{"id":3128,"date":"2025-09-17T18:46:02","date_gmt":"2025-09-17T17:46:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/?p=3128"},"modified":"2025-09-18T17:48:23","modified_gmt":"2025-09-18T16:48:23","slug":"10-of-the-most-beautiful-places-to-visit-in-mexico","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/destinations\/north-america\/10-of-the-most-beautiful-places-to-visit-in-mexico\/","title":{"rendered":"19 Most Breathtaking Places to Explore in Mexico"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Mexico is home to some of the most stunning beauty spots in the world! After many trips exploring beyond the big-name resorts, I uncovered hidden coastlines, ancient ruins, and extraordinary islands. Let me take you through my absolute favorite gems&#8230;.<\/p>\n<h2>1. Yucat\u00e1n Peninsula<\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-686427\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Yucata%CC%81n-Peninsula-Beach.jpg?resize=1000%2C662&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Yucatan Peninsula Beach\" width=\"1000\" height=\"662\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Yucata%CC%81n-Peninsula-Beach.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Yucata%CC%81n-Peninsula-Beach.jpg?resize=640%2C424&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Yucata%CC%81n-Peninsula-Beach.jpg?resize=768%2C508&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Yucata%CC%81n-Peninsula-Beach.jpg?resize=150%2C99&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Yucatan-Peninsula-Architecture.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Yucatan-Peninsula-Architecture.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Yucatan-Peninsula-Architecture.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Yucatan-Peninsula-Architecture.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Yucatan-Peninsula-Architecture.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Yucatan-Peninsula-Architecture.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Yucatan-Peninsula-Architecture.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Yucatan-Peninsula-Architecture.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Yucatan-Peninsula-Architecture.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-767154 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Yucatan Peninsula\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-686429\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Yucata%CC%81n-Peninsula-Cenotes.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Cenotes in Mexico\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Yucata%CC%81n-Peninsula-Cenotes.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Yucata%CC%81n-Peninsula-Cenotes.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Yucata%CC%81n-Peninsula-Cenotes.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Yucata%CC%81n-Peninsula-Cenotes.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Yucata%CC%81n-Peninsula-Cenotes.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Yucata%CC%81n-Peninsula-Cenotes.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_775854\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-775854\" style=\"width: 594px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-Playa-de-Carmen-taken-January-2025.webp 604w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-Playa-de-Carmen-taken-January-2025.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 604px) 100vw, 604px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-Playa-de-Carmen-taken-January-2025.jpg?resize=604%2C453&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"453\" width=\"604\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-Playa-de-Carmen-taken-January-2025.jpg?w=604&amp;ssl=1 604w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-Playa-de-Carmen-taken-January-2025.jpg?resize=150%2C113&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 604px) 100vw, 604px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-775854 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"My photo of Playa de Carmen taken January 2025\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-775854\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My photo of Playa del Carmen &#8211; the coastal views was so Insta-worthy!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p data-start=\"106\" data-end=\"384\">I completely fell for the Yucat\u00e1n Peninsula\u2019s beauty \u2014 unique limestone landscapes, pristine beaches, and jungle-hidden cenotes made it unforgettable. I flew into Canc\u00fan, I hopped in a colectivo for the 1.5-hour run down Highway 307 to Playa del Carmen where I spent two weeks.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"386\" data-end=\"597\">I split my stay between the trendy 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/mx\/hm-playa-del-carmen.en-gb.html?aid=303946&amp;label=playa-del-carmen-JqepLyk9HO0myiG7YFvKgQS255701142365%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap%3Aneg%3Afi%3Atikwd-23816203%3Alp9046549%3Ali%3Adec%3Adm%3Appccp%3DUmFuZG9tSVYkc2RlIyh9Ye7BFAsTyVd6olzyFZA51Co&amp;sid=4274172f281076882b3862f76e5d7b6b&amp;dest_id=-1689065&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=5&amp;hpos=5&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1753987985&amp;srpvid=00bd84bfaa1a0667&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">HM Playa del Carmen<\/a> and the boho-chic 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.uk\/Tulum-Hotels-Era-Hotel-SPA-Tulum.h36173067.Hotel-Information\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Era Hotel &amp; Spa Tulum<\/a>, loving the lush courtyards, spa vibe, and Riviera Maya\u2019s effortlessly glam resorts and yacht-filled coast.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"599\" data-end=\"860\">I swam in magical cenotes (Gran Cenote\u2019s turquoise waters and hanging vines were my favorite!), explored breathtaking <a href=\"https:\/\/www.alltrails.com\/en-gb\/mexico\/yucatan\/national-parks\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">national parks<\/a>, spotted cute dolphins on a boat tour, and celebrated the colorful Day of the Dead in M\u00e9rida with glowing marigolds, candles, and hauntingly beautiful parades.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Location: <\/b>on the&nbsp;southeastern tip of Mexico, extending between the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Yucat%C3%A1n+Peninsula\/@19.5689175,-91.7670233,7z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x8f59e3c0b627dc33:0x30ae11a8a469643!8m2!3d18.806656!4d-89.3985283!16zL20vMDRsenM4?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map and Directions<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Wildlife:<\/strong> Dolphins, tropical fish, howler monkeys<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>My favorite highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p2\">Dining in the chic <a href=\"https:\/\/www.kuukrestaurant.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Kuuk Restaurant<\/a> housed in a restored colonial mansion, the cold tart-sweet raspberry and hibiscus soup was a stand-out!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>2. Oaxaca City<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_775856\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-775856\" style=\"width: 1982px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-Oaxaca-City-taken-in-December-2024.webp 1992w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-Oaxaca-City-taken-in-December-2024.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-Oaxaca-City-taken-in-December-2024.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-Oaxaca-City-taken-in-December-2024.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-Oaxaca-City-taken-in-December-2024.webp 1536w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-Oaxaca-City-taken-in-December-2024.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-Oaxaca-City-taken-in-December-2024.jpeg?resize=1200%2C799&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"799\" width=\"1200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-Oaxaca-City-taken-in-December-2024.jpeg?w=1992&amp;ssl=1 1992w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-Oaxaca-City-taken-in-December-2024.jpeg?resize=640%2C426&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-Oaxaca-City-taken-in-December-2024.jpeg?resize=1000%2C666&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-Oaxaca-City-taken-in-December-2024.jpeg?resize=768%2C511&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-Oaxaca-City-taken-in-December-2024.jpeg?resize=1536%2C1022&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-Oaxaca-City-taken-in-December-2024.jpeg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-775856 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"My photo of Oaxaca City taken in December 2024\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-775856\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My photo of Oaxaca City taken &#8211; I loved the colorful colonial buildings, peaceful vibe, and those stunning mountains in the background!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<figure id=\"attachment_775857\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-775857\" style=\"width: 974px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-my-food-in-El-Destilado-in-Oaxaca-City-taken-in-December-2024.webp 984w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-my-food-in-El-Destilado-in-Oaxaca-City-taken-in-December-2024.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-my-food-in-El-Destilado-in-Oaxaca-City-taken-in-December-2024.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-my-food-in-El-Destilado-in-Oaxaca-City-taken-in-December-2024.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 984px) 100vw, 984px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-my-food-in-El-Destilado-in-Oaxaca-City-taken-in-December-2024.jpeg?resize=984%2C656&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"656\" width=\"984\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-my-food-in-El-Destilado-in-Oaxaca-City-taken-in-December-2024.jpeg?w=984&amp;ssl=1 984w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-my-food-in-El-Destilado-in-Oaxaca-City-taken-in-December-2024.jpeg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-my-food-in-El-Destilado-in-Oaxaca-City-taken-in-December-2024.jpeg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-my-food-in-El-Destilado-in-Oaxaca-City-taken-in-December-2024.jpeg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 984px) 100vw, 984px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-775857 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"My photo of my food in El Destilado in Oaxaca City taken in December 2024\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-775857\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My photo of my food in El Destilado in Oaxaca City &#8211; I loved the bold flavors, creative presentation, and cozy atmosphere!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<figure id=\"attachment_775858\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-775858\" style=\"width: 990px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-Artisans-in-Oaxaca-City-taken-in-December-2024.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-Artisans-in-Oaxaca-City-taken-in-December-2024.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-Artisans-in-Oaxaca-City-taken-in-December-2024.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-Artisans-in-Oaxaca-City-taken-in-December-2024.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-Artisans-in-Oaxaca-City-taken-in-December-2024.jpeg?resize=1000%2C668&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"668\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-Artisans-in-Oaxaca-City-taken-in-December-2024.jpeg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-Artisans-in-Oaxaca-City-taken-in-December-2024.jpeg?resize=640%2C428&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-Artisans-in-Oaxaca-City-taken-in-December-2024.jpeg?resize=768%2C513&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/My-photo-of-Artisans-in-Oaxaca-City-taken-in-December-2024.jpeg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"size-full wp-image-775858 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"My photo of Artisans in Oaxaca City taken in December 2024\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-775858\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">My photo of Artisans &#8211; I loved seeing their skill up close as they hand-wove vibrant textiles on traditional looms!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p data-start=\"113\" data-end=\"442\">I absolutely loved Oaxaca City \u2013 its colorful colonial architecture, bustling artisan markets, and mountain backdrop made it one of the most attractive and soulful cities I&#8217;d come across in the country. I flew into Oaxaca International Airport, took a 20-minute taxi past scenic mountain views, and stayed for an idyllic week in the historic center.