Travel Safety Tips

Picking travel insurance can be a very confusing part of planning your international trip. Is it worth the expense? Which insurance companies offer the best coverage?

Getting some travel insurance is an extremely important part of planning a trip to foreign countries. Many regular health insurance companies don’t cover much (if anything) when you travel. This means you should purchase a dedicated travel insurance plan.

Travel insurance plans can cover a mix of medical emergencies, accidents, theft of personal property, illness, and even trip cancellation or interruptions. It’s just a smart option if you want to travel safely these days.

But the best part is, decent plans can cost only a few dollars a day.

After 10-years of travel, I’ve had quite a few incidents happen on the road (Dengue Fever, a stolen camera, phone, etc.) So I never travel without insurance to protect me from these unexpected situations.

My goal with this travel insurance guide is to help you narrow down the overwhelming choices out there — and pick some good travel insurance whether you’re traveling for 2-weeks or 6-months.

Types Of Travel Insurance

There are a few different kinds of travel insurance, and some plans cover more than others.

You’ll have to ask yourself a few questions before picking a plan. Are you a short-term traveler going away for a week or two? Or are you a long-term traveler leaving for 6-months or more?

Do you carry a lot of expensive photo/computer gear, or not?

Will your current health insurance cover you overseas? How much will it cover? Does it include medical evacuation? Do you have any pre-existing conditions?

Are you the type of person who books hotels/flights/activities in advance? Or do you just wing it and pay for these services as you use them? Are you worried your trip might get canceled?

Travel Medical Insurance is coverage for accidents, injuries, illness, or hospital visits while you are away from home.

Medical Evacuation Insurance is coverage for emergency transportation (often via airplane) to a major hospital for better treatment.

Trip Cancellation Insurance is coverage for unexpected interruptions in your travel plans.

Baggage/Property Insurance is coverage for theft or damage to your gear while traveling.

Best Travel Insurance Options In 2023

Short-Term Travel Insurance

SafetyWing

SafetyWing is a fantastic budget travel insurance option for travelers. They offer the flexibility to purchase a plan before or after your trip has already started. Plans start at only $40 per month, and they include theft of personal property too!

Another big perk is that they can also cover you in your home country, or a dependent child who is traveling with you. Which is nice for digital nomads and families traveling with kids.

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World Nomads

World Nomads specializes in short-term travel coverage, including theft, and are very popular among travelers. I used them for years before I decided to get long-term expat type insurance instead.

Buying insurance with World Nomads for your next vacation is quick & easy. You can even purchase a plan with little advanced notice. You can extend coverage online from anywhere too.

Health Coverage Worldwide: Yes.
Coverage At Home: No.
Medical Evacuation: Yes.
Trip Cancellation: Yes.
Theft/Damage Insurance: Yes. ($500 per-item limit)

Long-Term Insurance For Digital Nomads & Expats

Because I’m a digital nomad and travel with thousands of dollars of camera equipment for work, I have a more long-term travel insurance mindset. I use an expat dedicated health insurance policy, combined with a gear policy for professional photographers.

This mix is more expensive than a World Nomads Policy, but works best for my long-term travel lifestyle.

IMG Global

This plan specializes in long-term worldwide medical coverage, but does not cover theft or trip cancelation. Coverage inside the United States is included, but to qualify you must spend at least 6 months of the year living abroad. You can choose a deductible from $250-$10,000.

Health Coverage Worldwide: Yes.
Coverage at Home: Yes.
Medical Evacuation: Yes.
Trip Cancellation: No.
Theft/Damage Insurance: No.
Example Quote: Global Gold (1 year policy) = $74/month with $1000 deductible

HTH Worldwide

Full international medical insurance, including the United States. No limits as to how long you are in the US. Deductible waived for regular doctor checkups. Excellent insurance, but pricey. Sherry from OttsWorld.com is a happy customer.

Health Coverage Worldwide: Yes.
Coverage at Home: Yes.
Medical Evacuation: Yes.
Trip Cancellation: No.
Theft/Damage Insurance: No.
Example Quote: Global Citizen (1 year policy) = $269/month with $1000 deductible

More Insurance Options

Your Current Health Insurance

Already have regular health insurance in your home country? Check to see if they provide coverage internationally. If they do, you might not need anything else.

Homeowners Or Renters Insurance

Your homeowners or renters insurance may cover your belongings when you’re traveling in foreign countries too. Call them up to verify the details.

Credit Card Travel Insurance

Many travel credit cards often include some basic travel, theft, and even car insurance (which is great for renting a car overseas). Call your card company up to get details on what is exactly covered (or not).

Do You Need Travel Insurance?

This is the million-dollar question — and ultimately a personal decision. I’ve met plenty of people who travel without travel insurance and I’ve contemplated doing the same.

But after over 10-years of constant travel, hearing horror stories from other travelers, and getting into a few dangerous predicaments myself — if someone asks for my opinion on the subject I answer with:

YES. Everyone should carry some kind of health/property insurance when traveling.

Why? Because stuff happens. Whether you think it will or not. Despite your best-laid plans and preventative measures. Sure, if you sprain your ankle, it might not be a big deal.

But what if your appendix bursts? Or your bus crashes? Or you contract a deadly disease? Or require medical evacuation after breaking your leg?

These things definitely happen to travelers from time to time, and could cost you tens (or hundreds) of thousands of dollars. Without insurance, you’re screwed!

My recommendation is based on listening to countless first-hand tales of disaster from other travelers, as well as my own personal experiences.

Real-Life Examples

I know a woman traveling in Costa Rica who fell off a ladder, shattering her arm. She did not have health insurance, received horrible treatment at the local hospital, and was basically held hostage there until she was able to pay the HUGE medical bill.

Another person I know lost everything he was traveling with when his locked guesthouse in Ecuador was broken into. Without personal property insurance, he would have needed to spend thousands replacing all his gear.

Another friend contracted a flesh-eating parasite while trekking through the jungles of Peru. He required months worth of treatment from specialized doctors, and a medical evacuation flight back to the United States.

These are all people I know personally.

Making An Insurance Claim

Insurance companies are notorious for trying to avoid paying out claims. Making a claim might take some work on your part, depending on the situation. Here are a few tips for getting paid through travel insurance:

• If you’re having issues filing a claim, always work your way up the corporate ladder. Talk to a supervisor. Then talk to the supervisor’s supervisor. Make your claim issues public using Social Media if needed.
• Record conversations. At the beginning of every phone call, tell the other party you’re recording the conversation to ensure no misunderstandings later.
• When filing a police report of any kind, keep the story simple. The longer and more in-depth the report, the easier it is for insurance companies to find a loophole to deny your claim.

