Anthony Timmons, Author at Traveling Lifestyle https://www.travelinglifestyle.net/author/anthonytimmons/ Digital Nomad & Travel News Wed, 14 Feb 2024 18:08:52 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.3 Why Travelers Are In Love With This Paradise Island 2 Hours North Of Cancun https://www.travelinglifestyle.net/why-travelers-are-in-love-with-this-paradise-island-2-hours-north-of-cancun/ https://www.travelinglifestyle.net/why-travelers-are-in-love-with-this-paradise-island-2-hours-north-of-cancun/#respond Wed, 14 Feb 2024 18:08:51 +0000 https://www.travelinglifestyle.net/?p=71810 When tourists dream of a Caribbean vacation in Mexico, they think about crystal turquoise water and lounging in a hammock on a tropical beach while sipping a cool drink. However, much of the area around Cancun is developed these days, and nearby towns such as Tulum, Playa del Carmen, or even islands like Cozumel and Isla Mujeres, are more like tourist cities instead of the traditional Mexican Caribbean escape. However, there is a place not too far from the traffic […]

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When tourists dream of a Caribbean vacation in Mexico, they think about crystal turquoise water and lounging in a hammock on a tropical beach while sipping a cool drink.

However, much of the area around Cancun is developed these days, and nearby towns such as Tulum, Playa del Carmen, or even islands like Cozumel and Isla Mujeres, are more like tourist cities instead of the traditional Mexican Caribbean escape.

However, there is a place not too far from the traffic and hoards of people in Cancun where life takes a slower pace and the main drag down the middle of the town is not even paved. 

Welcome to the Mexican Caribbean island paradise of Isla Holbox.

Destination Isla Holbox

Isla Holbox is the rural tropical getaway most people dream of when they think of the Mexican Caribbean. What the island lacks in glitzy nightclubs and fine five-star dining, it makes up with the travel trends of nature and sustainability.

It’s where travelers come to Mexico to escape and enjoy life without all of the noise, hassles, traffic, and headaches of the major tourist towns.

However, it does get some getting used to for travelers visiting Isla Holbox for the first time.

It’s rustic. It’s raw. It’s car-free. But it’s beautiful and captivating. 

The streets are not paved and become muddy in the rain. Bars will welcome you like family and really remember your name. Reservations are not needed for restaurants, but please at least wear shoes.

It’s traditional Mexican Caribbean and once travelers have tried it, they never want to go home.

Exploring the Area

Best Beaches in Mexico

If travelers really desire to venture from the white sand beaches to seek adventure in other parts of the area, here are a few ideas to tempt the explorer in everyone.

The first adventure is getting here from Cancun. The easiest way is a bus ride. However, it is about two and a half hours to get to Isla Holbox.

Come during the right time of year and visitors to Isla Holbox can connect with whale sharks as they make their migration around the curve in the Yucatan Peninsula. Typically this is between mid-May and mid-September.

Travelers can also connect with the local culture by checking out the many brightly painted and colorful murals around the town. Each one displays a unique part of the traditional heritage.

Another popular side trip is renting a golf cart and exploring the different parts of the island. Rental prices are reasonable and allow tourists to explore the natural windswept beauty of Isla Holbox on their own time.

Need to take a dip? Travelers can hire a guide to take them to a local nearby cenote, a freshwater sinkhole suitable for swimming. Plunge into the water and cool off!

But one of the most popular activities on Isla Holbox, besides lounging and doing absolutely nothing, is to go on a wildlife excursion to the local mangroves.

Everything from flamingos and pelicans along with toothy alligators are on display in their natural environment. Grab a pair of binoculars and see how the original inhabitants of Isla Holbox live their lives.

Holbox is Affordable

bicycles in holbox

Holbox offers an affordable experience without compromising on the beauty and unique experiences it provides.

One of the key factors that make Holbox an affordable destination is its range of accommodation options. Visitors can choose from cozy hostels, budget-friendly guesthouses, and modestly-priced hotels. These lodgings often offer basic but comfortable amenities, perfect for travelers who prioritize experiences and adventure over luxury. This variety ensures that there’s something for every budget, allowing more people to enjoy the island’s charm without breaking the bank.

Furthermore, the island’s culinary scene is both vibrant and wallet-friendly. Street food vendors and small, local eateries serve delicious and authentic Mexican cuisine at prices significantly lower than what you might find in more tourist-heavy areas. From fresh seafood to traditional Mexican dishes, the food in Holbox is not only a treat for the taste buds but also gentle on the wallet.

Low Seaweed Levels in Holbox Compared to Cancun

One of the lesser-known but significant advantages of Holbox Island over more popular destinations like Cancun is its remarkably low seaweed levels. This characteristic plays a crucial role in providing visitors with an unspoiled beach experience.

