DK Travel : Cancún and the Yucatán

Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula has a special atmosphere and an immense variety of attractions, including some of the world’s best beaches and diving areas. The modern, glittering resorts of the east coast’s “Mayan Riviera” lie alongside charming old Spanish Colonial towns, sleepy Mayan villages, and the awesome remains of ancient civilizations.

Margarita’s Villa, Chicxulub

This enjoyable place has 12 rooms, from bargain doubles with balconies to lovely, self-contained beach villas. There’s a pool and a fun restaurant.
Mariachis, Cancún

High-quality mariachi bands perform traditional Mexican songs in many of the region’s restaurants. This style of music dates back to the nineteenth century when Maximilian was emperor of Mexico.
Market Bars, Izamal

Several cafés and loncherías here share an outside terrace, a fine vantage point on the monastery and town life. Some serve beer, some only soft drinks to go with their snacks.
Market, Izamal

Izamal’s market, just below the monastery, is a lively mix of souvenirs, handicrafts, and busy little cafés.
Market, Tizimín

Not a place to find souvenirs but a real, bustling country town market, with spectacular fruit and produce and household goods.
Maroma, Punta Maroma

The Riviera’s most opulent retreat is frequented by celebrities attracted to its 80 hectares (200 acres) of lush jungle and vast stretch of private beach. Rooms are truly vast, and there’s a superb pool and a refined restaurant. Honeymooners and beauty-therapy addicts are well catered for.
Maya Chuy, Mérida

This charming shop away from Mérida’s crowded shopping streets is the outlet of a women’s embroidery cooperative. Blouses, mats, and other items are beautifully, individually made.
Mayapán

The last big Mayan city, and one that dominated the Yucatán for 200 years after 1200. Its buildings often “mimic” Chichén Itzá and have well-preserved frescoes.
Mayapán

The last major Mayan city, which dominated the Yucatán from 1200–1450, has striking painted frescoes.
Media Luna Bay, Akumal

As the name suggests, “Half Moon Bay” is an exquisite, near-perfect crescent of brilliant white sand and calm sea. The atmosphere is just as tranquil: around it there are condos and villas, and at the north end is the lovely YalKu lagoon (see Laguna Yal-Ku, Akumal).

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Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- under $5
- $5-$10
- $10-$20
- $20–$35
- over 35
Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
- under US$20
- US$20-$45
- US$45-$80
- US$80-$130
- over US$130