Additional Travel Insurance Tips

• Read the fine print first! Know what you’re covered for. For example, some policies don’t cover extreme sports or theft of unattended items.
• Take photos or a video of all your travel gear with a date stamp.
• Save PDF copies of any travel gear purchases & hospital receipts. Keep originals too.
• Write down serial numbers, policy numbers, and insurance contact information.
• Store this information online in a secure, easy to access place. I use Evernote. Another good option is Dropbox or Google Drive.
• File a police report immediately after any theft or accident while traveling.

No one likes to think about theft or injury when they’re on vacation, but the threat is real, and without good travel insurance, an unexpected incident could ruin the rest of your year. Never travel without it! ★

This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

A new prestigious showjumping series was revealed at its opening event at the CSIO Roma Piazza di Siena (22 to 26 May).

The Rolex Series unites six major shows, including the Jumping International de La Baule, the Jumping International de Dinard, Dublin Horse Show, Brussels Stephex Masters, and the Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington. The feature class at each will be the Rolex grand prix.

“The six shows that are part of the Rolex Series are some of the best shows in the world and the ones that we all, as riders, mark in our schedule every year,” said top showjumper and Rolex testimonee Steve Guerdat.

“They are some of the most prestigious and historically significant competitions on our calendar, and by bringing this amazing group of shows together as part of the Rolex Series, the prestige and desire to win is only going to increase.”

Rolex global communications director Arnaud Boetsch added that the Rolex Series will “build upon the legacy that the brand has cultivated” over almost 70 years of its support of equestrianism.

“The six shows within the Rolex Series are united in their qualities, each celebrated for their world-class competition, leading facilities and notable histories, and being part of the Rolex Series will provide a mark of distinction above and beyond other five-star shows,” he said.

Bevy of new HOYS deals announced

Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) has revealed a raft of new sponsorship deals ahead of its 75th anniversary (9 to 13 October).

Bakery Jacksons of Yorkshire takes on the Mountain & Moorland working hunter pony championship, LeMieux is extending is support to be the new title sponsor of the Pony Club mounted games, while Demolition Services sponsors the leading pony showjumper of the year.

LeMieux will also serve as the official champion rug supplier for a second year.

A spokesperson for HOYS organisers Grandstand Media said: “We are excited that LeMieux, a brand synonymous with high quality products, is supporting one of the most popular competitions and a firm favourite of our audience.

“In addition to the Pony Club Mounted Games, knowing that our champions will have a rug fit for the occasion is so important and we have no doubt that our HOYS 2024 champions will be thrilled with their prestigious LeMieux champion rug.”

The spokesman added that HOYS is “thrilled” to welcome Demolition Services Ltd and Jacksons of Yorkshire.

“[Jacksons of Yorkshire’s] commitment to supply lovingly baked bread is at the heart of this company, where generations of Jacksons bakers have dedicated themselves to early mornings and hard graft – something that many of our competitors know all too well!” said the spokesperson.

“We are proud to have the bakers of champion bread on board and we can’t wait to welcome Helena and the team to the show in October.”

The spokesperson added: “The Demolition Services leading pony showjumper of the year is an important series in the summer calendar as combinations battle it out for a place in this final, together we can’t wait to welcome the competitors to the show in October.”

Deal aims to maximise TV coverage of equestrian sport

UK production company Sunset+Vine is extending its partnership with the FEI with a new three-year contract – aiming to maximise TV coverage of horse sport worldwide.

FEI commercial director Ralph Straus said that Sunset+Vine’s “expertise and commitment to showcasing our sport will be invaluable”.

“This new agreement will not only enhance the visibility of our premier events, but also bring the excitement of equestrian sports to a broader global audience,” he added.

As part of this contract, Sunset+Vine will be supporting the distributing of the media rights at competitions including the 2025 and 2027 FEI European Championships and the 2026 FEI World Championships, plus the Longines League of Nations.

Sarsfield Brolly, head of media partnerships at Sunset+Vine, said: “I am absolutely delighted that we have been able to build on the consultancy that we have been providing to the FEI over the last two years, and cement a long-term contract in looking after their premium events.”

Holland Cooper branches out

British fashion brand Holland Cooper is extending its support of racing, signing a new deal to sponsor the Group One Coronation Cup on Friday (31 May) at the Betfred Derby Festival at Epsom.

The move is the first time that the brand has sponsored a Group or Graded race, and is also its initial foray into Flat racing. Holland Cooper has sponsored leading jockey and trainer awards at the Cheltenham Festival, and it is now the fashion partner at Cheltenham racecourse.

“Ladies Day celebrates the very best of British fashion and style, making this a very appropriate race sponsorship, as Holland Cooper make their first move into Flat racing support,” said Tom Sammes, Epsom Downs racecourse general manager.

“The 2024 renewal of the race looks all set to be a high-quality affair with last year’s impressive winner Emily Upjohn set to try and defend her crown.”

Jade Holland Cooper, founder and managing director of Holland Cooper, said that the development is an “honour and a privilege”, adding: “The races are no longer just about horses, they are now also a celebration of timeless fashion, style and elegance.”

Mars Equestrian signs new Burghley deal

Mars Equestrian has announced a new partnership as official veterinary and official pet nutrition partner of Defender Burghley Horse Trials (5 to 8 September).

“As official veterinary partner, Mars Equestrian will support an upgrading of the veterinary care and facilities we can offer our equestrian athletes, which is of the utmost importance at Burghley,” said Burghley event director Martyn Johnson.

There will be 19 vets, two equine nurses and four veterinary support staff on-site during Burghley. Mars brands will be providing onsite diagnostic and imaging support for the veterinary teams, plus a range of benefits for dogs including a new dog-friendly area at the members’ lawn.

“We are excited to return to Burghley Horse Trials and extend our commitment to the sport,” said William Clements, president of Mars Equestrian. “At Burghley, we will have the opportunity to share our iconic brands that help create a better world for horses, pets, and the people who love them.”

Emily King becomes Joules ambassador

British five-star event rider Emily King has signed a new sponsorship deal with Joules.

The news was announced during Mars Badminton Horse Trials and Emily will work with the brand throughout this season.

“I’m delighted to welcome Joules as a new partner,” said Emily. “Joules has long been associated with equestrian and the sport of eventing and having supported me in the very early days, it’s fantastic to be working with them again.

“The brand is synonymous with country style and doing things a little differently, injecting so much colour and fun into their pieces. I’m really looking forward to working with Tom, Alice and the team this season.”

Joules founder, Tom Joule, said that Emily’s “commitment to excellence and passion for her sport perfectly align with the values of our brand”.

“Having supported Emily at the start of her career, I am thrilled to announce her as an ambassador rider. Together, we look forward to injecting even more energy, colour and excitement to the world of eventing,” he said.

