Riviera Nayarit s 200 Million Tourism Industry Continues to Grow

Sea Side Reservations Blog

Bacalar: Quintana Roo's Pueblo Magico

Breakwater at el Anclote beach in Punta Mita Looking for a special adventure off the tourist trail? Bacalar, located in the south of Quintana Roo, might be the perfect destination. This quaint Caribbean settlement abounds with natural beauty and is steeped in history. The Maya lived here during Pre-Columbian times, naming the area and its beautiful lagoon for the dense reeds that surrounded it. The settlement was later taken by Spanish Conquistadores until pirates invaded and sacked the town in 1642. Bacalar was rebuilt and, in 1792, further protected by the Fortress de San Felipe Bacalar– a magnificent structure that can still be explored today.

In 2006, Mexico's Secretary of Tourism bestowed a special title on Bacalar in recognition of its historical significance, great traditions and unique attractions. Known as a "Pueblo Magico," Bacalar promises a magical experience for visitors, especially those who enjoy watersports!

Popular attractions in Bacalar

The star attraction here is the Laguna Bacalar, a massive crystalline lake that dazzles with multiple colors of water. Due to its immense size, visitors might think they're staring out on the Caribbean Sea! Kayaking across the lake is a popular activity, as is sailing, swimming and even fishing. There are also pontoon boat tours that offer glimpses of the verdant jungles and mangroves that frame the shores. Locals call it the "Lago de los Siete Colores," the lake of seven colors, because of the vibrant hues rendered by the mix of fresh and salt water.

The Cenote Azul is Bacalar's second claim to fame. At nearly 300 feet deep and 600 feet wide, this natural sinkhole is one of the largest in the Yucatan. The water is clear and clean and excellent for scuba diving and snorkeling. The cenote is also a favorite swimming spot for locals and visitors. After working up an appetite, you can grab a meal at a restaurant that is perched on the rim of the cenote. Lifejackets are available for rent here.

Brush up on the history of Bacalar with a stop at the San Felipe Fort and museum. Informative exhibits detail what local life was like in the settlement during the Spanish conquest, after the pirate invasions and during the Yucatan's Caste War.

The state of Quintana Roo is home to several Mayan archeological sites, some of which are convenient to Bacalar. Plan a day trip to the impressive ruins of Dzibanche, where the Maya reined from 300 to 900 A.D. Also close by is Kohunlich, a grandiose complex noted for its temple pool. It is believed that the water's reflection was used to reflect the stars and make astronomical deductions.

Your Mexico Vacation Rental Experts

No matter where your travels take you in Mexico, Sea Side Reservations can help you find the perfect vacation property. Our inventory of beachfront condos, villas and fully-furnished homes is unparalleled, and you won't find better customer service anywhere else.

Take advantage of 5-star luxury at an affordable price and check out our amazing rentals in popular destinations like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Riviera Nayarit, Puerto Vallarta and Rocky Point!

Record-Breaking Number of Tourists Visiting Mexico in 2018

A tropical view beside water with six people, comprising of males and females, silhouetted by a setting sun. The people have stances, as if dancing, with their hands in the air. Directly behind them is the silhouette of a palm tree and further away are outcroppings of land. Tourism to Mexico is breaking all records in 2018, with 10.6 million visitors in the first three months of the year alone. The number of people flocking to Mexico is more than 12% above the levels seen in the first three months of last year.

Easter Season Visits Particularly Strong

Robust increases were particularly notable during the Easter season, which fell in March this year.

The Mexico Tourism Board reports that 4 million tourists arrived in Mexico during the single month of March, 14.6% more than the number that arrived in March 2017.

Cancun was one of the most popular sites. Cancun International Airport received more than 2 million arrivals in March alone, more than 14% over March 2017 levels, as reported by Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, the airport's operator. Of those arrivals, 1.56 million were international tourists coming to Mexico.

As a result, resorts and hotels in the Cancun area enjoyed high levels of tourism and extremely high occupancy during March. Roughly 3,000-5,000 tourists visited the beaches in Cancun every day during March.

Cancun and areas along Riviera Maya saw an occupancy rate average of 90% during the March Easter season. The resort towns and cities surrounding Cancun, such as Holbox, Bacalar, and Mahahual, were fully booked, with a 100% occupancy.

Almost all the hotel rooms in Quintana Roo were fully booked, with tourists coming from Canada, the United States, South America, and Europe.

