Mexico - Gulf Coast
At the Resort
Who says you have to leave the resort? Many resorts on Mexico’s Gulf coast include all the ingredients you need for fun: water slides, tennis and basketball courts, restaurants – even access to sailboats and snorkeling equipment. If you like a slower pace, there’s nothing wrong with enjoying the sun on the white, sandy beaches while dipping your toes into the warm, clear sea waters or examining the backs of your eyelids as you sit poolside with a frozen drink.
Venturing Out
Over in Veracruz, you can live like a local at the Zócalo – the main square of the Port of Veracruz. At this social hub, you’ll find something going on all day, from breakfast in the morning to music and dancing at night. Also in Veracruz is the landmark San Juan de Ulúa, a fortress that served many uses over the centuries, from protecting the city against pirates, to storing products before they were shipped to Spain, to operating as a military base and prison.
If you’re on or near the Yucatán Peninsula, a visit to Chichén Itzá, the ancient Mayan ruins, should be on your list. Your Instagram-worthy shot will be of “El Castillo,” the hard-to-miss step pyramid. Also on the Yucatán Peninsula is Celestún, a fishing village that is home to the Celestún Biosphere Reserve where you can take a boat to see a large colony of pink flamingos.