In recent years, many coastal areas in the Caribbean, including Cancun, have faced challenges with sargassum seaweed invasions. These seaweed blooms not only mar the aesthetic appeal of the beaches but can also create an unpleasant odor and hinder water activities. However, Holbox has been fortunate to largely avoid these extensive seaweed problems.

The geographical location and water currents around Holbox contribute to this phenomenon. The island is situated in such a way that it is less affected by the seaweed blooms that impact other parts of the Caribbean. This results in clearer and cleaner beaches, making it an ideal choice for travelers who wish to enjoy pristine beach landscapes.

Holbox is Safe

Holbox Island stands out as a safe and tranquil destination, especially when compared to bustling tourist hubs like Cancun and Tulum. Situated off the northern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, Holbox offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of mainland Mexico.

One of the most notable aspects of Holbox is its reputation for safety. Unlike its counterparts Cancun and Tulum, which have experienced instances of crime and gang-related violence, Holbox boasts virtually zero crime. This island paradise maintains a peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking relaxation and tranquility.

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Mayan Train Suspends Ticket Sales For Cancun-Palenque Route https://www.travelinglifestyle.net/mayan-train-suspends-ticket-sales-for-cancun-palenque-route/ https://www.travelinglifestyle.net/mayan-train-suspends-ticket-sales-for-cancun-palenque-route/#respond Tue, 23 Jan 2024 20:49:31 +0000 https://www.travelinglifestyle.net/?p=74609 The Mayan Train, the ambitious project of Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, is having its third day of ticket sales suspension on the Eticket website after a series of mechanical failures on the Cancún-Palenque route. These incidents occurred less than two months after the line was inaugurated, raising concerns about the railway project’s operation. Complications began last Friday when a mechanical failure on the Cancún-Palenque route led to the suspension of service and ticket sales. Passengers who boarded the […]

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The Mayan Train, the ambitious project of Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, is having its third day of ticket sales suspension on the Eticket website after a series of mechanical failures on the Cancún-Palenque route.

These incidents occurred less than two months after the line was inaugurated, raising concerns about the railway project’s operation.

Complications began last Friday when a mechanical failure on the Cancún-Palenque route led to the suspension of service and ticket sales.

Passengers who boarded the train at Cancún airport station bound for Palenque experienced inconveniences at the 9 am departure time.

On Saturday, users on social media reported delays and problems on the Cancún-Mérida line, which was scheduled to depart at 7:00 am. The situation was exacerbated by a 120-minute delay, slow progress to a complete stop, and the failure of the air conditioning, which forced the train doors to be opened. Affected passengers were taken back to their place of origin on another train.

Video Shows A First Look At Mexico's New Maya Train Travel Experience

As a result, ticket sales on the eticket.mx portal were suspended on Saturday. So far, there has been no official explanations from the authorities regarding the events.

According to journalists in Cancun, departures were made at 7 and 9 a.m. today, Monday, although it is not known whether there were any passengers on board.

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This Magical Town Near Cancun Named One The Best And Safest To Visit In Mexico In 2024 https://www.travelinglifestyle.net/this-magical-town-near-cancun-named-one-the-best-and-safest-places-in-mexico-in-2024/ https://www.travelinglifestyle.net/this-magical-town-near-cancun-named-one-the-best-and-safest-places-in-mexico-in-2024/#respond Mon, 25 Dec 2023 17:05:59 +0000 https://www.travelinglifestyle.net/?p=73768 This charming Magic Town near Cancun has gained a lot of popularity recently, so Travel & Leisure’s travel experts named it one of the best places for a getaway in 2024.   In addition to the incredibly casual street food, Merida boasts a diverse and extensive culinary scene that includes both fine and casual dining options.   The latter is well-liked in Merida, where several parks are home to a large number of food truck stands serving regional specialties like Salbutes and […]

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This charming Magic Town near Cancun has gained a lot of popularity recently, so Travel & Leisure’s travel experts named it one of the best places for a getaway in 2024.  

In addition to the incredibly casual street food, Merida boasts a diverse and extensive culinary scene that includes both fine and casual dining options.  

The latter is well-liked in Merida, where several parks are home to a large number of food truck stands serving regional specialties like Salbutes and Sopa de Lima.   

In addition, many excellent restaurants are offering regional specialties.  

tacos in merida

In 2023, Mérida has solidified its reputation of the safest place to visit in Mexico. This charming colonial city, located in the Yucatán Peninsula, has consistently ranked high on safety indexes due to its low crime rates and welcoming atmosphere.

Beautiful buildings that tell Merida’s history can be found all over the city.   