Tourists from colder climes definitely lead the parade, with Toronto, Chicago, New York, and Montreal being the most frequent home towns of visitors.

The record-breaking tourism numbers in the first quarter led to a 7.2% increase in revenue derived from tourism, which hit $6.2 billion.

Rise in Air and Cruise Travel Year Over Year

The first three months of 2018 saw 2.9 million visitors flying to Mexico from the United States, a 4% from the first three months of 2017.

The rise in cruise tourism was even stronger, climbing 10.4% over last year's first quarter. In total, 2.6 million tourists entered Mexico as part of a cruise.

More than 5 million tourists entered Mexico via land. Of these, 4.3 million were border visitors. Their nationality is not demarcated, but the Mexico Tourism Board indicated that over 90% came from the United States.

The record-setting pace of tourism will likely have effects during the summer season. A number of airlines, taking note of Cancun's spring popularity, have increased the number of routes for the summer. Sun Country, for example, is adding more direct flights to Cancun beginning in mid-June.

Best July 4th Getaway Destinations in Mexico

Starfish on beach during July fourth It's not too late to pack your bags for a spontaneous July 4th getaway in Mexico. Our neighbor to the south is home to over 1 million American expatriates. There are plenty of events catering to these residents, not to mention summer travelers, if you know where to look! Sea Side Reservations can score last-minute accommodations for you, without any of the game-playing you get with traditional travel booking sites. We give you the names of the resorts, villas, or condo developments and the address before you book. A property manager is accessible to you 24/7 during your stay to provide concierge assistance and guarantee your satisfaction.

Our goal is to find you the perfect accommodation near the best 4th of July parties and activities in Mexico, so you can enjoy a truly worry-free getaway.

Rocky Point

Rocky Point's close proximity to Phoenix, Tucson, Imperial Valley, El Centro, and Yuma makes it an ideal getaway for Americans. You can purchase fireworks legally in Mexico and set them off at the public beaches. The biggest local event is Sonoran Resorts' Las Vegas Charity Night. A $35 ticket gets you access to a tasty buffet; $300 in charity chips for blackjack, poker, and roulette; and a donation to underprivileged families in Rocky Point. Most other resorts in the area provide barbeque grills, so you can have a traditional July 4th cookout with hotdogs and hamburgers.

Your Rocky Point concierge from Sea Side Reservations can arrange to have your fridge stocked with all the necessities upon your arrival if you don't want to waste precious vacation time in the local supermarkets. You can expect live music and DJs entertaining crowds in popular nightlife spots like El Malecon, Elixir Bar, Tekila Bar, and Wrecked at the Reef. Banditos hosts an annual music festival featuring rock, funk, and reggae bands. Many Rocky Point bars also hold horseshoe, dart, and pool tournaments that cater to Americans traveling for the holiday. Swimming, parasailing, snorkeling, and jet skiing are popular this time of year when the water is at its warmest. The Old Port and The Cholla Mall will have all the souvenirs you need to take back home.

Puerto Vallarta

The Banderas Bay region, specifically Puerto Vallarta, offers a unique international vibe you won't find everywhere in Mexico. Traditionally, American and Canadian holidays have been celebrated here to make expats feel more at home. Marina Riviera Nayarit hosts a BBQ Wing Cook-Off from 4-8 p.m. at the Marina Poolside Deli. You can bring 20 wings to cook up for prizes or a side dish to share with 5-8 people. There will be swimming and pool volleyball for the whole family, as well as live music. Nacho Daddy features a Texas-style dance hall and bilingual karaoke night with food and drinks served in a comfortable air-conditioned facility on the south side of Puerto Vallarta.

Many local restaurants offer 4th of July food and drink specials: pick up a free glass of Pancho's white sangria to go along with your kobe beef burger at Mark's Bar & Grill; try the renowned mac-and-cheese for 50% off at Joe Jack's Fish Shack; or fill up 17 peso pints to quench your thirst after having the area's best pizza at Los Muertos Brewing Company.

The area's largest 4th of July party takes place at Daiquiri Dick's on Los Muertos Beach, which serves up a backyard BBQ buffet "with international flair" from July 1^st – July 11^th. For 500 pesos, you'll get dinner, two drink tickets, live music by Sylvie and The Zippers, and a great view of the sunset. You may also try your hand at winning a sailboat excursion, private food tour, dinner and a serenade, local artwork, or resort accommodations in the silent auction. The event does sell out, so you'll want to pick up your tickets in advance.

