WHY IT RATES:The Mexican Caribbean offers travelers a plethora of unforgettable experiences beyond the popular tourist zone-Eric Bowman, TravelPulse Senior Editor
The State of Quintana Roo, one of Mexico's top tourism hotspots encompassing 11 world-renowned destinations, has launched a unified Tourism Board to oversee promotional efforts for less traveled destinations such as Chetumal, Bacalar, and Isla Holbox. From Mayan ruins to multi-color lagoons and eco-friendly sanctuaries, these off-the-beaten-path destinations check off all the boxes for adventurous and selective travelers.
Chetumal, the state capital, known as the gateway to Belize, boasts some of Mexico's most enchanting Mayan archeological sites such as Dzibanché, Kohunlich, Kinichná, and Oxtankah. These small ruins offer an intimate experience away from the crowds. The nearby village of Calderitas provides fresh fish and restaurants along the water's edge. A walk along Boulevard Bahia in Chetumal is also an enjoyable experience. Nightlife around the boulevard starts when the sun sets and food stands, carnival rides and artisans light up the streets.
Above Chetumal lies the quiet town of Bacalar, known for its breathtaking Lagoon of Seven Colors. This captivating lagoon hosts seven underwater cenotes that create the allusion of multiple tones of blues and greens. The town of Bacalar is perfect for the traveler looking to connect with its authentic culture. This up-and-coming destination is expected to become one of Quintana Roo's hotspots.
Celebrity favorite, Tulum has become one of Yucatan Peninsula's hottest spots for wellness and holistic experiences. This sustainable destination offers eco-friendly boutique hotels, hipster taco joints, yoga studios, vegan eats and 1,000-year-old ruins.
Located between the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico, Isla Holbox is a secluded getaway that forms part of the Yum Balam Natural Reserve. The island is filled with laid-back beach bars, empty beaches accessible only by foot or bicycle, shallow lagoons, and endemic wildlife. One of its main attractions is the chance to swim with the world's largest fish, the Whale Shark from March through September.
Although Cancun and Playa del Carmen are widely recognized as some of the best luxury tourism destinations in the world, the fascinating Mexican Caribbean region offers experiences to please all tastes and budgets beyond its world-class resorts.
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