Want a winter escape? Try Playa Del Carmen, only an hour from Cancun International Airport in the Yucatan Peninsula, it offers winter weary travelers an opportunity to revel in warmth and relaxation.
With our accommodations at the Paradisus, an all inclusive resort with an ethereal feel, heaven was at our feet. There were so many activities including yoga, dancing, entertainment, stand up paddle boarding, kayaking and dance lessons. Parents would love the family concierge and daycare activities that allow you to spend some alone time while your children are occupied. The service was spectacular, the restaurants amazing, the outdoor Jacuzzi on my balcony leisure I never wanted to leave. The spa was the icing on the cake.
For an excursion, we took a day trip an hour south to Tulum, Mexico. These Mayan ruins are the only site that overlooks the water and was a very important travel port that allowed goods to be traded. The site is gorgeous, complete with temples of the fertility gods and inundated with iguanas sunning themselves. There is an incredibly steep staircase to the pristine beach, so bring your suit.
On the way back, enjoy traditional tacos and a freshly cut coconut water. They stick the straw right in and they can either make it a Coco Loco or sans alcohol. We did the non alcoholic version and it was incredibly delicious. Then they cut it up for you and put it in the bag. There are plenty of shops in the area and you can haggle for your favorites.
Back at Playa del Carmen make sure that you visit Fifth Avenue and do a little shopping at the Mercado. As always, the leather goods are affordable and hand made. I was able to find some sandals that were hand crafted for $10 and bought my daughter a Mexican sundress and my son a Mexican wrestling Mask.
Visit http://paradisuslaesmeraldaresort.com/ for more information. They are always running GroupOns, so make sure to check into discounted prices. Here's to an amazing time in warm weather. I think I could handle it right about now!!!!
