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Renowned digital media outlet US News and World Report has announced its world travel ratings for 2021-22. And it won’t surprise those of us who already know and love the Yucatan that the top 3 destinations in Mexico are located in this little corner of paradise.
Beating the likes of Mexico City, Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta to the top spots is a coup for the Yucatan. But it’s well-deserved, with the winning destinations offering all the ingredients you need for a perfect vacation.
Read on to learn which three destinations were crowned the ‘Best Places to Visit in Mexico’.
3. Cancun
Perennial favorite Cancun comes in at number three on the list. Famous for the vacation-ready Zona Hotelera, Cancun’s appeal lies in its accessibility, its ability to cater seamlessly to the needs of tourists, and – of course – its natural beauty and consistently hot and sunny weather.
It’s a quick hop on a plane from most of the States to Cancun, so you can be relaxing on a lounger, cocktail in hand, only a few short hours after leaving home.
Cancun itself has plenty to entertain you during your vacation, with enough restaurants, bars, and shops to keep even the most discerning of vacationers satisfied.
But equally, if you do want to explore, Cancun is a great jumping-off point for a range of fun tours taking you to places like Chichen Itza, or one of the area’s many cenotes. You can also take the short half-hour ferry over to neighboring Isla Mujeres, an enticing place with a real island vibe.
2. Playa Del Carmen
Playa del Carmen is flourishing, and for several years has been the fastest-growing city in Latin America, with a boom in construction, hospitality and shopping venues attracting tourists at an ever-increasing rate.
Yet, despite this rapid growth, Playa del Carmen manages to retain its appeal. Set on a pleasing beach with fantastic transport links, and one of the best restaurant scenes in Mexico, it’s no wonder people keep coming back.
There are plenty of options when it comes to accommodation, with exclusive boutique hotels in the downtown area, and All-Inclusive resorts in Playacar, a gated community just south of the city.
Playa del Carmen is also a gateway to the divers’ favorite destination, Cozumel. The island is easily accessed by ferry, which departs directly from the pier next to the pretty waterfront Fundadores Park.
3. Tulum
The number one spot was awarded to Tulum, a town known for attracting social media influencers, enticed by its rustic beach esthetic, relaxed vibe, and eco-consciousness.
Tulum has retained enough of its history to excite visitors. It boasts one of the only Mayan cities constructed on the water which, thanks to the breathtaking setting, is also one of the most photographed (and Instagrammed) ruins in the Yucatan.
As well as embracing its fascinating history, Tulum has also cleverly developed in other directions. It’s now a hub for wellness retreats like Amansala, which was one of the first beachfront eco-resorts in the town. Tulum also hosts numerous popular music festivals and is home to some of the best beach clubs in the Riviera Maya. The food on offer here is world-beating and there’s also a thriving mixology scene.
Combining the ancient and the modern with an exciting vibe, hotels to suit all tastes, and gorgeous beaches, it’s no surprise to find this Mayan Riviera town topping the list of best places to visit in Mexico.
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