Contact us to find last-minute July 4th accommodations in Mexico!

Sea Side Reservations specializes in setting guests to Mexico up with the perfect party pad or quiet retreat, whichever you prefer. Though many resorts are booked to capacity for the July 4th holiday, there are still picturesque condos, villas, and beautiful properties available for the most discerning travelers. No matter your travel dates or budget, we'll find something that will meet and exceed your expectations. Don't forget we also offer full concierge and customer support during your stay, so you'll want for nothing!

More info on spending the Fourth of July in Mexico:

Come To Rocky Point – 4^th of July, http://cometorockypoint.com/4th-of-july/
Banderas News – July 4^th Celebrations, http://www.banderasnews.com/1607/ent-vallarta-july-4th-celebrations.htm
Banderas News – Daquiri Dick's, http://www.banderasnews.com/1805/ent-daiquiri-dicks-vallarta-july-4th-party.htm
Expats in Mexico – How Many Expats Live in Mexico?, https://www.expatsinmexico.com/how-many-expats-live-in-mexico/
Competitor, https://fmirentals.com/holiday-rocky-point/fourth-july-rocky-point-celebrate-americas-birthday-mexico/

Tourism Booming in Riviera Nayarit

Vacation on tropical lake Nichupte lagoon, Cancun Riviera Nayarit was once considered off Mexico's "beaten path," but recent tourism figures indicate sweeping changes for this extraordinary destination. According to statistics from the Riviera Nayarit Convention & Visitors Bureau, 2017 was a wildly successful year for tourism in the region, with travelers generating some $200 million in revenue. Last year also realized new heights in hotel occupancy rates, with 4-star resorts reporting occupancy rates at nearly 95 percent.

Private investors – along with federal funding—has sparked a wave of new developments, including 5-star properties, luxury residences, infrastructure and other amenities to enhance the region's vacation appeal.

Tourism growth in Riviera Nayarit

"Riviera Nayarit is a destination like no other… Our versatility and appeal have translated into recent success for our pristine destination, from resort town Nuevo Vallarta to the historic village of San Blas, celebrity haven Punta de Mita, surfing mecca Sayulita, and everything in between," said Mark Murphy, acting manager of the Riviera Nayarit Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Situated on Mexico's Pacific Coast, just north of Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Nayarit may be attracting record numbers of visitors, but you'll still find quiet stretches of beach and fewer tourists at local attractions.

The region encompasses 200 miles of coastline, nearly two dozen villages, and is home to a growing selection of world-class hotels along with delightful villas and rental homes. This area is garnering a stellar reputation for incredible cuisine, spas and wellness centers, and outdoor adventure sports like zip lining, scuba diving, boating, whale watching, surfing, sport fishing and ATV riding.

New properties opening 2018-2020

The Riviera Nayarit welcomed several developments last year, including the Krystal Grand Nuevo Vallarta, which boasts the city's largest convention center. Additional properties are slated to open the latter half of this year and into 2019, including:

Costa Canuva CIP – a luxury 5,500-acre development spotlighting the area's first Fairmont Hotels & Resorts property and a new golf course designed by Greg Norman and Lorena Ochoa
Cirque du Soleil Theme Park featuring evening shows to more than 5,000 spectators
Mandarina Polo and Equestrian Club – a top-notch facility with polo grounds, stables, and dressage/jumping arenas.
Secrets Punta de Mita Resort & Spa is set to open its doors in Riviera Nayarit by 2020

Vacation rentals in Riviera Nayarit

Riviera Nayarit has many inviting ways to unwind or get your adrenaline pumping. Whatever your travel style, the experts at Sea Side Reservations can help you plan the ultimate escape to coastal Mexico. We have beautiful, fully-furnished vacation rentals, villas and bungalows in the Riviera Nayarit, Puerto Vallarta and other popular beach destinations. If you're looking for a comfortable, spacious yet affordable rental for your Mexico vacation, we've got you covered.

Book your beachfront rental today by calling 1-888-262-4508!

