Tips for traveling to Cancun and the Riviera Maya: from A to Z

Cancun and the Riviera Maya form a genuinely incredible destination, a magical place that more than 15 million people visit each year. Beautiful beaches, the rich legacy of the Maya World, exotic nature, world-class hotels and resorts, delicious cuisine, and a super fun nightlife are just some of its irresistible attractions. So, make the Mexican Caribbean the place for your next holidays… You won’t regret it!

But, as in any trip, it’s always good to consider a few helpful tips and recommendations to avoid any inconvenience. Take note so that you just worry about getting the most out of each and every day spent in this breathtaking destination.

1. Travel documents: what you need for the trip
2. Health is always first
3. From A to Z: everyday tips
4. Welcome to the tropics!
5. Safety tips for traveling to the Riviera Maya
6. From here to there: how to get around in Cancun and the Riviera Maya
7. Pack wisely: what to bring in your luggage
8. Where to stay in Cancun and the Riviera Maya

Travel documents: what you need for the trip

First things first: get your travel documents ready. If you are a Mexican citizen, surely you already know that your IFE credential, passport, professional photo-ID, and INAPAM are the primary official documents. And if you visit the Riviera Maya from abroad, you’ll need a valid passport (and visa, depending on your nationality). All travel documents have to be valid until at least the day you’re scheduled to return home. But be careful; some airlines require a valid passport for at least six months from the day of departure to let you travel.

A tip: Always bring with you a simple photocopy of your passport, so that you can take it with you on excursions and visits. Always leave the original document in the hotel safe.

Along with your official identification, don’t forget to also bring all relevant travel information: plane tickets (round trip), hotel reservation, confirmations of any pre-booked tours, etc. In addition to printed documents, it’s recommended to have digital copies in your email or a “cloud storage” service. Then, if the originals get lost, you’ll still be able to access your travel documents.

According to your plans, you’ll need a valid driver’s license if you’re thinking of renting a car. Or an international diving certification if you want to explore the incredible underwater world of the Mexican Caribbean. Or any special documentation that requires the practice of specific activities, such as skydiving, sailing, etc. Of course, many of them can be obtained, meeting the necessary requirements, during your vacation in Cancun and the Riviera Maya.

Health is always first

In Cancun and the Riviera Maya, you can find all kinds of medical services: large hospitals, private medical assistance, hotels that have medical and/or nursing services… Even many vacation packages already come with some type of medical coverage included. But be sure to check this issue properly because it’s essential to have proper travel insurance to avoid any complications in case of an accident or emergency. And don’t forget to bring the related documents, of course.

From A to Z: everyday tips

Here’s a brief list with helpful tips that can make your day to day in the Riviera Maya as easy as pie:

• Currency: the Mexican peso is the official currency, but in many tourist sites, US dollars and even Euros are accepted (of course, the exchange rate is not usually, let’s say, a good business).
• Cash or credit: the main credit cards are accepted practically everywhere, except in small street stalls and smaller shops, so take some money (pesos) with you, especially on excursions (to buy water or some crafts, etc.).
• ATMs: you have ATMs at your disposal in many places of Cancun and the Riviera Maya. Nevertheless, it’s always better to leave the hotel with some pocket money. (Murphy’s law: there won’t be any ATMs nearby when you really need one) And watch out for international commissions; they can be pretty high!

• Money exchange: when visiting the Mexican Caribbean, you’ll see that there are more than enough currency exchange services and banks. (They will ask for your passport to register the transaction). Even some hotels offer this type of service at their front desk. The only thing to watch out for is the exchange rate: it’s usually better in banks than in airports and hotels. If you have time, compare, although if you are going to change a small sum, the difference is not usually that much.
• Tipping: in general, the customary tip in Mexico is between 10% and 15% of the total bill in regular bars and restaurants. But always check the tab well because it may already be included. A gesture of gratitude of this type is also frequent in tours, guided visits, and similar tourist services.
• Cell phones: of course, any additional charges (roaming, etc.) depend on your cell phone plan and carrier back home, so review the conditions before traveling. Avoid spending a small fortune on international calls, text, and data! You can also buy a Mexican SIM card (prepaid) to have data and calls at a better price. Find them in shopping centers and local stores of companies such as Telcel, AT&T, and Movistar.
• Time zone: the entire Mexican Caribbean is in the UTC-5 time band and remains unchanged throughout the year (the state of Quintana Roo doesn’t participate in the Daylight saving time).
• Power plugs & sockets: the standard voltage in Mexico is 127 V. Usually, power sockets (outlets) are “American type” (flat plug – type A and B). If you need them, adapters/converters can be found in different stores and hotels. Still, they’re usually quite expensive, so it’s better to take them from home.

