Mexico

Pyramids, parties and palm-fringed beaches

Here, marvelling at the mysterious Mayan pyramids, topping up your tan on palm-fringed beaches and dancing till dawn are all part of the fun. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or an adventure-packed holiday for all the family, Mexico is the place to go – so pack your poncho and wave adios to the hustle and bustle of home.

Scenic surroundings

Beaches are not the most famous aspect of Mexico holidays but it's a commodity that is offered spectacularly in this country. From Cancun and the Riviera Maya in the east to Puerto Vallarta in the west, whether big or small, busy or baron, the beaches always host white sands supported by clear blue ocean.

The coast isn't the only source of natural beauty in this North American country. The jungles, rainforests, mountains, caves, ruins and trails mean that family holidays in Mexico can provide terrific bonding experiences whilst adventuring through this wilderness.

Whether travelling via dune buggy, kayak or zip line, it's hard to find another country anywhere in the world that can offer such diverse entertainment simply by utilising the natural surroundings of the earth.

Swim with sea turtles and stingrays

The paradise island of Cozumel is just a short boat trip from the popular east coast beach resorts. With the second largest coral reef in the world, it really is no wonder that the island is consistently ranked amongst the top five diving destinations around.

Shallow reefs and calm waters are perfect for beginners, or those just wanting to get their snorkels wet. Experienced divers can swim with giant sea turtles and smiley stingrays as they explore sunken shipwrecks and underwater caves galore.

To reach the popular island, several boats leave daily from Cancun and other resorts along the Riviera Maya. The journey takes about an hour but the wait will be well worth it once you're diving into the astonishing ocean bed.

World heritage sites

Did you know that Mexico has more World Heritage sites than both Egypt and Greece? The Mayan civilisation was one of the original cultures of the New World and relics of their 3000 year existence still remain in the ancient cities of Tulum, Coba and Chichen Itza.

Holidays to Mexico will let you unleash your inner Indiana Jones as you trek through jungles and explore the ruins of Chichen Itza, and the Kukulkan Pyramid - one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. Then go sightseeing the unconventional way – soar over the jungle on one of South America's longest zip-lines.

The town of Tulum can be found at the bottom of the Riviera Maya district and combines Mayan ruins and temples with an accessible beach. Imagine the feeling of going for a swim in the ocean and looking up to gaze upon a structure which has stood for thousands of years; such experiences are truly once in a lifetime.

Musical fiestas

Mexico has a reputation for being great entertainers and the selection on offer across the several resorts will not fail to deliver. In bars, restaurants and even on the streets you'll be treated to showings of jaunty mariachi bands, soothing Spanish guitar players and even graceful salsa dancers. Of course tourists are always encouraged to join in with the ongoing fiestas.

Some of the night time fun takes a more modern approach with bars and nightclubs open for the young and young at heart to party long into the early hours. Playa del Carmen and Puerto Vallarta have a host of nightspots for visitors and locals alike but nothing can compare to the excitement of Cancun.

Holidays in Mexico are particularly popular in the month of March each year when American Springbreakers flock to the party destinations. The most popular of these being Cancun which hosts DJ'd beach and boat parties as well as some world famous nightspots such as Senor Frogs, Coco Bongo and even more clubs found in the Hotel Zone.

Tasty experiences

The country's food is replicated all over the world and there is no better way to enjoy Mexican food than heading straight to the source. You can find local street vendors flipping fresh tortillas and serving up tasty tacos or you can stop inside restaurants or fast food chains to sample a quesadilla or a chalupa.

Each resort is well-equipped when it comes to cuisine with hundreds of dining options often available within the confines of your chosen destination.

Holiday memorabilia

Playa del Carmen's town centre is full of Mexican character, where street performers entertain passers-by and locals sell their handcrafted wares. Spend some time browsing souvenir stalls selling sarongs, sombreros and Cuban cigars before visit the boutiques and bars of 5th Avenue, where you can enjoy window shopping for a new Rolex or three.

Cancun, Playacar and Puerto Vallarta all offer great options for designer clothes and brand named items too but a traditional Mexican flea market is where the real treasure is kept. Look out for these popular stalls selling all sorts of unique ornaments, jewellery and clothing.

Getting there

Travelling to your chosen resort is never too strenuous thanks to conveniently located international airports.

If you're flying into the slightly further western resort of Puerto Vallarta then you'll be thankful for the very short transfer time of just ten minutes from the airport.

Transfer times from Cancun Airport on the east coast will take longer due to the increased number of resorts. Travelling to the city of Cancun will take approximately 25 minutes with travel to Playa del Carmen and Playacar taking just over an hour for each.