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"444\" data-end=\"665\">I adored its bohemian, small-town vibe where tradition meets creativity \u2013 cobblestone streets lined with striking street art, the sound of live music drifting from plazas, and delicious mezcal tastings.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"667\" data-end=\"1023\">I was pleased to discover it was a foodie&#8217;s paradise and I made the most of it &#8211; I explored the artisan-filled market, joined a vegetarian <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/en-gb\/oaxaca-de-juarez-l681\/oaxaca-vegetarian-cooking-class-with-market-tour-t400851\/?ranking_uuid=3668e85a-24c0-4244-a08d-10278813b6e0\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">cooking class<\/a>, and dined at trendy <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/eldestilado\/?hl=en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">El Destilado<\/a>, savoring a rich, spicy mole made with chillies, peanuts, sesame seeds, and anise. I also squeezed in exploring deserted white-sand beaches, misty forests, and hidden waterfalls \u2013 the scenery was just as enchanting as the city!<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Location: <\/b>in a valley in the southern part of this country.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Oaxaca,+Mexico\/@17.0815992,-96.7749558,13z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x85c72249df26d9b1:0xac88a77657dffc3b!8m2!3d17.0731842!4d-96.7265889!16zL20vMDFibDB2?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map and Directions<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><em><strong>My personal highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Staying at 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/uk.hotels.com\/ho2641044544\/majagua-hotel-boutique-oaxaca-mexico\/?chkin=2025-10-01&amp;chkout=2025-10-02&amp;x_pwa=1&amp;rfrr=HSR&amp;pwa_ts=1758198299179&amp;referrerUrl=aHR0cHM6Ly91ay5ob3RlbHMuY29tL0hvdGVsLVNlYXJjaA%3D%3D&amp;rffrid=sem.hcom.GB.156.003.localuniversal.02.desktop-4.kwrd%3DGGMETA.82501392GBen-20250930-D-ABW%3D12-camp%3D20254680863-aud%3D-N&amp;useRewards=false&amp;rm1=a2&amp;regionId=2631&amp;destination=Oaxaca%2C+Oaxaca%2C+Mexico&amp;destType=MARKET&amp;neighborhoodId=553248635976399573&amp;selected=82501392&amp;latLong=17.061171%2C-96.725467&amp;sort=RECOMMENDED&amp;top_dp=215&amp;top_cur=GBP&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjw267GBhCSARIsAOjVJ4FdxQCG_EA3ZFLiMzloJcEpyrmHx7I51bN4waR273yIxmEAdI2iIvIaAi6nEALw_wcB&amp;mctc=10&amp;userIntent=&amp;selectedRoomType=318099773&amp;selectedRatePlan=389972566&amp;expediaPropertyId=82501392&amp;searchId=88594e87-0c3d-464e-b10c-259ec772e096\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Majagua Hotel Boutique<\/a> &#8211; I really liked its wow-worthy boho design, glowing fire pits, earthy handwoven textiles, and blanched driftwood furnishings that gave it a rustic-chic vibe!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>3. Isla Holbox<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Holbox.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Holbox.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Holbox.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Holbox.webp 410w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Holbox.webp 825w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Holbox.webp 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Holbox.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Holbox.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Holbox.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Holbox.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Holbox.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Holbox.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Holbox.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-634996 size-large sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Isla Holbox in Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<div class=\"page\" title=\"Page 1\">\n<div class=\"layoutArea\">\n<div class=\"column\">\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Isla-Holbox-Boat.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Isla-Holbox-Boat.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Isla-Holbox-Boat.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Isla-Holbox-Boat.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Isla-Holbox-Boat.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Isla-Holbox-Boat.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Isla-Holbox-Boat.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Isla-Holbox-Boat.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Isla-Holbox-Boat.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-767155 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Isla Holbox Boat \" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Holbox-flamingos.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Holbox-flamingos.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Holbox-flamingos.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Holbox-flamingos.webp 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Holbox-flamingos.jpg?resize=1000%2C672&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"672\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Holbox-flamingos.jpg?resize=1000%2C672&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Holbox-flamingos.jpg?resize=640%2C430&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Holbox-flamingos.jpg?resize=768%2C516&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Holbox-flamingos.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-634997 size-large sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Ducks at Sea Sore Isla Holbox in Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p data-start=\"122\" data-end=\"395\">I thought Isla Holbox was so magical \u2013 a dreamy, traffic-free island with white-sand beaches, turquoise Caribbean waters, and splashy, colorful buildings. I took a two-hour shuttle from Canc\u00fan to Chiquil\u00e1, then hopped on the 20-minute ferry across calm, teal-blue waters.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"397\" data-end=\"811\">I spent a blissful week here wandering past vibrant street art, kayaking through mangroves, and swimming in wild and unspoiled Yalahau Lagoon\u2019s spring-fed waters surrounded by wild orchids. I loved my <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/en-gb\/holbox-l189767\/holbox-private-3-island-boat-tour-t527490\/?ranking_uuid=0decb124-76a5-49f8-a52d-30a2e1af19d3&amp;visitor-id=RIBR3LDRSJWDH189E6M58Z761S5N044B\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">boat tour<\/a> spotting flamingos at the dreamily secluded Punta Mosquito and watching the island glow with bioluminescence at night (<a href=\"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/destinations\/north-america\/20-best-places-to-visit-in-june-in-the-usa\/\">June<\/a> to <a href=\"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/destinations\/north-america\/20-of-the-best-places-to-visit-in-september-usa\/\">September<\/a> is the best time). Each evening ended with a jaw-dropping sunset that turned the whole sky gold and pink!<\/p>\n<div class=\"column\">\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location:<\/strong> off the northern coast of Mexico\u2019s Yucat\u00e1n Peninsula (around 40 miles northwest of Canc\u00fan).<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Isla+Holbox\/@21.5506409,-87.3366995,12z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x8f4d9677b0abe2f1:0xa56edc4fcc77e54e!8m2!3d21.5308421!4d-87.2866995!16zL20vMGZuMGd6?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map and Directions<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Wildlife:<\/strong> flamingos (seasonal), pelicans, herons, ospreys, crocs in mangroves, whale sharks (seasonal)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"column\">\n<p><em><strong>My highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\">Staying at the creative 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/booking.stay22.com\/globalgrasshopperltd\/OTxKVL23Bo\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Soho Boutique Holbox<\/a> &#8211; I loved its boho vibe and sipping on a sweet, fragrant xtabent\u00fan (a traditional Yucat\u00e1n honey-anise liqueur) in my huge soaking tub!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"column\">\n<h2>4. Bernal&nbsp;<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Bernal-Mexico.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Bernal-Mexico.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Bernal-Mexico.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Bernal-Mexico.webp 410w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Bernal-Mexico.webp 825w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Bernal-Mexico.webp 1204w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Bernal-Mexico.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Bernal-Mexico.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Bernal-Mexico.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Bernal-Mexico.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Bernal-Mexico.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Bernal-Mexico.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Bernal-Mexico.jpg?w=1204&amp;ssl=1 1204w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-634999 size-large sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Bernal town in Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Bernal-Old-Historic-Town.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Bernal-Old-Historic-Town.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Bernal-Old-Historic-Town.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Bernal-Old-Historic-Town.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Bernal-Old-Historic-Town.jpg?resize=1000%2C642&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"642\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Bernal-Old-Historic-Town.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Bernal-Old-Historic-Town.jpg?resize=640%2C411&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Bernal-Old-Historic-Town.jpg?resize=768%2C493&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Bernal-Old-Historic-Town.jpg?resize=150%2C96&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-767158 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Bernal\u00a0Old Town Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Bernal-Old-Church.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Bernal-Old-Church.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Bernal-Old-Church.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Bernal-Old-Church.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Bernal-Old-Church.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Bernal-Old-Church.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Bernal-Old-Church.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Bernal-Old-Church.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Bernal-Old-Church.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-767157 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Bernal Old Church Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"124\" data-end=\"353\">I was completely beguiled by Bernal \u2013 a timeless village of colorful colonial streets, rustic stone pathways, and lively plazas, all set against the dramatic backdrop of Pe\u00f1a de Bernal, one of the tallest monoliths in the world!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"355\" data-end=\"764\">I took a 45-minute bus from Quer\u00e9taro\u2019s central station and spent five slow-paced days at the beautiful 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/mx\/zidada-and-chalets.en-gb.html?aid=356930&amp;label=metagha-link-LUGB-hotel-5126732_dev-desktop_los-1_bw-26_dow-Tuesday_defdate-1_room-0_gstadt-2_rateid-ig_aud-0_gacid-21410411210_mcid-10_ppa-0_clrid-0_ad-1_gstkid-0_checkin-20250826_ppt-G_lp-2826_r-3701864463649916946&amp;sid=548946cec11ce8170461ffa9b7f07f10&amp;all_sr_blocks=512673222_176743466_2_0_0_428199&amp;checkin=2025-08-26&amp;checkout=2025-08-27&amp;dest_id=5126732&amp;dest_type=hotel&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;highlighted_blocks=512673222_176743466_2_0_0_428199&amp;hpos=1&amp;matching_block_id=512673222_176743466_2_0_0_428199&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=512673222_176743466_2_0_0_428199_221970&amp;srepoch=1753984931&amp;srpvid=0ef27ecf364d072f&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Zidada Hotel and Chalets<\/a>, soaking up the laid-back vibe. I hiked the cactus-studded Pe\u00f1a de Bernal trail which had stunning views, browsed cool little artisan shops, sipped on fruity and vibrant local wines, shopped for handicrafts at the authentically Mexican <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/centroartesanalla\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Centro Artesanal La Aurora<\/a>, and tucked into hearty traditional dishes in cozy courtyard restaurants.