First time traveling to Cancun Mexico? Start Here with these 7 tips!
Hey girl (or guy)! Mexico was one of my first trips out of the country, and I've traveled there over 5 times. These tips have helped me plan and navigate my visits and I know they'll be helpful for you too!
Where to Stay in Cancun
I recommend staying in the Hotel Zone (Zona Hotelera): A vibrant stretch of beachside resorts, hotels, and attractions where most visitors stay. It has quick access to beaches, excursions, restaurants, nightlife, and shopping.
Cancun offers lots of all-inclusive resorts. Some have party vibes, others are more luxurious and romantic - and there's everything in between. I personally book on Expedia.
Getting Around / Airport transfers
Many Hotels will arrange for airport transfers. They also have Taxis you can order at the hotel. Let them know where you are heading to confirm fare price (there are no meters). You can also arrange airport transfers ahead of time (this will be much more expensive to arrange at the airport). There is also public buses that can take you from the hotel zone to downtown. To go to the nightlife area from the hotel zone, you could also just walk (my friend and I did this on our last trip and there were lots of other tourists walking and we felt very safe).
*Note - the Cancun airport can be very overwhelming for even seasoned travelers. There will be lots of "free offers" for excursions, rental cars and more. These are time share representatives that will request an hour (which will end up being an entire day) at a high-pressure sales presentation. Please politely and very directly decline and head straight to the waiting area for your pre-arranged transportation.
Excursions / Things to do
Beaches - Cancun offers lots of lounging on the beach - which if you are staying in the hotel zone is only a few steps away.
Water Activities - There's also water activities like jet skis, parasailing, snorkeling.
Cenotes - Are natural sinkholes local to the region you can swim in. (I'm learning to swim so let me know if you go!)
Day Trip to Isla Mujeres - This is a 20 minute ferry ride to a nearby Island. (I've never been here but it is on my list!)
Nightlife - Cancun’s nightlife is pretty iconic - think Spring Breakers and party-goers. Some popular spots are Coco Bongo and La Vaca. For a more chill vibe, check out beachside bars or lounges at your resort.
Cultural Experiences - Explore Mayan Ruins: Chichen Itza, about a 2-hour drive from Cancun. Closer options include the El Rey Ruins, right in Cancun.
Where to Eat in Cancun / the Food
Popular dinner party restaurants include Rosa Negra, Taboo. These are all part of a group of fine dining restaurans by Rosa Negra Group (their sister restaurants are all on the website.
Dollars vs Pesos
Bring pesos! Many places only take cash. You will also want to tip almost everyone, so bring small bills as well.
Safety Tips
Stick to Tourist Areas: The Hotel Zone and Isla Mujeres are very safe and well-patrolled. Exercise caution in Downtown Cancun at night.
Water: Mexico's tap water is not safte to drink (some people can't even take brusing their teeth with it). Stick to bottled or filtered water for drinking - the ice is generally safe as long as it is not made with the tap water.
Protect Your Belongings: Use hotel safes for valuables, and be cautious with personal items on the beach or in busy areas.
Emergency Contacts: Save the number for your country's embassy in Cancun. If you’re traveling with a group or resort, keep local emergency numbers handy.
Sample Cancun Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive, relax on the beach, and explore your resort and the Hotel Zone. Enjoy dinner at Rosa Negra or Taboo and rest up for Day 2 activities.
Day 2: Day trip to Chichen Itza with a cenote visit on the way back. Followed by a nap at the room, then going out to enjoy nightlife
Day 3: Ferry to Isla Mujeres for snorkeling, beach lounging, and a golf cart tour around the island.
Day 4: Relax, shop at La Isla or Mercado 28, and have a traditional Mexican meal before departure.
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