Cancun can more than quench the thirst of the most intrepid traveler. Bursting with bountiful nature, this beautiful island is nestled in the state of Mexico (the recently recognized state of Mexico, wonder where it was before?) You certainly won’t be disappointed on your trip to Cancun, there are more than just a couple of reasons why people enjoy this island paradise. Is it the exotic beaches, the laudable Mexican history, the natives or just the ravishing nightlife – whatever you want from a vacation, you’ll certainly find it in Cancun.

What Cancun Has to Offer

Cancun is kind of an island of two halves – the Hotel Zone and El Centro (Cancun City). You’ll find crystal clear beaches to rival the best in the world near the Hotel Zone, designed to attract and accommodate tourists with the abundance of hotels, markets, restaurants, not to mention the delectable water activities.  Why not ask your travel agent to sort you out with some reservations? Of course, some of the hotels are more pricey than others but hey, that’s life!  Don’t forget to have a wander down El Centro on your trip though, this is where the locals hang out but is often flooded with tourists too, just trying to experience the fantastic festivals and activities – wonderful.

Cancun Attractions and Stuff to Do

Of course, just take one look at the heavenly white sand and the crystal blue waters and you’ll not be surprised that many of the most popular activities in Cancun center around the beach. If you’re a “water baby” you’ll think you’ve died and gone to heaven, snorkeling and swimming next to dolphins (yes, real ones) is popular in many locations, especially Xcaret nature park, Xel Ha and Isla Mujeres. That’s not all, if you fancy drying out for an hour or two why not have a go at horse riding, golf or kayaking? Nature abounds in Cancun, and the Xcaret nature park (only 35 miles from Cancun) will blow your mind with its coral formations and outstanding Mayan temples (don’t hang about though, the Mayans predict the end of the world in December 2012 apparently). Travel a little further to the south of Cancun island and you’ll be able to enjoy the rare and diverse wildlife at the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve.

Cancun Climate

Alright, I hear you ask, it sounds pretty perfect so far, but what about the weather? Well, for 330 days of the year it’s above 80 degree Fahrenheit (nice) with the average summer temperature varying only between around 80 to 85 degree Fahrenheit, but if you go in March or April don’t forget your umbrella – the rain gods are merciless for a couple of months, but for the rest of the year you can only expect the odd shower or two.

Cancun History

Any “culture vultures” will find the island of Cancun a smorgasbord of delights, and those who just like the odd small  portion of culture won’t be disappointed either. The history and culture of the Mayan ruins along with archaeological sites of Mexico really are a sight to behold. In Tulum, quite close to Cancun is one of the world’s first lighthouses – how about that? Oh, and you must visit Chichen Itza with the bizarre Mayan ruins and El Castillo Pyramid as well – you just have to.

Cancun Culture

If you’ve never seen the original Mexican dance at the Ballet Folklorico Nacional de Mexico, then put it on your list of things to do, along with the shopping and other interesting activities which go on at the small island coast of Isla Mujeres (Women Island) - no wonder the shoppings so good!

If you’re a bit of a night owl then you’ll be spoiled for choice with nightclubs like Senor Frogs, La Boom, Congo Bongo and the Parque De Las Palapas – (don’t know who thinks up these names but they’re brilliant!) – and prepare for your waistband to expand with scrumptious cuisine in a choice of more than 400 restaurants (sea food, Italian, Japanese, Caribbean, American) not to mention the laser shows and choice of gentle music bars.

Be Safe in Cancun

Once you’ve decided to book your trip to Cancun, then you must be immunized against Hepatitis A and B, typhoid and rabies. This will avert the threat of illness and disease on your trip from diarrhea, malaria and if you come into contact with any wild animals during your visit. 

Recommendations from CDC-Centers for Disease and Control Prevention recommend:

• take extra care with personal hygiene – wash your hands and clean your teeth regularly
• only drink bottled water
• do not buy food from street vendors
• keep Chloroquine drug to ward off malaria

Don’t forget your sunglasses, sunscreens, summer clothes and a picture ID or your birth certificate.

Well, have you booked yet? What are you waiting for? You really owe it to yourself to visit the breathtaking island of Cancun.