Additional Resources on Riviera Nayarit Travel:

TravelAgentCentral, Riviera Nayarit's $200 Million Tourism Industry Continues to Grow https://www.travelagentcentral.com/destinations/riviera-nayarit-s-200-million-tourism-industry-continues-to-thrive
Fodor's Travel, First-Timer's Guide to Riviera Nayarit, Mexico https://www.fodors.com/news/guide-to-riviera-nayarit-mexico-7036
MexicoNewsDaily, More Tourism Growth in Riviera Nayarit https://mexiconewsdaily.com/news/more-tourism-growth-in-riviera-nayarit/
RivieraNarayit, Nayarit – A Stunning Treasure Awaits You http://www.rivieranayarit.com/about/

Off the Beaten Path in Cancun

Young Woman Scuba Dives on a Coral Reef Cancun and the Riviera Maya represent the top destination in Mexico, with 7.6 million visitors in 2017. To keep pace with growth, another 5,000 rooms are expected to open up from 2018-2019. As you can imagine, the hot spots can get pretty crowded, especially during peak travel periods. Still, there are plenty of ideal spots to get away from the crowds and unusual, off-the-beaten path attractions in Cancun you won't find anywhere else in the world. You may have heard of places like Isla Contoy, Isla Mujeres, Holbox Island, Xcaret, Rio Secreto, and Tuluum, but here are a few more experiences you won't want to miss!

1. La Casa del Arte Popular Mexicano

Museums are a quiet way to experience the authentic culture and indigenous peoples of Mexico. The House of Popular Mexican Art houses the private collection of Gabriela Padilla de la Parra. If it was made by hand in Mexico, you will see it in some form or another here. There are masks, musical instruments, costumes, carvings, paintings, kitchen utensils, sculptures, jewelry, pottery, dolls, and other handmade toys. The displays are colorful and beautiful enough to bring tears to your eyes. Headsets offer free self-guided tours, so you can get the most out of your visit. The store features reproductions of the traditional handicrafts you see in the museum, making it the ideal stop for souvenirs. Just outside the museum, at Avenida Kukulkan and the Embarcadero at KM 4, you'll find boats traveling to Isla Mujeres, dinner cruises, Captain Hook's pirate ships docked, and a Mexican theatre.

2. Croco Cun Zoo

Families with young children in tow won't want to miss the unusual Croco Cun Zoo – a family-run crocodile rescue facility 15 minutes south of Cancun. The interactive zoo lets you see and touch crocodiles, hairless dogs, baby deer, iguanas, monkeys, boa constrictors, parrots, and peacocks, while knowledgeable guides give you the inside scoop on how hurricanes and commercial development have threatened natural habitats. Animal lovers say the place is staffed by passionate caregivers who provide excellent care to the rescued animals. The property also houses a cafeteria, gift shop, and playground for the kids. On a sunny day, you can slip into the shade under the jungle canopy, but don't forget to bring your bug repellent!

3. MUSA

Choose your own adventure at Cancun's one-of-a-kind underwater sculpture museum: glass bottom boat tour, snorkel, or scuba dive to get the full experience. Museo Subacuatico de Arte houses over 500 life-sized, ghostly cement figures created by artist Jason de Caires Taylor who wanted to lure tourist traffic away from endangered local reefs. The haunting statues are between 13 and 30 feet below the surface of the water, and have become artificial reefs that attract fish and wildlife in their own right. You can reach the museum by taking the Hotel Zone ferry to Isla Mujeres.

4. Xoximilco

Everyone loves a fiesta. If the clubbing lifestyle is too fast-paced for you, slow it down on a picturesque trajinera gondola out of Xoximilco Cancun Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site 27 minutes south of Cancun. These colorful traditional boats were once used to transport vegetables, fruit, and flowers throughout the area, but they are lit up by night to feature drinks, local cuisine, and live mariachi bands. Each intimate gondola seats up to 20 guests. On land before you depart, you're treated to traditional carnival games like pin-the-tail-on-the-donkey, marbles, and darts, while sampling esquite, a local snack made from boiled corn with mayonnaise and cheese.

5. Valladolid

The charming colonial town of Valladolid is situated between Cancun and the state capital of Merida, just outside Mexico's most popular Maya archaeological site, Chichen Itza. Visitors love the quiet streets and pastel mansions. Be sure to visit the Cocoa Museum on Friars' Road, the Los Tres Toños tequila house, and less-visited nearby archaeological sites like Ek-Balam. After you've toured the colonial heart of town, you can dip into one of the local swimming holes (like the underground X'kekén cenote or the open Zaci cenote). Be sure to enjoy a tasty bite to eat before driving back to your accommodations.

