¡Viva Mexico!

By Kim O’Brien

updated 3:12 p.m. ET Nov. 8, 2005

Everyone has his or her own idea of the Mexico and Central American vacation. One man’s adventure tour through the Mayan ruins becomes another’s quest for the perfect beachside margarita. With some of the world’s finest dive and snorkel spots, plus stellar fishing, kayaking and other watersports, one could easily spend an entire trip probing the deep blue. Makes for easy packing, to be sure. Land rovers fear not, however, the region’s diverse landscape provides ample opportunity for fun on the ground, whether hiking through rainforests or logging bird species.

Accommodations range from tent camping to five-star resorts, suiting a variety of tastes and budgets. With short flying times and minimal entry requirements, travel to Mexico and Central America seems a breeze. Certainly a compelling and hassle-free way to escape from “real life” for a time. It’s no wonder then, more and more savvy U.S. travelers are wending their way across the border—and thanks to an up-and-coming real estate market, some are even calling it home.

Riviera Maya

With 125 miles of coastline, pearly sand beaches, the world’s second largest coral reef, ancient ruins, ecological parks and scores of other attractions, the Riviera Maya may capture more hearts than any other Mexican treasure. To be sure, this grand coastal region promises something for everyone.

The Great Mayan Reef woos divers and snorkelers alike, spanning the Caribbean from the Yucatan’s tip all the way to Honduras. A guided kayak or cave diving excursion rounds out a full day of fun in the sea. In addition, eco-park Xcaret entices with underground rivers, archeological tours, and evening performances celebrating local culture.

Another excuse to visit, the third edition of the Riviera Maya’s popular Latin Jazz Festival runs November 17-19 in Playa del Carmen. The three-day jam commands a lively assortment of entertainment from top local and international musicians—Iraida Noriega, Magos Herrera, Mint Condition, and others. Once an old fisherman’s village, today’s Playa del Carmen pulls a hip crowd with luxury and boutique hotels, bars, restaurants and dance clubs.

Cozumel

Scuba buffs already know Cozumel’s fantastic dive ops (Palancar, anyone?). In addition, upcoming festivals and celebrations offer a zesty display of local flavor.

On Independence Day (September 15), locals and visitors gather near City Hall to raise their voices in the traditional grito, or cry for independence. Fireworks and folkloric dancing follow, plus parades, games and plenty of local edibles. One week later (September 21-29), Cozumel celebrates its Patron Saint Michael with daily processions, religious services and art fairs. The festival culminates in a parade of local fishermen carrying the saint’s image down to the pier and sailing away, while onlookers throw flowers into the ocean behind them.

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