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location: <\/strong>small town in Quer\u00e9taro, central Mexico<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/76680+Bernal,+Qro.,+Mexico\/@20.7352391,-99.9531351,15z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x85d37edfe530e957:0xaa1f4884f962782c!8m2!3d20.7379323!4d-99.9423166!16s%2Fm%2F03mcnvf?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map and Directions<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong><em>My favorite highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p2\">Dining alfresco on stuffed poblano peppers drenched in spicy mole in the serene, lantern-lit courtyard of the rustic-chic El Array\u00e1n was pure Mexican charm!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>5. Isla Mujeres&nbsp;<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Mujeres-1.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Mujeres-1.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Mujeres-1.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Mujeres-1.webp 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Mujeres-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C750&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"750\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Mujeres-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C750&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Mujeres-1.jpg?resize=640%2C480&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Mujeres-1.jpg?resize=768%2C576&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Mujeres-1.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-635019 size-large sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Isla Mujeres Island on Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Isla-Mujeres-Swimming-pool.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Isla-Mujeres-Swimming-pool.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Isla-Mujeres-Swimming-pool.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Isla-Mujeres-Swimming-pool.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Isla-Mujeres-Swimming-pool.jpg?resize=1000%2C662&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"662\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Isla-Mujeres-Swimming-pool.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Isla-Mujeres-Swimming-pool.jpg?resize=640%2C424&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Isla-Mujeres-Swimming-pool.jpg?resize=768%2C508&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Isla-Mujeres-Swimming-pool.jpg?resize=150%2C99&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-767162 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Isla Mujeres\u00a0Swimming pool\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Isla-Mujeres.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Isla-Mujeres.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Isla-Mujeres.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Isla-Mujeres.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Isla-Mujeres.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Isla-Mujeres.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Isla-Mujeres.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Isla-Mujeres.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Isla-Mujeres.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-699116 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Isla Mujeres Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"92\" data-end=\"285\">I thought Isla Mujeres was pure bliss \u2013 white-sand beaches, clear, sparkling turquoise waters, and pretty coral reefs gave it a dreamy, slow-paced island vibe just a short boat ride from Canc\u00fan.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"287\" data-end=\"750\">I took a 25-minute bus from my chic <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/mx\/secrets-playa-blanca-costa-mujeres.en-gb.html?aid=303948&amp;label=cancun-3NF1F7ogFTnKCUjlbTs_sQS154621045863%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1340%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap%3Aneg%3Afi%3Atikwd-25093221%3Alp9046549%3Ali%3Adec%3Adm%3Appccp%3DUmFuZG9tSVYkc2RlIyh9Yf5EcukO1MOGLSSAuId8ToA&amp;sid=4274172f281076882b3862f76e5d7b6b&amp;dest_id=-1655011&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=2&amp;hpos=2&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1753988182&amp;srpvid=adca8522b7330a0c&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres hotel<\/a> in Canc\u00fan to Puerto Ju\u00e1rez, hopped on the Ultramar ferry for the quick 20-minute crossing, and spent three blissful days here. I swam and snorkeled, lazed on beautiful Playa Norte\u2019s powdery sands, explored Punta Sur\u2019s scenic cliffs and Mayan ruins, sipped strong Mango Margaritas at the funky <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tripadvisor.co.uk\/Attraction_Review-g150810-d13515654-Reviews-Tiny_gecko-Isla_Mujeres_Yucatan_Peninsula.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Tiny Gecko Bar<\/a>, and ended each day with a gorgeous sunset cruise \u2013 doing absolutely nothing had never felt so perfect!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location: <\/strong>small island off the coast of Canc\u00fan.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/search\/Isla+Mujeres\/@21.2334737,-86.7730621,13z\/data=!3m1!4b1?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map and Directions<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Wildlife: <\/strong>Dolphins, manta rays, sea turtles, whale sharks (June\u2013September)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong><em>My highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\">Staying at the 4-star<a href=\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.uk\/Cancun-Hotels-Icaco-Island-Village-Adults-Only.h18335833.Hotel-Information\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> Icaco Island Village<\/a> \u2014 I loved the trendy all-white design, Insta-worthy pool cabanas, and sipping a tangy tamarind margarita by the pool!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"layoutArea\">\n<h2 class=\"column\">6. Puerto Vallarta&nbsp;<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Puerto-Vallarta-1.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Puerto-Vallarta-1.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Puerto-Vallarta-1.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Puerto-Vallarta-1.webp 410w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Puerto-Vallarta-1.webp 825w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Puerto-Vallarta-1.webp 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Puerto-Vallarta-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Puerto-Vallarta-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Puerto-Vallarta-1.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Puerto-Vallarta-1.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Puerto-Vallarta-1.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Puerto-Vallarta-1.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Puerto-Vallarta-1.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-634990 size-large sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Puerto Vallarta town iN Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Puerto-Vallarta-Beach.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Puerto-Vallarta-Beach.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Puerto-Vallarta-Beach.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Puerto-Vallarta-Beach.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Puerto-Vallarta-Beach.jpg?resize=1000%2C611&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"611\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Puerto-Vallarta-Beach.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Puerto-Vallarta-Beach.jpg?resize=640%2C391&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Puerto-Vallarta-Beach.jpg?resize=768%2C469&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Puerto-Vallarta-Beach.jpg?resize=150%2C92&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-767166 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Puerto Vallarta\u00a0Beach\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Puerto-Vallarta-Mexico.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Puerto-Vallarta-Mexico.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Puerto-Vallarta-Mexico.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Puerto-Vallarta-Mexico.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Puerto-Vallarta-Mexico.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Puerto-Vallarta-Mexico.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Puerto-Vallarta-Mexico.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Puerto-Vallarta-Mexico.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Puerto-Vallarta-Mexico.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-699120 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Puerto Vallarta Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p data-start=\"99\" data-end=\"328\">I thought Puerto Vallarta made the perfect all-in-one Mexican getaway \u2013 a gorgeous mix of golden beaches, lush green mountains, cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings, creative street art, and spectacular Pacific sunsets.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"330\" data-end=\"756\">I flew into Puerto Vallarta International Airport, took a 20-minute taxi ride over the Ameca River with ocean views, and spent a laid-back but lively week at the romantic 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/mx\/casa-victoria-malecon-puerto-vallarta.en-gb.html?aid=356980&amp;label=gog235jc-10CAsooAFCJWNhc2EtdmljdG9yaWEtbWFsZWNvbi1wdWVydG8tdmFsbGFydGFICVgDaFCIAQGYATO4AQfIAQzYAQPoAQH4AQGIAgGoAgG4Ar-Sr8YGwAIB0gIkZDJkYTIwYzQtZTdiMC00ZDgwLTllNzYtZjM5NGE2OGE4OWJh2AIB4AIB&amp;sid=548946cec11ce8170461ffa9b7f07f10&amp;age=0&amp;all_sr_blocks=1188914601_391227993_2_0_0&amp;checkin=2025-11-22&amp;checkout=2025-11-24&amp;dest_id=-1690444&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;highlighted_blocks=1188914601_391227993_2_0_0&amp;hpos=1&amp;matching_block_id=1188914601_391227993_2_0_0&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=1188914601_391227993_2_0_0__345600&amp;srepoch=1758185797&amp;srpvid=11863ee029930c3d&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Casa Victoria Malec\u00f3n<\/a>. I lounged on the beaches, strolled the scenic Malec\u00f3n boardwalk, snorkeled, went whale watching, and explored the pretty old town with its traditional architecture, stylish restaurants, artisan shops, and buzzing nightlife.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location:<\/strong> on the Pacific coast in the state of Jalisco (along the Bah\u00eda de Banderas)<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Puerto+Vallarta,+Jalisco,+Mexico\/@20.6410015,-105.3067091,12z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x842145635063c87f:0x79cfbf9985bf5274!8m2!3d20.6565177!4d-105.211358!16zL20vMDFidHp0?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map and Directions<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"layoutArea\">\n<p><strong><em>My personal highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Taking a lively <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/en-gb\/puerto-vallarta-l265\/mega-yacht-yelapa-waterfall-snorkeling-all-inclusive-t461364\/?ranking_uuid=ea8d24bd-5353-4752-8733-645a596b539f&amp;visitor-id=OLHFDKNYYH8441SODGNNIIV5B64LNJWU\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">all-inclusive yacht cruise<\/a> to the stunning Yelapa Falls, loved the party onboard vibe, spotted playful dolphins, and even enjoyed a blissful open-air Shiatsu massage as we sailed!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"column\">\n<h2>7. Celestun&nbsp;<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Celestun.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Celestun.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Celestun.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Celestun.webp 410w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Celestun.webp 825w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Celestun.webp 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Celestun.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Celestun.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Celestun.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Celestun.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Celestun.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Celestun.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Celestun.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-635002 size-large sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Celestun - a village in Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Celestun-Boats.