Mexico

Mexico Travel Tips

Mexico is practically a paradise here on earth. There’s something for every traveler, whether you’re dreaming of soaking up the sun, snorkeling with tropical fish, immersing yourself in history, or enjoying a private tequila tasting. That said, different destinations in Mexico definitely offer travelers different types of experiences so make sure you do your research. A trip to Cancun can be very different from a vacation in Los Cabos, and Punta Mita has a totally distinct vibe all its own.

Visiting Cancun might just be the best option if you’re on the east coast and looking for a direct flight. It’s where you’ll find the brilliant turquoise waters most of us are looking for when we head south of the border, and most of the hotels are either right on or very close to the beach. These are the perfect beaches for kids – the water is calm and clear and warm.

Cabo (which includes both Cabo San Lucas and San Jose Del Cabo as well as the 20-mile stretch of resort corridor between the two) has its share of oceanfront resorts, but the water is a bit rougher there and there is a strong undertow so don’t expect to do a lot of swimming unless you head over to Medina Beach. It has a reputation for being a party town, but it’s actually one of the best destinations in the world for seeing marine life.

And Puna Mita? This 1,500-acre private peninsula in the Riviera Nayarit is the kind of place where dreams come true.

Honestly, there’s no wrong way to experience Mexico, and wherever you touch down, you’re going to have an amazing time. It’s one of my favorite places in the world, and I hope that our travels will inspire you to visit this beautiful nation (and maybe post a few photos with Mexican travel hashtags along the way).

Traveling with Kids in Mexico

When you visit Mexico with your children for the first time, you may be surprised at how welcoming people are. So many attractions and restaurants are child-friendly because family is such an important part of Mexican culture. Families here spend time together often, and children are especially loved. They even have their own special holiday – Día Del Niño (or children’s day) on April 30th – which is often a school holiday. Naturally, they receive gifts and treats.

I’ve written about what to expect on a Disney® cruise to Mexico before, and it’s definitely a great way to see the country if you’re traveling from the west coast. That said, older children will probably get the most out of a trip to Mexico because this is definitely a culturally rich destination with a lot of history to enjoy. You can absolutely visit Mexico just for the beaches, and there are plenty of things to do in Mexico City for kids (like Kidzania, a city in miniature run by kids), but big kids will also enjoy eco tours, museums, and learning about traditional ways of life still practiced today.

Some of My Favorite Spots in Mexico

Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City

You simply cannot do better in most cases than a Four Seasons hotel for five-star service, beautiful rooms, and excellent food. I’m not the easiest guest to please when it comes to hotels, but we have loved staying in the Four Seasons Hotel Mexico.

Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos

The Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos is an all-inclusive luxury resort less than two hours by plane from San Diego. The philosophy is simple – elevate the all-inclusive experience into something worlds apart from what you’ll find elsewhere. Is that a lofty goal? Yes, but Hyatt has absolutely met and I’d even say exceeded that goal.

Mexico City

This is one of our favorite destinations. Mexico City is full of delicious food, rich history, interesting shopping opportunities, parks, and markets. Chances are good that you’ll encounter someone who speaks some English most places you’ll go but brush up on your Spanish, just in case.

Anthropology Museum Mexico City

The National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City (Museo Nacional de Antropologica) is absolutely worth a visit. Kids seem to love the gory parts of Aztec and Mayan history, though there’s so much more to Mexico’s past here, from ancient calendars to beautiful murals and statues. We think it’s one of the best museums in the world.

Piramides Cerca de Mexico City

You probably know the famous piramides de teotihuacan by sight, if not by name. The Temple of Quetzalcoatl, the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon, and the Avenue of the Dead in Teotihuacan were built during the 1st and 7th centuries A.D. and you won’t be sorry you visited these iconic landmarks – even if your legs are sore for days after climbing the steep steps to the tops of the pyramids.

Coronado Islands Mexico

The history of these islands includes piracy, gambling, and smuggling, but today the Coronado Islands are a Mexican wildlife refuge where animals like gulls, cormorants, pelicans, rattlesnakes, elephant seals, and sea lions live around the pylons where there was once a casino. It’s illegal to land on the island, but you can dive, snorkel, and fish near the shore.

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