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.

Plaza Kukulcán, Cancún

Another giant mall with every kind of shopping, including an especially big choice of cigar, jewelry, souvenir and adults’ and kids’ fashion stores.
Poc-Chuc

Marinating is one of the most characteristic skills of Yucatecan cooking, and this delicious dish features pork marinated in the juice of naranja agria (small, bitter oranges, special to the region), cooked with onions, herbs, and garlic and served with black beans. With a wonderful mix of sweet and savory flavors, it’s very popular, but debate rages as to whether it is really traditional or a creation of Los Almendros restaurant in Ticul.
Pollo con Mole

Not a native of the Yucatán but a central Mexican classic that’s found in every part of the country. Fried chicken covered in mole , a thick, spicy, savory – and not at all sweet – chocolate sauce. Richly satisfying, this is one of the oldest uses of chocolate, its flavor combining perfectly with strongly-spiced meats.
Pollo Oriental de Valladolid

The special pride of Valladolid: chicken quartered on the bone and casseroled with garlic, onion, cloves, and a mix of both hot and mild chilis; it’s then quickly roasted in a baste of maize oil and bitter orange juice. Another dish with a rich, densely layered combination of different flavors. Pavo oriental is the turkey version.
Posada Amor, Puerto Morelos

Puerto Morelos’ best low-priced rooms, with a friendly feel and popular restaurant. Rooms come in many shapes and sizes, and include four in the style of explorer huts.
Posada del Capitán Lafitte, Punta Bete

A mid-sized, relaxing resort with a superb beach, fine pool, and pretty rooms. It started up in the 1970s and still has the charming, low-key approach that has won it many loyal customers. Book well ahead.
Posada Sirena, Punta Allen

Punta Allen is about the most beachcomberish destination imaginable, and this guest house hits the appropriate note, with a stay-as-long-as-you-want feel from owner Serena, a real character. Her two cabins have kitchens and the essential hammocks. She can arrange fishing and diving.
Presidente Intercontinental, Cozumel

Big for Cozumel but smallish by Cancún standards (253 rooms), the Intercontinental is one of the island’s longest-established hotels. It enjoys a superb location with its own beach and marina. Diving, snorkeling, and fishing trips can be arranged.
Prima Trattoria, Cozumel

Long-running, American-owned restaurant with classic Italian food and tables around a pretty garden that’s a favorite with many regulars.
Pro Dive, Cozumel

First port of call for self-sufficient divers and sea-explorers on Cozumel, with every possible kind of diving and snorkeling equipment.

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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