The Ultimate Mexican riviera Travel Guide
Welcome! My Mexican Riviera Travel Guide focuses on what’s also known as the Mexican Riviera – a true gem on Mexico’s Caribbean side. For U.S. travelers, it’s really something special. You’ll find a blend of ancient history mixed with tropical beauty, which creates unforgettable experiences.
History and Culture
The history of Mexico is deep. Quintana Roo particularly showcases a unique mix of Mayan history and influence from the Spanish. Like the Tulum ruins, majestically placed on cliffs facing the Caribbean Sea. Or, Chichén Itzá’s pyramids, which offer a glimpse into Mayan life. These landmarks are cultural beacons, illustrating Mayan architectural and societal skills.
In Quintana Roo, you’ll find indigenous communities, mostly in the rural areas, that keep their traditions alive. Visitors can explore traditional Mayan villages and meet artisans. By taking part in cultural workshops, travelers can get a better understanding of this region.
Quintana Roo’s history is also marked by the rise and fall of grand civilizations. The Mayans were known for their skill in math and astronomy. They built amazing cities and left stories etched in stone.
Must-Do Experiences
Take a look at Banco Chinchorro’s world-famous coral reefs or snorkel in the amazing cenotes.
Check out Tulum or head into the jungle to see Coba’s mystical atmosphere.
To truly experience Mexico, tour the local markets.
Family Travel Experiences
Families will love Xcaret Eco-Archaeological Park. Combining nature with culture, it offers things like wildlife and Mayan shows.
Swimming with Dolphins is always a family favorite! Experiencing the crystal-clear water with these friendly animals is something you won’t forget.
And of course, beach days! On Playa del Carmen’s pristine sands, families can relax and make memories.
Food
If you love food, Quintana Roo is the place. Give these local dishes a try:
Sopa de Lima: A Yucatán lime soup full of flavor.
Ceviche: Fresh and zesty seafood.
Tacos al Pastor: Meaty and tasty.
Drink
Cool down with:
Margaritas: Best enjoyed while watching the Caribbean sunset.
Agua de Jamaica: A sweet, tangy hibiscus drink.
Xtabentún: A traditional Mayan liquor with honey and anise (my husband’s fave!).
Best Photo Ops
Tulum: Mayan ruins meet the beach.
Isla Mujeres: Beautiful turquoise water and charming streets.
Cozumel: Local culture and the wonders of the sea.
Unique Souvenirs
Mayan Handicrafts: From wooden art to textiles.
Gourmet Mexican Chocolate: Smooth and rich.
Local Silver Jewelry: Elegant reminders of your trip.
Money
The currency in Mexico is the Mexican Peso. One peso equals one hundred centavos. It’s written as $, but to avoid confusion with the U.S. dollar, it may be MX$. Sometimes, you might see “MN” after the amount, such as $100 MN. MN means Moneda Nacional, or National Currency. You’ll find bank notes in 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1,000 peso amounts. The 50, 100, and 200 peso notes are the most common.
Businesses that cater to tourists, especially in resort towns, often list prices in U.S. dollars, so they use DLLS for dollars and M.N. or M.X.P. for Mexican Pesos. Getting change can be tricky. It’s hard to find small bills and coins, so start collecting them early.
Credit Cards
Generally speaking, Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are widely accepted credit cards throughout Mexico. You should find it relatively easy to use these cards, particularly in larger cities and tourist hotspots.
Debit Cards
Major debit cards are accepted at many retail establishments throughout Mexico. Purchases are typically charged in Mexican pesos, and your bank will then convert the charge to your local currency. You will then be charged the equivalent amount.
ATM
ATMs are common throughout Mexico. For security, try to use ATMs located at actual bank branches rather than stand-alone kiosks on the street. Its also best to avoid using ATMs at convenience stores where possible. This helps ensure the ATM is monitored and safer, reducing the risk of accidentally withdrawing counterfeit currency, an issue that can occur. While each bank levies different fees for foreign card withdrawals, you can generally expect a fee of around $5. One way to avoid this fee is to open an account with HSBC or Santander, as these banks have branches in Mexico and may not charge withdrawal fees.
Gratuity
While tipping is technically optional at all-inclusive resorts, it’s always welcomed. How much you tip is up to your discretion and comfort. I recommend the following guidelines:
Housekeeping: $5 per day.
Wait staff: Roughly $1 per couple at buffets and $5 per couple for a la carte meals.
Butler service: Expect $10–$25 per day for satisfactory service, and $25–$50 for great service.
Bartender: $1-2 per round.
Consider a small tip for bellhops, transportation staff, and excursion providers.
Climate
Quintana Roo offers a picturesque seasonal experience. The region has a rainy season, which generally runs from May to October, and a dry season from November to April. Even with these seasons, the temperatures remain consistently pleasant, usually ranging from a balmy 70°F to a warm 90°F, and the average humidity hovers around 70%.
Dry Season (November to April): The dry season is ideal for activities like beach lounging, snorkeling, and cultural exploration. Enjoy warm, sunny days with cool, breezy evenings, perfect for outdoor adventures.
Rainy Season (May to October): Expect tropical showers during this period, but they tend to be brief.
Escape the Heat: Though Quintana Roo is known for its tropical climate, breezes from the Caribbean can provide a welcome respite from the heat.
If you are traveling in late summer and fall, it is advisable to buy travel insurance; hurricanes are a potential risk. TBH: it’s always prudent to have travel insurance, regardless of your destination or time of year.
Electricity
In Mexico, the power sockets are type A and B. The standard voltage is 127V, and the standard frequency is 60 Hz.
Technology & Communication
Quintana Roo has a well-developed telecommunications infrastructure. Mobile connectivity is widespread, with 3G and 4G being available, and LTE being more readily available.
