We actually planned this vacation way back when since we knew the kids would be on Spring break, but with what happened to our family 2 months ago, this trip couldn't have come at a better time...
It was our first time in Cancun and we didn't honestly know what to expect. We knew there would be a gorgeous beach for sure, a nice hotel, but the rest, we decided to find out as soon as we got there.
Nio was right, Cancun was a genuine TOURIST TRAP ( in a good way)! Meaning, it has everything and anything you would want to do, eat and see in one nice package!
Here are my TOP 10 for this wonderful place:
1. The beach
It was a little bit "wavy" during our visit, but we still got to enjoy the water a lot, it is definitely beautiful and just the right temperature. The sand is white and cool on the feet, love it!
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| hitting the surf |
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| The boys lounging about |
2. The hotels
Mama mia, this place is like an oasis when it comes to very fancy hotels. You can pay half the price for quality of rooms and service compared to here!
Take a look at these...
The Westin Lagunamar
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| A complete kitchen! |
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| Very functional small space |
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| Sofa bed with queen bed |
The Hacienda Tres Rios
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| 2 bedroom suite common area |
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| Another view of common area |
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| Master suite with Jacuzzi |
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| Second bedroom with 2 queen beds and sofa bed |
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| Master bath |
The Sunset Place
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| Sofa bed lounger |
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| IN-room jacuzzi |
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| Bedroom |
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| Vanities |
3. La Isla Mall
This mall is terrific because it is by the lagoon and it has an aquarium and dozens of restos and shops to choose from!
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| Malling during the day |
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| And at night |
4. Xel-Ha
This is an ecological water park where the rivers meets the ocean and the abundance of natural wild life is amazing.
You can do so many activities here, but the main attraction are the animals, so snorkeling is your best bet. Did I also mention that all the food and drinks are absolutely FREE!!!!! The exhaustion you'll feel with the activities is matched by a gastronomic equivalent to meet your needs. Bottomless margarita anyone?!!!! :-)
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| one of the many lakes |
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| Just beautiful! |
5. Cenotes Cave
Truly a natural wonder. This cave houses a freshwater lake that you can swim in!!!
The water is cold (not freezing), but the sight of this beautiful massive cave is a must!
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| Nature's best |
6. Chichen-Itza
One of the Seven wonders of the Ancient world, truly deserving of its title and place in history. This magnificent city houses one of the most well-preserved pyramids and temples in Mayan History.
7. Swimming with the Manatees
We did this at Xel-ha naturally, and for me, this was my personal favorite among the things we did in Cancun.
These creatures are the gentlest giants I know. Very friendly (if you have food) and has no care in the world. They even kissed us! The kids truly had a blast and will never forget this experience.
The price is pretty steep, but worth every penny. :-)
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| My son tries to see them as they swim underneath him |
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| Small children touching and feeding the manatee |
8. Swimming with the Dolphins
Another worthwhile activity and experience. These creatures were not labelled as the "smartest animals" for nothing. They are very friendly, well-behaved and so fun to interact with!
We did this again at Xel-Ha, and like other animal encounters, this was an experience we won't forget.
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| Be careful of those teeth! |
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| Petting the dolphin |
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| a kiss from the sea |
9. Downtown Cancun
For a decor and design lover like me, this place was truly a haven.
The only problem was carrying all this stuff back home! How I wish I could have bought more beautiful ceramics but alas, Airline restrictions had restricted too much for this...
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| Pots, pots everywhere |
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| Beautiful and colorful |
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| Check out this gourd! |
10. Hacienda Andalucia
We went here the night before we left and this place was truly amazingly fun! With us enjoying a sumptuous Mexican Buffet, botttomless margaritas and Traditional Mexican dances and songs, this was truly an "immersion" into the Mexican culture.
To top of the night, we also got to watch a funny and great Horse show! And what better way to end our night but with beautiful fireworks!
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| Margaritas anyone? |
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| Mexican Dancers |
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| Mayan Fire Dance |
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| Horse Show |
There you have it folks, Cancun in a nutshell. There are so many more things to do and and see in this wonderful place. And I'm pretty sure, this post will have a part 2!
Have a wonderful day!!!!
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What a beautiful way to make memories. I have always wanted to swim with dolphins.
ReplyDeleteThank you for your kind comments. You are such a blessing to me.
I will be having a Mother's Day giveaway this next Friday with glimpses of whats up for grabs all this week. :)
Thanks for letting me know! I regularly visit your site anyways, so I'm sure to see it. I highly recommend swimming with these gentle animals to anyone! :-)
DeleteHi Vel, I popped over from copy cat chic. I'm glad I discovered your blog. I too am filipino and an MD(not practicing though) living in Milwaukee. Come check out my blog if you have the time... mybestfriendcraig.blogpsot.com
ReplyDeleteI haven't been to Cancun but it sure looks fun! I'll definitely consider Mexico for our next trip!
You have wonderful blog, I just came from there! Definitely it will be on my list. You have a very beautiful home and I'm glad you are also into thrifty thrills like me! Are you from pinas or did you grow up here? Obviously for me, I am a true-blue manilenia/bisaya. We used to live in Chicago, sayang, we should have met sooner! Anyway, will see you around in the blogosphere and keep up the great blog! :-)
DeleteThanks Vel! Can't wait to discover yours. My hubby is a fil-am and we met in med school in the Phil. I grew up in QC. I moved to NY in 2002 then moved here in WI 3 years ago. He joined a nephro group here. Sayang nga.
DeleteWow! native ka rin like me! hehehe! We moved here in 2006, we're both FEU grads, which school are you from? Anyhow, I love, love you home and your make-overs, beginner pa lang ako, but I really like tweaking our home a lot! I'll make sure to check your blog regularly and ask you for tips on how to do some of the stuff here around the house like putting up wallpaper?!!! Saw what you did in your bathroom, beautiful! Parang professional! Also the deck! wow!
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