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Millions of travelers are flocking to resort destinations across the Mexican Caribbean as the record-breaking summer kicks off.
But a growing number of travelers are opting for lesser-known destinations in search of authentic experiences, and by extension, are skipping out on staying at a resort.
A new report shows that the southern cities of the Mexican Caribbean are trending this summer with travelers that want to skip the resorts, instead opting for online vacation rentals.
In particular, Bacalar and Mahahual, two stunning eco-tourist hotspots, are captivating travelers that want to explore the Mexican Caribbean beyond the resorts.
Nearly Half Of All Tourists Will Stay At A Rental This Summer
New findings reveal that nearly half of all tourists in southern Quintana Roo will stay at a vacation rental this summer. The region is mainly made up of smaller coastal villages and several cities and is most famous for its white-sand beaches, colorful lagoon, and untouched cenotes.
Among the region’s many destinations, Bacalar and Mahahual are home to the largest number of online rentals. With an inventory of over 1800 rooms, the sun-soaked destinations boast an extensive array of accommodations with stunning views of nature, including beaches and lagoons.
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@travelmapamundiblog The Airbnbs in Mexico are just so good! 🫶🏼 – loved this one in Bacalar! #airbnbfinds #airbnb #bestairbnb #travel #travelbucketlist #bacalar #bacalarmexico #mexico #bacalarlagoon #traveltiktok #traveltok ♬ Should I move here – Rod
Bacalar is popular for its unique natural wonders, which include the blue and turquoise hues of the Lagoon of 7 Colors. Here, travelers will find accommodations that are immersed in tropical jungles and overlooking lagoons, such as this top-rated sustainable property.
Meanwhile, Mahuhal is a quaint coastal fishing village that is seeing its tourism sector boom with more hotels and online rentals. The remote destination is far from the hustle and bustle of other resort hotspots, making it the perfect alternative for those seeking a quiet experience.
Unlike Bacalar, Mahuahal boasts miles-long white-sand beaches that form a stunning backdrop for a relaxing Caribbean getaway. With dozens of excellent accommodations, travelers can choose from ocean-view villas or studio apartments in the heart of Mahuahal’s small but charming downtown area.
Vacation Rental Bookings Continue Steady Rise
The Mexican Caribbean is a global resort heavyweight, boasting an excellent array of top-rated resorts that provide excellent safety, tasty foods, and endless amenities. Even so, many travelers are keen on exploring everything the sun-soaked region has to offer outside of their all-inclusive.
From untouched beaches to centuries-old Mayan ruins, there’s a lot more to the Mexican Caribbean than spending long afternoons by the pool.
And that’s why many travelers are booking online vacation rentals, such as those offered by Airbnb. An excellent way to take in local culture and life, online rentals have a few important benefits.
Starting off with their location, travelers can access unique settings thanks to thousands of listings dotted across the Mexican Caribbean state of Quintana Roo. From humble rural abodes to accommodations that are smack dab in the heart of bustling downtown areas, rentals have a lot of flexibility and choice.
Another notable benefit: travelers can save up by booking longer stays for less. What’s more, online rentals are often much larger – sometimes an entire apartment or family home – compared to what you’d get at your typical all-inclusive.
But online rentals also come with some big risks, including fraud, which continues to plague the Mexican Caribbean market. As always, travelers should be careful when booking a vacation rental, making sure to read reviews, verify the safety of the property – including security features and locations – and only booking on official websites.
@sunshine.inmypocket Best day ever! #bacalar #lagunadelos7colores #foryou #airbnb #xootkana #hiddengem #summervibes #collectingmemories ♬ Good Day – Nappy Roots
Officials in the Mexican Caribbean recently launched a new campaign urging travelers to double-check and verify the safety of their vacation rental before booking. But ultimately, it’s up to travelers to act safely.
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Texasgingerbread
Thursday 27th of July 2023
This article is a joke. Anyone knows that those two areas are taken over by cruisers during the day. And the sargassum along Mahahual is not kept under control by those nets. Not the relaxing and white sandy beaches you are making this quiet paradise out to be!!!