Travel to Cancun

Built in the 1970s from the sand up as a tourist venue, Cancun has become one of the most popular spots in Mexico. Although Cancun is only a little more than 30 years old, it is in close proximity to some of the most famous and recognizable Mayan ruins in Mexico. Downtown Cancun, also known as El Centro, is also home to many of Cancun’s local residents and provides a good look into daily life in Mexico.

The Hotel Zone, an island shaped like the number seven, is the part of Cancun that draws most of the tourists. The resort hotels in the area offer extras such as snorkeling and scuba diving packages, day tours and dinner and cocktail cruises.

Remember, you will need either a passport or original birth certificate and photo ID to enter Mexico. And, if you decide to drive into Mexico or rent a car while you’re there, purchase Mexican auto insurance. American driver’s licenses are valid in Mexico, but American auto insurance is not. Purchase adequate auto insurance once you arrive or you could find yourself spending time in jail in the event you’re in an accident.

Cancun is also famous for its wide array of restaurants, which includes fare of all types, prices and atmospheres. Whether you’re looking for good Mexican, French, Italian or American fast food, you should be able to find what you’re looking for in your price range. The Hotel Zone has more restaurants that are geared towards tourists, while some of the restaurants in El Centro provide a uniquely Mexican dining experience.

Outdoor activities in Cancun range from snorkeling to scuba diving, golf, horseback riding, hiking, kayaking, tours of the underground rivers and caves and a myriad of other water sports, nature preserves and botanical gardens.