People who aren’t familiar with the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico usually associate it with Cancun and spring break parties. But they mistakenly overlook the ancient ruins, gorgeous beaches, some of the best Mexican food in the whole state, and deep water swimming holes. There’s really good surfing, too. So, If you’re budgeting for an upcoming family vacation to Yucatán Peninsula, keep this in mind:
Stay in a Hostel
If all that’s standing between you and a Mexico getaway is expensive lodging, pack your bags because here’s the solution. Stay at a hostel. They’re designed for travelers who can do without the fluff of an all-inclusive, luxurious resort – but still seek comfort and security. Hostels are known for providing cheap beds – including private rooms and shared dorms that are perfect – wireless Internet, knowledgeable locals and discounted tickets. Plus, it’s a great place to meet like-minded travelers. In Mexico, we suggest staying at the Secret Garden Hostel in Tulum or the Villa Arqueologica near Chichén Itzá. Check Hostelworld.com or Hostelbookers.com for details and pricing. Oh, and dorms are even cheaper!
Keep in Touch
Technology makes it possible for travelers to keep in touch with family and friends back home, and even work remotely. But you don’t need a fancy tablet or device to keep you connected to the web in Mexico. In Cancun, besides McDonalds and Starbucks, which both usually offer free Wi-Fi, Internet cafes litter the streets making it possible for travelers to pay for cheap online access. If you have wireless home security technology, you can even log on to check your home’s security cameras while you’re away.
Note: Even if you aren’t staying at a particular hostel, you can usually use its Internet for a small fee or even free.
Explore Ancient Ruins
Now on to the main event: The ancient Mayan ruins scattered across the Yucatán peninsula are the pinnacle point for thrill-seeking travelers. But here’s the catch – wait, there isn’t one. From the tallest Mayan temple in Calakmul Archaeological Zone to one of the smallest found at the Tulum ruins, many of the ruins cost a mere 30 to 50 pesos to enter, according to TripAdvisor.com. In case you were wondering, the current exchange rate for one Mexican peso is 8 cents. That means entrance fees to see some of the country’s most amazing site’s are less than $5.
Swim in a Cenote
Located throughout the Yucatán Peninsula and known for their mystery and beauty, cenotes are deep natural pits (sinkholes). Resulting from the collapse of limestone bedrock that exposes groundwater underneath, they’re not only gorgeous to look at, but popular places to swim, snorkel and scuba dive. Dos Ojos Cenote, located outside of Xcacel-Xcacelito (2 hours from Cancun), is a particularly amazing underwater cavern. Filled with illuminated stalactites and stalagmites, you can enjoy this swim – in the world’s third largest underwater cave system – for about $10, according to the Lonely Planet.
Experience the Culture
Lastly, explore and experience the culture of the locals. Get out and away from the tourist areas of town and mingle among the natives. A simple ‘hola’ will at least garner you a smile if not a friend. Plus, shopping and eating where the locals do will save you money – all the while giving you a more authentic experience.
Holly Bianchi
In a perfect world, Holly would have enough time to visit a different exotic location every day. Fortunately, writing about these locations is part of her job, which she loves.
By Olivia GrilHey Folks! I'm Olivia from California, United States. I'm a blogger, travel lover, I can travel anywhere, whether it's a new place or already visited. I love meeting new people, clicking photos of every movement, and documenting my adventure. I also, write about travel, travel movies, the best places to visit, etc. Read my stories.