The white limestone facades of many buildings are very striking when the sun shines on them.   

The city is dubbed La Ciudad Blanca, or the White City.  There are also vibrant colonial buildings lining the streets, housing eateries and shops for you to discover.  

Merida offers an entirely different experience from the Caribbean coast destinations because it is much quieter and more relaxed.   

This Mayan Town Is The New Mexican Hotspot With 2.6M Visitors This Year

Visitors come here to explore the rich history of the city, the Mayan culture, and the historic buildings and mansions instead of partying on the beach.   

However, local events are frequently held in the Plaza Grande in the middle of town, so you can almost always find excitement there if you need it.   

Merida offers smaller, more intimate boutique hotels as well as converted historic mansions into lodging instead of sprawling, contemporary all-inclusive resorts.   

In Merida, nightly hotel rates range from $50 for well-regarded accommodations to $250 for the most opulent properties.

Nature lovers will not find themselves without something to do in the surrounding area of Merida, despite the city’s size.  

Merida has its own zoo, Parque Zoologico del Centenario, and nature reserve, Reserva Ecologica Cuxtal, in addition to being surrounded by gorgeous parks.  Furthermore, plans are also underway for a new “Central Park.”   

Famous Maya ruins are only a few minutes away, and there are many cenotes in the area, some of which are located in Merida.   

Despite its historical significance, Merida is also a notably modern city.

Encounter historic buildings and mansions with preserved exteriors and modernized interiors.  

Until now, visitors from Cancun who wanted to see Merida had to pay for pricey transportation or rent a car to get there.   

But now that the Maya Train is operational, traveling to Merida will be less expensive and easier than before.

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More Free Internet Service Coming For Digital Nomads And Tourists In Mexican Caribbean https://www.travelinglifestyle.net/more-free-internet-service-coming-for-digital-nomads-and-tourists-in-mexican-caribbean/ https://www.travelinglifestyle.net/more-free-internet-service-coming-for-digital-nomads-and-tourists-in-mexican-caribbean/#respond Tue, 14 Nov 2023 08:23:46 +0000 https://www.travelinglifestyle.net/?p=72538 Tourists and digital nomads in Cancun and surrounding areas will soon get more free access to high-speed Internet thanks to an initiative from the state government of Quintana Roo to make the area more competitive in the marketplace. Four New Cities Getting Connected The recent announcement extends the free high-speed internet service for locals, tourists and digital nomads to four new parts of the Mexican Caribbean. The Vice President of Internet company Gignet, Luis de Postestad, announced that Tulum, Playa […]

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Tourists and digital nomads in Cancun and surrounding areas will soon get more free access to high-speed Internet thanks to an initiative from the state government of Quintana Roo to make the area more competitive in the marketplace.

Four New Cities Getting Connected

The recent announcement extends the free high-speed internet service for locals, tourists and digital nomads to four new parts of the Mexican Caribbean.

The Vice President of Internet company Gignet, Luis de Postestad, announced that Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Cozumel and Isla Mujeres are next up on the list to have free access to the community high-speed Internet service.

All three areas were selected because of their mix of tourist and local traffic, which would benefit from the free service. It was also recognized that they are also hotspots for digital nomads who also contribute to the overall economic growth and vibrancy of the region.

For example, in Cancun the first deployments of the free Internet service were made at Playa Delfines and now the service covers a total of 383 meters of local beaches.

Only Tulum will be deployed this year while the other three areas will be on the plan for next year.

The deployment was accelerated to this year in Tulum due to the opening of the new Tulum International Airport to domestic flights next month and international direct flights from the United States at the end of March.

digital nomad working by the beach

Convenient Hotspot Locations

The test deployments have already started in Tulum with the identification of key hotspots to serve the most people. 

The first is going to be in city center where many people tend to collect. The second is being planned for the municipal palace to also serve the Tulum area government. The third location is the hotel zone to provide free high-speed Internet access to visitors to the area.

On Isla Mujeres, two different hotspots are currently in the planning phase. Meanwhile, Cozumel will feature one hotspot.

No additional information was provided about the deployment of the hotspots in Playa del Carmen.

Plans For Additional Service

After the deployments in the four areas this and next year, local officials deploying the free high-speed Internet service said they plan to focus next on the Felipe Carillo Puerto municipality.

They are working closely with the State of Quintana Roo Office of the Governor to create a master agreement to roll the free high-speed Internet service to additional areas of the state. 

The plan is to not only find ways of providing the service to locals and families in the region but also extend the service to assist tourists and digital nomads that can also benefit from the free access.

Tips for Travelers

The free high-speed Internet service makes visiting Cancun and other major tourist areas of the Mexican Caribbean definitely more accessible and convenient for travelers to the beach resort destination.

