The Other Side of Cancun

When you think of holidays in Cancun, the images that spring to the mind of most are firstly, stretching out on the powder soft beaches soaking up the suns hot rays maybe clutching a fruit cocktail, then secondly, throbbing nightclubs jam packed with holidays makers in skimpy attire partying the night away. Whilst there is nothing wrong with these images, Cancun holidays offer so much more variety than partying all night and relaxing on the beaches all day.

The main reason many tourists head to Cancun is to sample the world famous 'Party Zone' which is situated around the marina. This is the place to be seen in Mexico with an abundance of trendy bars, pumping nightclubs and lively cabarets as well as a large selection of delicious restaurants serving cuisine from around the world.

If you desire more from your holidays read on and you will discover just what else Cancun has to tempt you, and find out about some delightful day trips that are readily available for you to sample if you can tear yourself away from the stunning Mexican beaches.

Educational Dolphin Program - This is the experience of a lifetime suitable for both adults and children. Within this comfortable environment you will become astonished by the intelligence and friendliness of these stunning mammals. You will learn all about the nature and anatomy of the dolphins and watch them perform some of their fun tricks. The highlight of this tour is definitely when you get to touch and kiss the dolphins and then feed them their daily meal, in return they will kiss you on the cheek. A truly amazing and sentimental experience for anyone that takes part.

Jungle Adventure - Take a 4x4 vehicle ride through to Rancho San Felipe which is a small Maya family community. Here you will get the chance to snorkel through the crystal clear Nohoch Nah Chich Cenote, a stunning underground river. You then get to walk through the jungle and follow the footprint trail of the wild jungle creatures. A scrumptious traditional Maya lunch awaits you at the ranch all freshly prepared by the women of the community. After lunch you have the opportunity to meet a small Maya family that have lived in the remote jungle for decades.

Jet Ski Jungle Tour - Jet ski along the lagoons and winding channels of Cancun guided by a tour leader, taking in the stunning scenery and enjoying the exhilaration of driving your own jet ski. Keep driving right into the glorious Caribbean Sea to the Punta Nizuc coral reef. Here you have the opportunity to take a dip in the crystal clear water, snorkel and marvel at the rainbow of tropical fish swimming beside you. The journey back takes you on an alternative route visiting the Love Lagoon for a touch of romance before returning to the pier of departure.

This is just a small selection of excursions that are available in and around Cancun to help you have an unforgettable holiday in Mexico. If you tire of the Party Zone on an evening and welcome a change from the small intimate bars and restaurants within Cancun there is also a range of night time excursions just waiting to be sampled.

Sunset lobster cruise - A total must for honeymooners or romantic couples. Board the Columbus galleon and head out to Lovers Lagoon whilst enjoying fine wine and cocktails. Enjoy a romantic sunset on the deck whilst feasting on freshly barbecued lobster and fine wine before dancing the night away under the moonlit sky with the sea breeze blowing in your hair.

Now when you close your eyes and think of holidays in Cancun you should be able to envisage more than just spectacular beaches and thriving nightlife. A great assortment of fun packed days await you in the Caribbean sunshine and the best thing is that there are some fantastic deals available on cheap Cancun holidays ensuring that you have spare money to participate in at least one of these great excursions.

Vacation Destination - Costa Rica Vs Cancun

There are many places you can go on vacation. All around the world there are travel destinations that draw people. For those wanting a relaxing vacation in a warm tropical climate the areas of Mexico and Central America are a good bet. Costa Rica offers a peaceful destination with a friendly atmosphere. Cancun is known as party central for Spring Breakers, but it also offers a rich atmosphere and breath taking beaches.These two places both offer great attractions, so how do you choose between the two? The best way is to compare them side by side after learning about them.

Costa Rica is located in Central America. It gets 25% of the visitors to Central America, making it the leading tourist attraction in the region. There are activities galore, ranging from golf to volcano's. The flora and fauna in Costa Rica is compared to Hawaii. The revenue from tourists provides the country with more than $1 billion to the countries economy making it the number one source of revenue for the locals. Many people love Costa Rica because it offers a calm atmosphere and is close to the United States. They have no military and pride themselves on being a peaceful nation who has never experienced a war or political turmoil. They have an excellent health care system. Costa Rica is a very well educated country. Their literacy rates at around 93% of their population. They have developed systems that provide safe drinking water.

