You either - Love it or hate it. Just like marmite!
Cancun is well known for the place to be for spring break students for partying, clubbing..just letting oneself go.
But there is so much more to Cancun than meets the eye.
Obviously, when tourists think about taking a holiday, the first thing many do, is search high and low for the best hotel/resort. And yes, Cancun does offer a wide range of brilliant hotels and services in The Hotel Zone, which I'm sure is agreeable for many. However, The Hotel Zone, is like being in the Western World. In fact, it is just like the States.
But if you are looking for real adventure, tradition, culture, locals and much much more, then please read on.
I am a person who enjoys travelling and exploring new cultures and traditions. I like to meet new people and communicate with them with whatever little knowledge I may have of the language.
It had always been a dream of mine to travel the sites of Mexico, and finally on April 13th of this year, that dream came true.
Arriving in Mexico was just as I had imagined. The hot weather radiated around me as I came out of the areoplane and into the sunny plains of Cancun. The staff were so friendly and welcoming.
I had made plans to stay with some friends Downtown...the heart of the 'Real' Mexican way of life. Many tourists avoid travelling there due to things heard and sometimes fear of man. However, this is where I wanted to be.
My stay in Mexico was just for 2 weeks, however, it was a life changing experience. I admire the way in which the people are so relaxed. Unlike some people in the Western parts of the globe, Mexican's have so much appreciation for the little things. They do not take life for granted. Everyday, they work to survive. Mexicans are truly one of the friendliest nations I have ever met!
During my stay, I was able to get to know many in the local community who showed me the sites...sites which are truly breathtaking.
It was not too long before, since Hurricane Wilma had swept through the streets of Mexico, destroying homes, buildings and local sorroundings. Downtown, I could still see the devastation caused, yet the people were determined, and still are, to continue with life. Despite the hurricance, the warmth and beauty still exists.
I have to admit there is taxi madness over there. Taxi drivers can sometimes be very agressive and fast in their driving, so watch out when you're out and about!
Cancun offers great diving sites. In fact, Mexico is host, to the second largest coral reef after the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. Whilst there, I did a Scuba Diving Course - Padi Open Water. It's one of the first steps to becoming a professional diver. It was over a period of about 4 days. I have never seen or experienced anything more beautiful than the depths of Cancun. There is such a variety of different fish and sea creatures - sting rays, sharks, turtles, stone fish etc. I had one of the most tolerable and patient instructors which was a bonus.
£1 (GBP) = $19 Mexican Pesos (approx.)
There are excellent superstores to buy everyday groceries, which is well worth the money as the quality is top notch. There are also many local markets, where you can buy great souveniers from, some of which have been handcrafted/made by locals. - Authentic.
The weather is beautiful, although I am one who prefers the hot climates. But the one thing I did enjoy about the heat over there, is that it didn't make me feel sweaty or gross...it was dry heat.
So to sum it up, whether you are going on spring break, want to enjoy the night life, relaxation, or like me, are looking for adventure, then look no further than Cancun.
I like to dive, and love the culture, Mexico is definately on my list. Glad you passed your Padi OW.....you should check out Belize too, it has the same stretch of reef and is equally good.
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Advantages: unique, in your face, great entertainment, superb value for money. Disadvantages: bit cheesy - but meant to be
TheWizardsSleeve 05.11.2007 (31.10.2007)
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Ciao members have rated this review on average: very helpful
Review of Coco Bongo, Cancun, Mexico
Advantages: Trapeze acts, stage artists, great fun party music, atmosphere, strong drinks Disadvantages: Very busy, likely to get drinks spilled on you
![Video Visits: Mexico - Merida, Cancun, Belize [DVD] [1999] [US Import] [NTSC]](http://images.ciao.com/ide/images/icons/no_pic_generic_S1.gif "Video Visits: Mexico - Merida, Cancun, Belize [DVD] [1999] [US Import] [NTSC]"){kind=icon}
Oct 17th, 2006
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