Bedmax partners with Blair Castle

Bedmax has been chosen as official shavings supplier for the final Defender Blair Castle Horse Trials (22 to 25 August).

“We take the greatest care to ensure the health and comfort of our equine athletes, and supplying great bedding is a crucial part in achieving this,” said assistant event director Nicky Townsend.

“Bedmax has a reputation for the quality of their bedding, so in having Bedmax as our official shavings partner at this year’s horse trials, we know that the horses are given every possible chance to perform at their very best.”

Bedmax founder and managing director Tim Smalley added: “Blair Castle is Scotland’s premiere equestrian event, and it epitomises the best of equestrianism in every respect, including the care that is taken for the welfare of the wonderful horses that compete at this very challenging level.

“It is a privilege for us to be chosen to play a small part in helping to provide this standard of care for those competing this year.”

New partnerships to support industry’s workforce

The British Grooms Association (BGA) and Equestrian Employers Association (EEA) have both signed several recent deals.

The pair have new partnerships with wheelbarrow firm Henchman, and with equine biosecurity specialists Equine Bio Genie.

Henchman’s head of marketing Clare Lenagham-Balmer said: “Our wheelbarrows are the perfect partner for grooms, making their busy day a little easier, therefore we are delighted to be working with both the British Grooms Association and the Equestrian Employers Association.”

Equine Bio Genie director Helen Tuckey added: “We are delighted to be partnering with the BGA and the EEA, our products are designed to make life easier, we all know the hard work involved with grooming and stable management. We look forward to supporting these important associations.”

You might also be interested in:

Subscribe to Horse & Hound this spring for great savings

How to keep (and lose) a sponsor

How to get a sponsor: a guide for all riders

Are riders doing enough to support brands?

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

One of my favorite things to do in Mexico is swim in the beautiful cenotes of the Yucatan. Here are tips for visiting a cenote in Mexico, and how to enjoy them responsibly.

Cenotes in Mexico are super cool! The Mayan people used cenotes to supply their ancient cities (like Chichen Itza) with fresh water, as well as a sacred place to conduct sacrificial offerings to their gods.

Ancient artifacts and even human bones have been discovered in many.

Offerings were made to the Mayan god Chaac, the god of rain, when drought threatened the area. The Maya also believed these underground wells were entrances to the afterlife.

Despite their slightly creepy history, these days cenotes in Mexico are enjoyed by foreigners and locals alike as refreshing jungle swimming holes and cave diving hot-spots. No trip to Mexico is complete without swimming in a cenote!

Here you’ll find details about Tulum cenotes, as well as cenotes near Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Valladolid too.

After spending years living in and regularly traveling to Mexico as a digital nomad, I wanted to put together a helpful guide to my favorite cenotes throughout the Yucatan Peninsula.

Mexico Cenotes Map

HOW TO USE THIS MAP: Above you’ll find a map of cenotes in Mexico. Click on the top left of the map to find separate layers marking the route and points of interest. You can hide and show different layers, or click icons on the map to see the names of places I mention in this travel guide. “Star” the map to save it to your own Google Maps, or open the map in a new window for a larger version. Enjoy!

Best Cenotes In Mexico

What Exactly Is A Cenote?

Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is famous for its amazing cenotes — natural pools of fresh water located in limestone caves. These pools are connected to each other through the world’s largest underground river system.

Rain water seeps through the porous limestone, collecting underground.

Cenotes themselves are created when the limestone surface collapses, creating a cave opening into this river system. Some cenotes are “open air” meaning the roof has completely collapsed, while “cave cenotes” may have most or all of their roof still intact.

Many cenotes in Mexico are home to a variety of fish and plant life, some even have turtles!

There are supposedly over 6000 different cenotes located in Mexico. Some have been turned into swimming holes for tourists, others are used for technical cave scuba diving, and many more are simply inaccessible – hidden in the remote Mexican jungle.

Best Cenotes In Tulum

Casa Cenote (Cenote Manatí)

One of my favorite Tulum cenotes, Casa is an open-air cenote that looks more like a river than a typical cenote. Jungle plants go right up to the edge of it, and it’s an excellent spot for snorkeling. It’s narrow but VERY long, so you might want to use a life jacket (they have them) if you’re not a strong swimmer.

Locals call it “Cenote Manati”, because there used to be a population of Manatees living in it. While they are no longer there, a friendly crocodile named “Panchito” does sometimes make appearances to swim with tourists. I wouldn’t pet it, but otherwise there’s nothing to be afraid of!

Entrance Fee: 150 MXN ($7 USD)

Opening Hours: 8am – 5pm

Location: Click For Map

Dos Ojos

Dos Ojos Cenote is one of the coolest cenotes near Tulum. It’s very popular for scuba diving, due to its “two eyes” (sinkholes) separated by a 400m long underwater tunnel. But it’s also fun for snorkeling, as there are plenty of caves to explore that are just above the water line.

Because Dos Ojos is one of the most famous cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula, it can get crowded fast. It’s actually part of a huge cenote complex, and there are many different ones you can visit in the area.

Entrance Fee: 350 MXN ($17 USD)

Opening Hours: 9am – 5pm

Location: Click For Map

Gran Cenote Tulum

Gran Cenote (aka Great Cenote) is one of the closest cenotes to Tulum. In fact it’s possible to ride a bike here if you want to. It’s not super big, but has two cool chambers separated by a cave tunnel. They also have a mini turtle sanctuary!

A nice cenote for swimming and snorkeling, they also have showers and restrooms on site. It’s grown in popularity over the years, and can see huge crowds sometimes.

Entrance Fee: 180 MXN ($8 USD)

Opening Hours: 8am – 5pm

Location: Click For Map

Cenote Taak Bi-Ha

This cenote hidden in the jungle of Tulum is a special one. A full on cave cenote, it’s lit with led lights, but still kept looking natural, which I love. The water is super clear, and snorkeling here makes you feel like a cave diver. Which, by the way, you’ll see plenty scuba divers disappear into the abyss beyond.

It’s generally one of the less-crowded cenotes in Tulum, partly due to its steep price to enter compared to others.

Entrance Fee: 500 MXN ($24 USD)

Opening Hours: 9am – 5pm

Location: Click For Map

Cenote Car Wash (Aktun Ha)

The Car Wash Cenote is located right off the road from Tulum to Coba, and used to be where locals would wash their cars! Now it’s a proper Tulum swimming cenote where you’ll see tons of fish, water lilys, iguanas, and even some turtles from time to time.

Car Wash has a few wooden jumping platforms, a rope swing, and is another cave diving spot. There are a lot of downed trees at the bottom too, making for a unique underwater world to view while snorkeling around.

