Photo by Guillermo Aldana Click on the image for larger version

Cancun is comprised of three distinct but integrated areas: the city of Cancun, a boomtown of 500,000 people, popular for shopping, dining and less expenses accommodations; the ecological reserve with lovely mangroves and lagoons; and the resort zone, an island. The island-shaped city has an unmatched infrastructure with some of the best hotel chains in the world lined up on its strip, offering luxury and comfort in a perfect Caribbean setting. Its contemporary lodging facilities welcomes several business conventions throughout the year; and its cosmopolitan offering includes plazas and large shopping malls with handicrafts from all over the country, leather articles, tobacco and imported goods.

Photo by Bruce Herman Click on the image for larger version

When it comes to archaeological sites and historical flashbacks of the Mayan culture, Cancun has it all. Major attractions include fascinating Mayan ruins both in Quintana Roo State, as well as the neighboring state of Yucatan – home to the Mayan pyramids of Chichen-Itza. The Cancun Museum displays pieces from several Mayan archaeological sites. El Rey and El Meco also showcase dramatic ruins of the Mayan culture, as well as San Gervasio, on Cozumel Island, a short trip away from Cancun.

Within driving distance of the city, travelers can find several natural reserves such as the Riviera Maya eco-archaeological sites of Xcaret and Xel-ha, which offer breathtaking cenotes (sinkholes), clear-water lagoons, river rapids and forest walks.

Cuisine is another major component of Cancún’s unique offering. The wide varieties of exotic dishes of Mayan origin are distinguished by their use of condiments found in the region. A selection of fish, along with chirmole, papatz tzul, relleno negro and cochinita pibil are only some of the dishes you can savor at the many restaurants in the state of Quintana Roo.

When the Caribbean sun goes down, the intense Cancun nightlife begins and continues well into dawn. Its nightclubs and discotheques offer all kinds of music, as well as some of the finest Mexican and imported drinks. Those looking for a celebration on the water can head to party cruises that offer dinner, drinks and music while you sail along the bay and Laguna Nichupte.

The excitement never ends in Cancun. The list of sights to see and activities to engage in are undoubtedly endless in this Mexican paradise, and its gorgeous, white sand beaches on the Caribbean Sea are ideal for a sun-kissed vacation.