High-speed internet is available in Quintana Roo, but consider using your resort’s Wi-Fi network. For internet access outside the resort, I recommend a VPN for data security.
Language
Spanish is the primary language; however, the indigenous heritage of Quintana Roo is reflected in local dialects. Yucatec Maya is spoken by descendants of the Maya.
English is commonly understood, particularly in tourist destinations like Cancun and Playa del Carmen due to the bustling tourism sector.
Learning some basic Spanish or Mayan phrases enriches interactions and demonstrates respect for the local culture. Consider learning these helpful phrases:
“Gracias” (Thank you)
“Por favor” (Please)
“¿Cómo estás?” (How are you?)
“Bix a beel?” (How are you? in Yucatec Maya)
LGBT Travel
Quintana Roo is a mostly progressive and inclusive destination for LGBT travelers. It should be noted that same-sex marriage is legally recognized in the region. Quintana Roo’s laws demonstrate a clear commitment to both equality and inclusion. Discrimination rooted in sexual orientation is strictly prohibited, thus creating a safe and welcoming environment for every visitor.
In popular destinations such as Cancun and Playa del Carmen, the LGBT community is vibrant and thriving. You’ll discover diverse venues, exciting events, and supportive local businesses aplenty. Visitors can partake in a wide array of LGBT-friendly bars, clubs, and special events celebrating diversity.
While the conservative influences of the Catholic Church remain somewhat apparent, they are counterbalanced by a general atmosphere of tolerance and warm hospitality. Local attitudes generally lean towards openness and respect. The community spirit embraces individuals from all walks of life.
Religion
Catholic Christianity continues as a key aspect of spiritual life in Quintana Roo, mirroring the broader Catholic majority found throughout Mexico.
Though Catholicism is definitely prominent, Quintana Roo is also seeing increasing spiritual diversity, similar to much of the rest of Mexico. Various other Christian denominations, notably Protestant communities and Mormon groups, are contributing to this ever-evolving religious scene.
Religious festivals and community events are common in Quintana Roo, ranging from significant Catholic holidays to more localized patron saint celebrations. These events draw people from varied backgrounds together, blending spiritual devotion with cultural unity.
Getting There
Cancun International Airport serves as the region’s primary aerial gateway, handling numerous flights from major US cities daily.
Several cruise lines frequently stop along Quintana Roo’s beautiful Caribbean coastline, specifically in Cozumel and Playa del Carmen.
Travelers driving into Mexico from the United States must present their original, current car registration. Along with that, they’ll need their current driver’s license to secure a permit. This permit remains valid for the duration of your visit, or up to 180 days. Paying for this with a credit card is generally advisable for both convenience and security. Crucially, Mexican car insurance is essential, as extensions of US policies aren’t accepted.
Traveler taxes, resort fees, and visa stuff for U.S. citizens
Visas
U.S. citizens aren’t required to get a Visa for travel within Mexico. A valid U.S. passport is necessary, and it needs to be valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date.
Cancun Visitax
It’s smart to pay this before you head out. The VisiTAX is indeed mandatory. Once paid, it’s synched with your passport, so no need to print or download proof. Expect to pay around $20.99 per person. You can prepay the VisiTAX online, should you want to.
Mexico’s Tourist Card
Previously, all US visitors had to complete this form before arrival. However, it isn’t currently enforced at Cancun Airport, but, if you want, you can fill it out here – just in case. It’s also free.
Mexico Exit Tax
If you are flying or cruising, it’s already part of your fare.
Quintana Roo Sanitation Tax
Quintana Roo now levies a sanitation tax of 32.57 MXN (approximately $2.50 USD) per room, per night. This “Eco tax” isn’t typically included in your vacation costs and is usually collected directly at your hotel.
Electronic Device Restrictions
(Heads up: October 2024, Cancun Airport supposedly will not be enforcing this.) Mexico maintains fairly strict regulations concerning how many electronic devices one can bring in tax-free. Importing more than the allowed amount will likely mean import duties – potentially up to 19% of the device’s estimated worth.
Allowed Devices:
One (1) portable computing device (think laptop, notebook, or tablet) per traveler.
Three (3) cell phones are permissible.
And one (1) GPS, camera, or portable printer.
Handy Tips for Travel Abroad
Always carry printed copies of essential travel reservations; don’t solely rely on your phone to show proof.
Leave copies of your official government-issued travel documents with someone trusted back home; they can forward the info if needed. For securing your checked luggage, TSA-approved locks or straps are a good idea.
Importantly, keep all essential medications, sentimental valuables, or costly jewelry in your carry-on bag.
Wedding attire, such as gowns and tuxedos, should never be checked, but always hand-carried.
Most resorts offer Wi-Fi access. However, for internet browsing outside the resort, using a VPN is advisable for security.
Avoid carrying resort-branded bags or water bottles into town. Scammers sometimes pose as resort staff. Keeping your wristband discreet can also help. Opt for guided tours from reputable Destination Management Companies, bookable through platforms like Viator. Typically, all-inclusive resorts have a preferred DMC right in the lobby.
Valuables and important documents should be locked in your room safe. Take a picture as a record of the contents.
Stick to bottled water exclusively. A growing number of resorts are providing water bottle filling stations. If sickness occurs, see the on-site doctor. Don’t let it spoil your trip by toughing it out.
See if your resort offers a mobile app. These apps often provide quick access to the front desk, resort navigation, and dinner reservations. Iberostar Resorts, for instance, has a user-friendly app.
Thank you for exploring “The Ultimate Mexican riviera Travel Guide,” I am glad to welcome you to your unforgettable Caribbean Moments in Quintana Roo! 🏝️
