Enjoy Family Fun at Xcaret Eco Park

Close-up of Opuntia ficus-indica is a species of cactus. Tenerife, Canary Islands. SpainUnderground 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
Saturday, April 21st, 2018
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Riviera Maya, Cancun & Cabo Top Locales for Romantic Weddings

Beach wedding arrangementMexico’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
Tuesday, February 27th, 2018
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Top 3 Places to Party in Mexico on New Year’s Eve

Group of friends holding sparklers out on street at night. 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/
Friday, December 22nd, 2017
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4 Great Eco-Tourism Adventures in Mexico

Man zipline flight in jungleEcotourism 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
Friday, October 6th, 2017
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Explore Coral Reefs in Mexico

Sergeant Major fishes in caribbean reef Mexico Mayan RivieraCoral reefs are some of the most astounding natural features on Earth. Healthy reefs are teaming with activity, with all sorts of fish and marine life going about their business. But the coral itself is also alive. Corals look like pretty rocks and they act like plants, since they’re attached to the ocean floor, but they’re actually animals. Each coral branch contains thousands of small invertebrates called polyps, and these tiny creatures thrive in warm, tropical waters. Mexico is a favorite destination for snorkelers, divers, and coral reef enthusiasts because it offers the perfect environment for coral to flourish. When you book your next trip to Mexico, consider including some of these top diving spots in your itinerary.

Mesoamerican Reef

Also called the Great Mayan Reef, this is the second largest reef in the world, after the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. The Great Mayan Reef extends for longer than 600 miles from Quintana Roo to Honduras, Guatemala, and Belize. Researchers have documented 65 types of coral, and five hundred species of fish and crustaceans. Some of the best areas to take in the beauty of the Great Mayan Reef are in Cancun, Xcalak, Cozumel, Puerto Morelos, Puerto Aventuras, and Punta Maroma.

Tormentos Reef

Also in Cozumel, the Tormentos Reef is an ideal destination for divers who have attained at least an intermediate level. This is because there are some strong currents in this area. The depths range from about 50 to 70 feet. The Tormentos Reef is known for its plethora of brain and whip corals, along with an incredible diversity of sea life, including seahorses, angelfish, groupers, eels, triggerfish, and grunts.

Chunzumbul Reef

Visit the Playa del Carmen dive site to take in the natural wonders of the Chunzumbul Reef. Playa del Carmen is located in the Riviera Maya area in the state of Quintana Roo. Thanks to the relatively shallow water, snorkelers can enjoy the beauty of the reef, and it’s an ideal spot for beginning divers. The reef features a stunning coral cavern and vibrant schools of fish. Look for sea turtles, lovely lavender sea fans, rays, moray eels, and barracuda.

Playa del Carmen is a great choice for other reasons. It’s conveniently close to the international airport in Cancun, and it’s now considered one of the trendiest cities in Mexico. Here, you’ll find high-quality accommodations, along with plenty of shopping, fine dining, and nightlife destinations for when you’re not in the water.

Cerebros Reef

If you do visit Playa del Carmen, check out Cerebros Reef in addition to Chunzumbul. Cerebros has depths ranging from 20 to 50 feet, making it perfect for beginning divers and snorkelers. This reef’s defining characteristic is its stunning array of brain coral. Shrimp, lobster, scorpion fish, and moray eels are some of the marine denizens that make Cerebros their home.

How to get there

For years, savvy nature lovers have been booking accommodations in Mexico through Sea Side Reservations. The safety and comfort of travelers are our highest priorities, which is why we scour the country to find the best accommodations available. Get in touch with us to discuss accommodations near your favorite diving spots in Mexico.

Friday, July 14th, 2017
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4th of July Celebrations in Mexico

Starfish on beach during July fourthFor many Americans, Independence Day conjures up images of backyard barbecues, hot dog eating contests, cookouts with family and friends, and spectacular firework displays. If you happen to find yourself south of the border this 4th of July, you will be in the good company of other vacationers who cherish the time-honored traditions of this national holiday.

Whether you’re vacationing in one of the oceanfront resorts of Cancun or a luxury condo in Los Cabos, there are tons of exciting festivities planned this Fourth of July, including themed pool parties, music concerts, family-friendly games, cookouts and more.  

This July 4th, get ready to enjoy some stars and stripes celebrations in paradise!

Las Vegas Charity Night in Rocky Point, Mexico

This 4th of July, Sonoran Resorts in Puerto Peñasco is gearing up for their annual Las Vegas Night for Charity!  This popular event is a great excuse to brush up on your poker and Black Jack skills as you help raise money for the less privileged children and families in Rocky Point. A $35 ticket includes a delicious buffet, $300 in charity chips and raffle tickets for chances to win cool prizes. This 4th of July event draws hundreds of Rocky Point locals and visitors who want to have fun while helping a good cause.

4th of July Music Weekend at Banditos

Banditos cantina is a popular concert venue in Rocky Point, and each year this beachfront sports bar and outdoor patio hosts a music weekend festival featuring rock, funk, reggae and other genres. The party starts Friday June 30 and runs through Sunday July 2. Past lineups have included headliners like Japhy’s Descent, Sara Robinson, Stone Mary, and Mob versus Ballot Box.

Los Cabos 4th of July Parties

Cabo San Lucas is home to some of the most beautiful ocean view resorts, many of which plan amazing 4th of July activities for guests. If you happen to be staying in Los Cabos over the holiday weekend, you’re in for a treat. Poolside cookouts will be serving up American favorites like hamburgers, ribs and hot dogs. Visitors can even partake in classic games like horseshoes and beer pong! Many hotels will be throwing beach parties into the evening, complete with music, dancing, specialty cocktails and even a fire show.  Some resorts are planning nighttime fireworks displays, so be sure to ask about starting times.