As more destinations come online soon, such as Tulum by the end of year, the connectivity makes a big difference towards enhancing the experience that visitors have when visiting the area.

The free high-speed Internet service is a game changer when it comes to digital nomads in the area. Digital nomads have especially been flocking to Playa del Carmen and Tulum. The free Internet service will make that area even more attractive to those travelers.

While the hotspots will have a decent connectivity range of 200 meters (656 feet) in a linear manner, getting a property located near the hotspot will definitely be a challenge. 

Alternatively, digital nomads can access the free high-speed Internet service from cafes and coffee shops in the general vicinity of the hotspot.

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This Is No. 1 Searched Winter International Destination By United Airlines Customers https://www.travelinglifestyle.net/this-is-no-1-searched-winter-international-destination-by-united-airlines-customers/ https://www.travelinglifestyle.net/this-is-no-1-searched-winter-international-destination-by-united-airlines-customers/#respond Mon, 13 Nov 2023 13:58:05 +0000 https://www.travelinglifestyle.net/?p=72509 The peak fall and winter holiday travel season is nearly here, and travelers are busy making their reservations for the upcoming vacation season. Not surprisingly, when the leaves start to fall from the trees and the weather starts to cool down, tourists focus their thoughts further south towards warmer weather and sunny coastal beaches. Traditionally that leads travelers dreaming of a tropical vacation getaway to Mexico, and early indications show that Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean should be anticipating a […]

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The peak fall and winter holiday travel season is nearly here, and travelers are busy making their reservations for the upcoming vacation season.

Not surprisingly, when the leaves start to fall from the trees and the weather starts to cool down, tourists focus their thoughts further south towards warmer weather and sunny coastal beaches.

Traditionally that leads travelers dreaming of a tropical vacation getaway to Mexico, and early indications show that Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean should be anticipating a busy travel season this year.

United Airlines Search Data

According to a statement from United Airlines, four of the top five most searched destinations on United.com for travel from November 1 to March 31 are located in the United States. These destinations include warmer weather favorites like Miami, Orlando, Honolulu and Las Vegas.

Only one of the top five searched destinations for the fall and winter holiday season was international. What international hotspot cracked the top five searches for flights on United.com? Cancun, of course.

Popularity Increasing for the Mexican Caribbean 

Beaches Around Cancun Have Little To No Seaweed

There are number of exciting developments happening in Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean that are getting visitors excited about a fall and winter holiday vacation getaway to the area.

The Maya Train project has travelers excited about visiting the region because it will provide additional convenient access to parts of the Mexican Caribbean that have been a challenge to reach without a bus or taxi ride to get there.

Cancun is at one of the major crossroads of the Maya Train project as it will connect areas such as the emerging hotspot of Merida with destinations in the Mexican Caribbean south of Cancun such as Chetumal, Bacalar, Puerto Morelos and even Tulum.

Speaking of Tulum, it is about to become a major destination in the area with the opening of the brand-new Tulum International Airport next month.

Now, travelers should not get too excited about this alternative to Cancun International Airport quite yet. It will only be available for domestic flights when it opens in December and will require international visitors to make a connection to get to Tulum, most likely in Mexico City.

However, Delta Airlines announced on October 13 that it will be the first airline from the United States to have direct non-stop flights. They will start from Atlanta on March 28, 2024. 

Ultra low cost carrier Spirit Airlines later in the month also announced daily service to Tulum from both Orlando (MCO) and Fort Lauderdale (FLL) starting on March 28, 2024. 

Other airlines have announced increased numbers of flights between the United States and Cancun International Airport as well for the upcoming peak fall and winter travel season.

Tips For Travelers

Cancun Has The Bigger Number of Clean Beaches in Mexico Despite Excessive Tourism

The old travel adage to book early is the key recommendation for this year. 

Travelers looking to visit Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean in the next couple of months hopefully have already booked their flights and reserved their preferred resort or hotel.

For those that have not yet made their vacation getaway plans, the costs have already started to climb and the availability of the best times for flights as well as rooms at the preferred resorts and hotels are becoming limited.

Visitors should not expect there to be many deals as the holiday season approaches. This will especially be the case with some of the top resorts and hotels that line some of the best beaches in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Isla Mujeres and Tulum.

However, there may be some last-minute deals for vacation rental properties in Tulum due to the large number of available rentals in that area.