The many attractions of Costa Rica include small, home-like hotels and vacation rentals. It also has markets spread throughout the country making shopping easy no matter where you are located. They do not do any major tourism promotion so to keep the atmosphere calm and family friendly. The weather varies from the beaches to the mountains, but in general there is a high of 89 degrees and a low of 62 degrees. CR does have a rainy season that lasts from May to November with most of the rain in September, October and November. The least amount of rain is in the northwest province of Guanacaste. The overall feel of Costa Rica is a charming country without much commotion. In today"s world its good to know that there is feeling of friendship no matter where you are from.

Cancun is located in sunny Mexico. A short trip from the United States and a favorite for those who like a good party. It is Mexico"s number one tourist attraction. There are two areas of Cancun. The beaches and hotels are located in the Hotel Zone or Zona Hotelera. The home to locals lies in Cancun City or El Centro. Law enforcement is strict in Cancun and any crimes are taken seriously. Cancun boosts many hotels all on the beachfront. There are many activities including golf, tennis, shopping and plenty of water fun. Cancun also has many native animals and other wildlife that draws visitors. Cancun is known for its amazing blue oceans and white beaches where many people spend their whole vacation. The weather in Cancun ranges from an average high of 88 degrees to an average low of 66 degrees (based upon an average of year round temperatures). Cancun is a lively place that offers many different attractions.

Choosing between the two can be difficult. You should chose the destination that most appeals to you, large hotels with 100's of other vacationers or the small boutique type hotels or vacation rentals. They are quite different in that Cancun is lively while CR is more laid back. They both have great ocean access and many exciting things to do. Whatever your choice, you will have a wonderful vacation.

Cancun's History - All about Mayan Civilizations

One of the Caribbean's premier vacation destinations - Cancun, Mexico - is a city full of pristine beaches, waterfront resorts, and vivid nightlife. It is also a city rich with history. With its roots in ancient Mayan civilization, your vacation to Cancun is much more than just "fun in the sun". Certainly, a big part of it is about catching some waves and enjoying the dance clubs, but you can also enjoy the rich history of this area and learn about the Mayan civilizations that existed there long ago.

Mexico was once home to two great Native American empires. In Central Mexico, you'll find remnants of an extensive Aztec civilization. Along the borders of Guatemala and Belize, and covering the southern Mexico Yucatan Peninsula (where Cancun is located), you'll find an area once occupied by the Mayans. Most scholars believe that both groups stemmed from the same people that once crossed the Bering Strait thousands of years ago. The earliest evidence of civilization in Mexico appears to be from 5000-1500 BC.

Mayan history can loosely be characterized into three time periods: Pre-Classic, Classic, and Post-Classic. During the Pre-Classic time period, there were only sparse Mayan settlements in the area that is known today as Cancun. The same is true of the Classic time period. It wasn't until the Post-Classic period that the Mayans migrated more to the northern Yucatan Peninsula, after a collapse of Mayan power in the 8th century. The reason for this turn of the civilization is still not highly understood by scholars, although some scholars believe that over-hunting, disease, nutrient exhaustion in the soil, and climate changes led to its demise.

During the Post-Classic time period, there was no central government and a number of wars were waged between different Mayan groups. By the time the Spanish arrived, the Mayans were just a shadow of the civilization they had once been.

This area of Mexico was first discovered in the early 1500s by accident, when a group of sailors washed ashore after a shipwreck. War and disease ravaged the Mayans, and by the mid 1800s, their numbers had dwindled to less than 10,000. Those living in Cancun were most susceptible, and today, most descendants come from Mayan cities located more deeply in the jungle. Much of what we would have known about Mayan culture was lost, as the conquerors from Spain killed all Mayan religious leaders and burned all the books they found. The Mayans attempted to overthrow the European settlers, and a number of their battles were a success. In the end, however, those from Europe were eventually victorious.

Despite their trials and tribulations, the Mayan civilization in what is now known as Cancun, along with the rest of the peninsula, is rich in spectacular culture and art, architecture, writing, astronomy, religion, and urban design. People the world over are still studying Mayan civilization in fascination.

When you're in Cancun, you may want to visit some of the ancient temples that are still standing. These locations just south of the city house amazing works of art, and tours through the temples can be a highlight of your Mexican vacation. These deteriorating national treasures were once surrounded by Mayan cities built with elaborate palaces, observatories for understanding astronomy, ball courts that acted as small sports stadiums and ceremonial platforms that were places of sacrifices.

