Cancun, Mexico

Mexico is a great vacation destination if you live in the United States: easy to get to, inexpensive, and sunny. The ancient ruins offer a glimpse into the birth of civilization, and the culture encourages you to eat, drink, and fiesta. While Mexico is a common trip for families, visitors still should remain cautious when choosing excursions outside the hotel. However, with the array of all-inclusive resorts and all-you-can-eat tacos, you may not even want or need to leave the hotel at all!

Here are some tips!!

TIP: Before You Go
Consider if you're going on a crazy spring break style trip with friends or taking a relaxing family vacation. In this article, I focus on more of a family trip. However, for those of you ready for a wild week: there are plenty of hotels in Cancun right on the water and close to the center of town that will provide the atmosphere you're looking for!

Accommodations:
-Pick a hotel you would enjoy spending a lot of time in. Most of your vacation will be relaxing on the beach. You want to feel like you are provided with everything you need at the hotel and that you are safe.
-Treat yourself. A major reason people travel to Mexico is because it is inexpensive. Perhaps upgrade to a 5-star hotel, and enjoy a life of luxury that you might have to compromise on when traveling to more expensive destinations.

TIP: Belmond Maroma Resort and Spa
Through the dense, lush jungle a dirt roads leads to a hidden piece of paradise bordered by a white sand beach and crystal clear ocean. The Belmond Maroma is a stunning resort that offers 63 rooms (some are more like your own personal condo), unbelievable dining, and everything you need to relax and forget about the rest of the world. My first two days as a guest I didn't see any other people aside from the hotel staff. The grounds are so private and architecture so beautifully harmonious with the natural surroundings, it's like you've discovered your own personal ancient ruins...only, with electricity and a group of talented chefs, waiters, athletic trainers, and event coordinators. Just like the Mayans!

Televisions are scarce, encouraging guests to escape the outside world and immerse themselves in tranquility. The resort offers some small activities like a low-key jungle bike tour and yoga.  They will assist you in booking excursions outside the resort, as well. And for those days when you want an adults-only adventure, the Belmond provides a children's center with games and offers child care services.

The Belmond Maroma features a few restaurants and bars, all of which offer high-quality cuisine. Your morning will start with fresh tortillas and spicy hot chocolate, followed by some ice cream and margaritas on the beach, perhaps a dinner reservation at El Sol, and will conclude with a private Tequila tasting. Every evening feels like a celebration with hundreds of candles lighting the path to your room for an enchanting late night stroll. Also, be sure to check out the observation tower.

For more information on the Belmond Maroma, visit http://www.belmond.com/maroma-resort-and-spa-riviera-maya/luxury-resort

TIP: Tulum's Mayan Ruins
One of the main things to do while in Mexico is visit an ancient Mayan civilization. Tulum is not too far from Cancun, and the ruins are over 1,000 years old. Tulum was the only Mayan city built on a coast and one of the few to be protected by a wall. Today, tourists can visit and theorize what ended this civilization. Bring your swimsuit because many tourists like to cool off in a semi-hidden beach at the ruins. If you're interested in seeing more ruins, Chichen Itza is said to be the most impressive in Mexico, however, it's a very far drive from Cancun. For more info on the Tulum ruins, visit: http://tulumruins.net

Break up your ride back at the restaurant Ziggy's in Tulum. With delicious food and a hipster vibe, this is a fun, beachfront place to stop for a bite to eat...and maybe a swim!

TIP: Explore the Reef
Cancun hosts the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second largest barrier reef in the world (the first being Australia's Great Barrier Reef). Book a snorkel or scuba trip, so you can explore this 600 mile reef that is home to 500 species of fish. Speaking of fish, if you prefer eating them over swimming with them, schedule a fishing trip.  Should you choose to stay at the Belmond Maroma, the chef will prepare whatever fish you bring back.

TIP: Dolphin Swim
This has become a controversial topic over the past few years, so do some research before booking this excursion. I did choose to participate and enjoyed my time. You are also able to feed manatees lettuce...both strange and disgusting, but certainly a new experience.


Though Cancun has become known as a major spring break destination, it has many activities for all ages. Families and couples can experience a relaxing vacation at a low cost and can focus on what's most important during any vacation: each other.

Thanks for reading! Feel free to ask any questions, and I'll see you next time on 10-Minute Travel Tips!

See video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTa0n2a73MA

Maui, Hawaii

Maui is one of my favorite places I have ever traveled.  It is a wonderful balance of spectacular scenery, adventurous excursions, and an exciting culture while being an easy trip for United States citizens.  Also, I felt very safe while in Maui, which is not something I always feel in my destinations, and I know this can be a determining factor for families. 

Let’s get on with the tips!!

TIPS: Before You Go

-Write out a list of all possible excursions and activities.

-Decide how much money you are able to spend on activities and excursions and narrow the list down to your top picks!

-Mark all your destinations on a map.  That way, you can plan out your week based on what activities are close to one another.

-Make a day-to-day schedule with all your plans. Make sure to schedule in some relaxing beach days too!

Accommodations:

As far as accommodations, you have tons of options in Maui.  You could save a little money and stay at a bread and breakfast or drop a few bucks and stay at The Ritz Carlton.  I met in the middle and stayed at the Hyatt.

TIP: Hyatt

The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa is one of many four star hotels along Kaanapali Beach and is located near an array of area attractions and hot spots.  The Hyatt offers spectacular views, amazing landscaping, and many amenities for adults and children.  Some of my favorite amenities include: the children’s pool complete with WATERSLIDE (that adults can go on), outstanding complimentary buffet breakfast with stunning views (note: if there are more than two people in your room, there is an additional charge for breakfast), and the free classes at the gym.  I don’t have children, but if I did, I’m sure I’d appreciate Camp Hyatt as well.  Camp Hyatt offers day and evening programs to engage kids in fun activities, while you and that special someone enjoy a romantic cocktail.