Entrance Fee: 200 MXN ($10 USD)

Opening Hours: 9am – 4pm

Location: Click For Map

Cenote Calavera (Temple Of Doom)

Cenote Calavera gets its name from the appearance of a skull, with three openings into the ground. It’s a very deep cenote in Tulum which cave divers love. Perfect for jumping from the sides (there’s even a narrow opening you can drop into).

It’s sometimes called The Temple Of Doom by professional scuba divers. There is a swing, as well as a climbing rope. They have lounge chairs for sunbathing too.

Entrance Fee: 250 MXN ($12 USD)

Opening Hours: 8am – 5pm

Location: Click For Map

Cenote Choo Ha

This shallow water cave cenote is located next to the ruins of Coba (about 45-minutes from Tulum). It boasts crystal clear blue water and many stalagmites hanging from the ceiling. It’s a dramatic looking cenote, and one of my favorite cenotes near Tulum.

The shallow water makes this a great cenote to visit with a family or small kids, although the stairs down are pretty steep and slippery. So just be extra careful! Choo Ha is actually one of 3 cenotes located around Coba, and it’s possible to buy a ticket that covers all of them.

Entrance Fee: 100 MXN ($5 USD)

Location: Click For Map

Best Cenotes In Cancun

Cenote Sol & Luna

Cenote Sol y Luna is the first cenote you’ll encounter on the Ruta de Cenotes. It’s a big complex, featuring the cenote itself, as well as a pool, waterslides, temazcal sauna, ATV rides, and more. The cenote is large and green, with fun zipline and some jumping platforms. Lifejackets are provided (and required) here.

Entrance Fee: 350 MXN ($15 USD)

Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm

Location: Click For Map

Cenote Boca de Puma

A super fun cenote to visit near Cancun is called Boca de Puma (Mouth of the Puma). It’s actually comprised of two different cenotes, one in a cave, the other open-air. They also have a zipline course here, as well as a handful of rescued spider monkeys who roam free in the jungle, but aren’t afraid of people at all. One of them wouldn’t leave Anna’s side!

Entrance Fee: 400 MXN ($20 USD)

Opening Hours: 9am – 5pm

Location: Click For Map

Cenote Ojo de Agua

This cool cenote called Ojo de Agua has multiple openings (eyes) into the crystal clear water below. There are jumping platforms up to 20 feet high, and swimming through the caves below is super fun. You have to shower before getting in, and there’s a little place to buy lunch here too.

Entrance Fee: 250 MXN ($12 USD)

Opening Hours: 9am – 5pm

Location: Click For Map

Best Cenotes In Playa Del Carmen

Best Cenotes Near Valladolid

Ik-Kil Cenote

Cenote Ik-Kil is a super popular cenote near the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza, and is often included as a stop on guided bus tours. As such, it’s often packed with people. Massive vines stretch down to the water, making it look very dramatic. While cool, due to the crowds, it’s not my favorite cenote in the area.

Entrance Fee: 350 MXN ($17 USD)

Location: Click For Map

Cenote Zaci-Ha

Cenote Zaci is located right in the heart of the Mexican town of Valladolid, and an easy bike ride from anywhere in town. It’s not quite as popular as others, but has a few different cliff jumps, some big black fish swimming around, and sometimes a little waterfall.

Entrance Fee: 30 MXN ($1.50 USD)

Location: Click For Map

Cenote Suytun

One of the most photogenic cenotes in the Yucatan, Suytun Cenote has become an Instagram sensation. Sunlight streams down from a hole in the ceiling, making for a very dramatic scene. Due to its popularity, it can get quite busy as everyone waits in line for a photo on the circular walkway.

Each person gets about a minute to pose on the walkway for photos, before they blow a whistle and let the next person in line get their turn. Makes a wonderful photo, but is not a very magical experience like some other cenotes can be. A bit of a tourist trap.

Entrance Fee: 150 MXN ($9 USD)

Opening Hours: 9am – 5pm

Location: Click For Map

Cenote X’Canche

X’canche cenote is next to the Mayan ruins of Ek Balam, and part of the archaeological site. It’s pretty cool, and looks like a circular crater in the ground with steep sides. It’s about a mile (1.5 km) walk from the Mayan ruins, but they also offer bicycles to rent.

To get down to the water itself, you need to walk down a couple of very steep wooden staircases. The water is less clear than some other cenotes, so there isn’t much to see with snorkeling gear. There are some jumping platforms, a free rope swing, plus ziplines & a rappel that you do for an extra fee.

Entrance Fee: 70 MXN ($3.50 USD)

Opening Hours: 8am – 3:30pm

Location: Click For Map

Cenote Palomitas

This cenote in Mexico is a bit off the beaten path, about 30-minutes from Valladolid. It doesn’t see as many tourists as others do. It’s actually part of a 3-cenote complex. It’s a massive cave cenote, with a single hole in the top that allows sunlight to stream in. There’s also a knotted rope hanging down for climbing!

Entrance Fee: 150 MXN ($7 USD)

Opening Hours: 8am – 4:30pm

Location: Click For Map

Cenote Sac-Aua

One of the most unique cenotes I visited in Mexico, Sac-Aua has a giant island in the middle of it, creating a doughnut shape. They rent kayaks here, so you can cruise around the island. There’s also a jumping platform, and a bunch of iguanas hanging around. They also have a cavern (cave) you can visit, and will cook a traditional Mayan meal for lunch too.

Entrance Fee: 345 MXN ($17 USD)

Opening Hours: 8am – 5pm

Location: Click For Map

Cenote Secreto Maya

There’s lots to do at this cenote near Valladolid. A 22 meter jumping platform, 10 meter rope swing, caves to explore, and when you enter, you’re treated to a traditional Mayan blessing. There is also food, a swimming pool, hammocks, and a massive colorful mural to enjoy when you’re done with the cenote. Loved this one! It wasn’t too crowded either.

Entrance Fee: 200 MXN ($10 USD)

Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm

Location: Click For Map

How To Visit Cenotes

Rental Car

The best site to book a rental car in Mexico is with Discover Cars. They search both local and international car rental companies to help you find the best possible price. This is the easiest way to rent a car and drive in Mexico.

Renting a car offers the best flexibility for exploring and visiting some of the more remote cenotes around the Yucatan Peninsula. It’s my favorite way to get around! You can use my Mexico cenote map at the top of this article to help you find them all.

Here are some useful tips for renting a car and driving in Mexico too. We do it a lot!

Take A Guided Cenote Tour

There are several tour options for visiting cenotes leaving from Cancun, Playa del Carmen or Tulum. Some are part of Mayan Ruins tours, while others combine cenote visits with ziplining, ATV’s and other adventure activities. One popular option leaving from Cancun is the Xenote Experience.