Some of the most famous Mayan locations on the Yucatan Peninsula are the following places:
Uxmal

Tikal (in Guatemala)

Chichen Itza

Tulum

Altun Ha (in Belize)

The closest site to Cancun is Chichen Itza, which also hosts the best-restored Mayan temple. This site also has historical significance to the Toltec people, a group of ancient people who moved into the area after a 9th century invasion. The Mayans then re-settled in the area around the year 1000, after it was abandoned in the 10th century. Therefore, the temple at Chichen Itza has been influenced by both groups of people.

Today, there are still many Mayan descendants living in and around Cancun. In fact, those of Mayan descent run many of the tour companies and hotels in the area. Some of these people still speak the ancient language of Maya, and many still make traditional Mayan crafts and food. There is no shortage of Mayan cultural influences in Cancun, and on your next vacation, you should consider exploration of some of the beautiful Mayan sites still around today.

Cancun Weather - Best and Worst Months to Go

Cancun weather is one reason why this Mexican resort enclave is the second most popular vacation destination in the Caribbean region.

Other reasons why Cancun draws so many tourists include its hotel, shopping and restaurant strip; the inexpensive bus transportation system; plenty of things to do; and convenient access to and from U.S. airports. It is 1.5 hours flight time from Miami and four hours from Chicago.

The average year-round high temperature for this resort destination is nearly 88 degrees Fahrenheit and the average low temperature is just less than 74 degrees, according to the World Meteorological Organization.

The average rainfall is 4.4 inches per month and the average number of rain days per month is 9.6. The rainfall and rain days are about average for a Caribbean destination.

Cancun weather in May through September is the warmest time to visit when the average high temperature exceeds 90 degrees each month -- peaking at 92.5 in August. Cancun weather in December, January and February is coolest when the average high temperatures are about 83 degrees.

February, March and April are the wettest months when it rains less than 1.8 inches a month. It also rains only five days a month.

Total rainfall increases in June, drops in July and climbs during the most active hurricane season months of September and October, when it rains nearly nine inches per month.

Vacationers will find that Cancun weather in February through May are the best weather months to visit Cancun, while they should avoid it in September and October.

For more information:

Click Cancun weather forecast for 7-day weather outlooks and current conditions.

Explore the Mexican Caribbean with Cancun Catamaran Charters

Those who have been to Cancun have experienced the enthralling beauty of what is known as the Mexican Caribbean and the ever-changing colors of its waters. They have embraced the tropical temperatures and the hospitality of its residents. But they may not have taken advantage of Cancun catamaran charters or many of the other water adventures that this part of Mexico has to offer.

More than Beaches

Although many vacationers spend their days going to and from the city's gorgeous beaches, Cancun offers visitors so much more. Here are just some of the opportunities that await those who want to do more than dip their toes in the water:

Catamarans: Catamarans offer a combination of relaxation and adventure. You can climb aboard a catamaran and go to the one of the most beautiful islands in Mexico, Isla Mujeres, or take advantage of the unparalleled snorkeling in gorgeous, calm waters. If you prefer, you can simply lie out in the sun and soak up the rays. Charters are available for groups consisting of anywhere from twenty to eighty passengers.

Sport Fishing: Chartering a fishing boat in Cancun is much more affordable than you might think, or you can join other single fishermen in an excursion to catch sailfish, marlin, mahi mahi, grouper, and many other varieties of fish. The best excursions and charters include fishing licenses and bait, are equipped with fish finders, GPS, high quality rods and reels, and fighting chairs.

Scuba Diving: The scuba diving in Cancun is magnificent, but there are few diving experiences to rival cave diving in the Cenote cave in Riviera Maya. Part of the Mayan underground water system, the caverns feature incredible stalagmite and stalactite formations and 300-feet visibility. You can also enjoy reef and wreck diving that will provide you with a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Jungle Tours: For visitors to Cancun, the Nichupte Lagoon is a must-see. The best way to see the jungle is to sign up with a tour that enables you to drive your own speedboat, gives you plenty of time for snorkeling, and provides you with a trained guide.

Events to Remember

Cancun Catamaran charters are great for corporate outings, Spring Break parties, or just for a day of sailing and fun. For more elegant occasions, or when regular boats simply won't do, chartering a yacht is sheer perfection. With a capacity of at least forty passengers, a chartered yacht is perfect for weddings, receptions, family outings, or even a private romantic getaway.

