Know Before You Go - Cancun

 

Know Before You Go - Cancun

Cancun is known for its spectacular white sand beaches and its fascinating sea in turquoise blue tones. Besides the beaches, you can find unique natural places, Mayan culture, water activities and adventure, international cuisine, golf courses, sophisticated spa facilities, exclusive shopping centers, typical handicraft markets and its incomparable nightlife.

Here’s a list of things to know before you go to Cancun!

Shuttle Transfers Are the Most Economical Way to Get to the Hotel

Frequent “shared van” transfers to your hotel are available from $8 - $10 dollars per person from the airport. If you plan to use to use a shared van; it is better to pre-arrange your transportation via your tour operator or directly with a company in Cancun before you arrive.  Private taxis also operate from the airport, rates go from $50 - $60 dollars per vehicle.

Be Prepared to Say No

When you exit the airport – you may be overwhelmed with people trying to sign you up for excursions, taxis to your hotel or timeshares.  If you aren’t interested, just politely but firmly say “No, gracias” and keep moving -  they will usually move on to the next traveler.

Public transportation service in Cancun

Cancun is very easy for tourists to navigate by public transportation. The bus system is reliable and inexpensive - one ride costs about 6.5 pesos. Buses stop only at bus stops, arrive every 5 minutes and generally operate between 6:00 am and midnight. Buses only accept pesos; they don’t accept dollars.

How much does a Taxi cost in the Hotel Zone? 

Taxi fares within the Hotel Zone can run anywhere from 50 to 80 pesos depending on the distance traveled. Every hotel has taxi fares displayed in their lobbies. It’s usually best to consult with your hotel concierge before taking a cab, they can tell you what the specific rate is. 

What are the ocean conditions like??

Cancun has two different ocean conditions. The calmer and tranquil ocean conditions with no surf start from downtown Cancun and ends at Punta Cancun where the Dreams Resort is located. The hotels on the long strip of the hotel zone, from the Hyatt Regency to the Westin have the liveliest surf.

Things to Do In Cancun

Playa Delfines

You cannot leave Cancun without taking a picture from the famous viewpoint at the Playa Delfines – where a massive stretch of soft white sand calls you to the Caribbean at Cancún’s largest public beach – it will probably be your best photo from Cancún! 

Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA)

MUSA, the Underwater Museum of Art, is located in the National Marine Park of Cancun and Isla Mujeres. MUSA has more than 500 sculptures installed on the seabed across three galleries: Manchones Gallery, in Isla Mujeres, Punta Nizuc Gallery and Punta Sam Gallery, both in Cancun.

Mercado 28 

Located in the center of the city, Market 28 is a true feature of the city of Cancun. You will find an incredible array of Mexican souvenirs and handicrafts, great restaurants and a very good atmosphere.

Palapas Park

If you're looking to spend a day as a Cancunense, you definitely have to go to Palapas Park. Located in the heart of the city, just a few blocks from Mercado 28, you can try Mexican snacks, eat a snow cone to beat the heat, buy hippie crafts and watch a public show and musical groups. Be sure to try the marquesitas – a tasty crepe filled with melted shredded cheese and a sweet filling of your choice.

From Cancun, you can go on a number of day trips.

Believe it or not, there is more to Cancun than the beach. If you can pull yourself away from the Hotel Zone, you can experience some of the best excursions and sightseeing in Mexico.  The Mayan Riviera is full of ancient Mayan ruins, including Chichén Itzá, one of the largest sites in Mexico. Other travelers like to swim and snorkel through Yucatán's system of cenotes – amazing underground rivers and sinkholes.

Security in the Hotel Zone.

Cancun is a pretty safe place to visit – the locals are friendly and crime rates are very low compared to other cities in Mexico.  It’s best to stick to the main tourist areas in Downtown Cancun and the Hotel Zone unless you are traveling with an authorized tour. Remember - about 4 million Americans safely visit the city each year.

Be Prepared for Rain

If you visit Cancun during the rainy season (May – October), be prepared for afternoon showers, on to return to sunshine a short while later!