Bicycle Or Taxi

Some of the Tulum cenotes can be reached by bicycle, as well as some cenotes near the town of Valladolid. For most others, unless you have your own rental car, you’ll need to hire a local taxi to take you. Often taxi drivers will give you their business card, allowing you to call them when you’re done visiting the cenote to get a ride back into town.

Tips For Visiting Cenotes In Mexico

• To avoid polluting the water in cenotes, most places require you to shower before entering. Please don’t use sunscreen either, as it can be harmful to wildlife.
• Many cenotes in Mexico provide life jackets for people who are not strong swimmers. Most cenotes don’t have a shallow area — they can be super deep.
• Some cenotes include rope swings, jumping platforms, zip lines, and will rent you snorkeling gear.
• Cave divers frequent some cenotes, so make sure to give them plenty of room, and be careful where you jump!
• Some cenotes can get very crowded, depending on the season and time of day. If you arrive at a cenote and see a bunch of tour buses, it might be worth looking for another if you want to avoid crowds.
• The water in most cenotes is pretty cold, as they are fed from underground sources.

Travel Planning Resources For Mexico

Packing Guide Check out my travel gear guide to help you start packing for your trip. Book Your Flight Ready to fly? Here’s how I find the cheapest airline flights. Rent A Car Discover Cars is a great site for comparing car prices to find a deal. Cheap Accommodation Learn how I save money booking hotels & vacation apartments. Protect Your Trip Don’t forget travel insurance! Protect yourself from possible injury & theft abroad. Read why you should always carry travel insurance.

This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

Today, we are in our cabin in Oregon.  I think we will try to kayak and maybe even check out the pickleball.  We didn’t think we’d like playing, but it is FUN!

HERE WE GO!

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Mexico Driving Guide

Renting a car in Mexico and driving around the country yourself is a wonderful way to experience the Land of the Maya. Here’s some advice about the best way to do it.

I love Mexico. I’ve both lived & vacationed there for many years, with most of my time spent in the country’s Yucatan Peninsula area. Mexico is a very big country with a lot to offer!

Whenever I visit, I ALWAYS rent a car to explore on my own. It’s much more fun!

Renting a car in Mexico and driving yourself can have its quirks and challenges, but they are minimal and shouldn’t deter you.

I love the freedom of road trips and planning my own travel itineraries. Mexico is such a diverse country that it makes sense to rent a car so you can stop anywhere to discover small villages, ancient Mayan ruins like Chichen Itza, and hidden beaches or secret cenotes at your own pace.

Not on some strict (less than ideal) schedule with a tour company.

Here are some important tips we learned from our many experiences renting a car in Mexico, to help you save money and stay safe while driving around the country!

How To Rent A Car In Mexico

1. Should You Self-Drive In Mexico?

Hey, if you love those big group bus tours, by all means, go book one. It’s a decent way to see Mexico if you don’t have a lot of time.

No planning, no driving, just sit back and let someone else do all the work!

But if you’re like me, you prefer the adventure of independent travel.

No set schedule or timetable — driving around Mexico with the freedom to stop anyplace cool you find along the way.

If that’s the kind of traveler you are, renting a car in Mexico is the way to go!

Just keep in mind that some roads in Mexico can be confusing, and some drivers are aggressive too. But with some practice, you’ll gain confidence driving there!

Another nice thing we enjoyed about having a car was the ability to store things in the trunk, stopping off in small Mexican villages with travel backpacks rather than hauling luggage everywhere.

2. Where To Rent Your Car In Mexico

Some common car rental companies in Mexico include Enterprise, Sixt, Hertz, a local one called Fox Rentals, and many more.

But the best site to book your car is Discover Cars. They search both local and international car rental companies to help you find the best possible price. This is the easiest way to rent a car in Mexico.

We often rent our cars in Cancun or Playa del Carmen. From there it’s very easy to drive down the coast exploring the famous Mexican Riviera Maya.

Cancun Airport: Plan to pick up your car about 60 minutes after your flight arrives. When departing, try to be at the airport at least 2.5 hours before your flight leaves. Because returning your rental car and catching a shuttle back to the airport can take up to 30 minutes.

Playa Del Carmen: There are many Mexican car rental companies based in downtown Playa del Carmen. You may decide to pick up your car in Playa del Carmen after you get dropped off at your hotel from the Cancun Airport Shuttle. Rentals based in Playa are often a bit cheaper than Cancun.

3. Car Rental Insurance In Mexico

Some of the rumors about driving in Mexico are true, and the roads aren’t always maintained well, and drivers can be somewhat aggressive. Don’t worry, I’ll share some tips for dealing with them below.

This is why I highly recommend getting full insurance coverage.

Many travelers book rental cars using a travel friendly credit card that includes car rental insurance hoping that will save them some money, but in Mexico they won’t accept your credit card’s insurance, and will insist you buy additional Personal Liability insurance that costs $10-20 USD a day.

Some Mexican car rental companies will let you decline the insurance if you pay a large refundable deposit on your credit card (usually around $2500 USD). But if something happens that costs much more than that deposit, you’re paying out of pocket beyond that.

If it’s your first time driving in Mexico, I’d recommend getting the insurance just to be safe.

4. How Much Does It Cost To Rent A Car In Mexico?

Renting a car in Mexico is going to cost you around $20-$50 USD a day, depending on the type of car you get. Our 4 door sedan was about $30 per day.

I recommend renting a car with an actual trunk (no hatchbacks) to hide your luggage from prying eyes. It helps to prevent break-ins if thieves can’t see your stuff.

Gas Prices

Gas (petrol) prices in Mexico might seem cheap to Americans, but remember that the rest of the world quotes gas in Liters, not Gallons (1 Gallon = 3.78 Liters). Currently, gas costs about $5.14 per gallon ($1.39 per liter) in Mexico. Diesel cars will often save you some money on gas.

Automatic vs Manual

Automatic cars are more expensive to rent than manual cars and you must specify what type you want when booking. If you’ve never driven a manual car before, don’t start in Mexico! It’s safer to pre-book an automatic.

One-Way Rentals

There’s an additional fee for one-way car rentals in Mexico, which can vary by company. For example, if you want to drop off the car in a different city than where you started from.

5. Age Requirements For Renting A Car

The minimum age for driving in Mexico is 18 years old, however most car rental companies enforce their own age limit of 21 years old to rent a car. They also charge an additional fee if you’re under 24 years old.

6. Mexican Driving Laws Tourists Should Know

Be careful with parking tickets! If you park illegally in Mexico (like not paying for a metered parking spot), you’ll likely get a ticket along with the police removing your license plate or booting your car’s wheel until you’ve paid.

In many parts of Mexico you may come across occasional police road blocks. Often you just drive through them slowly unless an officer tells you to pull over. Don’t be scared or nervous, they are standard practice.