The Price is Right

Whether you want to go on a fishing excursion or charter an exclusive yacht, the prices are quite affordable. For example, you can charter a 33-foot fishing boat for eight people for eight hours for only about $650. You can go on a cave dive for about $140 or a jungle tour for about $55. If you feel the need for speed, you can even go on an adrenaline-filled Shotover Jet tour through the mangroves for less than $50.

The next time you go to Cancun, do more than dip your toes in the water. Take advantage of Cancun catamaran charters or one of the many other opportunities that await, and dive right in!

Outdoor Adventures in Cancun

Let's face it, Cancun is a great vacation spot. Loaded with beautiful beaches, luxury resorts and more nightlife than most visitors can handle, Cancun has long been a favorite for travelers looking for an affordable vacation south of the border. That said, most travelers never make it out of "resort-city."

What I mean is that most travelers never experience any the vast number outdoor adventures awaiting them. For the most part, this is because many of the all-inclusive Cancun resorts and hotels have so much to offer that there's just never enough time.

Here are just a few of the many excursions available to Cancun visitors:

SCUBA Diving - While it's nice to see to the ocean from your hotel balcony, it's even better when you're swimming freely under the surface. From wreck and reef diving to cave explorations, Cancun offers every something for every dive-enthusiast.

Mayan Ruins - Explore Mayan Ruins and learn about the history of Mexico by visiting one of the many archaeological tours available in and around Mexico. Don't worry, the concierge at your hotel will help you reserve a spot on tours going to just about any of these sites.

Coba - Learn about Mayan traditions and climb all 120 steps of the Nohoch Mul pyramid.
El Meco - Enjoy the view of Chacmochuc Lagoon from atop one of the tallest archeological structures in Mexico.

Fishing - Cancun offers fantastic opportunities for sport fishing including year round fishing for shark, snapper and grouper. Charter a boat for a half or whole day of adventure.

With so much to do and so little time to do it in, plan your next Cancun vacation carefully. Just don't forget to save some time for a little rest and relaxation between adventure tours.

What's the Weather Like When Traveling to Cancun and Cozumel?

Cancun and Cozumel are popular Mexican tourist destinations. Cancun is located on the northeastern part of the Yucatan peninsula. Cozumel is an island about 12 miles east of the mainland, in the northwest Caribbean Sea. Cozumel is very flat and is noted for its beautiful beaches, snorkeling, and SCUBA diving. Cancun and Cozumel both have Mayan ruins which also attract many visitors.

The weather pattern is dictated by the wet and dry season. Much heavier rainfall occurs during the wet season. This coincides with an increase in tropical waves which move across the Caribbean Sea. There is a threat from hurricanes especially in the heart of hurricane season from mid August through mid October.

Rainfall

Cancun and Cozumel have a very distinct wet season. Tropical rains begin in late May and continue through October. The monthly average rainfall June through October is eight to ten inches. Mostly sunny days can give way to scattered showers and storms that build during the summertime. The heaviest rains occur from tropical waves or other tropical disturbances. Tropical disturbances can disrupt the weather pattern and bring several days of clouds and rain. Cold fronts can bring rain to the region through autumn. The amounts are not nearly as heavy with monthly average rainfall amounts of a little over three inches.

Travelers wanting to minimize their rain chances should visit in late winter and early spring. This is the driest time of year. On average, only 1/2" to one inch of rainfall occurs each month. Keep in mind that temperatures start to get hot by springtime.

Temperatures

High temperatures during the spring into summer range from the low to mid 90's. The temperatures drop a couple of degrees during summer as the humidity rises. It actually feels hotter during summer with the increase in humidity. The highs may be slightly cooler on Cozumel where the Caribbean Sea helps keep the readings down. Summertime lows are in the low to mid 70's. Wintertime high temperatures are pleasant with highs in the mid 80's and morning lows in the low 60's.

Travel Weather Summary

Travelers visiting Cancun and Cozumel can expect to find hot temperatures late spring through summer. It is common to find passing showers or thundershowers with locally heavy rain during the days when tropical waves move past. Many days are marked by sunshine and are perfect for going to the beach or exploring other tourist interests. The driest and most pleasant time of the year is during the mid to late winter when humidity and temperatures are lower. Travelers are advised to stay updated with the latest tropical weather information if traveling during the hurricane season.