Paradise in Mexico – Why Cancún & Tulum Should Be Your Next Destinations
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A vacation is a perfect time to relax, enjoy, and discover beautiful new places that will be part of your memories for the rest of your life. Mexico has a lot to offer, and two places to consider for your 2023 vacation are Cancún and Tulum on the Riviera Maya.
There is something for everyone here, from white beaches and crystal clear waters to incredible cultural experiences. If you are looking for a paradise in Mexico, these places promise an unforgettable experience.
Why Cancún is a Paradise in Mexico
Cancún is the largest city of Quintana Roo, and it’s known as one of the most important tourist destinations in Mexico. The entire area of Cancún on the Riviera Maya has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, and this beautiful destination offers everything you need to have an amazing vacation. There are different options for hotels and resorts, many attractions, and of course beautiful beaches. Some beaches are great for surfing while others are perfect for relaxing under the sun.
You will find an endless number of tours and activities that you can enjoy during your stay in Cancún. Snorkeling, diving in the nearby reefs, sailing on a catamaran, or enjoying the many theme parks are one of the ways to explore this incredible destination. If visiting historical sites is on your list, then you can choose from among the different Mayan ruins that are nearby Cancún. And don’t forget to visit Isla Mujeres.
Cancún Beaches

The water is clear, the sand is white, the beaches are large, what else is there to want? These are some of the most beautiful beaches on the continent and just lounging here and sunbathing is already an incredible experience.
Cancún Hotels
If you’re looking to be pampered and don’t want to move a finger to make yourself a meal, you are in the right place. Cancún has many all-inclusive resorts where you can eat, drink, and be part of multiple fun activities both at the hotel and the beach. There are all-inclusive stays for all tastes, including family-friendly and adults-only spaces.
If you don’t really like the all-inclusive vibe, there’s nothing to worry about! You can find great options right in the city, which is close enough to the beach that you won’t be missing out on anything. Plus, there are great offers for every budget, ensuring you will have an awesome time!
Snorkeling in Cancún
There are many water sports and activities you can do in Cancún. One of these is snorkeling, which will allow you to see beautiful fish and corals. Did you know that there is an underwater museum in Cancún? How amazing is that?! You can choose to either snorkel or dive there, for an unforgettable visit that will allow you to see around 470 statues.

Why Tulum is a Paradise in Mexico
Tulum is a city located in the Riviera Maya facing the Caribbean Sea, and it’s known for its incredible beaches and gorgeous nature. The Mayan temples nearby are also a big part of Tulum’s appeal. As far as accommodations, there are many hotels you can choose from that will meet all your needs. You can find luxurious places with an amazing pool area, or simple accommodations that are much more affordable.
Tulum has a large number of stunning beaches that will make you feel like you’re in paradise. The water is clear and the sand is white, just as with Cancún, but there are other things to love about Tulum.
For example, this paradise in Mexico is surrounded by beautiful jungle. That means you can go snorkeling and see how the reef comes up right next to the beach. You can also visit some cenotes (natural pools), which are definitely great experiences!
Tulum Beaches
A huge effort has been made to preserve the beaches of Tulum as much as possible. This is why they are considered some of the most pristine beaches in the entire country. The water has a special azure color with startling white sand that will make you wish you can stay forever. Although Tulum has become incredibly popular in recent years, you can still find quiet spots to relax and enjoy the beautiful view.

Solo travelers love the Paradise Beach Club Tulum. Not only does it have the most beautiful beach in Tulum and on the whole Riviera Maya, but it also allows you to enjoy spacious areas with lounge chairs, cabanas, and the Blue Space sauna room. If you are looking to be more social, Tulum is one of the best destinations in Mexico for this because there are many other young travelers who have the same interest in meeting new people.
Tulum Ruins and Sian Ka’an Reserve
Besides the beaches, Tulum also has a great historical background that you should know about. There are impressive Mayan ruins and a nature reserve where you can appreciate one of the last virgin ecosystems in Mexico. Did we mention this place is part of UNESCO World Heritage? Well, it is! You can visit and see the wonders of the Mayan culture.

Tulum Hotels
If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, there are incredible ocean hotels in Tulum that will make you feel like royalty. From small boutique places to huge five star resorts, you will find it all. Plus, most of the hotels here are eco-friendly, so by staying here you will be part of the effort to preserve nature.
Cenotes near Tulum

These are probably some of the most well-known attractions in Tulum. There are numerous cenotes near the town and some even more spectacular a bit further away. You should make sure you visit one or more of them for a full Tulum experience. An extra piece of advice is to arrive there as early as you can to avoid crowds and have the cenote all to yourself.
Chichen Itzá

Tulum is closer to Chichen Itzá than Cancún although you can head there from any of these places without too much trouble. The Mayan site has spectacular remnants of Mayan history, including the famous Temple of Kukulcan, which is often referred to as a pyramid. You can go on a hired tour or find a tour guide there to learn more about the incredible history of this area.
Food in Cancun and Tulum
Whether you choose Cancun or Tulum, something you can’t miss is the great food. Forget what you know about Mexican food, here you will get everything fresh, with real Mexican flavors and amazing ingredients. While there are many international restaurants in the area, make sure you eat like a local as much as possible, it is a gastronomic experience.

Whether you like seafood, fresh fish tacos, and ceviche, or prefer vegan options, Tulum never disappoints. And like every place in Mexico, you can expect to find the most amazing food at incredible prices.
Bottom Line
Cancún and Tulum are a pair of highly developed resort towns s but they also contain a lot of natural beauty and are great destinations for solo travelers. If you want to explore a little bit of Mexico outside the 5-star resorts, Cancún and Tulum are the right choices.
If you’re planning on going on vacation in 2023, consider making Cancún, Tulum, or both your chosen destination. Once you’re ready, you can use the Vacation Countdown app to count down the days and organize everything you need before you go on this amazing trip!