Another tip: if possible, request a first floor room, so you can lounge on the grass instead of a small balcony and walk right to the pool, beach, etc.  Just note: you cannot lock the sliding glass door from the outside.

The Hyatt has a Beach Activity Center where you can rent snorkel equipment, floats, boogie boards, paddleboards, and more!  Additionally, the Hyatt features many FREE activities.  You’ll notice a wide variety of birds on the grounds (penguins and flamingos, to name the most exciting).  The Hyatt offers a wildlife tour a few times per week as well as a morning fish and penguin feeding demonstrations.  There is also a hula demonstration, where you learn the Hukilau, and a lei-making class (make a reservation). 

I recommend eating at any of the Hyatt’s four delicious restaurants, but if you’re looking for more options the downtown area Whalers Village is just a walk away.  The path behind the Hyatt runs along the beach past other major hotels and Whalers Village, which contains many shops, restaurants, and sometimes night entertainment.

For more information on The Hyatt, visit: http://maui.hyatt.com/en/hotel/home.html

TIP: The Road to Hana

Before you drive:

-Plan on devoting a full day to this drive.

-Leave in the morning for optimal sunlight.

-Bring a bathing suit and a change of clothes, in case you want to jump in a waterfall.

-Fill up your gas tank.

-Choose a bus tour if you’re not a great driver.

The road to Hana features some narrow roads with a lot of lovely views however I found it did not live up to the hype I expected.  Everything at the end of the road to Hana and beyond is AMAZING. http://roadtohana.com

End of the Road to Hana:

Lava Tube: there is a cave in Hana made from lava that you are able to go into.  It’s stunning inside and great for kids and adults alike. I wore a dress and flip-flops, so don’t feel like you have to be dressed in your best cave gear to do this. http://www.mauicave.com

Seven Sacred Pools: A few miles past the Lava Tube is an entrance to the Haleakala National Park (we visited the volcanic part of this park later in the trip).  But stop and enjoy the scenery here.  Take some pictures!

Road AWAY from Hana:  This isn’t actually something suggested by the tourism board, and I sort of think it may be discouraged because of the bumpy roads and natural, undisturbed beauty, but this was one of the most outstanding drives I have ever been on.  This continuation of Route 31 will give you some of the best views on the island while you enjoy a cliff side drive sandwiched between the Pacific Ocean and dormant volcano, Mount Haleakala.  Who needs guardrails? They just obstruct the view anyway!  This was one of my favorite parts of the trip.

TIP: Horseback ride at Mendes Ranch

The Mendes Ranch is a family owned and operated ranch that offers scenic trail rides for all levels.  The trail goes down the side of a cliff, but the horses are very well trained and conduct themselves beautifully on this ride.  There are a lot of great views and photo ops along the way. Horseback riding has always scared me, but the Mendes staff was extremely helpful and professional the entire time.  http://www.mendesranch.com

TIP: Whale Watch

February is the best time to go whale watching in Maui, and, in fact, is Humpback Whale Month! Humpback whales come down from Alaska during the winter months to give birth. While the mothers are enjoying their tropical getaway, the calves are able to exercise and grow, so you’re guaranteed an exciting experience!

I did my whale watch with Maui Adventure Cruises.  It was the least expensive option of the whale watches and the coolest, as you’re in more of a raft than a boat, so you get a closer experience with the whales (not in a scary way). http://mauiadventurecruises.com

TIP: Atlantis Submarine

The Atlantis Submarine gives you an opportunity to go about 120 feet underwater without having to get wet.  It is a really fun way to see more of Maui’s beauty under the sea. 

http://www.atlantisadventures.com/maui

TIP: Old Lahaina Luau

The Old Lahaina Luau is said to be the best and most authentic luau in Maui.  When you walk in, you’re immersed in traditional Hawaiian culture, with hula dancing, drums, crafts, and an Imu. The open atmosphere invites families to explore the party, with views of the ocean and sunset as the backdrop.  Your price includes an amazing all you can eat buffet, open bar, and wonderful show. http://www.oldlahainaluau.com

TIP: Mount Haleakala

Mount Haleakala is part of Haleakala National Park and offers many activities for tourists like hiking, camping, commercial tours, as well as nearby zip-lining and bicycle adventures.  You can also drive to the top like I did.

When visiting the mountain, you should:

-Bring warm clothing

-Pack food and water

-Fill up your gas tank beforehand

*Also, I would recommend planning your trip to Haleakala a few days after or before your trip to The Road to Hana, so that you don’t feel like you’re spending a lot of time in the car. 

Make sure you go to the top of the mountain and also the crater portion (there are two different roads that lead to each spot). http://www.nps.gov/hale/index.htm

Additional TIPS:

Shopping: The area surrounding the banyan tree in Lahaina has a huge shopping area. If you want something made in Hawaii, make sure you check the labels, as most things are made in China.

Great Restaurants:

Mama’s Fish House: Pricy, but some of the best food on the island. $$$

Aloha Mixed Plate: Authentic Hawaiian food. $-$$

Fish and Pasta: Horrible name but great food. $$

Hula Grill: Fun for the whole family. $$

The Banyan Tree at The Ritz Carlton: Fancy and delicious. $$$

Cheeseburger in Paradise: Touristy but has great cheeseburgers. $$

Ula Ula Food Truck: Amazing blend of Hawaiian and Mexican. $

Kimo’s: Delicious and beautiful. $$

*Note: If any restaurant offers PINK SNAPPER get it!

Thanks for reading! Feel free to ask any questions, and I’ll see you next time on 10-Minute Travel Tips!

See video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rf2MuKd3tNA