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Celestun-Boats.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Celestun-Boats.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Celestun-Boats.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Celestun-Boats.jpg?resize=1000%2C594&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"594\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Celestun-Boats.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Celestun-Boats.jpg?resize=640%2C380&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Celestun-Boats.jpg?resize=768%2C456&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Celestun-Boats.jpg?resize=150%2C89&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-767164 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Celestun Boats Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Celestun-Mexico.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Celestun-Mexico.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Celestun-Mexico.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Celestun-Mexico.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Celestun-Mexico.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Celestun-Mexico.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Celestun-Mexico.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Celestun-Mexico.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Celestun-Mexico.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-699118 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Celestun Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p data-start=\"102\" data-end=\"274\">I was seriously in awe of Celest\u00fan \u2013 a sleepy coastal town of serene lagoons, mangrove forests, and flocks of pink flamingos that looked absolutely incredible against the turquoise water!<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"276\" data-end=\"668\">I drove 1.5 hours from M\u00e9rida along Highway 281, passing tiny Yucatecan villages, and spent three blissful days at the trendy 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/ms.hotels.com\/en\/ho3184022432\/totem-beach-club-celestun-mexico\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">T\u00f3tem Beach Club<\/a>. I took a boat tour to spot flamingos and pelicans, drifted through the tangled mangroves, swam in freshwater springs, lazed on quiet white-sand beaches, and feasted on fresh seafood at casual beachside restaurants with my toes in the paradise-like sugar soft sand!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location:<\/strong> on the northwestern coast of the Yucat\u00e1n Peninsula.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/97367+Celest%C3%BAn,+Yucatan,+Mexico\/@20.863827,-90.4142489,14z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x85f8c5b41b84eb93:0x546f4ee228e438d7!8m2!3d20.8593042!4d-90.3972052!16zL20vMDFjNjM2?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAyOS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location map and directions<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Wildlife:<\/strong> pelicans, herons, flamingos, American crocodiles, jaguars (habitat for) and the endangered Yucat\u00e1n black howler monkey.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"layoutArea\">\n<p class=\"p1\"><strong><em>My favorite highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>I went on a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/celestun-l98208\/merida-celestun-boat-ride-mangrove-experience-beach-time-t809210\/?ranking_uuid=4d023f83-df32-4c36-9ddf-ea4ff3fdb51c\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">boat tour<\/a> through the extraordinary earth-scented mangroves of the Celest\u00fan Biosphere, sipped a chilled agua de chaya, and loved spotting the flocks of majestic pink flamingos!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"column\">\n<h2>8. Lago de Patzcuaro<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Lago-de-Patzcuaro-Mexico.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Lago-de-Patzcuaro-Mexico.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Lago-de-Patzcuaro-Mexico.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Lago-de-Patzcuaro-Mexico.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Lago-de-Patzcuaro-Mexico.jpg?resize=1000%2C563&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"563\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Lago-de-Patzcuaro-Mexico.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Lago-de-Patzcuaro-Mexico.jpg?resize=640%2C360&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Lago-de-Patzcuaro-Mexico.jpg?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Lago-de-Patzcuaro-Mexico.jpg?resize=150%2C84&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-699114 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Lago de Patzcuaro Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-767160\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Janitzio-cemetery-with-Patzcuaro-lake-at-the-background.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Janitzio cemetery with Patzcuaro lake at the background.\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Janitzio-cemetery-with-Patzcuaro-lake-at-the-background.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Janitzio-cemetery-with-Patzcuaro-lake-at-the-background.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Janitzio-cemetery-with-Patzcuaro-lake-at-the-background.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Janitzio-cemetery-with-Patzcuaro-lake-at-the-background.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Lago-de-Patzcuaro.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Lago-de-Patzcuaro.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Lago-de-Patzcuaro.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Lago-de-Patzcuaro.webp 410w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Lago-de-Patzcuaro.webp 825w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Lago-de-Patzcuaro.webp 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Lago-de-Patzcuaro.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Lago-de-Patzcuaro.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Lago-de-Patzcuaro.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Lago-de-Patzcuaro.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Lago-de-Patzcuaro.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Lago-de-Patzcuaro.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Lago-de-Patzcuaro.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-635000 size-large sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Lago de Patzcuaro lake in Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"113\" data-end=\"314\">Lago de P\u00e1tzcuaro felt utterly magical \u2013 mist-covered waters, historic islands, and deep-rooted Purepecha traditions gave it a timeless, almost spiritual vibe (I wasn&#8217;t surprised that it inspired Pixar\u2019s <em data-start=\"303\" data-end=\"309\">Coco<\/em>)!<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"316\" data-end=\"750\">I drove an hour from Morelia through scenic pine forests to the lakeshore town of P\u00e1tzcuaro and found it nestled in an ancient volcanic basin and home to rare creatures like the rough-footed mud turtle and Mexican garter snake. I spent four peaceful days at the romantic 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/mx\/la-mansion-de-los-suenos.en-gb.html?aid=356930&amp;label=metagha-link-LUGB-hotel-549298_dev-desktop_los-1_bw-11_dow-Monday_defdate-1_room-0_gstadt-2_rateid-public_aud-0_gacid-21410411210_mcid-50_bc-AAhhsg_ppa-0_clrid-0_ad-1_gstkid-0_checkin-20250811_ppt-CgB_lp-2826_r-5627327963238615905&amp;sid=548946cec11ce8170461ffa9b7f07f10&amp;all_sr_blocks=54929803_90394447_2_0_0&amp;checkin=2025-08-11&amp;checkout=2025-08-12&amp;dest_id=549298&amp;dest_type=hotel&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;highlighted_blocks=54929803_90394447_2_0_0&amp;hpos=1&amp;matching_block_id=54929803_90394447_2_0_0&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=54929803_90394447_2_0_0__196698&amp;srepoch=1753985237&amp;srpvid=7f187f68b46c005e&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Mansion de los Sue\u00f1os<\/a>, taking a boat to the authentic and traditional Janitzio Island, exploring artisan villages, hiking scenic trails, sampling traditional Michoac\u00e1n dishes, and visiting the Colonial-era Basilica de Nuestra Se\u00f1ora de la Salud.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location:<\/strong> in the state of Michoac\u00e1n, in the country&#8217;s central-western highlands.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Lake+P%C3%A1tzcuaro\/@19.6104876,-101.7121776,12z\/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x842dbe645395fb15:0x2bea180fc0711a9c!8m2!3d19.6288485!4d-101.6377727!16zL20vMDc3NGdf?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map and Directions<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Wildlife: <\/strong>Rough-footed mud turtles, Mexican garter snakes, egrets, cormorants<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"column\">\n<p><strong><em>My personal highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\">Visiting Santa Clara del Cobre and watching artisans hammer glowing copper into shape, breathed in the warm metallic scent, and picked out a gleaming hand-hammered bowl to take home!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"layoutArea\">\n<h2>9. Cabo San Lucas Arch<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Cabo-San-Lucas-Arch-1.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Cabo-San-Lucas-Arch-1.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Cabo-San-Lucas-Arch-1.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Cabo-San-Lucas-Arch-1.webp 410w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Cabo-San-Lucas-Arch-1.webp 825w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Cabo-San-Lucas-Arch-1.webp 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Cabo-San-Lucas-Arch-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Cabo-San-Lucas-Arch-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Cabo-San-Lucas-Arch-1.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Cabo-San-Lucas-Arch-1.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Cabo-San-Lucas-Arch-1.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Cabo-San-Lucas-Arch-1.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Cabo-San-Lucas-Arch-1.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-635021 size-large sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Cabo San Lucas Arch in Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Cabo-San-Lucas.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Cabo-San-Lucas.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Cabo-San-Lucas.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Cabo-San-Lucas.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Cabo-San-Lucas.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Cabo-San-Lucas.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Cabo-San-Lucas.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Cabo-San-Lucas.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Cabo-San-Lucas.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-767168 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Cabo San Lucas Arch\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"110\" data-end=\"337\">I thought the Cabo San Lucas Arch was breathtaking \u2013 a dramatic rock formation where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific, standing out sharply against the turquoise waters and perfectly capturing Cabo\u2019s rugged coastal beauty.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"339\" data-end=\"735\">I flew into Los Cabos International Airport, rented a car, and took a 40-minute drive down the coast to the fun resort of Cabo San Lucas, where I stayed for a lively week. I photographed the striking Arch (my photo is above), lounged on white-sand beaches, went snorkeling and whale watching, zipped through desert canyons on an ATV, and ended my nights with spicy tacos de canasta, live music, and dancing at the buzzing <a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/mangodeck?fref=ts\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Mango Deck Bar and Grill<\/a>.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Location: <\/b>in the resort city of Cabo San Lucas ,which lies at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/search\/Cabo+San+Lucas+Arch\/@20.6262,-107.866249,7z\/data=!3m1!4b1?