As of July 1, Mexico is one of the few countries open to American travelers. If you are looking for a quick and safe getaway, the state of Quintana Roo is the perfect place.
As one of the country’s more touristy areas, Quintana Roo is made up of Cancun, Riviera Maya, and Tulum. Most travelers fly into Cancun International Airport (CUN) and then travel by car to one of the main cities in the area.
From the airport to downtown Tulum, it is about a 90-minute drive. Riviera Maya is a little closer at just around 1-hour and 10 minutes. If you are looking to travel to the area now, or even in the future there are a few things that you will want to add to your must-do list.
Here are 5 things that we think every traveler visiting the area should do:
UNICO 20˚87˚ Hotel Riviera Maya is an adults-only, all-inclusive resort perfect for anyone looking for the right amount of relaxation. A unique feature that can be found at the resort is the hydro spa tubs on the balcony of some of the rooms.
Your personal room attendant will fill the tub, complete with bubbles and bath salts, to your desired temperature after spending a long day out in the sun. Be sure to order a glass of champagne or two, as well as a fruit tray for the ultimate spa experience while overlooking the blue Mexican waters.
Oh, and if you’re up to it, don’t forget your camera.
A cenote is a natural pool that forms when the roof of an underground cavern collapses. There are dozens of cenotes in the Quintana Roo area and each one brings its own unique glimpse into nature.
There is typically a small entrance fee of around $5-$10, and it allows you access onto the property for the day. Some cenotes will also include a life jacket in the price, especially for those who want to take part in cliff diving if offered.
If you do plan to visit, it is recommended to take a pair of water shoes since there are large rocks at the bottom of the pools. Also, keep in mind that bug spray and sunscreen are not allowed once you enter the water. It is said that the two items pollute the natural water.
If you love murals and colors in general, you will love downtown Tulum. The area is a backpacker hangout filled with tons of bars, hostels, and small shops.
As you walk some of the side streets, you will find amazing murals inspired by Mayan culture. Take your time and don’t be afraid to get lost wandering down some of the streets, you never know what you will find.
While many people enjoy calming sounds or even complete silence during their spa treatments, Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya is doing something a little different.
The Rock Spa experience incorporates music and sound vibration into your treatment, whether you opt for a massage, facial, or even body wrap.
During your session, you get lost in the music playing overhead as the table pulses to the rhythms of your song, which adds an extra layer to things.
This is technically two different things, but they both can be done in Tulum. Nearly every other shop on the main road in downtown Tulum allows you to rent bicycles or motorbikes. Prices are fairly reasonable and you can spend hours cruising on two wheels as you explore.
Once you work up your appetite, stop by one of the many bars with swings for chairs. Yes, you can casually swing as you sip on a margarita, beer, or mojito.
Related: Mexico Plans On Opening Tourism Hotspot — Cancun, Los Cabos, Riviera Maya In June