Welcome to the tropics!

Visiting the Mexican Caribbean is all about the sun and the beach: a true tropical paradise. But even in a place like this, you have to consider some details, starting with the weather. To keep it short: a lot of heat and humidity all year round; from May to October, it rains, and from June to November, there’s the in-famous hurricane season. Nevertheless, it’s convenient to clarify some additional points to know when is the best time to travel to Cancun and the Riviera Maya.

Starting with the “dry” season (November to April): temperatures are more pleasant (averages of 25ºC/77ºF), although, in January and February, nights can be a bit cooler (minimums of 13ºC/55ºF). However, north winds can bring in some clouds and a few surprise showers, especially in December and January. Moreover, except for Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and Easter/Spring Break, these dates are considered low season, meaning fewer people and usually lower prices.

On the contrary, in the “rainy” season (May to October), humidity and heat soar (averages approach 30ºC/86ºF, and maximums can exceed 35ºC/95ºF). In any case, the breeze and the rain help to improve the temperature a bit. Besides, the usual is to expect heavy showers: a lot of rainfall in a short time. And then back to full sunshine! So, it is not that bad. However, it’s also true that the high season goes from June to August, and crowds and the prices burst.

Perhaps the biggest drawback may be the hurricanes issue (from June to November, but, above all, from August to October). However, luckily, these meteorological phenomena are pretty rare and always detected with more than enough time to take all the necessary precautions.

Conclusion: you can travel to Cancun and the Riviera Maya at any time of the year. Just check if you have to pack a slicker or a light sweater or if you want to be among more or fewer people.

Safety tips for traveling to the Riviera Maya

As mentioned before, more than 15 million tourists visit Cancun and the Riviera Maya each year. The figure confirms, among other things, that it’s a safe destination (otherwise, people wouldn’t go). Of course, as in any part of the world, it’s worth taking certain precautions to avoid nasty surprises. Here are some (common sense) recommendations:

• Opportunity makes a thief: in other words, never leave your belongings unattended. It doesn’t matter if you are at the airport, on the beach, in the pool… Just keep an eye on your stuff.
• Discretion is appreciated: being ostentatious can be expensive, so, preferably, don’t leave your brand new smartphone in plain sight, don’t carry (or show, of course) large sums of cash… Be discrete.
• Documents at the safe: never carry your passport with you (take a photocopy) to prevent it from being stolen or lost. Nor all your credit cards or cash (leave it in the hotel safe).
• Keep close: try to stay within tourist areas and avoid walking through isolated and uncrowded places. This is especially important at night!
• Feel confident: when paying with a credit card, taking a taxi, getting into a bar or a disco… Always look for places where you feel secure. This way, you’ll avoid things like “credit card cloning,” getting ripped off by a “pirate” taxi, or getting scared in an unfriendly place. Basically, precautions that you would take anywhere in the world.

Tourism is fundamental to the economy of Cancun and the Riviera Maya, so the police and private security companies go the extra mile to keep you safe. So, now you know, with a bit of care, you’ll only have to worry about enjoying your vacation in the Mexican Caribbean.

From here to there: how to get around in Cancun and the Riviera Maya

One of the most beautiful things about traveling to the Mexican Caribbean is exploring its innumerable attractions. And it’s really easy to do so! Whether you visit Cancun or the Riviera Maya, you can find all means of transport throughout the area, from buses and taxis to rental cars and private transportation services.

So the transportation you choose will depend on your plans. For example, if you are going out to dinner or a shopping center, it’s best to ask for a taxi at the hotel. Usually, you’ll get a closed fare and reliable cab services. On the other hand, if you are going on an excursion, you can use a rental car or, better yet, enjoy all the comforts offered by Vacaciones Barcelo: round-trip transfers, certified guides, entrance fees to the different tourist attractions, meals, etc.