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map and D<\/strong><strong>i<\/strong><strong>rections<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Wildlife: <\/strong>Sea lions, humpback whales, tropical fish<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong><em>My highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p2\">Staying at the trendy 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/www.expedia.co.uk\/Los-Cabos-Hotels-Bahia-Hotel-Beach-House.h1140802.Hotel-Information?chkin=2025-09-21&amp;chkout=2025-09-22&amp;x_pwa=1&amp;rfrr=HSR&amp;pwa_ts=1758199232007&amp;referrerUrl=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZXhwZWRpYS5jby51ay9Ib3RlbC1TZWFyY2g%3D&amp;useRewards=false&amp;rm1=a2&amp;regionId=180032&amp;destination=Cabo+San+Lucas%2C+Baja+California+Sur%2C+Mexico&amp;destType=MARKET&amp;neighborhoodId=553248635976397319&amp;selected=1140802&amp;latLong=22.890533%2C-109.91674&amp;sort=RECOMMENDED&amp;top_dp=205&amp;top_cur=GBP&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjw267GBhCSARIsAOjVJ4HB_t2yjtq32y_TF_OtFf8WracQg-uidXfP3JaztkkKIPoTy0mYntMaAojBEALw_wcB&amp;mctc=10&amp;userIntent=&amp;selectedRoomType=321781474&amp;selectedRatePlan=389513406&amp;searchId=3e36bbc2-d125-400e-abf8-3252e2016f92\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bahia Hotel &amp; Beach House<\/a> \u2014 I loved its superb location by the best beaches and sipping on tangy mezcal margarita at awesome swim-up bar!&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>10. Mahahual<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Mahahual-Mexico.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Mahahual-Mexico.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Mahahual-Mexico.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Mahahual-Mexico.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Mahahual-Mexico.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Mahahual-Mexico.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Mahahual-Mexico.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Mahahual-Mexico.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Mahahual-Mexico.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-767170 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Mahahual Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Mahahual.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Mahahual.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Mahahual.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Mahahual.webp 410w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Mahahual.webp 825w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Mahahual.webp 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Mahahual.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Mahahual.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Mahahual.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Mahahual.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Mahahual.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Mahahual.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Mahahual.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-635004 size-large sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Mahahual - gorgeous beaches in Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Mahahual-Mexico.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Mahahual-Mexico.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Mahahual-Mexico.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Mahahual-Mexico.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Mahahual-Mexico.jpg?resize=1000%2C668&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"668\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Mahahual-Mexico.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Mahahual-Mexico.jpg?resize=640%2C428&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Mahahual-Mexico.jpg?resize=768%2C513&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Mahahual-Mexico.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-699122 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Mahahual Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"109\" data-end=\"307\">Mahahual turned out to be one of my favorite hidden gems \u2013 a sleepy fishing village with palm-lined beaches, dazzling Caribbean waters, and a slow, rustic vibe that felt worlds away from the busy resort towns.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"309\" data-end=\"671\">I took a 3.5-hour bus ride south from Tulum along a scenic coastal road and spent four blissful days at the boho 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/mx\/luna-de-plata.en-gb.html?aid=356980&amp;label=gog235jc-10CAsooAFCDWx1bmEtZGUtcGxhdGFICVgDaFCIAQGYATO4AQfIAQzYAQPoAQH4AQGIAgGoAgG4As6br8YGwAIB0gIkZGMzMTMwMTYtZWQ0OS00NTFhLThmNGQtNTFjNTU4ZmY2YTgz2AIB4AIB&amp;sid=548946cec11ce8170461ffa9b7f07f10&amp;age=0&amp;all_sr_blocks=33379604_335374145_2_0_0_154787&amp;checkin=2025-11-22&amp;checkout=2025-11-24&amp;dest_id=-1682139&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;highlighted_blocks=33379604_335374145_2_0_0_154787&amp;hpos=1&amp;matching_block_id=33379604_335374145_2_0_0_154787&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=33379604_335374145_2_0_0_154787_300382&amp;srepoch=1758186963&amp;srpvid=5f4c412754e6028e&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Hotel Luna De Plata<\/a>. I lazed on quiet, unspoiled beaches, snorkeled and dove the vibrant Mesoamerican Reef, strolled the palm-lined Malec\u00f3n boardwalk at sunset, feasted at barefoot beachside restaurants, and explored the nearby mystical Chacchoben Mayan ruins.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Location:<\/b> coast of Mexico\u2019s Yucat\u00e1n Peninsula<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/77976+Mahahual,+Quintana+Roo,+Mexico\/@18.7206107,-87.7255304,14z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x8f5adf4e2063d693:0xc5a84ac96f30685a!8m2!3d18.715715!4d-87.7080247!16s%2Fm%2F0r8l17x?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map and D<\/strong><strong>i<\/strong><strong>rections<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Wildlife: <\/strong>Sea turtles, eagle rays, nurse sharks, Blue Tang, Wrasse<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong><em>My personal highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\">Diving with <a href=\"https:\/\/pepedivemahahual.com\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Pepe Dive School<\/a>, I floated weightlessly past rainbow coral, schools of Blue Tang and Wrasse fish, and eagle rays, with a curious sea turtle gliding right up to me!&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"page\" title=\"Page 2\">\n<div class=\"layoutArea\">\n<div class=\"column\">\n<h2>11. Morelia<\/h2>\n<h2><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Morelia.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Morelia.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Morelia.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Morelia.webp 410w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Morelia.webp 825w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Morelia.webp 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Morelia.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Morelia.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Morelia.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Morelia.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Morelia.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Morelia.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Morelia.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-635006 size-large sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Morelia - a historic colonial building in Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Morelia-Mexico.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Morelia-Mexico.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Morelia-Mexico.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Morelia-Mexico.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Morelia-Mexico.jpg?resize=1000%2C563&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"563\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Morelia-Mexico.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Morelia-Mexico.jpg?resize=640%2C360&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Morelia-Mexico.jpg?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Morelia-Mexico.jpg?resize=150%2C84&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-767172 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Morelia Square Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Morelia-Mexico.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Morelia-Mexico.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Morelia-Mexico.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Morelia-Mexico.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Morelia-Mexico.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Morelia-Mexico.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Morelia-Mexico.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Morelia-Mexico.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Morelia-Mexico.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-699123 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Morelia Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"112\" data-end=\"331\">Morelia completely charmed me \u2013 a pink-stone colonial city with <a href=\"https:\/\/whc.unesco.org\/en\/list\/585\/#:~:text=Description-,Historic%20Centre%20of%20Morelia,still%20follow%20the%20original%20layout.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">UNESCO World Heritage status<\/a>, where Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical architecture glowed softly against the backdrop of the Sierra Madre mountains.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"333\" data-end=\"726\">I took a 4-hour bus from Mexico City\u2019s Terminal Poniente through volcanic landscapes and farmland and spent three days at the Insta-worthy <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/mx\/de-la-soledad.en-gb.html?aid=303948&amp;label=morelia-FqLPIyu1MQzmA60cMyxTrwS650650321181%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap190%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap%3Aneg%3Afi%3Atikwd-184907916%3Alp9046549%3Ali%3Adec%3Adm%3Appccp%3DUmFuZG9tSVYkc2RlIyh9Yf5EcukO1MOGLSSAuId8ToA&amp;sid=4274172f281076882b3862f76e5d7b6b&amp;dest_id=-1684316&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=2&amp;hpos=2&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1753985798&amp;srpvid=e26e806fc67d0783&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Hotel De La Soledad<\/a>. I explored the magnificent Cathedral, strolled the colonial aqueduct and plazas, browsed bustling artisan markets, and tasted authentic Michoac\u00e1n cuisine (the tamales were amazing!) between visits to the Elegant 17th-century Palacio Clavijero and local museums.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"page\" title=\"Page 2\">\n<div class=\"layoutArea\">\n<div class=\"column\">\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location:<\/strong>in central state of Michoac\u00e1n (about 186 miles west of Mexico City)<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Morelia,+Michoac%C3%A1n,+Mexico\/@19.6984316,-101.2953445,12z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x842d0ba2b29da7e3:0x4016978679c8620!8m2!3d19.7059504!4d-101.1949825!16zL20vMDFidHN5?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map and D<\/strong><strong>i<\/strong><strong>rections<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong><em>My favorite highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Dining at the rustic-chic <a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/CuishCocinaBoutique\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Cuish Cocina Boutique<\/a>, I loved its crackling fireplace, inventive craft cocktails, and my dish of a smoky Michoacano chili served with delicate pumpkin blossoms!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>12. Isla Espiritu Santo&nbsp;<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Isla-Espiritu-Santo-Beach.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Isla-Espiritu-Santo-Beach.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Isla-Espiritu-Santo-Beach.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Isla-Espiritu-Santo-Beach.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Isla-Espiritu-Santo-Beach.jpg?resize=1000%2C646&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"646\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Isla-Espiritu-Santo-Beach.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Isla-Espiritu-Santo-Beach.jpg?resize=640%2C413&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Isla-Espiritu-Santo-Beach.jpg?resize=768%2C496&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Isla-Espiritu-Santo-Beach.jpg?resize=150%2C97&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-767174 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Isla Espiritu Santo\u00a0\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Espiritu-Santo.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Espiritu-Santo.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Espiritu-Santo.