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Cancun has long been a top choice destination during the winter season, attracting both international and domestic travelers with its breathtaking beaches and abundant tourist attractions.
This trend is set to continue this year, with various hotel reservation and property booking platforms designating Cancun as the top tourist destination in Mexico for year-end festivities, drawing both national and international travelers.
Currently boasting a hotel occupancy rate of 78.8%, authorities are optimistic about reaching a remarkable 90% from the second week of December to the first week of January.
Furthermore, the State Tourism Secretariat foresees over 1.5 million tourists in December alone, projecting a year-end total that could surpass 20 million visitors.
As Cancun approaches the potential to break yet another set of tourism records, let’s delve into the reasons behind the enduring popularity of this Mexican Caribbean paradise during the festive season.
Excellent Caribbean Weather
Unsurprisingly, the Mexican Caribbean’s weather during December stands as one of the top reasons travelers love a Cancun getaway.
With an average maximum of 82F and a minimum of 64F throughout the month, you can enjoy Cancun’s pristine beaches and all types of outdoor activities without melting like a snowman in the sun.
@touristtolocal Here’s everything you need to know before you plan a trip to Cancun Mexico! 🇲🇽✈️ #cancun #cancunmexico #rivieramaya #cancuntravel #cancuntips #mexicotravel #visitmexico ♬ original sound – touristtolocal
Still, it’s wise to pack essentials such as sun hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. A light sweater might also come in handy for breezy or rainy evenings when the temperature takes a slight dip.
Great Flight Deals
Traveling to Cancun during December means you’ll be arriving at the start of the high season, which typically means higher ticket prices.
However, you can still find excellent flight deals if you know where and when to look.
TripAdvisor’s recent Winter Travel Index revealed that the best time to visit Cancun this year in terms of affordability falls on the week of December 4-10, as you’d be arriving just before the peak of the high season.
@samantha.c.roth cancun in december 😌 #vacation #fyp #cancun #mexico ♬ colt 45 – *ੈ✩‧₊˚
But if you can’t plan your trip for that time, worry not, as fantastic deals for later dates are still within reach.
For example, flights from Orlando and other U.S. cities to Cancun can be snagged for as low as $216 at the Thrifty Traveler site, even with Christmas availability.
Still, booking early is the best way to get the best bang for your buck when planning your Cancun winter getaway.
Luxury Experiences
Cancun’s well-deserved reputation as a luxury destination shines through, boasting an array of over a hundred exceptional all-inclusive resorts.
Whether you prefer highly luxurious Le Blanc Resort & Spa to the secluded Hotel Casa Turquesa, there are options for every budget and style.
@charmedcompass Le Blanc Cancun = best adults only in the hotel zone of Cancun. Its next level luxury and gourmet food sets it above the rest. #bestallinclusiveresort #bestcancunresorts #luxuryresort #adultsonlyresorts #allinclusiveresort #destinationwedding #honeymoon ♬ Autumn Leaves – Timothy Cole
No matter your preference, resorts at the Cancun Hotel Zone are renowned for their top-notch service, amenities, and stunning views of the Mexican Caribbean Sea.
For the ultimate pampering, you can visit one of the many world-class spas Cancun is home to, which stand out due to their exclusive, serene settings and numerous treatments featuring local ingredients and practices.
Shopping
Buying gifts for your loved ones during the holiday season can be a cumbersome endeavor. Fortunately, at Cancun, this doesn’t have to be an overwhelming experience, thanks to the myriad of shopping options available.
In the upscale shopping malls of the Hotel Zone, like Luxury Avenue and La Isla, you’ll discover an assortment of stores featuring iconic brands such as Carolina Herrera, Cartier, Rolex, Bulgari, and many more.
And for those seeking a more artisanal touch, a visit to the 28 Market in downtown Cancun is a must.
Here, you’ll be greeted by a plethora of exquisite local arts and crafts, offering the perfect opportunity to select a charming and original gift.
Special End-Of-Year Activities
Despite the absence of snow, pine trees, fireplaces, and other traditional holiday paraphernalia, Cancun still radiates a lively festive spirit during this season.
From the dazzling ‘Christmas Show’ light display at Cancun’s Tajamar Boardwalk to the unconventional sight of Santa Claus arriving in Puerto Juárez via jet ski to kickstart the neighborhood’s winter festivities, Cancun’s holiday celebrations boast a unique and playful charm.
And that’s only the beginning, as travelers staying in Cancun during the Christmas or New Year holidays can enjoy a unique Mexican Caribbean dinner at one of the many hotel zone restaurants, which feature festive decorations, special menus, drinks and entertainment.
Additionally, this year’s travel trends reveal that a large chunk of American travelers is on the lookout for outdoor adventures, a demand that Cancun meets with a flourish.
Numerous tour companies offer Christmas tour packages to visit iconic attractions including the Chichén Itzá archeological site, catamaran tours to Isla Mujeres, adventure parks such as Xplor and Xcaret, and many more.
So, with such an enticing array of tourist attractions, luxury, and unparalleled convenience, it’s no wonder why Cancun remains a top choice for travelers this holiday season.
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