Riviera Maya, Mexico – Paradise Defined

The Riviera Maya on the Caribbean coast was a secret getaway to paradise for many years. No longer. Now it is considered one of the finest beach areas in the world.

Riviera Maya

Located on the Yucatan Peninsula in the state of Quintana Roo, the Riviera Maya is jaw dropping beautiful. Although the area was only known to a select few for years, the last 10 years has seen a boom in tourism and resorts. Depending on your personal views, this is or isn’t a good development.

The best-known destination in the area is the beach town of Cancun. From Cancun, you can travel to the south down the beaches. Since the Riviera is not a defined area, it is generally agreed the town of Tulum is the southernmost point. Regardless of how you definite it, the beaches along the coast have something for everyone.

Top Locations

Although everyone has different views, Cancun is as good a place to start as anywhere. If you want to cram as much as possible into your vacation, this is the place. From loafing on the beach to snorkeling and jet skiing, your beach needs will be satisfied. If you prefer an adventure, you can head inland to see Mayan ruins or take jungle tours. The downside of Cancun, on the other hand, is it tends to be a bit crowded and lacks the “authentic Mexican feel.”

To get a better feel for the local culture, you should consider heading down the coast to explore the little towns dotting the coast. In places such as Tulum and Xpu-Ha, you can experience the laid back Mexican culture while staying in cheap cabanas. It’s a slow life, but truly amazing. Have you seen Corona Beer commercials showing people on the beach on thought, “Where is that?” This is the place.

The Riviera Maya is an incredibly beautiful collection of beaches. Next time you get a hankering for a beach vacation, check out this paradise.

About The Author Rick Chapo is with http://www.nomadjournals.com - makers of travel journals. Writing journals are perfect travel accessories. Visit http://www.nomadjournaltrips.com to read more travel articles and travelogues.

Recommended Reading

Mexico Yucatan Cancun Riviera Maya (Hardcover)

Description
Yucatan - Cancun, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen - the Mexican peninsula that juts into the Caribbean. Here is the Riviera Maya along the coast of Quintana Roo with its endless, white coral beaches. This is the new holiday paradise, with ultra-modern hotels, where you can go as an independent traveller or opt for an all-inclusive package. You can trace the history of the indigenous Maya population through their mysterious temples, deep in the Yucatan ungle. This is Mexico's favourite sunshine resort area. The blue Caribbean and Mayan culture - on the same day! To Michael Friedel's superb photographs is added his wife Marion's perceptive and informative essay, the perfect complement to the visual experience provided by this illustrated book. In recognition of his work, the President of Mexico, Ernesto Zedillo, awarded Michael Friedel the coveted Lente de Plata (Silver Lens) 1999, Mexico's top prize for colour photography. Contents: Full-page illustrations of the most beautiful beaches, Mayan temples and andscapes, providing an ideal guide to your holiday planning. "Explore, experience and appreciate..." the history, the inhabitants and their cutlure. Essay by Marion Friedel. Notes on the illustrations: Giving precise locations; a two-page information section with valuable tips on the weather, seasons for visiting, and much more. Maps showing where each of the captivating pictures was taken. Hotels: aerial photos of the main hotel complexes. Tips and hints from a pro: Michael Friedel at work.