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Espiritu-Santo.webp 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Espiritu-Santo.jpg?resize=1000%2C657&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"657\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Espiritu-Santo.jpg?resize=1000%2C657&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Espiritu-Santo.jpg?resize=640%2C421&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Espiritu-Santo.jpg?resize=768%2C505&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Isla-Espiritu-Santo.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-635007 size-large sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Isla Espiritu Santo island in Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Isla-Espiritu-Santo.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Isla-Espiritu-Santo.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Isla-Espiritu-Santo.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Isla-Espiritu-Santo.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Isla-Espiritu-Santo.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Isla-Espiritu-Santo.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Isla-Espiritu-Santo.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Isla-Espiritu-Santo.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Isla-Espiritu-Santo.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-699125 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Isla Espiritu Santo Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"column\">\n<p data-start=\"91\" data-end=\"298\">Isla Esp\u00edritu Santo felt like discovering a secret paradise \u2013 a UNESCO-listed island of turquoise waters, red cliffs, and white-sand beaches, teeming with marine life and blissfully free of tourist crowds.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"300\" data-end=\"620\">I stayed in La Paz and joined a guided day trip, taking a one-hour panga boat ride each way before stepping onto its untouched shores. I swam with playful sea lions, kayaked along hidden coves, hiked scenic desert trails, dove among colorful fish, and spent the afternoon relaxing on dreamy beaches that felt completely mine! I have to just mention that there were no facilities on the island, so I packed everything I needed for the day!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Location: <\/b>in the Gulf of California, off the coast of Baja California Sur<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Isla+Espiritu+Santo\/@24.4676575,-110.4267641,12z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x86b1cd25360a736b:0x381a4e15a5655577!8m2!3d24.467386!4d-110.3427968!16s%2Fm%2F02pmbfv?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map and D<\/strong><strong>i<\/strong><strong>rections<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Wildlife: <\/strong>Sea lions, dolphins, manta rays, sea turtles, whale sharks<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong><em>My highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li>Snorkeling in El Cardonal in glass-clear water &#8211; I glided among schools of bold-striped sergeant majors as silver Needlefish darted around and then ate chile-lime mango in a card\u00f3n\u2019s shade!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"layoutArea\">\n<div class=\"page\" title=\"Page 2\">\n<div class=\"layoutArea\">\n<h2>13. Chichen Itza, Yucatan<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Chichen-Itza-Yucatan-Mayan-Ruins.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Chichen-Itza-Yucatan-Mayan-Ruins.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Chichen-Itza-Yucatan-Mayan-Ruins.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Chichen-Itza-Yucatan-Mayan-Ruins.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Chichen-Itza-Yucatan-Mayan-Ruins.jpg?resize=1000%2C712&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"712\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Chichen-Itza-Yucatan-Mayan-Ruins.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Chichen-Itza-Yucatan-Mayan-Ruins.jpg?resize=640%2C456&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Chichen-Itza-Yucatan-Mayan-Ruins.jpg?resize=768%2C547&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Chichen-Itza-Yucatan-Mayan-Ruins.jpg?resize=150%2C107&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-767192 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Chichen Itza, Yucatan\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Chichen-Itza-Cenotes-in-Yucatan.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Chichen-Itza-Cenotes-in-Yucatan.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Chichen-Itza-Cenotes-in-Yucatan.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Chichen-Itza-Cenotes-in-Yucatan.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Chichen-Itza-Cenotes-in-Yucatan.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Chichen-Itza-Cenotes-in-Yucatan.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Chichen-Itza-Cenotes-in-Yucatan.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Chichen-Itza-Cenotes-in-Yucatan.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Chichen-Itza-Cenotes-in-Yucatan.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-767193 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Chichen Itza, Cenotes in Yucatan\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex-shrink-0 flex flex-col relative items-end\">\n<div class=\"pt-0\">\n<div class=\"gizmo-bot-avatar flex h-8 w-8 items-center justify-center overflow-hidden rounded-full\">\n<div class=\"relative p-1 rounded-sm flex items-center justify-center bg-token-main-surface-primary text-token-text-primary h-8 w-8\">\n<p data-start=\"110\" data-end=\"352\">Chich\u00e9n Itz\u00e1 completely blew me away \u2013 this sprawling UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World has an almost mystical vibe, with towering pyramids, intricate carvings, and sacred cenotes hidden in the jungle.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"354\" data-end=\"630\">I took a two-hour ADO bus from M\u00e9rida along Highway 180, paid $35 USD for entry, and spent a day exploring the mighty El Castillo pyramid, the eerie sacrificial cenote, the vast ball court, the fascinating warrior temple, and the ancient Observatory that once tracked the stars as well as discovering the two incredible cenotes there. I have to admit though it got very busy with tourists in the afternoon, so I was glad I arrived early in the morning!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"layoutArea\">\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location: <\/strong>Mexico\u2019s eastern Yucat\u00e1n Peninsula<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/97751+Chich%C3%A9n-Itz%C3%A1,+Yucatan,+Mexico\/@20.6787866,-88.5710518,17z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x8f5138b9a098f833:0xf70a67530750d45!8m2!3d20.6791438!4d-88.5683091!16s%2Fg%2F11c5m40nz9?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map and D<\/strong><strong>i<\/strong><strong>rections<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong><em>My personal highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li>Taking a dip in Cenote Ik Kil \u2014 I swam beneath earth-scented dangling vines in a giant open-air cavern, down stone steps into clear, cool, emerald waters!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"column\">\n<h2>14. Campeche<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Campeche-Mexico.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Campeche-Mexico.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Campeche-Mexico.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Campeche-Mexico.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Campeche-Mexico.jpg?resize=1000%2C630&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"630\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Campeche-Mexico.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Campeche-Mexico.jpg?resize=640%2C403&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Campeche-Mexico.jpg?resize=768%2C484&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Campeche-Mexico.jpg?resize=150%2C95&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-699127 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Campeche Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Campeche.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Campeche.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Campeche.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Campeche.webp 410w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Campeche.webp 825w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Campeche.webp 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Campeche.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Campeche.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Campeche.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Campeche.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Campeche.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Campeche.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Campeche.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-635014 size-large sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Campeche district in Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Campeche-Mexico.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Campeche-Mexico.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Campeche-Mexico.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Campeche-Mexico.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Campeche-Mexico.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Campeche-Mexico.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Campeche-Mexico.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Campeche-Mexico.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Campeche-Mexico.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-767176 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Campeche Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"page\" title=\"Page 2\">\n<div class=\"layoutArea\">\n<p data-start=\"105\" data-end=\"307\">Campeche had me under its spell from the moment I arrived&nbsp;\u2013 a 16th-century colonial city with UNESCO World Heritage status, pastel facades, fortress walls, and cobblestone streets, all framed by the sparkling Gulf of Mexico.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"309\" data-end=\"636\">I took a 2.5-hour ADO bus from M\u00e9rida along Highway 180, passing traditional fishing villages and salt flats, and stayed for three days. I wandered the colorful historic center, explored the historic Forts of San Miguel and San Jos\u00e9, watched golden sunsets from the attractive Malec\u00f3n, and feasted on rich Yucatecan dishes in charming courtyard restaurants.<\/p>\n<div class=\"column\">\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location:<\/strong> on the western coast of the Yucat\u00e1n Peninsula.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Campeche,+Mexico\/@19.32984,-92.1146119,8z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x85e8c3424bc7e215:0xe68bf78c7baafcc3!8m2!3d19.1877616!4d-90.2995785!16zL20vMDI1N3I4?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map and D<\/strong><strong>i<\/strong><strong>rections<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong><em>My personal highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p2\">Dining on the terrace at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/casaviejadelrio\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Casa Vieja del R\u00edo<\/a>, I loved the colonial setting, sunset views, and savoring pillowy chile rellenos smothered in a smoky tomato sauce!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"column\">\n<h2>15. The Copper Canyon, Chihuahua<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Copper-Canyon-Mexico.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Copper-Canyon-Mexico.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Copper-Canyon-Mexico.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Copper-Canyon-Mexico.webp 410w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Copper-Canyon-Mexico.webp 825w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Copper-Canyon-Mexico.webp 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Copper-Canyon-Mexico.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Copper-Canyon-Mexico.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Copper-Canyon-Mexico.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Copper-Canyon-Mexico.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Copper-Canyon-Mexico.jpg?resize=410%2C273&amp;ssl=1 410w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Copper-Canyon-Mexico.jpg?resize=825%2C550&amp;ssl=1 825w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Copper-Canyon-Mexico.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-635022 size-large sp-no-webp\" alt=\"The Copper Canyon, Chihuahua site in Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Copper-Canyon-Chihuahua-Crafts.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Copper-Canyon-Chihuahua-Crafts.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Copper-Canyon-Chihuahua-Crafts.