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New Nature Reserve For Tourists Coming To The Mexican Caribbean https://www.travelinglifestyle.net/new-nature-reserve-for-tourists-coming-to-the-mexican-caribbean/ https://www.travelinglifestyle.net/new-nature-reserve-for-tourists-coming-to-the-mexican-caribbean/#respond Wed, 08 Nov 2023 11:45:49 +0000 https://www.travelinglifestyle.net/?p=72408 Connecting with nature is an important reason why many tourists come to the Mexican Caribbean.  In fact, recent traveler surveys of the beach resort destinations in Mexico found that travelers visited for wellness, sustainability and nature. The Mexican government announced recently that will be designating 1,091 hectares, or nearly 2,700 acres, of wetlands near Puerto Morelos as a Natural Protected Area to allow more tourists to enjoy the sustainability and nature found in the Mexican Caribbean. Natural Protected Wetlands The […]

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Connecting with nature is an important reason why many tourists come to the Mexican Caribbean. 

In fact, recent traveler surveys of the beach resort destinations in Mexico found that travelers visited for wellness, sustainability and nature.

The Mexican government announced recently that will be designating 1,091 hectares, or nearly 2,700 acres, of wetlands near Puerto Morelos as a Natural Protected Area to allow more tourists to enjoy the sustainability and nature found in the Mexican Caribbean.

Natural Protected Wetlands

The brand new Natural Protected Area near Puerto Morelos was officially filed for public notice for 30 days in the Mexican public registry. Assuming nobody objects to the decree, the land declaration will become official.

The area being designated is 1,091 hectares of wetlands which represent the natural state of the land before development and tourism dominated the Mexican Caribbean.

In fact, environmental research has shown that this area of Mexico is rapidly losing its native wetlands to human development.

This designation allows for the region to add to its commitment of sustainability, which travelers are coming to explore when visiting the Mexican Caribbean.

The Animal Kingdom

The wetlands near Puerto Morelos that are being protected are home to a wide variety of animals. According to reports, crocodiles, striped spiny iguanas, spider monkeys and a multitude of birds call these very special wetlands home.

After the designation, tourists will be able to arrange tours of the wetlands with guides and learn more about the natural environment of the region.

Third Designation Near Cancun

The new Natural Protected Area is only one of 22 across the entire country. It is the third such designation in the State of Quintana Roo, the Mexican Caribbean region that is home to popular tourist spots such as Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum and of course Puerto Morelos.

Nearby El Manglar Park in Puerto Morelos was one of the areas designated a Natural Protected Area. It was only projected to be half the size of the new Natural Protected Area, however it has actually doubled in size to be about the same amount of land as the new area.

The original land for that area was donated by the children of the late owner of the Hotel El Cid to be preserved as a sustainable nature area for tourists and locals to enjoy.

Another Natural Protected Area for tourists to check out is located close to Tulum. Located near a jaguar protected area, the amount of land safeguarded as a nature preserve is a little more than half the other areas. However, the jaguar protected area is more than the two Puerto Morelos preserves put together.

Tips For Travelers

Tourists visiting Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean have recognized the importance of sustainability and nature in their vacation getaways to the area. 

These new Natural Protected Areas encourage travelers to come to the area, and in addition to enjoy the fantastic beaches, food and nightclubs, provide them an opportunity to travel back in time and enjoy the true wild side of the region.

All three are located south of Cancun and are easily accessible for visitors to the area to enjoy the connection to nature and sustainability. 

Reasonably priced tours can be arranged in advance through popular travel websites and hotel tour desks. All include transportation and several even include picnic lunches and drinks while visiting.

Next time travelers visit the Mexican Caribbean, especially during the peak fall and winter travel seasons, it might be nice to get away from the hustle and bustle of the beaches and hotel zone and explore a little about the wildlife that also call the local region home.

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This Unknown Mayan Ruin Is The Hidden Gem Of Cancun Hotel Zone https://www.travelinglifestyle.net/this-unknown-mayan-ruin-is-the-hidden-gem-of-cancun-hotel-zone/ https://www.travelinglifestyle.net/this-unknown-mayan-ruin-is-the-hidden-gem-of-cancun-hotel-zone/#respond Tue, 07 Nov 2023 11:18:37 +0000 https://www.travelinglifestyle.net/?p=72332 Exploring ancient Mayan ruins on a trip to the Mexican Caribbean doesn’t take a traveler to the area getting their bullwhip and fedora and heading into the jungle like Indiana Jones. There are plenty of places for visitors to explore, starting with the hotel zone in Cancun. Temple of the Scorpion While most tourists in Cancun think that Mayan temples are located a day’s trip away in the remote jungles of the Yucatan, the fact is the Temple of the […]

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Exploring ancient Mayan ruins on a trip to the Mexican Caribbean doesn’t take a traveler to the area getting their bullwhip and fedora and heading into the jungle like Indiana Jones. There are plenty of places for visitors to explore, starting with the hotel zone in Cancun.

