A flight to Cancun, Mexico, lends itself to more vacation options than you think. Famous for its hotels and crystal blue water, Cancun can be an ideal spot to rest and relax on the sands of Mexico, margarita in one hand, not-so-lost shaker of salt in another. But there’s more to do in Mexico than lounge beachside by day and party at night. Other options exist, so on my most recent trip I took a journey south of Cancun to explore Tulum.
Tulum, famous for a city that flourished during the 14th century as a Mayan outpost on the sea, affords more than a chance to stroll among ancient edifices and temples of its ruins. A growing main street and town center along with quaint eco-friendly cabanas along its pristine coastline offers a more relaxed atmosphere for tourists. Plus, in Tulum you can put on your bathing suit, mask and fins and set out to explore the underwater caves and sink holes called Cenotes.
Cenotes are fossilized coral and limestone that dissolved to form one of the largest networks caverns in the world. They were formed underground thousands of years ago and were once held sacred by the Mayan culture. Rain and erosion over time caused the roofs of the underground caverns to collapse and form sink holes that now reach the surface, and are available for adventure-seekers to scope out.
To date, over 6,000 Cenotes have been discovered in Mexico and they are starting to attract more tourists. These Mayan swim holes provide for a unique underwater experience – the feeling of swimming through caves. Whether you choose to snorkel or just swim, the consistent 78 degree turquoise water provides for a refreshing dip for all looking to escape the hot Mexican sun.
In town, some tourists chose to rent bikes and snorkel gear, and set out to explore the region on their own. For those with limited time, you can also hire a guide from a hotel to take you on a tour. Entrance fees are less than $1 USD and a guide will include your gear and transportation from $30 for a half-day. Negotiations are acceptable in this part of the country, so sharpen your bargaining skills and see if you can’t get a few extra hours underwater.
Traveler's Tip: If you do decide to explore the Cenotes on your own, make sure you rent, buy, or bring an underwater flashlight. The light provides excellent views of stalactites and stalagmites that can take your breath away.
Mexico Hotels in Tulum: I stayed at the eco-friendly CabanasCopal and selected an ocean front bungalow without electricity (but with running water) for under $100 USD a night. Tulum does offer cheaper options such as Zazilkin, a popular place with backpackers that offers cabanas for $40 USD per night.
Flights to Cancun: Flights to Cancun (CUN) remain cheap. You can purchase non-stop Cancun flights from almost any US city. Right now, a round-trip Cancun ticket from New York is $260 USD.
Once you arrive in the Cancun airport (CUN) airport you can take the bus to Tulum. The 3-hour ride includes a transfer in Playa del Carmen and will cost you just under $10 USD.
© Cheapflights Ltd Craig Zabransky