The speed limit on local roads is generally around 90 km/h while on national highways it’s up to 100 km/h.

Speeding Tickets In Mexico (Bribing The Police)

If you get pulled over for speeding while driving in Mexico, Mexican police officers will generally be looking for a bribe (aka “La Mordida”) from tourists. It’s just how things work. The amount is about $10 – $20 USD.

If you try and fight it, or ask for an official ticket instead, prepare to deal with a lot of hassle and paperwork that will certainly ruin the rest of your day.

7. International Driver’s License

No, you do not need an international driver’s license to drive in Mexico or rent a car there. Just bring your passport, credit card, and your driver’s license from your home country.

8. Helpful Tips For Driving In Mexico

You don’t have to stop for people! Pedestrians generally don’t have the right of way in Mexico, which means cars won’t stop for people walking across the street. This took some getting used to for me.

While you could be extra nice and stop for them anyway, you need to be careful because any local drivers behind you will NOT be expecting that, which can result in a bad accident. They hit you, you hit the people.

Merging onto a highway is very different than in the US. Often cars are stopped on the ramp waiting for an opening. And if you miss your opening (no matter how tight it may seem), you’ll certainly get honked at by those waiting behind you.

Beware of hidden speed bumps (called “Topes). While most of the time there will be a road sign announcing an upcoming speed bump, sometimes the signs are missing, and the speed bump paint has been worn off, and you’ll be rudely surprised by a very aggressive speed bump (that could wreck your suspension). You’ll generally find them as you enter and exit small towns.

Speeding drivers who are in a rush may tailgate you while flashing their lights. They just want you to pull over a bit so they can continue speeding past you. As long as it’s safe to do so, I would recommend doing it to avoid any road rage incidents.

9. Extra Advice For Renting A Car In Mexico

• Gas Station Scams: In Mexico, gas station attendants fill your car for you. Some attendants will try and scam tourists if they think they can get away with it. Either by not resetting the pump (so it looks like you got more gas than you really did), or pretending you didn’t give them enough cash using slight of hand. Keep your eye on the attendant & the gas pump screen at all times
• Don’t book a car without reading the company reviews. You’ll find plenty of bad reviews for every company (people love to complain online), but try to pick one with the LEAST bad reviews.
• You may not always get the make/model/type of car you booked. If they give you a smaller car, or a manual when you asked for an automatic, be pushy and ask for an upgrade.
• Inspect your car thoroughly and record video on your smartphone pointing out damage before you leave. This is a backup if they attempt to charge you for damage that was already there. This is a common car rental scam in Mexico….
• Pay attention to if your Mexican rental car takes regular petrol or diesel fuel, so you fill up with the correct type at gas stations.
• Use Google Maps on your smartphone for directions instead of renting a GPS device. Simply use your own hands-free car mount and a good international cell phone plan.

10. Accident & Breakdown Information

In a road emergency on a highway, you can dial the Green Angles (Ángeles Verdes) in Mexico by dialing 078. Alternatively, you can call: 250-82-21. They provide free travel information, mechanical assistance, and medical help for nationals and tourists.

If your car needs to be towed, or you need mechanical assistance, ran out of gas, or got in a wreck, you can call them for help.

Often the rental company’s own emergency roadside assistance number located on the rental agreement.

Enjoy Your Mexico Road Trip!

Exploring the small villages, hidden beaches, lush jungle, and coastal towns of Mexico in a rental car was definitely the right choice for us.

Self-drive road trips get off the beaten track to see things most people miss! ★

Travel Planning Resources For Mexico

Packing Guide Check out my travel gear guide to help you start packing for your trip. Book Your Flight Ready to fly? Here’s how I find the cheapest airline flights. Rent A Car Discover Cars is a great site for comparing car prices to find a deal. Cheap Accommodation Learn how I save money booking hotels & vacation apartments. Protect Your Trip Don’t forget travel insurance! Protect yourself from possible injury & theft abroad. Read why you should always carry travel insurance.

This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.

Podcast Transcript Sometime around eight to nine thousand years ago, ancient people in Asia Minor found a very dull grey metal that turned out to be easy to manipulate when it was heated.  For thousands of years, it was used for a variety of purposes, including as a food additive.  With the advent of the …

Read more

The post This History of Lead appeared first on Everything Everywhere.

I don’t know how to express what a great being she was…

Kind, quiet, strong, honest.

My friend.  For 28 years.  My heart actually aches with missing her.

I didn’t realize until today, how much she actually shared her life with me.  We were good girl friends.

Having her as a free-range donkey was such a gift.  Norma would come to me when she was happy and ask for a treat or just to hang.  She came to me, sometimes running,  when she needed comfort or help.

Her days were full of good times and freedom.

But I think this recent bout with laminitis, broke her spirit.  –She was improving.  In fact, I had just purchased her a new winter blanket.  But… I think the prospect of her freedoms restricted, broke her heart.  She didn’t want to spent most of her time in a dry paddock.

I can only surmise that this week, the vet and I had been chatting in front of Norma.  We talked about having her wear a grazing muzzle during limited time outside the barn.  We talked about keeping her in a dry paddock during Spring and early Summer.   She would have to wear boots…

But Norma didn’t want that kind of life for herself.  She LOVED being able to roam around the ranch and make her own choices.  A life in the barn with boots and a grazing muzzle was not a life for Norma.

I think she was mulling this over and decided that it just wasn’t worth it.

This morning, she came to me, put her head into my chest and told me that this time, she didn’t want fixing.  This time, she was done.

I couldn’t believe it… she was doing so well…

But her mind was made up.  She wouldn’t eat (and I tried everything).  All she wanted to do was lie down in front of her fans.  Even her breathing changed.

–I could have kept her going… but I knew that she didn’t want that.

She trusted me today, to hear her and help her.

Which I did.

And I didn’t want to.  I didn’t want to let her go at all.

But as I sat with her, waiting for the vet, I told her that Slick and Dodger would be on the other side … and I let my best girl – go.  It was just like that.  She was lying down, and she put her head down and left.  Her way.  The freedom way.

The Donk Squad is together again.

The post Norma Jean. appeared first on Horse and Man.

HORSE AND MAN is a blog in growth… if you like this, please pass it around!

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Posted: 11/13/23 | November 13th, 2023

I love walking tours. The first thing I do when I arrive somewhere is take a walking tour. It’s a great way to get the feel of a new place, see the main sights, and adjust to the local culture. You also get to meet a local expert guide who can answer your questions and give you tips on other spots to check out (I always ask for recommendations for places to eat, for example).