Temple of the Scorpion

While most tourists in Cancun think that Mayan temples are located a day’s trip away in the remote jungles of the Yucatan, the fact is the Temple of the Scorpion is right in the hotel zone.

The temple, known as Yamil Lu’um, is actually overlooked by most travelers to the Mexican Caribbean region. However, this is a mistake.

The Temple of the Scorpion is believed to be an ancient watch tower or navigational aid of the Mayan people as it sits on a coastal bluff. It was regarded as a vigil point of significant importance to the locals and was used between 1200 and 1550 AD.

The temple gets its name from the scorpion impressions that were made into the wall along with several handprints from some of the ancient visitors. However, the scorpion impressions and handprints are unfortunately lost to time among the weathered walls of the temple.

How to Visit

It is free to visit the Temple of the Scorpion and it is amazingly close to several of the main hotel zone tourist resorts in Cancun.

Tourists staying at the Weston Lagunamar, Park Royal Beach Cancun Hotel or even the Ocean Resort Villas & Spa, have direct access to this historical site directly from their resort hotel.

For other visitors to the area, head to kilometers 12.5 of the hotel zone near Playa Marlin and look directly behind Plaza Kukulkan and the Luxury Mall Cancun. There you will find this unique ancient Mayan ruin.

For visitors to Playa Marlin, it is a quick 15-minute walk to the Temple of the Scorpion.

Relatively Unknown

It’s strange why more visitors to Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean are not familiar with the ancient structure that sits right off the hotel zone.

However, it’s nice that it is relatively unknown because the site does not get lines of visitors like some of the more popular temple complexes in the Yucatan such as Chichén Itzá. However, Chichén Itzá is definitely much more dramatic.

However, for a free nearby excursion to explore the world of the ancient Mayans, the Temple of the Scorpion is a great urban way to get some adventure without venturing too far from the hotel zone in Cancun.

Tips For Travelers

Most travelers would be surprised to find that this ancient ruin actually sits right next to some of the most popular hotel zone tourist resorts in Cancun.

In fact, travelers overlook it because it seems like it is simply part of the resort zone dropped between Park Royal Beach Cancun Hotel and the Westin Lagunamar.

However, for tourists with limited time to explore more rural areas, or without the desire to venture far from the hotel zone, it is an option to connect with the traditions and architecture of the local Mayan people.

It’s also a popular spot for travelers looking to get some interesting pictures from their vacation.

Tourists on their next trip to Cancun should simply take a walk, or even a taxi or Uber, and explore this real gem in the middle of the tourist zone.

Bullwhip and fedora are of course optional items for travelers as they explore the fortune and glory of the Temple of the Scorpion in the hotel zone of Cancun.

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Cancun Seaweed Predictions For Winter 2023-24: When Does It Start Again? https://www.travelinglifestyle.net/cancun-seaweed-predictions-for-winter-2023-24-when-does-it-start-again/ https://www.travelinglifestyle.net/cancun-seaweed-predictions-for-winter-2023-24-when-does-it-start-again/#respond Sun, 05 Nov 2023 12:49:06 +0000 https://www.travelinglifestyle.net/?p=72273 One of the drawbacks of visiting the white sand beaches of Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean is that they are subject to having pesky brown seaweed on the shore and in the water.  While not hazardous to swimmers, it can make a beach resort vacation getaway an unpleasant experience. Now For the Good News With the peak fall and winter travel season right around the corner, at the top of the mind of many beachgoers in Isla Mujeres, Tulum, Playa […]

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One of the drawbacks of visiting the white sand beaches of Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean is that they are subject to having pesky brown seaweed on the shore and in the water. 

While not hazardous to swimmers, it can make a beach resort vacation getaway an unpleasant experience.

Now For the Good News

With the peak fall and winter travel season right around the corner, at the top of the mind of many beachgoers in Isla Mujeres, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and Cancun is what will be the state of the beaches.

According to Esteban Amaro, head of the Sargassum Monitoring Network for the state, the waters of the Mexican Caribbean should be mostly sargassum-free during the upcoming peak fall and winter holiday travel season.

As a result of an El Niño condition, less sargassum made its way to the Mexican Caribbean overall this year. 

There were only 22,000 tons of sargassum, or brown seaweed, collected from the beaches of the Mexican Caribbean this year. This was a decline from 54,000 tons last year and 85,000 tons in the record year of 2019.

For tourists to Cancun and other coastal towns in the area, it meant that the beaches and waters were cleaner for swimming.

Virtually Sargassum Free

This Upcoming Beach Town Next To Cancun Is Thriving This Summer

While there will be the potential for small pockets to arrive on beaches in popular vacation hotspots such as Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Isla Mujeres, Amaro has predicted that the peak season should be virtually sargassum-free. Usually, seaweed starts appearing at the end of February and peaks in April, May, and June.