For the best accommodations in Cancun, contact Sea Side Reservations. We'll help you find all the amenities you need, whether you're looking for a condo, private villa, or resort property. Since 1996, we've been committed to guest satisfaction with expert property management that ensures your every desire is met. Our concierge service includes local recommendations for dining, shopping, tours, and other attractions, so be sure to give us a call before you arrive to get the inside scoop!

More info on off-the-beaten-path treasures in Cancun:

Yucatan Living – Cancun Secrets and Suggestions, https://yucatanliving.com/destinations/cancun-secrets-and-suggestions
The Culture Trip – 7 Unusual Things You Can Only Do In Cancun, https://theculturetrip.com/north-america/mexico/articles/7-unusual-things-you-can-only-do-in-cancun/
Crococun Zoo – Homepage, http://crococunzoo.com/
MUSA Mexico – Homepage, http://musamexico.org/
Xoximilco – Tours, https://www.xoximilco.com/en/xoximilco-tour/

Tourists Drawn to Sea Turtle Season in Tulum

Sergeant Major fishes in caribbean reef Mexico Mayan Riviera Mexico's Tulum is well known for its majestic ruins situated on 40-foot-high cliffs overlooking the Caribbean Sea along the east coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. This pre-Columbian Mayan walled city dating back to the 13th century is also home to another popular albeit lesser-known tourist attraction: native sea turtles.

The 2018 turtle nesting season in Tulum has officially begun with the initial discovery of a handful of nests. However, according to local reports, officials are expressing concern about the endangered species' safety.

Existing Environmental Threats

Francisco Chan Chable, director of municipal ecology, says that Sargasso seaweed has been spotted along Tulum's beach areas, and a large number of plastic materials have arrived with the seagrass. He explains that the plastic effectively "traps" the turtles.

Chable says another threat to the turtles is the abundance of hotels and vacation rentals in the area. Sea turtles are nocturnal animals who roam the beaches at night and are attracted by hotel food waste. It is important for hotels and guests to keep organic waste covered to discourage the attraction to the animals and reduce risk.

Riviera Maya News reports that members of the sea turtle committee are reinforcing efforts in an attempt to combat sea turtle egg looting, something that has become a reoccurring problem.Lucelly Ramos Montejo, president of theState Committee of Sea Turtles, says that they will coordinate surveillance and protection in the nesting areas that registered looting last year.

Also, many people engage in snorkeling or diving in attempts to swim with these majestic, docile creatures of the sea. It is important to remember not to touch them and remain a considerable distance away so they can swim freely and without stressors. Finally, avoid using sunscreen when doing so as the chemicals stay in the water and contaminate their environment.

Sea Turtles in a (Nut) Shell

Sea turtles have been around longer than the ancient ruins around them – more than 150 million years! Six of the seven remaining species are found in the warm waters around Mexico. And while they swim great distances around the world, the female turtles who make it to breeding age always return to the beach that they were hatched on to lay their eggs; thus, the cycle of life continues.

Between May and October, many Green (Tortuga Blanca) and Loggerhead (Tortuga Caguama) turtles return to lay their eggs in the white sands of Tulum. On average, approximately 300 nests are made each season between the Tulum ruins and Turtle Bay.

Federal laws and international agreements currently protect all species of sea turtles. Despite these efforts, they are all now classified as vulnerable or endangered.

Members of several organizations patrol the beaches each night of the nesting season, marking nests and moving eggs to a secure location if the nest is exposed. Then, when the eggs hatch, they assist the babies in navigating safely to the ocean. All in all, viewing the process is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you will never forget.

Be the Hare, Not the Turtle

Due to the popularity of the spectacle of sea turtle nesting season, it is imperative to book as soon as possible to reserve your perfect vacation rental in Tulum and Turtle Bay. The Puerto Aventuras vacation rental specialists at Sea Side Reservations are ready to assist you! Contact us today and grab a front-row seat to this unforgettable ecotourism adventure.

Additional Information:

National Geographic, "Searching for Nesting Sea Turtles on Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula," https://blog.nationalgeographic.org/2013/09/16/searching-for-nesting-sea-turtles-on-mexicos-yucatan-pen
TravelAddicts.net, "Tips for Snorkeling with Sea Turtles – Updated 2018," https://www.traveladdicts.net/2016/07/akumal-snorkeling-sea-turtles.html

Generation Z: Top Travel Trends

Mountain biking rider with bike looking at inspiring sea and mountains landscape. Man cycling MTB on enduro rocky trail path at sea side. Summer sport, training fitness motivation and inspiration. Move over Millennials, there's a new group of influencers who are shaking up the travel industry: Generation Z. Most experts agree that Gen Zers were born in the mid-1990's, making the older echelons of this cohort around 23 years old. That's old enough to purchase their own flight tickets and travel abroad.

