Riviera Maya, Mexico - Your Next Vacation

Just south of Cancun in the eastern part of the Yucatan Peninsula lies beautiful Riviera Maya. With miles of Caribbean coastline, thick jungle and rich history, Riviera Maya has something to offer any tourist who ventures into its realm. Here are just a few of the activities you can enjoy in this Mexican paradise.

Water Fun

Whether you’re soaking up the rays on the secluded white sandy beaches or communing with the colorful marine life while scuba diving, you’re bound to have a good time in on the coast of Riviera Maya. For scuba divers and snorkelers, the Great Maya coral reef is second only to the Great Barrier reef in Australia in terms of size. The Great Maya coral reef is home to several varieties of corals, numerous reef-dwelling fishes, sea anemones, sea urchins, sea cucumbers, starfish, sponges, crabs, and lobsters. Just as interesting are the subterranean freshwater rivers, which house amazing cavern structures. For those who don’t like to actually get wet, sport fishing is also a big pastime in Riviera Maya.

Golf

Riviera Maya also boasts several professionally designed golf courses. The landscape is magnificent; truly a unique golfing experience. Visit these putting greens, driving ranges and club houses, or purchase quality golf merchandise in the area’s pro shops.

Spas

At the end of a long day scuba diving, golfing, or lying on the beach, what better way to get ready for a relaxing evening than with a visit to the spa? Spas these days can be enjoyed by members of both genders. The many spas in Riviera Maya provide various services such as Yoga, Reflexology, hot stone massage, Shiatsu, scalp massage, aromatherapy baths and soothing body scrubs and wrap treatments. Naturally, they also offer more traditional therapies, like manicures, pedicures, hair treatments, and facials.

Natural Parks and Archaeological Sites

Needless to say, Riviera Maya has great natural beauty. What better way to explore that beauty than visiting an ecological reserve. Xcaret EcoPark, an ecological and archaeological park, shoes the local Sian Ka’an biosphere and all its many species of flora and fauna. Explore ancient Mayan ruins or visit a Catholic church erected by the Spaniards. Swim with bottle-nosed dolphins or visit the exhibits at the Butterfly Pavilion, Orchid Greenhouse, Mushroom Farm, Manatee Lagoon, and Coral Reef Aquarium.

Playa del Carmen

When you’re ready for a little city life, visit Playa del Carmen. The major town in the area, Playa del Carmen is situated along the beach and offers tourists lovely waterfront hotels. The pulse of the city is Quinto Avenida (Fifth Avenue), a pedestrian-only street which is home to shopping, restaurants, and more. Window shop tiny boutiques for local handicrafts or find the latest trends in European fashions. Musicians will serenade you and performing artists entertain you as you stroll down Quinto Avenida looking for one of the many restaurants in this area. Whether you want authentic Mexican cuisine (and who woudn’t?), American style food or international choices like Italian or Indian, you can find it here. Round out your day by dancing and partying all night long in the local bars and night clubs.

Whatever your vacation preferences - relaxing and laid-back, or adventure-filled and fast-paced - beautiful Riviera Maya will exceed your expectations. Pick and choose your favorite features and come back a second time to try the ones you missed.

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Kit loves fun spots and is eager to introduce you to interesting new places to visit. Read more of her articles at http://www.fun-travel-blog.com/.
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