He mentioned that the ocean currents are not favorable for the movement of large amounts of sargassum to be deposited on popular tourist beaches.

Typically, sargassum grows in large clusters off the coast of Africa and then is transported by ocean currents to the Caribbean where it finds its way to the beautiful white sand beaches of the Mexican Caribbean.

Along with the shifting ocean currents, high winds and waves from tropical weather systems help to sink the floating sargassum and prevent it from washing up on the shores of Cancun, Isla Mujeres, and Playa del Carmen.

The increased tropical weather activity this year contributed to the sinking of more sargassum than normal so it did not make its way to the tourist beaches around Cancun.

Only a Short-Term Phenomenon

5,000-Mile-Long Seaweed Blob Heading To Florida, Mexico, And Dominican Republic

Being a forecaster who deals with the climate and its effect on the sargassum movement in the seas, Amaro points out that this is a low year in sargassum, and it is not the emergence of a new trend for Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean.

In fact, he said it is just the opposite. The Mexican Caribbean ultimately can expect the amount of sargassum washing up on the shores to increase due to the overall warming of the oceans due to climate change.

The warmer oceans promote the growth of sargassum and the shifting currents due to climate change will bring more sargassum to the coastline of Cancun, Isla Mujeres, and Playa del Carmen over time.

Tips For Tourists

Visitors to the Mexican Caribbean concerned about the upcoming peak fall and winter holiday travel season should be happy that the sargassum will not have much impact on their beach resort vacation plans.

The picturesque coastline of Cancun, Isla Mujeres and Playa del Carmen should be looking better than ever, and swimmers can enjoy their ocean experience more without the hassle of the brown seaweed.

So, go ahead, grab that bathing suit and enjoy a dip in the warm tropical waters of the Mexican Caribbean this fall and winter holiday season!

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This New Requirement Will Make Cancun Taxi Services More Transparent https://www.travelinglifestyle.net/this-new-requirement-will-make-cancun-taxi-services-more-transparent/ https://www.travelinglifestyle.net/this-new-requirement-will-make-cancun-taxi-services-more-transparent/#respond Sat, 04 Nov 2023 11:27:33 +0000 https://www.travelinglifestyle.net/?p=72239 The way tourists in Cancun, Puerto Morelos, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum ride in a taxi will change next year. The Secretary of Government Cristina Torres recently confirmed that taxi drivers in several parts of the State of Quintana Roo will be required to transport tourists in the area using a taxi meter effective next year.  The Issues with Taxis It’s one of the complaints that many travelers have when visiting popular tourist destinations in the Mexican Caribbean.  Visitors specifically […]

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The way tourists in Cancun, Puerto Morelos, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum ride in a taxi will change next year.

The Secretary of Government Cristina Torres recently confirmed that taxi drivers in several parts of the State of Quintana Roo will be required to transport tourists in the area using a taxi meter effective next year. 

The Issues with Taxis

It’s one of the complaints that many travelers have when visiting popular tourist destinations in the Mexican Caribbean. 

Visitors specifically cite the unpleasantness of pushy and aggressive taxi vendors at the airport and the lack of clarity about taxi rates and charges until it is too late.

Tourists were then forced to pay exorbitant rates in some cases or even threatened that law enforcement would be notified if they did not pay.

Taxi Meters Go into Effect

Based upon the complaints, the State of Quintana Roo government stepped in to resolve the issue and make the customer experience of getting around the area in a taxi more pleasant for travelers.

Starting next year, taxis operating in the region will have regulated rates and will require drivers to improve their vehicles and provide better service to riders.

The introduction and enforcement of taxi meters in Quintana Roo will be implemented in waves. First up will be Benito Juárez, Solidaridad, Tulum and Puerto Morelos.

Another Assault On Uber With Tourists In Cancun Raises Concerns

Digital Technology Deployed

To help build confidence with travelers to the region, government officials will ensure that the taxicabs install digital meters with safeguards that automatically start with a pick-up. 

The use of the meters and reporting of rides will be strictly monitored by state officials to ensure compliance and fairness when transporting travelers.

Drivers will not be charged for the service and special surcharges should not occur for tourists taking taxi services with the new digital meters in place.

Planned Start Mid-Year

State officials admit that it will take them a while to get the meters installed and the monitoring system in place to make sure that travelers to Quintana Roo’s travel hotspots are being charged fairly for their rides.

The whole system is expected to be ready by mid-year, shortly after the brand-new international airport in Tulum is expected to start receiving direct international flights.

It will initially affect Tulum, along with Solidaridad (Playa del Carmen), Benito Juárez (Cancun), Tulum, and Puerto Morelos.