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Copper-Canyon-Chihuahua-Crafts.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Copper-Canyon-Chihuahua-Crafts.jpg?resize=1000%2C662&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"662\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Copper-Canyon-Chihuahua-Crafts.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Copper-Canyon-Chihuahua-Crafts.jpg?resize=640%2C424&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Copper-Canyon-Chihuahua-Crafts.jpg?resize=768%2C508&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Copper-Canyon-Chihuahua-Crafts.jpg?resize=150%2C99&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-767178 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"The Copper Canyon, Chihuahua Crafts\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"111\" data-end=\"295\">Copper Canyon actually managed to make my jaw drop \u2013 a vast network of canyons even deeper and larger than the Grand Canyon, with rugged cliffs, dramatic rock formations, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/globalgrasshopr\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Insta-worthy<\/a>, untamed views.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"297\" data-end=\"787\">I rode the famous Chepe train from Chihuahua City to Creel (a scenic four-hour journey), then spent four days based at the rustic-chic <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/mx\/best-western-the-lodge-at-creel.en-gb.html?aid=303948&amp;label=creel-9rALzv4umL2tel5Mi8t1zQS383040317684%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap110%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap%3Aneg%3Afi%3Atikwd-4647290884%3Alp9046549%3Ali%3Adec%3Adm%3Appccp%3DUmFuZG9tSVYkc2RlIyh9Yf5EcukO1MOGLSSAuId8ToA&amp;sid=4274172f281076882b3862f76e5d7b6b&amp;dest_id=-1659721&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;hpos=1&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1753986793&amp;srpvid=8aa08272caaa04ba&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Lodge at Creel Eco-Hotel &amp; Spa<\/a> in the charming mountain village, surrounded by local art, crafts, and cozy restaurants. I swam in the cool waters of the photogenic Cusarare Falls, hiked rugged trails with canyon panoramas, explored Rar\u00e1muri villages to learn about indigenous culture, and soared across the canyon on the thrilling zip-lines at the fun <a href=\"https:\/\/parquebarrancas.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Copper Canyon Adventure Park<\/a>.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Location: <\/b>the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range in Chihuahua, northern Mexico<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Copper+Canyon\/@27.5280738,-107.7664108,15z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x86c0a0b137b4ef1d:0xdeb11c7deca73801!8m2!3d27.5280556!4d-107.7561111!16zL20vMGtoZ2w?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map and D<\/strong><strong>i<\/strong><strong>rections<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Wildlife: <\/strong>Golden eagles, woodpeckers, squirrels, tarantulas<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong><em>My highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Riding the scenic <a href=\"https:\/\/chepe.mx\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Chepe train<\/a> &#8211; I felt the rhythmic rumble of the tracks as I passed rugged canyons, soaring cliffs, pine forests, dramatic bridges and tunnels, and glimpses of the remote Rar\u00e1muri communities along the way!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>16. Valladolid<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Valladolid.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Valladolid.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Valladolid.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Valladolid.webp 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Valladolid.jpg?resize=1000%2C822&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"822\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Valladolid.jpg?resize=1000%2C822&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Valladolid.jpg?resize=640%2C526&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Valladolid.jpg?resize=768%2C632&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Valladolid.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-635009 size-large sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Valladolid city in Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Valladolid-Cenote-1.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Valladolid-Cenote-1.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Valladolid-Cenote-1.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Valladolid-Cenote-1.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Valladolid-Cenote-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C668&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"668\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Valladolid-Cenote-1.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Valladolid-Cenote-1.jpg?resize=640%2C428&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Valladolid-Cenote-1.jpg?resize=768%2C513&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Valladolid-Cenote-1.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-767182 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Valladolid Cenote\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Valladolid-Cenote.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Valladolid-Cenote.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Valladolid-Cenote.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Valladolid-Cenote.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Valladolid-Cenote.jpg?resize=1000%2C668&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"668\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Valladolid-Cenote.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Valladolid-Cenote.jpg?resize=640%2C428&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Valladolid-Cenote.jpg?resize=768%2C513&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Valladolid-Cenote.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-767180 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Valladolid Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"layoutArea\">\n<div class=\"page\" title=\"Page 2\">\n<div class=\"layoutArea\">\n<div class=\"column\">\n<p data-start=\"108\" data-end=\"304\">Valladolid really won me over \u2013 a charming colonial town with pastel-colored streets, superb historic architecture, and fascinating Mayan culture that gave it such a relaxed, authentic vibe.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"306\" data-end=\"870\">I took a two-hour ADO bus west from Canc\u00fan along Highway 180 through jungle and villages and kicked back for three easygoing days. I explored the pretty town square and whitewashed San Gervasio Cathedral, swam in the vine-draped Cenote Zac\u00ed right in the heart of town, and browsed lively Mercado Municipal for local handicrafts.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"306\" data-end=\"870\">I also visited the 16th-century Convent of San Bernardino of Siena, cooled off in the stunning Cenote X&#8217;kek\u00e9n and Cenote Samul\u00e1, and strolled along the Colonial-era Calzada de los Frailes, discovering unique shops, charming caf\u00e9s, and traditional Yucatecan restaurants filled with folk art.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Location: <\/b>Yucat\u00e1n Peninsula, about halfway between Canc\u00fan and M\u00e9rida, it&#8217;s conveniently close to Chich\u00e9n Itz\u00e1 and Ek&#8217; Balam.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Valladolid,+Spain\/@41.7033921,-4.9736217,11z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0xd47728c08c66e93:0xb3ff92d41ca26bef!8m2!3d41.652251!4d-4.7245321!16zL20vMGoxdG0?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map and D<\/strong><strong>i<\/strong><strong>rections<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong><em>My personal highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\">\n<p class=\"d2fee87262 pp-header__title\">Staying at the charming 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/uk.hotels.com\/ho205646\/melia-recoletos-valladolid-spain\/?chkin=2025-11-02&amp;chkout=2025-11-03&amp;x_pwa=1&amp;rfrr=HSR&amp;pwa_ts=1758200011718&amp;referrerUrl=aHR0cHM6Ly91ay5ob3RlbHMuY29tL0hvdGVsLVNlYXJjaA%3D%3D&amp;rffrid=sem.hcom.GB.156.003.localuniversal.02.desktop-1.kwrd%3DGGMETA.890651GBen-20251102-D-ABW%3D45-camp%3D20254680863-aud%3D-N&amp;useRewards=false&amp;rm1=a2&amp;regionId=3716&amp;destination=Valladolid%2C+Castile+and+Le%C3%B3n%2C+Spain&amp;destType=MARKET&amp;selected=890651&amp;latLong=41.652244%2C-4.724526&amp;sort=RECOMMENDED&amp;top_dp=72&amp;top_cur=GBP&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjw267GBhCSARIsAOjVJ4GgvA-pYYZAbm0AiiFWR0346ysAP7mEyq-c_u9w9XCF_COPS4bFzz0aAqzWEALw_wcB&amp;mctc=10&amp;userIntent=&amp;selectedRoomType=319683352&amp;selectedRatePlan=387052316&amp;expediaPropertyId=890651&amp;searchId=5d1b7dc1-e53e-4a9b-82fc-6e0ff3d9d5e9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Valladolid Recoletos hotel<\/a> \u2014 I was totally won over by its characterful colonial building, central location, and stunning courtyard garden where I sipped on a smoky, chocolatey Chiapas coffee each morning!<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>17. Lacandon Jungle<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Lacandon-Jungle.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Lacandon-Jungle.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Lacandon-Jungle.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Lacandon-Jungle.webp 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Lacandon-Jungle.jpg?resize=1000%2C749&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"749\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Lacandon-Jungle.jpg?resize=1000%2C749&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Lacandon-Jungle.jpg?resize=640%2C479&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Lacandon-Jungle.jpg?resize=768%2C575&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Lacandon-Jungle.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-635012 size-large sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Lacandon Jungle in Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Lacandon-Jungle-Lagoon.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Lacandon-Jungle-Lagoon.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Lacandon-Jungle-Lagoon.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Lacandon-Jungle-Lagoon.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Lacandon-Jungle-Lagoon.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Lacandon-Jungle-Lagoon.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Lacandon-Jungle-Lagoon.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Lacandon-Jungle-Lagoon.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Lacandon-Jungle-Lagoon.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-767188 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Lacandon Jungle Lagoon\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Lacandon-Jungle.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Lacandon-Jungle.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Lacandon-Jungle.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Lacandon-Jungle.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Lacandon-Jungle.jpg?resize=1000%2C631&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"631\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Lacandon-Jungle.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Lacandon-Jungle.jpg?resize=640%2C404&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Lacandon-Jungle.jpg?resize=768%2C485&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Lacandon-Jungle.jpg?resize=150%2C95&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-767184 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Lacandon Jungle\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"99\" data-end=\"324\">I discovered the Lacandon Jungle was a dream for adventure lovers \u2013 a dense, vibrant rainforest of cascading waterfalls, hidden lagoons, and incredible wildlife that felt wild and mystical, like stepping into an untouched ancient world.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"326\" data-end=\"679\">I based myself in the ancient Mayan city of Palenque and joined a two-day guided tour by van and boat (which was the easiest way to get here), staying in a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tripadvisor.co.uk\/Hotel_Review-g2156632-d6578644-Reviews-Ecolodge_Topche-Lacanja_Southern_Mexico.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">rustic eco-lodge<\/a> in the remote jungle village of Lacanj\u00e1 Chansayab. I hiked steamy jungle trails, explored the intriguing remote Mayan ruins of Bonampak and Yaxchil\u00e1n, rafted the mighty Usumacinta River, and learned about the fascinating traditions of the Lacandon Maya community.