Even if their journeys are financed by mom and dad, this tech-savvy group has major buying power. According to the US Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Generation Z heavily influences their families' travel choices – which totals some $600 billion each year.

Characteristics of Generation Z

Since Gen Zers make up the largest age cohort in our nation's history, it's no surprise that marketers are spending big bucks to win their attention, and business. Research shows that this social media-habituated generation, which are largely offspring of Gen Xers – were raised to be self-sufficient independent thinkers.

Unlike Millennials, who can still remember when smart phones were a novelty, Gen Xers grew up with the iPhone. The Internet, social media and technology are an integral part of this generation, which has been bitten hard by the travel bug. Generation Z not only has discretionary money to spend on travel, they are hard-wired to do online research to find the highest-rated, most unique experiences.

According to a senior director at Expedia Media Solutions, Gen Zers are more likely than their older cohorts to travel internationally. They are also more likely to seek out "homestays," rural tourism offerings and more authentic travel experiences.

5 Ways Gen Zers are Influencing Travel

Take an active role in researching and planning family trips
Influence their peers' travel decisions via online reviews, social media platforms and word of mouth
Prefer unusual destinations
Are more open to "alternative" accommodations
Looking for travel experiences they can share on Instagram and other social outlets

Because Gen Zers are so attuned to sharing videos, pictures and commentary online, their travel destinations and chosen activities tend to be those that are highly Instagramable. Like ziplining over a rainforest canopy at 50 mph or sharing GoPro footage of themselves swimming with dolphins.

This year's top family destinations

Virtuoso, a luxury travel agency network, conducted a survey on recent travel trends, finding that Gen Zers are playing a big role in how families plan their yearly vacations. Their analysis shows that beach resort stays and eco-adventure destinations remain popular, especially in regards to multi-generational vacations. Warm-weather locales like Mexico, Hawaii and Costa Rica beckon families in search of authentic culture, adventure and a diverse range of outdoor activities.

Gen Zers are also influencing choice of vacation accommodations. Since they tend to crave environments that foster social connection, vacation homes have overtaken traditional hotel stays.

Vacation rentals in coastal Mexico

Reach out to Sea Side Mexico to learn more about our exceptional vacation homes, villas, condos and properties in the country's most stunning locales. From La Paz and Cancun to the Riviera Nayarit, you won't find a better selection or price points!

Additional Resources on Generation Z Travel Trends:

Travel Agent Central, Virtuoso: Gen Z to Drive Luxury Family Travel This Summer https://www.travelagentcentral.com/running-your-business/virtuoso-gen-z-to-drive-luxury-family-travel-summer
Travel Weekly, They're not millennials: Targeting Generation Z http://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Travel-Agent-Issues/Targeting-Generation-Z

Why Tulum is a Celebrity Hotspot

Increasing numbers of celebrities are flocking to the seaside hamlet of Tulum, Mexico. This trendy hotspot, known for its picturesque beaches, Mayan ruins and beautiful natural cenotes, ranks among Mexico's most visited locales.

Once a popular destination for bohemian backpackers, Tulum has evolved into one of the country's most glamorous towns, where Hollywood royalty come to frolic in the sun and surf.

Tulum: where celebrities relax & adventure

Word has spread of Tulum's Instagram-worthy white sands, chic shops and ultra-lux lodging, attracting TV personalities, movie moguls, Grammy-winning artists, as well as the NY fashion crowd. So which larger-than-life characters might you rub elbows with in this superstar paradise?

Actresses Heather Graham and Demi Moore (along with daughter Rumer) have been spotted snorkeling in Tulum's crystal-clear cenotes, while Drew Barrymore has posted several selfies of her forays at a local yoga retreat. The list doesn't end there! Tulum is a favorite travel destination for model Alessandra Ambrosio, Orlando Bloom, Cameron Diaz, Sting, Reese Witherspoon, Sean Penn, Paris Hilton, Kate Bosworth and Jessica Lange.