But sometimes the dates and times that walking tours are offered don’t line up with my schedule, especially if I’m only in a place for a few days or if I’m visiting when there is a local holiday. I also like to be spontaneous, and often tours are already filled up for the day or don’t allow last-minute registrations. Plus, I really like going at my own pace when exploring a city, and I don’t always feel like being tied to a tour for three hours.

In the past, this meant I was just out of luck. But today, there’s another option available: self-guided audio tours.

With the prevalence of smartphones, it’s now possible to access guided walking tours from your mobile device, giving you tons of freedom when it comes to taking a walking tour.

I’ve taken audio tours around the world, and they can really run the gamut in terms of quality. Around aims to take the guesswork out of finding quality audio tours by vetting local guides and compiling tours from cities around the world in one place.

In this review of Around, I’ll share everything you need to know about using this new tour marketplace!

 

What is Around?

Around is a platform where travelers can find and take self-guided audio walking tours in major cities around the world. Around vets local experts who create and list tours on the website, so you always know that you’re getting a quality tour guide. (Around does not run tours themselves; they rely on local experts.)

Tours generally last 60-90 minutes, though there are longer ones (such as Full Immersion Verona) lasting upwards of 180 minutes. Keep in mind that the estimated times do not take into account how many times you stop and start (and they certainly don’t account for that delicious pastry break!).

Since tours on Around are created by local experts, there’s a mixture of detailed tours on a particular topic (such as the 19th Century Skyscrapers Tour of Chicago, led by a professional Chicago tour guide who specializes in architecture and design) as well as general overview tours geared towards first-time visitors (like the Berlin Highlights Tour).

Tours are mainly offered in English, though there are some tours in Spanish and Italian, with the intent of adding more languages soon.

How Does Around Work?

All you need to take an Around walking tour is a smartphone with GPS enabled and an internet connection (no need to download a new app). Rather than the traditional tour model where you pay per tour, with Around, you purchase an all-access pass which lets you take as many tours as you want within a period of time, from 24 hours to 14 days.

This is a great value when you consider that taking one walking tour is normally around $5-20 USD, and for most cities on Around, there are at least three tours currently offered. If you’re visiting a place for a weekend, the three-day pass is perfect, as you can take all the tours you want for just $14.99 USD. Purchases on Around can be made in five main currencies (USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD) to avoid exchange rate fees.

If you’re more of a slow traveler and staying somewhere longer, or are visiting a few different cities on one trip, there are one-week and two-week passes too.

Once you purchase a pass, you’ll unlock all Around’s available tours for that period of time. As the company started in Italy, you’ll see the most cities represented there:

You’ll also find tours in the U.S., Canada, Australia, and throughout Europe, with new cities being added all the time. In fact, since I started writing this post, new cities have been added!

On each tour page, you’ll see helpful information including the duration, recommended starting point, information about the expert guide, a map of the stops, and a short description of what the tour is about:

I really like how you can listen to a 30-second preview of the tour. That way, you can quickly get a feel for the guide before you decide to embark on a longer audio adventure with them.

Each tour page also displays some of the highlights in visual form, which is super helpful for knowing whether the tour covers main city landmarks that you might not want to miss:

While tours all come with a recommended starting point, you can start at any location on the tour. Upon starting, you’ll follow the route, guided by your map and the voice of your guide. Once you reach an appointed stop on the tour, an orange button pops up. Hit the button to listen to the guide’s expertise at the stop.

You can pause and replay each stop as many times as you like, which is handy in busy cities that might be loud or otherwise distracting.

In fact, while you’re in the city where the tour takes place, you can play each stop’s audio whenever you like. This is not only helpful if you’re using an older device that might struggle with precise GPS (so it might not recognize if you’re standing at an audio stop), but if you didn’t have time to finish the tour while walking around, you can still learn the information while relaxing in your hotel or hostel later.

And as long as your access pass remains valid, you can take the whole tour again if you really want to!

Pros of Using Around

Around takes the guesswork out of finding quality audio walking tours, and there’s a lot to like about this newcomer on the tour company scene.

I especially liked how, with Around, you can:

• Take expertly guided walking tours at any hour of the day
• Stop, start, replay, and come back to tours on a truly self-paced tour experience
• Enjoy as many tours as you want for one price, with their unlimited access pass

Cons of Using Around

Around is still in development, meaning that they’re still working out the kinks. While they’re off to a great start, here are some places I’d love to see them improve upon:

• More cities offered (which is something they’re actively working on)
• Downloadable tours as you currently need an internet connection to take tours, which is something you may not have when you’re traveling
• Short bios of the guides to highlight their background and expertise (most are professionally licensed guides)

***

Around is a cool, affordable platform with lots of potential. While there are a lot of companies offering walking tours these days, there still isn’t a lot of focus on audio tours. It’d be great to have a go-to place to find curated expert-led audio tours around the world. I’m looking forward to seeing them flesh out some of the features and add more cities too. If you’re somewhere that Around offers tours, definitely check them out!

The post Around Review: The Best Place to Take Audio Tours appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

Today, we are traveling back from a short vacation.

HERE WE GO!

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HORSE AND MAN is a blog in growth… if you like this, please pass it around!

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Your purchase with R.W. through this link helps the Bucket Fund!

Cancun, Mexico

Heading to Cancun this year? Plan your trip with my tips on the best places to stay in Cancun, including neighborhoods suited to your budget and vacation goals!

Mexico’s beautiful Yucatan Peninsula home to beautiful sandy beaches and Mayan Ruins. One of the most popular places to base yourself is the city of Cancun, known as a gateway to to the Riviera Maya.

Formerly known as Nizuc or ‘point of grass’ to its Mayan inhabitants, the city now called Cancun means ‘enchanted snake’ or ‘nest of snakes’. 

But its far from a nest of snakes. Being the entry point to Mexico – Cancun is a vibrant city that is home to crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, luxurious resorts, and a thriving night scene.

The perfect base to explore the Mayan Riviera, Cancun is also well connected to Isla Mujeres, Tulum, Chichen Itza, Playa del Carmen and more. 

Your stay in Cancún will introduce you to Mexican delicacies, nightlife, and street food. It’ll also be the perfect chance to go scuba diving, snorkeling, explore nearby Mayan ruins, go shopping, and join some cultural experiences.

If you’re looking for the best hotels in Cancun to enjoy your stay, read this free guide to the best areas in Cancun and find the perfect accommodation for your budget!

Best Places To Stay In Cancun Guide

Top Neighborhoods In Cancun

Zona Hotelera

Zona Hotelera is Cancun’s main tourist district where you’ll find the higher-end resorts that cater to tourists. Stay here and you’ll find restaurants, shopping malls, and a happening night-life scene. Extending all the way from Puerto Cancun to Punta Nizuc. It’s also where some of the best beaches in Cancun are located.  