A tip: if you have to take a taxi on the street, make sure it’s an official service (license number printed on the door). And avoid surprises by closing the trip price with the driver before getting on (taxis don’t have a taximeter, but they must keep a rates table, though it’s generally in Spanish.). By the way, they only accept cash payments, and even though they’ll take dollars, it would be at a less favorable rate than pesos.

Pack wisely: what to bring in your luggage

The perfect vacation depends on the small details, and packing the right stuff is precisely one of the keys to success. Here are some clues:

• Beware of the sun: as already mentioned, you have to be very careful with the sun when traveling to the tropics. Because it hits, and it hits hard! So don’t forget to bring the appropriate clothing, especially if you plan to go on any excursions. For example, when visiting an archaeological site, wear light fabrics to keep yourself covered but avoid overheating, as well as a hat or cap, sunglasses, etc. And remember to always drink enough fluids to stay well hydrated.
• Protect your skin… and the environment: take care of yourself without affecting the delicate ecological balance of the Riviera Maya. Use biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent. In addition, it’s recommended to avoid any kind of sunscreen (even biodegradable ones) when carrying out aquatic activities in contact with marine flora and fauna. They seriously affect the environment! As an eco-friendly alternative, you can use a neoprene shirt to protect yourself from the sun.
• Something for every occasion: one of the most exciting things about Cancun and the Riviera Maya is that there are a thousand options to enjoy every day. And, obviously, you have to be prepared. So, pack a little bit of everything: from comfortable clothes to go on an excursion to something nice for a special dinner or a fun party night (accessories included!). Don’t forget suitable footwear (tennis, flip-flops, dress shoes, water shoes…), and if you travel in the “cool” season, bring a light sweater or a sweatshirt. Needless to say, pack your swimsuit!

Of course, check any luggage restrictions with your airline, lest you have to pay overweight or have to leave something on the ground.

Drinking tap water is a no-no

Unless stated otherwise (and that might even depend on the place), avoid drinking tap water. In some areas, water can be straightforward non-suitable for human consumption. And even when it’s safe for drinking, tap water from a place you’re not familiar with can upset your stomach. So, avoid any inconvenience by drinking bottled water, and always remember to keep yourself well hydrated.

Where to stay in Cancun and the Riviera Maya

It doesn’t matter if you’ll visit Cancun or the Riviera Maya on your next vacation. Or both destinations! With Barcelo Hotel Group, you have the best options to enjoy the Mexican Caribbean to the fullest.

If you travel to Cancun, Occidental Tucancun and Occidental Costa Cancun, located in the heart of the Hotel Zone, are your best options. Fully equipped rooms, heavenly beaches, excellent cuisine, and the best facilities and services make them two of the best All-Inclusive hotels in Cancun.

If, on the other hand, you intend to visit the Riviera Maya, particularly the area of Playa del Carmen and Cozumel, don’t miss the incomparable quality of Royal Hideaway Playacar – Adults Only, an exclusive All-Inclusive experience just for adults. Or Occidental at Xcaret Destination, a magical place in itself and also the best gateway to the spectacular Xcaret eco-archaeological park. Or Allegro Playacar, one of the best holiday hotels in Playa del Carmen.

And just off the coast of Playa del Carmen, Allegro Cozumel () and Occidental Cozumel offer you, also under the unrivaled All-Inclusive program of Barcelo Hotel Group, the infinite charm of this beautiful island of the Mexican Caribbean.

Moving south, right in the heart of the Mexican Caribbean, Barcelo Maya Grand Resort offers you the best vacation ever in any of the 6 hotels that make up this incredible destination: Barcelo Maya Palace, Barcelo Maya Beach, Barcelo Maya Caribe, Barcelo Maya Colonial, Barcelo Maya Tropical and Barcelo Maya Riviera – Adults Only. A more than a mile-long beach, 10 pools, 16 restaurants, 15 bars, discos, first-class sports facilities, spa, water park, fun activities and shows… and the best All-Inclusive program, so you don’t have to worry about a thing!