Noted shoe designer Brian Atwood has vacationed in Tulum as has Katie Couric and her children. This sun-drenched beach town, just one hour from Cancun, has also lured popstar Justin Bieber, who was actually booted off the Tulum ruins for his bad boy behavior.

Beach lounging, yoga & delicious eats

Tulum also touts itself as an eco-conscious destination, thanks to a commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism. This dedication to environmental preservation appeals to many visitors, including the likes of Leonardo DiCaprio, who makes regular trips to this Mexican Caribbean town.

When not snoozing on the beach, exploring ancient temples, or working on your tan, this is a great spot to practice your downward dog. Tulum is a mecca for yogis, with renowned gurus hosting yoga retreats and workshops throughout the year. Drew Barrymore raves about Amansala's Bikini Boot Camp, which offers a blend of yoga, indulgent spa services and rigorous cardio workouts.

Dining out in Tulum is a special treat, since the town has been upping its food game. Some of the area's most-treasured restaurants (where you may bump into a celebrity or two) include:

The Dining Experience Tulum
WILD
Cenzontle
Habitas
Mi Amor

Culinary offerings range from innovative Yucatan fare to grilled lobster tacos and Middle Eastern cuisine.

Where to stay in Tulum

When it comes to comfortable accommodations in this celebrity haven, you can't go wrong with a spacious Tulum villa rental from SeaSide Reservations. Fully-furnished and equipped with all the comforts of home, our luxurious properties – many of which boast spectacular ocean views–can let you vacation like a rockstar, while giving you more bang for your buck.

Best Times of the Year to Visit Cabo

The famous natural arch at Lands End in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. The best times of the year to visit Cabo all depend on what you want out of a vacation. "Los Cabos" is located at the tip of the Baja California Peninsula, stretching from San Jose del Cabo to Cabo San Lucas, with 20 miles of world class resorts and championship golf courses in between. It's beautiful here year-round with many ways to save a buck and much to do, so there is really no "bad" time to find your own slice of Mexican paradise.

Sea Side Reservations has served travelers with safe, convenient accommodations in Cabo since 2001, with five-star ratings. Here's our inside scoop on when to book your Cabo vacation.

When To Visit Cabo For The Best Weather

Cabo, Mexico's weather fluctuates from daytime lows of 69 in January, to average highs of 85 in July. Even at night, it's unlikely you'll see temperatures dipping below 55 degrees. The best times to visit Cabo for warm sun and comfortable temperatures include: June through mid-July, and mid-October through mid-December.

Winter: While much of North America is covered in frosty chill, travelers flock to the beaches of Los Cabos, where it's 80 degrees and sunny. The temperature fluctuates by less than five degrees, so you're pretty much guaranteed an ideal holiday. Water temperatures range from 65-70 in the Pacific Ocean to 75 degrees in the Sea of Cortez.
Spring: March temperatures range from 55 in the evening to 85 during the day, with cooling breezes. Water temperatures can dip as low as 62 degrees, so you may want to bring your wetsuit for snorkeling and diving. During the "dry" period in Cabo, expect about 11 hours of sunshine a day and just 0.2 inches of monthly rainfall.
Summer: There is a slight chance of hurricanes and rainfall, particularly in August and September. Humidity is lower in Cabo, compared to other parts of Mexico's west coast. Temperatures can soar into the 90s, but you'll be treated to pleasant Sea of Cortez and Pacific Ocean breezes.
Fall: The October water temperature feels like warm bath water, compared to April's. The air is more humid, as hurricane season concludes, but it's not overly sticky. You can expect hot days, ranging from 70 to 90, and warm evenings without the breeze that sweeps through in spring and summer.

When To Visit Cabo For The Best Events

By far, the busiest times of year to visit Cabo are during Spring Break and the week of Easter. Cabo festivals are an opportune way to mingle with the crowds, indulge in the best area cuisine, shop handicrafts, and lose yourself in a foreign culture. While Cabo's calendar is jam-packed with events all year round, the most popular include:

Spring Break (mid-March to early April)
Semana Santa / Easter Week (April)
Whale Watching Season (December to April)
Cinco de Mayo (May)
Mexican Independence Day (September)
Baja Sur Tequila and Mariachi Festival (October)
Bisbee's Black and Blue Marlin Tournament (October)
Dia de los Muertos (November)
Los Cabo Summer Dive Fiesta (August)

When To Visit Cabo For The Best Deals

May and June are considered "the sweet spot" in Los Cabos tourism, where the weather is pleasant, crowds are low, and prices are surprisingly reasonable. To score the best deals, begin your flight and accommodations search in late winter. As temperatures soar and rainfall increases to 2.5 inches per month, you'll also find big savings on accommodations and flights in August and September. Even the swankiest places to stay offer discounts this time of year, when crowds are low, but swimming temperatures are ideal.

