Travel: Mexican Riviera provides the Ultimate Sun-Filled Holiday

Feasting on salmon enchiladas and lavender-scented Margaritas while listening to parrots sing and watching the sun set over a palm-fringed sandy beach – Mexico provides something to entertain all the senses. It’s one country that’s on almost everybody’s travel wish list. Why not make next year the year that Mexico becomes a dream come true for you?

It’s a large country, so where you visit will depend on what sort of activities you prefer to engage in. Mexico has 10,000km of coastline and a city of 20 million people at its centre, so you can choose to isolate yourself in a beautiful coastal village off the beaten track or brave the crowds, noise and bustle of Mexico City.

Most people want to take advantage of that magnificent coastline, which stretches from the Caribbean along one side to the Gulf of Mexico on the other, with the famous Yucatán Peninsula offering visitors a mix of ancient cultures, mystical ruins, white sand beaches and turquoise beaches in between.

The lively resort of Cancun lures tourists back again and again with its variety of bars and restaurants, but if you prefer something a little less hectic, travel further down the coast along the Riviera Maya to find relaxed resorts in Playacar. There, you can soak up the sun on one of its beautiful beaches or, if you’re feeling more energetic, indulge in water sports such as swimming, snorkelling or deep-sea fishing. A short ferry ride away the resort town of Cozumel is the gateway to one of the world’s largest and most beautiful coral reefs. For culture and history buffs, there’s the ancient Mayan city of Tulum where guides will help you explore the ancient customs and rituals of these mystical people. The varied aspects of this fascinating country mean that Mexico holidays in 2013 are likely to be more in demand than ever.

One of the Yucatan’s most popular party resorts towns is Playa del Carmen, a town close enough to Cancun to be within easy commute of the airport but far enough away to keep back the packs of package tourists. Luxury holiday operator Hayes and Jarvis is currently offering travellers the opportunity to stay at a luxurious beachfront hideaway, the Royal Playa del Carmen Fifth Avenue. This 24 hour all-inclusive hotel boasts spacious suites with a Jacuzzi for two, gourmet dining and premium drinks. There are plenty of activities such as dance classes, tequila tasting, yoga and pilates, as well as a Mayan inspired spa offering rejuvenating treatments.

Also close to Cancun is the spectacular Moon Palace Resort, one of the most popular hotels on the Riviera Maya. Nestled between 123 acres of tropical foliage and a secluded white sand beach, the resort is divided into three sections, Sunrise, Nizuc and Grand; each one with its own spectacular characteristics. You’re sure to enjoy the golf, spa, amazing kid’s activities and 15 restaurants offering cuisine from around the world, something different for every day of your stay.