Where to Stay in Mexico: An Expert Guide

Mexico is a country full of culture, history, and stunning beaches. From the bustling city of Mexico City to the picturesque beaches of the Riviera Maya, there is something for everyone in this vibrant country. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or an adventure-filled vacation, Mexico has it all. But with so many places to choose from, it can be hard to decide where to stay.

To help you out, we've put together an expert guide to the best places to stay in Mexico. Playa del Carmen is located about 35 miles south of Cancun and has undergone a radical transformation over the past twenty years. It's now a cosmopolitan and lively city with a variety of entertainment and accommodations ranging from relaxed to sophisticated. The Fifth Avenue pedestrian street (5th Avenue) is one block west of the beach and runs parallel to it. This is the main promenade, and when the sun goes down, it's always crowded with tourists flocking to its souvenir shops, bars, dance clubs and restaurants or just taking a walk along the lively walkway that stretches for about five kilometers. A little further south of Playa del Carmen is an exclusive tourist development called Playacar, where most of the all-inclusive resorts in the area are located.

Travelers wishing to visit Isla Mujeres or Cozumel for a day trip or longer stay can take the ferry at the ferry dock in Playa del Carmen. Puerto Vallarta was first brought to the world's attention in the 1960s by Hollywood stars Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, and it maintains a strong appeal among vacationers today. The city's preferred location in picturesque Banderas Bay and its cobblestone streets, white-walled houses, wrought-iron balconies and red-tile roofs give it its signature look. There are many things to do in Puerto Vallarta, from zip-lining through the jungle to visiting beautiful botanical gardens, taking a walk along the Malecón (boardwalk) and enjoying the spectacular sunsets. This is a perfect destination for a romantic getaway and one of the best dining destinations in Mexico. The most impressive beach in Mexico is located in the heart of the Riviera Maya: Tulum.

It comprises a fascinating archaeological site, a hotel zone and the city of Tulum. Accommodations in Tulum range from rustic cabins to modern boutique hotels and large all-inclusive hotels. Those looking for a romantic beach getaway will find some lovely spots for a romantic retreat here. Tulum is also an excellent destination for those interested in participating in ecological adventures. It has cenotes nearby, and the archaeological site of Cobá isn't far away, so you'll find plenty to keep you busy.

Mazatlan is a well-established tourist destination on Mexico's Pacific coast in Sinaloa that maintains its Mexican traditions and atmosphere. Visitors can experience an authentic mix of culture and history within a modern destination. Stroll through the old town of Mazatlán to learn about its history, then head to the Golden Zone to see beautiful beaches, trendy restaurants and nightclubs. Known worldwide as a sport fishing destination, visitors can enjoy surfing, horseback riding, mountain biking, bird watching and golf in Mazatlan, as well as sunbathing and swimming along its 16 miles of golden beaches. This is an important port of call for cruises on the Mexican Riviera, but it's definitely worth coming and staying for a while. There are only a few all-inclusive resorts on the island; Iberostar Cozumel offers relaxed comfort and diving excursions from its dock. Huatulco is a beach destination on the Pacific coast of Mexico in the state of Oaxaca with nine bays and 36 beaches, many of which are protected as part of Bahias de Huatulco National Park.

Most beaches have calm blue-green waters. Tangolunda Bay is where travelers will find top-notch resorts such as Las Brisas Huatulco and one of the best golf courses on the Pacific Coast. Its biodiversity and pristine landscapes make Huatulco a magnificent place to observe flora and fauna on land and in the sea. This was one of the destinations selected for tourism development by the Mexican government; however, for some reason it hasn't been as developed as others so you'll find plenty of pristine beaches and natural areas to explore here. Acapulco was Mexico's top beach destination from 1950s until Cancun surpassed it in 1980s. It has nostalgic appeal as people remember Hollywood stars who used to go on vacation here and Elvis Presley movie Fun in Acapulco.

This remains one of Mexico's most popular tourist areas and favorite destination for spring break tourists with an uninterrupted nightlife, excellent shopping malls and restaurants. This vibrant port city is bustling 24 hours a day; however there's more to do than just enjoy beaches and clubs. You can watch now iconic cliff divers perform their death-defying jumps from La Quebrada or learn about area's history as important port during colonial period at Fort San Diego. The best beaches in Cancun and Riviera Maya are located in Quintana Roo which is part of Yucatan Peninsula with spectacular Caribbean coast and scattering incredible Mayan ruins. Home to famous beach vacation destinations such as Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Cozumel and Tulum; interior jungle of Quintana Roo has some wonderful Maya-Mexican communities as well as spectacular old views of Coba. Yucatan is northern part of peninsula where you'll find Mérida which is region's jungle colonial cultural capital; Valladolid is other big city from Spanish colonial era in Yucatan besides being beautiful in its own right; it's also closest city to Chichén Itzá which is largest most famous Mayan ruin in Yucatan included in list New Seven Wonders World. If you're wondering where stay Mexico City this in-depth analysis all major neighborhoods will help you make informed decision; best places stay Centro Historico best places stay Mexico City Polanco. From beautiful parks art galleries it's easy see why this one Mexico City's best neighborhoods; it's full glittering skyscrapers but doesn't lend itself traditional Mexican atmosphere like other parts city.

Léa Payamps
Léa Payamps

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