Contact Sea Side Reservations for more tips on booking a stay at one of Cabo's best rental properties. Our Cabo vacation rental specialists are happy to assist you in deciding upon the best time to travel to Los Cabos, where to stay, and what to do while you're here. You won't find that level of customer service at every travel booking site!

Additional Resources:

USA Today – Cheapest Time To Visit Los Cabos, http://traveltips.usatoday.com/cheapest-time-los-cabos-110270.html
US News & World Report – When To Visit Cabo, https://travel.usnews.com/Cabo_San_Lucas_Mexico/When_To_Visit/
Cabo San Lucas Tours – Cabo Weather, http://www.cabosanlucastours.net/Cabo-Weather.htm

Mexico Launches Biometric Kiosks at 3 Airports

Vacation on tropical lake Nichupte lagoon, Cancun Mexico is a land noted for its rich traditions and cultural history, but next time you fly into Cancun or Los Cabos, you'll be greeted by the latest in computer technology. The country's Ministry of Communications and Transportation recently announced that three international airports – Mexico City, Los Cabos and Cancun – have been outfitted with digital biometric kiosks to help expedite the entrance of both nationals and international tourists into the country.

Self-serve kiosks are faster

According to Gerardo Ruiz Esparza, head of the Ministry, these state-of-the-art kiosks are significantly faster and more comfortable than previous devices. Moreover, they will enable quick automated entry of domestic and foreign passengers who do not need a visa to enter Mexico. Rather than waiting in long immigration lines, nationals and visitors can breeze through the automated system in just under three minutes.

The self-serve automated entry kiosks will not only improve visitor experience but help authorities process record numbers of passengers in less time. The 100 kiosks currently deployed will likely process more than 8 million arrivals in the coming year alone. The international terminals in Mexico City, Cancun and Cabo handle nearly 170,000 travelers a day – representing nearly 75 percent of the country's total tourism that arrives by air. One immigration counter oversees up to 5 biometric kiosks, which will reduce the time spent waiting in line by a whopping 40 percent.

How biometric kiosks work

The new kiosks have a touchscreen multi-lingual interface and have the ability to identify passengers through both biometrics and documents. Passengers enter their travel information in the system and have their fingerprints scanned. The kiosk captures and uses this biometric data (fingerprints, photo and passport scan) to accurately and securely identify individuals as they enter the country.

With hope, this innovative system will help promote a more convenient and comfortable arrival experience in Mexico, which remains one of the most visited vacation destinations around the world.

Take advantage of direct flights to Cancun

This is great news for anyone who is planning a Mexico getaway to the sun-drenched beaches of the Yucatan Peninsula. If you are looking for warm turquoise waters, some of the world's prettiest coastline and an endless array of recreational activities, then Cancun is the destination of choice. Located on the Mexican Caribbean, Cancun is a terrific base for explorations throughout the Mayan Riviera, where ancient ruins, pristine islands and friendly locals await.

Getting there has never been easier. A number of airlines offer non-stop flights to Cancun International, and with the new self-serve kiosks, you'll have your toes in the soft white sands in no time.

Check out these non-stop routes:

Denver to Cancun (4 hours) — Frontier and United
Chicago to Cancun (3 hours 45 minutes) – American and United
NYC to Cancun (4 hours) – AeroMexico, JetBlue and American
Atlanta to Cancun (2 hours 45 minutes) – Southwest, Delta and AreoMexico
San Francisco to Cancun (5 hours 20 minutes) – Virgin America and United
Charlotte to Cancun (3 hours) – US Airways

Additional Resources on Mexico's automated airport kiosks:

Travel Agent Central, Three Mexico Airports Debut New Digital Biometric Kiosks https://www.travelagentcentral.com/transportation/three-mexico-airports-debut-new-digital-biometric-kiosks
Hopper, American Cities with Direct Flights to Cancun http://www.hopper.com/articles/814/american-cities-with-direct-flights-to-cancun

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Source: https://www.seasidemexico.com/bloger/