the border take you. We’ve got it all—from major resorts to luxury condos. Once you’ve chosen your check in and check out dates, get in touch and our travel experts will sweat the details for you.

Additional resources:

1. CNN, Mexico’s Palenque is the best historical site you don’t know about, http://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/palenque-mexico/index.html
2. Khan Academy, Yaxchilán—Lintels 24 and 25 from Structure 23 and structures 33 and 40, https://www.khanacademy.org/humanities/ap-art-history/indigenous-americas/a/yaxchilan-lintels

Going to be in Mexico during the last big celebration of 2017? We’ve compiled this list of the best places to party to bring in 2018!

1. Playa Del Carmen

New Year’s Eve in Playa Del Carmen is one of the most exciting times of the year for this picturesque, waterfront getaway. You can expect the party to flood out from the many clubs between 12th street and 10th avenue into the streets of Playa Del Carmen, as party-goers bounce from hotspot to hotspot. One tradition that makes New Year’s Eve in Playa Del Carmen unique: after the partying is all done for the night, crowds of people make their way to the sea shore to bask in the first rays of sunlight for the first sunrise of the new year. After a night of wild partying, it is truly a renewing, harmonious way to bring in the New Year.

2. Cancun

Cancun is a legendary destination for a reason; here, you’ll find not only some of the more marvelous natural beauties Mexico has to offer, but also an extremely inviting, lively, and friendly atmosphere to party in! During the day you can relax, bask in the warm sun, swim in the turquoise waters and explore the island, and then at night make the effortless transition into party-mode. Head to Cancun’s party central in the Hotel Zone and you will find top night clubs such as Mandala, Palazzo, Dady’O, and La Vaquita. These clubs will be jumping with party people from all over the world. And if you’d like to transition over to a big waterfront party, Cancun has just the place for you: The Mandala Beach Club, which hosts an annual New Year’s Eve after-party, where crowds flock to to keep the celebration going.

3. Mexico City

There are two ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Mexico City: like the natives or as a tourist. If you want to do a little of both, you can with no added effort attached. For bringing in the New Year like a native, you will want to head to the historic locations like Centro Histórico and the Zocalo. These are the traditional celebration hubs of Mexico City. At the Centro Histórico and the Zocalo you can find local culinary delights and drinks, along with live entertainment. At the Zocalo, guests will have a clear view of the annual firework show.

For a more tourist-like celebration, there are numerous clubs and street parties that you will find in the Roma and Condesa neighborhoods. In both neighborhoods you will quickly find multiple places to party as the majority of the clubs and restaurants will be hosting celebrations.

For more information on how you can partake in the partying in Mexico this New Year’s Eve in years to come, contact a CasaGo representative today. CasaGo has destinations in some of Mexico’s top party hot spots.

More resources on New Year’s Eve celebrations in Mexico:

1. Guardian, Best Tropical New Year’s Eve Parties, https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2016/dec/31/best-tropical-new-years-eve-parties-goa-australia-chile
2. Everything Playa del Carmen, How Playa Del Carmen does New Year! http://everythingplayadelcarmen.com/new-years-in-playa-del-carmen/
3. Mandala Tickets, NEW YEAR’S EVE: THE WORLD’S BEST CITIES TO CELEBRATE, http://mandalatickets.com/new-years-eve-the-worlds-best-cities-to-celebrate/