El Centro (Downtown) Cancun

The place to be if you want to feel the heartbeat of the city. Watching busy locals go about their days, eating street food at stalls, or visiting affordable night clubs and restaurants. El Centro offers more affordable budget accommodation options than other parts of Cancun.

Costa Mujeres

At the far North end of the Zona Hotelera sits Playa Mujeres (Costa Mujeres) – a newer developed luxury resort area of Cancun. A bit closer to El Centro and Puerto Juarez, this area is not as crowded as Zona Hotelera. If you’re looking for a bit more peace and quiet on a holiday with the family, Playa Mujeres is a top choice. 

Puerto Juarez

Situated about 2 km from the center of Cancun, Puerto Juarez is another good place to stay in Cancun if you’re on a budget. It’s quieter than the city center, but not as touristy as Zona Hotelera. It’s also the perfect place to stay if you plan to visit Isla Mujeres, since the Ultramar Ferry to the island leaves from here twice and hour.

Zona Hotelera – Where To Stay For First Time Visitors

Luxury Hotels In The Hotel Zone ($200+ USD)

• Ritz Carlton Cancun – The luxury AAA Five Diamond Award winner, the Ritz Carlton is within walking distance of popular beaches Playa Marlin and Playa Ballenas. Guests will enjoy the 2 swimming pools, Kayanta Spa, 7 onsite restaurants, kids club and a teens club. Elegantly decorated rooms with the best amenities, Ipod docking stations, Egyptian cotton sheets, private beach cabanas, what more can you ask for?
• Nizuc Resort & Spa – Situated on Boulevard Kukulcan in Zona Hotelera’s Punta Nizuc, the Nizuc Resort is one of the best places to stay in Cancun. Guests at this 29-acre beachfront resort can soak in the most luxurious environment catering to all their needs. Enjoy access to 6 international restaurants, 2 swimming pools, a top-grade fitness center, spa and wellness treatments, thermal experiences, free parking, free WiFi, and the best amenities.

Mid-Range Hotels In The Hotel Zone ($150 – $190 USD)

• Renaissance Cancun Resort – Located in the Puerto Cancun section of Zona Hotelera, the Renaissance Cancun is within walking distance of the Marina Town Center, restaurants and a shopping center. There’s a free shuttle to the beach, a sauna, infinity pool, beach club, and spacious rooms and suites with every amenity you need. 
• Marriott Cancun Resort – Set on the beachfront of the Caribbean sea, the large spacious rooms at the Marriott are perfect for a luxurious stay at not-so-luxurious prices. Guests have access to 8 international restaurants including Japanese and Thai, free WiFi, fitness center, and the top amenities. Day care programs to take care of kids too.

Budget Hotels In The Hotel Zone ($50 – $100 USD)

• Mayan Monkey Hotel & Hostel – Previously known as Senor Frog, and right in the heart of Zona Hotelera, the Mayan Monkey Hostel is within walking distance of beaches, restaurants and bars. You can either choose from dorm rooms, double rooms, or a suite. Free WiFi, free private parking, barbecue facilities, a lounge, bar, and pool make this hostel perfect! 

El Centro Neighborhood – Cancun On A Budget

Mid-Range Hotels In El Centro ($150 – $190 USD)

• Selina Cancun Downtown – Within walking distance of the Cancun Bus Station and Cristo Rey Church, this Selina Hotel offers a swimming pool, free WiFi and free onsite parking. Pets are allowed at a charge, and guests have access to a shared kitchen, breakfast at the onsite restaurant, as well as access to a co-working space. Whether you choose the dorms, apartments or rooms, you’ll enjoy your stay at this colorful hotel. 
• El Rey Del Caribe – Located right in the heart of downtown Cancun, this eco-hotel has a hot tub, terrace, swimming pool and garden area. They have solar water heaters, and recycle all waste water, and use rain-water collection systems. Just one mile from Cancun’s famous beaches.

Budget Hotels In El Centro ($50 – $100 USD)

• Casa Blanca Boutique – You’ll love the bright and colorful rooms and furnishings at this El Centro bed & breakfast which allows pets on request. Guests have access to the onsite pool, continental breakfasts, rooms with balconies, and friendly advice from an accessible host. And in keeping with its organic mantra even the coffee here is organic!
• Gaia Studios – The rooms at Gaia come with kitchens, flat-screen TVs and a private bathroom. Some rooms have air conditioning and/or a balcony. Located in a nice area of downtown Cancun, close to the family-friendly park “Parque las Palapas”. They also offer airport shuttle service for an extra fee.
• Nomads Hotel – Featuring a rooftop pool and huge bar, this hostel is set 3-minutes from the main bus stop in Downtown Cancun. Apart from free WiFi and parking, this adults-only hostel offers access to a shared kitchen, loungers, and is within walking distance of good nightlife.

Puerto Juarez – Cancun’s Newest Area

Luxury Hotels In Puerto Juarez ($200+ USD)

• Dreams Vista Cancun – A super nice luxury resort in Cancun’s Puerto Juarez area, it boasts a private beach, huge swimming pool, children’s playground, fitness center, and free WiFi. They have a spa, golf course, and water slides too.
• Planet Hollywood Resort Cancun – This fancy all-inclusive resort is adults only, and just a 10-minute walk away from Cancun’s Playa Blanca beach. The offer free parking, multiple outdoor swimming pools, bars, a spa and a fitness center. There’s also an in-house movie theater.

Budget Hotels In Puerto Juarez ($50 – $100 USD)

• Hotel Del Sol – Offering free continental breakfasts at their onsite restaurant, Hotel Del Sol is just 450 meters from Playa Blanca and a world of water activities. The affordable compact bedrooms include free WiFi and air conditioning, and has the best amenities for a budget hotel.

Costa Mujeres – Luxury Beach & Golf Resorts

Luxury Hotels In Costa Mujeres ($200+ USD)

• Secrets Playa Mujeres – An adults-only all-inclusive resort offering Junior Suites and ocean-front Master Suites. They have a private beach, luxuriously decorated rooms, 7 international restaurants, an elegant spa, top-notch fitness center, and everything you need for a fantastic holiday. It’s pet-friendly too! 

FAQ: Top Cancun Questions

Travel Planning Resources For Mexico

Packing Guide Check out my travel gear guide to help you start packing for your trip. Book Your Flight Ready to fly? Here’s how I find the cheapest airline flights. Rent A Car Discover Cars is a great site for comparing car prices to find a deal. Cheap Accommodation Learn how I save money booking hotels & vacation apartments. Protect Your Trip Don’t forget travel insurance! Protect yourself from possible injury & theft abroad. Read why you should always carry travel insurance.

This is a post from The Expert Vagabond adventure blog.