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Location:<\/b> stretches from Chiapas to the southern portion of the Yucatan Peninsula<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/search\/Lacandon+Jungle\/@16.6307367,-91.5804249,10z\/data=!3m1!4b1?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map and D<\/strong><strong>i<\/strong><strong>rections<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Wildlife:<\/strong> Howler monkeys, spider monkeys, jaguars, toucans, scarlet macaws, tapirs, butterflies<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong><em>My highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"p1\">On a two-day <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/en-gb\/palenque-l179804\/2-day-lacandon-jungle-the-lost-city-and-bonampak-ruins-t549568\/?visitor-id=OLHFDKNYYH8441SODGNNIIV5B64LNJWU\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">jungle tour<\/a> from Palenque, I explored the hidden Lacanj\u00e1 Ruins and Bonampak\u2019s murals, breathing in the humid, earthy air and spotting playful chattering spider monkeys overhead!&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>18. Chiapas<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Sumidero-canyon-in-Chiapas.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Sumidero-canyon-in-Chiapas.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Sumidero-canyon-in-Chiapas.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Sumidero-canyon-in-Chiapas.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Sumidero-canyon-in-Chiapas.jpg?resize=1000%2C750&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"750\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Sumidero-canyon-in-Chiapas.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Sumidero-canyon-in-Chiapas.jpg?resize=640%2C480&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Sumidero-canyon-in-Chiapas.jpg?resize=768%2C576&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Sumidero-canyon-in-Chiapas.jpg?resize=150%2C113&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-767190 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Sumidero canyon in Chiapas\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Chiapas.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Chiapas.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Chiapas.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Chiapas.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Chiapas.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Chiapas.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Chiapas.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Chiapas.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/Chiapas.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-767186 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Chiapas Mayan Ruins\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Chiapas-Mexico.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Chiapas-Mexico.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Chiapas-Mexico.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Chiapas-Mexico.webp 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Chiapas-Mexico.jpg?resize=1000%2C611&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"611\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Chiapas-Mexico.jpg?resize=1000%2C611&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Chiapas-Mexico.jpg?resize=640%2C391&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Chiapas-Mexico.jpg?resize=768%2C470&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Chiapas-Mexico.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-635024 size-large sp-no-webp\" alt=\"Chiapas rainforest in Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex-shrink-0 flex flex-col relative items-end\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"pt-0\">\n<div class=\"gizmo-bot-avatar flex h-8 w-8 items-center justify-center overflow-hidden rounded-full\">\n<div>\n<p data-start=\"114\" data-end=\"314\">Chiapas blew me away \u2013 a whole state of raw, untouched beauty with rainforest-covered mountains, winding rivers, cascading waterfalls, deep canyons, ancient Mayan ruins, and colorful colonial towns.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"316\" data-end=\"854\">I flew into Tuxtla Guti\u00e9rrez, rented a car, and drove an hour up winding mountain roads with spectacular views to San Crist\u00f3bal de las Casas, where I stayed for a week at the jungle-gem <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/mx\/chan-kah-resort-village.en-gb.html?aid=323684&amp;label=chiapas-X29I8dcyST4PGbxEo9xd2gS409819322580%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1300%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap%3Aneg%3Afi%3Atikwd-5907451824%3Alp9046549%3Ali%3Adec%3Adm%3Appccp%3DUmFuZG9tSVYkc2RlIyh9Ybu3g3JQEN-y0ZaHyBRePiU&amp;sid=4274172f281076882b3862f76e5d7b6b&amp;dest_id=3446&amp;dest_type=region&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=9&amp;hpos=9&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1753987027&amp;srpvid=252c82dd172a038c&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Chan-Kah Resort Village<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"316\" data-end=\"854\">I took a boat ride through the towering cliffs of the towering Sumidero Canyon, explored San Crist\u00f3bal\u2019s colorful streets, wandered the Mayan ruins of Palenque, swam in the turquoise pools of limestone-terraced Agua Azul, learned about indigenous culture in traditional villages, and hiked the mountain-framed Lagos de Montebello with its more than fifty jewel-toned lakes.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location: <\/strong>in&nbsp;southern part of the country (near the border with Guatemala)<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Chiapas,+Mexico\/@16.2584722,-93.5749788,8z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x858d44b49757ce67:0xcf0033824619d615!8m2!3d16.7569318!4d-93.1292353!16zL20vMDF6bHg?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map and D<\/strong><strong>i<\/strong><strong>rections<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>Wildlife: <\/strong>Crocodiles, herons, kingfishers, butterflies<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong><em>My favorite highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Seeing the Bonampak Murals \u2014 I stood standing in the cool, dim temple and gazing at reds, blues, greens, and yellows that still glow brilliantly after 1,200 years!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"layoutArea\">\n<div class=\"page\" title=\"Page 2\">\n<div class=\"layoutArea\">\n<h2>19. The Bufadora, Baja California&nbsp;<\/h2>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/The-Bufadora-Baja-California.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/The-Bufadora-Baja-California.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/The-Bufadora-Baja-California.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/The-Bufadora-Baja-California.webp 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/The-Bufadora-Baja-California.jpg?resize=1000%2C750&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"750\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/The-Bufadora-Baja-California.jpg?resize=1000%2C750&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/The-Bufadora-Baja-California.jpg?resize=640%2C480&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/The-Bufadora-Baja-California.jpg?resize=768%2C576&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/The-Bufadora-Baja-California.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-635026 size-large sp-no-webp\" alt=\"The Bufadora, Baja California in Mexico\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p><picture><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Bufadora-Baja-California.webp 1000w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Bufadora-Baja-California.webp 640w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Bufadora-Baja-California.webp 768w,https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Bufadora-Baja-California.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" type=\"image\/webp\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Bufadora-Baja-California.jpg?resize=1000%2C667&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"667\" width=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Bufadora-Baja-California.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Bufadora-Baja-California.jpg?resize=640%2C427&amp;ssl=1 640w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Bufadora-Baja-California.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/The-Bufadora-Baja-California.jpg?resize=150%2C100&amp;ssl=1 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-767197 sp-no-webp\" alt=\"The Bufadora, Baja California\u00a0\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"  > <\/picture><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"110\" data-end=\"300\">La Bufadora was a seriously thrilling stop \u2013 a dramatic marine geyser where towering jets of seawater explode from the cliffs against the sparkling Pacific, creating a mesmerizing natural show.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"302\" data-end=\"608\">I stayed at the chic 4-star <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/mx\/punta-morro-ensenada.en-gb.html?aid=303948&amp;label=ensenada-oMbujnWIq1C96xwLsRh%2AIAS392765218075%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap140%3Ap2%3Aac%3Aap%3Aneg%3Afi%3Atikwd-184872376%3Alp9046549%3Ali%3Adec%3Adm%3Appccp%3DUmFuZG9tSVYkc2RlIyh9Yf5EcukO1MOGLSSAuId8ToA&amp;sid=4274172f281076882b3862f76e5d7b6b&amp;dest_id=-1667984&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;hpos=1&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;srepoch=1753987137&amp;srpvid=56a0831e1b3e0304&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Hotel Punta Morro<\/a> in the Pacific-fronted Ensenada and drove 45 minutes down the scenic coast to reach it. After watching the blowhole from the viewing platform, I browsed artisan stalls, sampled tasty Mexican street food, snapped coastal photos, and hiked nearby trails where I was treated to stunning ocean views! I have to admit though it was a fairly touristy place with lots vendors \u2014 so go early for a less crowded experience!<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/La+Bufadora\/@31.7239488,-116.7254689,17z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x83fa5b676039fd79:0x5d61dc44ab9b71a0!8m2!3d31.7239443!4d-116.722894!16zL20vMDNxeHdm?entry=ttu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Location Map and D<\/strong><strong>i<\/strong><strong>rections<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<li><b>Location: <\/b>on the Punta Banda Peninsula along the Pacific coast.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Wildlife: <\/strong>Seals, sea lions, pelicans, tidepool creatures (sea stars, crabs)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong><em>My favorite highlights&#8230;&nbsp;<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Hiking the 2.6-mile Punta Banda Peak trail in two hours \u2014 a moderately challenging climb which rewarded me with salty ocean breezes and sweeping views over Ensenada and the rugged coastline!&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Mexico is home to some of the most stunning beauty spots in the world! After several trips exploring beyond the big-name resorts, I uncovered hidden coastlines, ancient ruins, and extraordinary islands. Here are my personal favorite gems&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":21,"featured_media":635017,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":false,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2}},"categories":[1632,21,7,20],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-3128","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-beautifulplaces","category-destinations","category-north-america","category-travel","generate-columns","tablet-grid-50","mobile-grid-100","grid-parent","grid-50"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/03\/Most-beautiful-places-to-visit-in-Mexico.jpg?fit=1024%2C645&ssl=1","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3128","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/21"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3128"}],"version-history":[{"count":44,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3128\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":777975,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3128\/revisions\/777975"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/635017"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3128"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3128"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3128"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}