Cancun and the Riviera Maya
  By Richard Earls
For many vacationers from North America, a trip to Cancún is a first trip internationally. Small wonder. Cancún is a very convenient and accessible international vacation destination from either the United States or Canada. It is close to the rest of North America, really only a short trip, and conveniently located in the Central time zone - that means no jet lag. Cancun enjoys excellent air lift from most major US and Canadian cities, and airfares are among the most reasonable when compared to other Caribbean and south-of-the-border destinations.

The inhabitants are very service oriented and friendly. English is spoken everywhere, but it has the exotic culture of the Mayan civilization close to the surface. Visitors will find some of the finest resorts in the world but at prices that are significantly less than one might expect based on global standards. Indeed, value here is the destination's strong suit - more for less - in all categories - budget to ultra luxury. All-inclusive, adults only, honeymooners, family-friendly, gay-friendly, chic and modern, old-world and traditional - Cancún and the Riviera Maya offer it all.

Cancún is a vibrant vacation destination with so much to do including high-energy nightlife, excellent dining options, a shopping mecca with upscale shops, boutiques and art galleries. Excellent recreational options include golf, water sports of all kinds, "party cruises" and archaeological tour options. Spectacular all-inclusive resorts in every price range offer unparalleled onsite amenities for all market segments - adults, families with children and groups looking for the perfect destination for combining business with pleasure. Resorts include outstanding accommodations and world-class facilities including top-rated golf courses, full-service spas, expansive supervised children's programs, top-notch meeting facilities and fine gourmet restaurants.

The Riviera Maya is a more laid-back beach destination experience with excursions to important archaeological sites close by. The region is famous for white-sand beaches and crystal clear water. However, the area also offers ancient Mayan ruins and pristine ecological wonders to explore, as well as impressive nature parks.

Visitors are pleased to find that the weather in this part of Mexico is predictable and pleasant year-round. There are diverse travel activities - world-class deep sea fishing, diving, golf, water sports, and archaeological excursions. Anyone that loves the out-of-doors will love Cancún. Water sports, the beaches, the ruins, and the year-round warm tropical weather are ideal for all types of activities.

Child- and family-friendly resorts and activities are plentiful many with special family accommodations, supervised kids clubs and family-friendly entertainment options Many hotels feature facilities for physically challenged guests

Destination weddings are extremely popular in Cancun. Both symbolic and civil ceremonies are offered at most hotels. Civil ceremonies are accepted as legal in US. The larger hotels offer outstanding facilities for groups and meetings with Group Coordinators available onsite to assist with planning and execution. Popular destination wedding location with many resorts offering complimentary wedding and honeymoon packages for qualifying couples. Many resorts offer onsite wedding coordinators to assist couples with planning and paperwork.

Your travel agent will know how to find the best possible accomodations and airline lift into Cancún and the Riviera Maya. Any time of the year, even for no more than a long weekend, Cancún and the Riviera Maya offer a truly perfect value get-away.