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The end of November has long been a favorite time to travel for American travelers, as it provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy some quality time with loved ones and escape the chilly weather back home.
Time and time again, Cancun has been among the top picks for Americans during this holiday – and this year is no exception.
The iconic Mexican Caribbean town has positioned itself as the top international destination this year during this holiday, according to Allianz Partners’ annual Top 10 Thanksgiving Destination Index.
Based on over 800,00 insured travel itineraries during his period, the study revealed New York and Cancun as the top domestic and international destinations, respectively.
@knl_xx Mexico, Cancun 🇲🇽 #mexico #cancun #cancunmexico #tacos #caribbean #vacation #holiday #beach #getaway #food #sand #summer #sunset #dancing #boat ♬ Me Porto Bonito – Speed up Spanish songs
So, as the holidays approach, let’s explore the reasons behind Cancun’s massive popularity among American travelers during this special time, plus some travel tips to make your trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Ideal Weather Conditions
Not only does November mark the end of the hurricane season in the wider Caribbean, but it’s also the end of the sargassum season – which typically lasts from March to October.
@karieanthony Thanksgiving in #Cancun 😎 Not a Turkey in sight! #GrandFiestaAmericanaCoralBeach ♬ Paradise – Bazzi
This means that traveling to Cancun around Thanksgiving offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy the destination’s world-class beaches at its finest.
Moreover, Cancun enjoys near-perfect weather conditions in November as the sizzling summer heat of the Mexican Caribbean gradually gives way. This shift is welcomed by beachgoers who find the summer temperatures a bit too much.
On the flip side, winter brings agreeable weather, although it tends to be slightly chilly during the mornings and evenings.
In the sweet spot of the “Goldilocks Zone,” November stands as one of the best months to bask in the sun at this paradisiacal destination’s pristine beaches.
Thanksgiving Dinner With A Twist
Thanksgiving dinner is a quintessential part of the holiday, where turkey, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie take center stage.
Fortunately, in Cancun, you’ll find all of these traditional favorites and more.
To add a delightful twist to your Thanksgiving meal, you can complement it with local delicacies like the iconic ‘cochinita pibil,’ fresh ceviche, ‘relleno negro’ (Yucatecan turkey-based dish) and many other tasty options.
What’s more, several restaurants in Cancun offer special Thanksgiving menus that feature the classic turkey and other beloved dishes, all with a delicious Mexican touch.
Rich Multicultural & Natural Experiences
There’s no doubt that, in essence, Thanksgiving is a multicultural tradition, celebrating America’s rich blend of indigenous and European heritage.
And in Cancun and the Yucatan Peninsula, a rich multicultural atmosphere thrives, offering an ideal destination to delve into the world of the Mayans and other indigenous Mexican cultures.
From the legendary Chichen Itzá archeological ruins to Yucatáns charming ‘magical towns,’ the Yucatan Peninsula provides travelers with endless opportunities for fascinating cultural and historical explorations.
You can also discover the breathtaking natural wonders of the region, including beautiful cenotes, stunning lagoons, and lush jungles, or enjoy thrilling adventures at theme parks such as Xcaret, Xplor, or Xel-Ha.
Thanksgiving Travel Tips
As pleasant as a Cancun Thanksgiving trip can be, getting there is typically not the most enjoyable part of the journey.
It’s a pretty busy travel season, so potential delays are far from uncommon. Moreover, it’s estimated that this year could see record-breaking numbers of passengers since the pandemic.
But don’t worry! There are a few simple things you can do to ensure a seamless Cancun trip, even if setbacks arise. Here are some tips:
- Book Your Plane Tickets In Advance: Prices tend to skyrocket as the busiest days approach, so planning ahead is key for saving money.
- Arrive At The Airport Early: This one might sound obvious, but arriving at the airport at least two hours before your flight is crucial to ensure you won’t miss it in case of any delays.
- Invest In Travel Insurance: It’s a good idea to purchase insurance policies that include travel delay coverage, covering unexpected expenses like lost baggage, transportation, meals, and accommodation.
- Pack Your Own Meals Or Snacks: Airports can get pretty packed during the holiday season, so you’re likely to find long lines at airport restaurants. So, if you’re on a tight schedule, packing your own snacks is your best bet. Plus, airport dining can be quite pricey, so this is also a great way to save money. Just make sure to follow TSA and airport carry-on guidelines for food and drinks.
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