Independence Day in Playa del Carmen

The beautiful community of Playa del Carmen boasts a huge population of American expats who embrace their patriotic spirit every Fourth of July. If you’re looking for some family fun, head to Wah Wah Beach Bar, which prides itself on throwing the biggest party south of the border. There is usually face painting and a bouncy house for the kids, as well as drink specials on margaritas plus a mouthwatering all-American buffet with all the traditional 4th of July eats including hamburgers, chili, hotdogs and onion rings! Dress in your finest red, white and blue outfit for a chance to win a prize!

More on spending the 4th of July in Mexico:

Thursday, June 15th, 2017
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Top Places for Singles to Vacation in Mexico

Mexico is a top destination for singles looking to get away for a week or two. When you book your trip with Sea Side Reservations, you’ll have access to incredible vacation rentals for singles—from the luxurious to the rustic. Plan a solo trip for some much-needed “me time” or plan a getaway with your friends. From nightlife to outdoors recreation, Mexico has it all.

Cancun

beach party sunsetCancun is often the first destination that comes to mind when planning a solo getaway to America’s southern neighbor. This dynamic city is located on the Yucatan Peninsula and, as you might expect, it’s famous for its beaches and nightclubs. Cancun receives a few million visitors each year. In fact, the city’s hotel occupancy rate was 82 percent during 2015, which beat other top resort towns like Acapulco and Los Cabos. Working with a vacation rental company can give you access to top accommodations around the city, despite this competition. Scheduling your vacation is an important factor to consider, since Cancun is the destination of choice for college students on spring break.

When you arrive in Cancun, you’ll have your pick of activities. Lounge on the picture perfect beaches, float to your heart’s content on the crystal-clear water, or put on some snorkels and make friends with the turtles. You can even swim with the dolphins in Xcaret Park and Isla Mujeres! Fishing, jet skiing, and kayaking are all popular activities. If you have an adventurous spirit, take a side trip to Chichen Itza—a famed Mayan site that includes the Kukulkan Pyramid. Tulum is even closer to Cancun. This walled city was one of the last inhabited Mayan sites.

When the sun goes down, Cancun truly comes to life. Choose from a virtually limitless selection of dance clubs, live shows, bars, and cigar lounges. If you crave excitement, be sure to check out Coco Bongo—a must-see for dance club enthusiasts.

Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a beautiful, sun-drenched city on the Pacific Coast in the Mexican state of Jalisco. This vibrant city was once a sleepy village known for its fishing, but that all changed when The Night of the Iguana was filmed here in 1964. Now, Puerto Vallarta is like Cancun’s little sister. It gets a couple million visitors each year, who flock to this top destination for its gorgeous beaches, exciting nightlife, and incredible cuisine. Puerto Vallarta is also known for being the destination of choice for LGBT folks, given its warm, friendly ambience.

In Puerto Vallarta, there’s always plenty to do when you’ve had your fill of sunbathing on the beach. Take a stroll along the oceanfront walkway, go parasailing, or sign up for a bird’s eye view of the jungle canopy via zip-line tours. Puerto Vallarta is also known for its golfing, eclectic art scene, horseback riding, and shopping.

Playa del Carmen

Singles who prefer a quieter atmosphere might head over to Playa del Carmen. This city, located south of Cancun, is a veritable sanctuary. Relax in your luxurious villa rental or stay at a resort for all the modern amenities you could want. Like all great destinations in Mexico, single visitors enjoy easy access to fabulous beaches, casual and fine dining, and recreational activities galore. Pamper yourself at the spas, swim with the dolphins, or explore the Yucatan jungle.

Wednesday, March 15th, 2017
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Tulum Ruins Offer Visitors a Glimpse Into Mexico’s Past

Mexico’s world-famous resorts offer nightlife, fine dining, and many other modern amenities, but if you are looking to take a step back in time to an earlier civilization, plan a trip to the Tulum ruins. The ancient remnants offer visitors a maze of discoveries as they wander through what was once a thriving seaport.

Mayan ruins at Tulum

Tulum was a Mayan city located about 40 miles south of Playa del Carmen and 80 miles south of what is now Cancun. The modern luxuries of Cancun stand in contrast to the nearly 1,000-year-old city, which houses the relics of the Pyramid el Castillo, or castle, and a series of temples each decorated with dedications to Mayan gods. It is believed that it may have been an important worship site for the Mayan “diving god” which had its own temple near the Castillo.

The remnants of Tulum lie at the top of 39-foot cliffs overlooking the Yucatan Peninsula at the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. The town’s position as a seaport – and possibly a trading area for jade and obsidian – opened it up to invasion, so it is surrounded by a limestone wall, nearly two feet thick, on three sides. It housed 600 people inside 39 square miles of rolling hills and buildings.

This ancient seaport is exceptionally preserved, sparking visitors to imagine what life in the pre-Columbian town was like – even archaeologists are not entirely certain what civilization was like in ancient Tulum, or even who lived inside the city walls.

Tulum offers both adventure and relaxation

Visitors need not choose between tapping into their inner Indiana Jones and relaxing on the beach. Tulum features its own beach on the Caribbean, perfect for sunbathing along turquoise waters beneath the rising cliffs. Add this spot into your travel agenda and step into a well-preserved piece of history.

Friday, September 2nd, 2016
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