Cancun

Destination information

A world-class custom built tourist resort set on an island in the east of Mexico, surrounded by the crystal clear turquoise waters of the Caribbean sea. Cancun is divided into two areas, the hotel zone, set on 14 miles of immaculate powdery white sand shaped like a ‘7’ which is connected to the mainland by two bridges in the North and South and the mainland city which is packed with every modern entertainment imaginable. Children are well catered for with water parks, exotic animal encounters and the safe warm waters on the protected side of the island, facing Isla Mujeres. There’s plenty of fun for grown ups too with an outrageous nightlife scene, incredible watersports, top-notch golf and you can even enjoy the lavish facilities of one of Mexico’s largest shopping malls right on your doorstep with hundreds of stores to explore featuring the best American brands as well as local favourites too. If you’re looking for culture and adventure, all the magic of the Mayan Riviera with its ancient ruins, lush jungle and underground ‘cenote’ caves are just an hour’s drive away.

Eats & drinks

Cancun boasts every kind of dining experience under the sun from five star gourmet delights to informal beach bars and pizza joints. Most hotels should have purified water but if in doubt, ask for ‘...agua purificada por favor!’. You can find a more authentic (and inexpensive!) Mexican meal if you head downtown to Avenida Tulum or Calle Yaxchilan. Try the delicious spicy seafood whilst being serenaded by a Mariachi band!

Getting around

The bus system runs along the main Boulevard Kukulcan, through the hotel zone. As with all Mexican bus trips, you may encounter locals leaping aboard to entertain you with a song, so have a few pesos ready. Taxis can be pricey in the hotel zone so always agree a price before you get in.