Cancun, Mexico: Make a Yucatan Splash
This one-time, foam party hot-spot, now sophisticated lady is back
to its post-card perfect, lovin'-life ways.
Good to know: The Cancun Hotel Zone sits on an island connected
by two bridges. Busses travel up and down this strip all day long to
take travelers from hotel to hotel, and if you are looking for the most
action, it is best to start in the northeast corner. After the busses
stop at night, it is easy to get around by taxi cab.
Where the locals go: While it may be hard to pry yourself away
from blue lagoons, tequila bars, and Caribbean beaches, head outside the
Hotel Zone to downtown Cancun for a glimpse into a more authentic
version of Mexico. Along Tulum Avenue, a souvenir-filled flea market
flourishes with handicrafts. And you won't go hungry on Jaxchilan
Avenue, where La Paria, Perritos, and La Placita serve up tacos and
quesadillas with a smile.
Spring break lives on: For a booze cruise with a fun pirate
twist, walk the plank to Captain Hook's Pirate Adventure. When you take
off from Playa Linda in a replica of an 18th century pirate's galleon
ship, the "pirates" will welcome you aboard with a hearty "ahoy." Be
sure to pillage and plunder the open bar and stay out of the way during
the sword fight. Aarrgh...
Get out of dodge: Take the ferry to Isla Mujeres, rent a scooter,
and spend the day breezing along the island's 11 scenic kilometers while
sampling beaches, Cancun views, and Mexican flavors. Although Isla
Mujeres means "island of women," men are more than welcome. At night,
impromptu beach parties erupt on white sands beneath the stars.
Place we love, even if it's touristy: It's worth pulling yourself
away from the hotel pool for Xcaret. By day, it teems with watery
adventures, like swimming with dolphins and snorkeling along a
spectacular underground river so clear, it's crystal. At night, enjoy
dinner and a riveting show filled with Mexican music and dance, both
ancient and modern, including a fiery version of hockey that'll leave
you on the edge of your seat.
Local tipple: Tequila! There's the Margarita on the rocks or
blended, with or without salt. Orange juice and grenadine make the
Tequila Sunrise a sweeter potion, and we think they taste just as
splendid at sunset. And there's always the Slammer: simply lick salt,
throw back a shot, and suck a lemon until all worries disappear. Feeling
brave? You know you secretly want to try the worm--now's your chance.
Editor's Cancun Picks
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