Tips for Tourists

Tourists should be aware that the meters will soon be in effect for their convenience and protection. They should also insist that taxi drivers use them. 

There may be instances when a taxi driver may try to avoid using the meter and charge a “flat fee” which is well over what the meter would have charged.

If that is the case, travelers to the area are requested to report the violation to local law enforcement authorities noting the taxi driver’s vehicle license plate, vehicle number, or even the operator’s license number.

Enforcement and proper reporting of tax driver violations will actually make the entire transportation system more reliable for all travelers on a beach vacation to the Mexican Caribbean’s hotspots.

Of course, those who want to avoid the entire issue with taxi meters and potential confrontation with drivers and vendors can always select to take a ride using popular rideshare apps, such as Uber.

The ride-share apps provide a fixed fee for a ride that is often cheaper, or at least competitive, than the comparable taxi ride. 

The rideshare apps even were recently approved to pick up and drop off passengers at local airports by the end of the year, including Cancun International Airport and soon at Tulum International Airport.

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Work Begins On The Maya Train Connection To Cancun Airport https://www.travelinglifestyle.net/work-begins-on-the-maya-train-connection-to-cancun-airport/ https://www.travelinglifestyle.net/work-begins-on-the-maya-train-connection-to-cancun-airport/#respond Wed, 01 Nov 2023 11:53:05 +0000 https://www.travelinglifestyle.net/?p=72148 Construction has started on what will be one of the most important transportation hubs for travelers to the Mexican Caribbean. In December, the Maya Train terminal at the Cancun International Airport should be complete and within six months the train should be transporting travelers seamlessly to Cancun and other vacation destinations throughout the region. All Aboard the Maya Train The ambitious Maya Train program will link most of the tourist centers in the Mexican Caribbean with the Yucatan and other […]

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Construction has started on what will be one of the most important transportation hubs for travelers to the Mexican Caribbean.

In December, the Maya Train terminal at the Cancun International Airport should be complete and within six months the train should be transporting travelers seamlessly to Cancun and other vacation destinations throughout the region.

All Aboard the Maya Train

The ambitious Maya Train program will link most of the tourist centers in the Mexican Caribbean with the Yucatan and other areas to make more of the region accessible to travelers from all over the world.

A 1.6-kilometer line will probably be the busiest and most appreciated by visitors to Cancun as it will connect Cancun International Airport and the main train line.

Known as the epicenter of tourism in the Mexican Caribbean, it will streamline transportation needs for visitors and provide a more sustainable method of getting between the tourist zone and the airport.

It is one of the emblematic construction and redevelopment projects of the administration of Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador.

Ultimately the Maya Train will connect with Merida to the west and Puerto Morelos, Playa del Carmen, Tulum and Bacalar to the south. It will also extend further west into the eastern portion of the State of Chiapas.

It will be operated by the Mexican Armed Forces.

Delays on Highway 180-D

For those visiting Cancun and other vacation destinations in the next six months, the traffic along Highway 180-D will be a little bit of a headache as the construction progresses.

The construction company handling the work is also taking the opportunity to improve the road for local visitors at the same time that the train construction is being completed.

What is taking the most time with the project is the construction of a bridge which will take six months to complete.

During the project, engineers elected to keep the road open to serve visitors to the Mexican Caribbean. 

Travelers can expect that there will be lane reductions at times and slower speeds than usual to keep the workers on the project safe from accidents.

The construction in the meantime will definitely be causing some headaches and delays for travelers trying to get to and from the airport for their flights.

However, in the long run it will be a great benefit to visitors coming for a vacation getaway to the beach resort destination.

Tulum Airport Connection

The new Maya Train is also expected to connect with the new Tulum International Airport in Tulum which will open in December.

It will make travel north to locations such as Cancun, Puerto Morelos and Playa del Carmen much easier for travelers to Tulum.

Several United States airlines, such as Delta Airlines and Spirit Airlines, have registered their intent to fly to the new airport in Tulum, according to local officials.

Tips For Travelers

It may be a headache right now, but the construction progressing along Highway 180-D to the Cancun International Airport will actually provide convenience and options for vacation travelers to the Mexican Caribbean.

Until the road construction is complete, travelers should plan for some extra time needed to get to and from the airport to make the necessary flight connections in a timely fashion.

The Maya Train ultimately will make it convenient to fly to the local airports in the area and create an easy and accessible way to get around the entire region without the need for long-distance driving.

The ambitious project by Mexican President López Obrador will definitely change the way tourists think about getting around and visiting day-trip locations across the entire Mexican Caribbean region and beyond.

The exact prices for fares and other ticket charges have not been announced.

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