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  • Cancun Travel Guide

    By Novali Hanley | 9.24.2024

    Where to Stay

    Cancun offers diverse areas for accommodation. The Hotel Zone features luxury resorts and nightlife, while Downtown Cancun provides an authentic local experience. Puerto Morelos is a quiet fishing village ideal for snorkeling, and Playa del Carmen offers shopping and nightlife. Finally, Isla Mujeres is known for its serene beaches, perfect for relaxation. Each area suits different interests and budgets.

    Keep in mind

    Currency

    The currency in Cancun is the Mexican Peso (MXN), but U.S. dollars are also commonly accepted in tourist areas. Credit and debit cards are widely used, though it's good to carry pesos. Currency exchange services are readily available throughout the city.

    When to go

    With fall being Cancun's hurricane season, the ideal time to visit Cancun is from December to April, when the weather is warm and dry. This period is also peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds. If you prefer fewer crowds and lower rates, consider visiting in the shoulder months of May and November, though be mindful of the possibility of rain.

    Food & Water

    It is widely known not to drink the tap water in Mexico. When consuming beverages, ensure they are made with bottled or purified water along with checking that bottles you buy are sealed. Additionally, avoid ice in drinks unless you're certain it’s made from purified water along with fresh fruit (which is typically rinsed with tap water.).

    Safety

    While Cancun is arguably the safest destination in Mexico you should still take safety precautions when visiting.

    Stick to well-lit, populated areas and avoid wandering alone at night. Be cautious with your belongings and avoid displaying valuables. It's also wise to use reliable transportation services. Additionally,Never part with your passport or money, not even when a police officer asks. There are many scams used to extort money from travelers. 

    Things to do

    Transportation

    Public Bus

    Cancun's public bus system is an affordable and convenient way to get around the city. 


    Buses frequently run along the main routes, including the Hotel Zone, Boulevard Kukulcán (downtown), and Tulum, making reaching popular attractions easy.


    Buses run around every 5 minutes. A one-way ticket costs 10.50 Pesos (about 50 cents USD). However, make sure to bring Pesos because the bus drivers will not accept USD!


    R-1 and R-2 are the main routes in the hotel zone that run 24 hours. For more information on buses that run to destinations outside Canun check out ADO, where you can also buy tickets directly on their website.


    Taxis

    Taxis are extremely common in Cancun. While it is extremely easy to haul one yourself it's always a better idea to have your hotel call one for you due to a common fake taxi scam. You can also call a taxi service yourself and contact them via WhatsApp. 


    Depending on how far you are going taxis will typically cost you around $10 to $25 USD. It is a good idea to have pesos when getting a taxi because drivers do not always have change for USD.


    TIP - Always set your price with the driver before you leave to avoid hearing a higher price then you expected once you arrive at your destination. 

    Private Transfer

    If you don't like the idea of public transportation and want a more custom and private way to get around, do not worry! 


    Most hotels offer a private transfer service or you can even book one with an alternate company in advance prior to your tip!  This 

    Renting a car

    Due to the public transport available, there isn't much need to rent a car, especially if you are only planning on staying in the hotel zone. The only reason to get a rental is if you are planning on traveling long distances. 


    Parking is very hard to find at most places and traffic police target rental cars to give a nice ticket too. 


    If you do plan on renting a car make sure to inspect the vehicle and agreement before pursuing it. Cancun's rental companies are known for scams and will charge you way more then what they made it seem. 

    Where to eat

    Ilios 

    Ilios is a greek restaurant in the hotel zone. While the food is too die for, the atmosphere is a 10 out of 10. They offer live music and sparklers along with throwing plates (a greek tradition).

    Taboo

    Taboo is a Mediterranean restaurant right on the water in the hotel zone. With amazing music they also ogger live music and sparklers.

    Funk Geisha

    If your craving the same experience as taboo but Mediterranean not your vibe then you check out funk geisha for some delicious asian food.

    Food native to Cancun

    Tikin-xic fish

    Tikin-xic fish is a traditional Yucatán dish made from whole fish, usually snapper or grouper, marinated in achiote paste and citrus juices. Wrapped in banana leaves, the fish is baked or grilled, resulting in a flavorful and aromatic meal. It’s often served with rice, vegetables, and tortillas, showcasing the rich flavors of Yucatecan cuisine.

    Cochinita Pibil

    Cochinita Pibil is a traditional Mexican dish , made with slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote paste and citrus juices. The meat is wrapped in banana leaves and cooked underground, which makes it incredibly tender and flavorful. Typically served with pickled red onions and tortillas.

    Marquesitas

    Marquesitas are a popular Yucatán street food resembling crispy crepes filled with sweet or savory ingredients. Made from a flour and egg batter, they are often filled with sweetened condensed milk, Nutella, or grated cheese, and topped with chocolate or fruit. These treats are loved for their delightful crunch and rich flavors.

    Common Scams to Avoid


    ATMS - While most private owned ATMs already have an extremely high fee and  poor exchange rate, they are also known to be easily tampered with to skim your card for confidential information. When possible, always go to an ATM inside of a respected bank.


    Taxis - If hailing your own taxi, always make sure the license plate number starts with and A or B. Also make sure the drivers ID is on display and matches the person behind the wheel.


    Credit Cards - Always make sure when handing off your card that it is being swiped in front of you.


    Clubs & Beach Parties

    01

    Senior Frogs

    02

    Coco Bongo

    03

    Mandala Club + Beach Club

    04

    D’Cave Mix

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