Cancun Travel

Overview

Cancun is a city seated at the foot of the Yucatan Peninsula, bordered on one side by the Caribbean Sea. Seeing as the city was built primarily as a tourist attraction, it lacks in some of the cultural aspects that can be found in other Mexican cities. However, what Cancun lacks in historical appeal it makes up for in amenities and natural beauty. The main tourist area is located along the coast of the Caribbean Sea, and this is where you'll find all of the city's all-inclusive hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs, and shopping malls. Don't expect to be surrounded by locals in this part of the city -- your vacation is more likely going to be spent with other tourists. However, a short drive to downtown Cancun may bring you a more traditional Mexican experience. Downtown Cancun is away from the touristy coast and has retained most of its culture and appeal amidst the popularity of the city's Caribbean coastline.

Sightseeing Attractions

While Cancun is the home to a lot of natural beauty, it doesn't have much to offer as far as historical and architectural appeal is concerned. Additionally, most of the sightseeing attractions were created with tourism in mind. However, one glimpse at the white sand coasts that spill into the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea and you'll forget that you're surrounded by other tourists. Other notable sightseeing attractions include Xcaret, the Interactive Aquarium, and Isla Mujeres. Isla Mujeres is only a short ferry ride away from the main tourist hub, and it offers some distance from the manufactured feel of the hotel zone.

Outdoor Attractions

One Cancun company offers visitors the opportunity to rent a Jeep and take it for a drive to see things like Mayan ruins, an interactive zoo, a jungle reserve, and a natural Mexican city. This may be worthwhile if you're craving some stimulation outside of the beachside activities. Other outdoor attractions available at all of the Caribbean coast beaches include snorkeling, fishing, swimming, boating, jet skiing, parasailing, scuba diving, and sunbathing. Vendors scattered along the beaches will provide tourists with the necessary services or tools to aid them in their beach adventures.

Nightlife

There are obviously many shops, restaurants, and clubs located throughout the hotel zone on the Caribbean coast. Expect to find just about every worldly cuisine imaginable as well as high-priced department stores and souvenir shops. Though Cancun's nightlife is manufactured and not a representation of the city's culture, it is enjoyable nonetheless. Many beach bars offer live music and specialize in making margaritas and piña coladas. However, you won't find the locals in any of these areas.