Paris Architecture: 16 Incredible Architecture Sites to Visit in Paris
we are going give you 10 must-visit architectural wonders in Paris, along with 6 bonus options
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MEXICO
BACKPACKING MEXICO
Mexico has such a rich deep history, it is full of friendly people home to stunning landscapes and coasts. It has cool cities that are massive (like Mexico City) and smaller (like Oaxaca) and lets not forget tacos, tequila and mezcal. Whether you are flying into Mexico City, or crossing into Mexico from Belize you will be met with a plethora of things to do and a lot of places to uncover and explore.
Mexico City
Spanish
Pesos
OUR MEXICO BACKPACKING JOURNEY
BACKPACKING MEXICO
WE HAVE TWO ROUTE OPTIONS FOR MEXICO
ROUTE 01: CANCUN TO BELIZE
ROUTE 02: MEXICO CITY TO PUERTO ESCONDIDO
ROUTE 01 - Arriving into Cancun the Yucatan region is truly spectacular you get to explore Holbox, Chichen Itza the dreamy Caribbean coast. You also get the bohemian Tulum, all the cenotes and the Mexicans really know how to throw a party be it jungle beach or town.
ROUTE 02 - Arriving into Mexico City is a polar opposite experience to Cancun but the city is incredible. Here you get a some beautiful architecture, a gritty party vibe, fantastic food and more museums than you can shake a stick at. Its a culturally enriching destination and as you work your way down to the west coast you get to experience everything from an urban metropolis to mountain trails, smaller vibrant towns famous for something (like mezcal) The best part is, Mexico is pretty easy to transit using public transport. Lets get into this magical country.
ROUTE 01
TAKE ME TO 0.6. CHETAMUL TO BELIZE (Caye Caulker)
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ROUTE 02
TAKE ME TO 0.7. MEXICO CITY AIRPORT
TAKE ME TO 0.10. TO OAXACA (We are building it)
TAKE ME TO 0.11. TO SAN CRISTOBAL DE LAS CASAS (We are building it)
TAKE ME TO 0.12. SAN JOSE DEL PACIFICO (We are building it)
TAKE ME TO 0.13 PUERTO ESCONDITO (We are building it)
0.1.
CANCUN AIRPORT
Welcome
Arriving Into Cancun
Immigration at Cancun International. This is relatively easy, on a UK passport, you will need to fill out a green tourist card. You may need to confirm where you are staying so make sure you have this in your memory. You will be asked how long you would like to stay in the country (always ask for the maximum) 180 days) The immigration officer will take the majority of the forms before giving you a section (DO NOT LOSE THIS SECTION)
cancun-international-airport-map
San Francisco BART Map
cancun-airport-map-Terminal 2
Rental Car Location
cancun-international-airport-map
San Francisco BART Map
1/2
Maps Wallet
Option 01
Buses are going to be your best travel option across Mexico and they are easy to use. If you are spending a night or two in Cancun then you need terminal 2 and are just 50 minutes away for 130 pesos. If you are looking for island paradise and want Holbox, head to Chiquilá from Cancun bus terminal (2h30mins and 360 pesos) before grabbing the Holbox Express 220 pesos. Or if you want to head straight to Tulum you have a three hour bus ride from the airport.
Option 02
The alternate option is to jump in a taxi. These can get to Central Cancun in around 30 - 40 minutes and will not cost the earth if there is a group of you travelling together, they are quite intimidating when you walk out the airport but talk to a few and ask for the price. If you know Spanish, now is a good time to start using a bit.
Option 03
A final option is a shuttle, these can be pre booked through companies like Happy Shuttle, but again a better option when sharing.
50 minutes later
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BACKPACKING CANCUN
Cancun is synonymous for large all inclusive style resorts, you can find a party and a golden beach here and you can also access the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world. As a backpacker, this area may not be your jam, but Cancun is a great place to transit due to the cost of flights. Check out our blog post backpacking 101 for tips on getting a good international flight deal.
0.2.
Eat
Seafood
Drink
Cocktails
Do
Diving
Party
Travel
Walk
Taxi
Stay
Hostels
Hotels
Time
1-2 Days
Where To Stay In Cancun
Cancun is a tourist destination that has all inclusive hotels from wall to wall, I would advise spending minimal time in Cancun. For a backpacker it does not offer adventure, nonetheless lets look at some hostels!
Maya Monkey - Dorms £22 p/n
The Maya brand has positioned itself as a 'luxury' hostel. What to expect is a clean environment and facilities, beds with curtains and lockers. Bars on site and bike hire. You can be fairly certain of a nice stay.
Nomads Hotel Hostel & Rooftop Pool - Dorms £9 - £12 p/n
Nomads have two locations in Cancun, both locations are known as 'party hostels' I would highly recommend ear pugs. If you want to meet backpackers, you will find them at these Hostels.
Selina Cancun Laguna Hotel Zone
Selina has positioned itself as a hostel that caters to the digital nomad. Having stayed in a good number of Selina, they can be hit and miss on cleanliness. The atmosphere in a large number can simply non existent. Cancun Selina does not rate high but I am yet to stay in one that is 'terrible'. The price point on food and drink is always expensive, so keep this in mind! Check out our post on the Selina brand for a quick look at which we would suggest checking out during travels through Central and South America.
Cancun
Hotel Zone
Cancun
Snorkeling
What To Do In Cancun
Playa Tortugas
Perhaps the easiest way to have fun in Cancun is to head to a beach, pull on some swim ware and grab the snorkel mask.
Nomads Hostels
For a party nomads are a good place to meet backpackers who have usually just arrived into Mexico, the hostel has a bit of a party vibe so make sure you have earplugs!
To Holbox
or
HOLBOX
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Backpacking Holbox
Pronounced 'holbosh' this island is car-less and the epitome of paradise.
Pristine, white-sand beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters. The island's coastline stretches for miles, providing plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Holbox is part of the Yum Balam Flora and Fauna Protection Area, a protected natural reserve. The island is home to diverse ecosystems, including mangroves, wetlands, and lush tropical vegetation. It's a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
0.2.
Eat
Seafood
Pizza
Drink
Smoothies
Do
Walks
Bird watch
Relax
Travel
Bicycle
Golf cart
Stay
Hostels
Time
2-3 Days
Cancun
Ado Bus Terminal
Getting to Holbox
From Cancun take a bus to Chiquilá (2h30mins and 360 pesos) before grabbing the Holbox Express 220 pesos.
This will land you in Holbox dock were you should be able to proceed on foot to your hostel of choice. Lets look at some of the options for where to stay in Holbox.
Where To Stay In Holbox
Tribu Hostel - Dorms £19-22 p/n
Chilled vibes and just off the beach, evening activities and large fully equipped kitchen with a terrace dining area. Hammocks in the garden and a hostel bar with live show. A great choice for a relaxing stay
Che Holbox Hostel & Bar Adults Only - Dorms £21 - £25 p/n
If you want a very clean environment Che is your place. A big hostel on Holbox that offers a bar, a pool, yoga sessions. Evenings tend to revolve around the bar but a good place to meet people and have some fun.
Barco Verde Hostel Dorms - £20 p/n
A friendly welcome and within 200 metres of Playa Holbox and 2.3 km of Punta Coco. A shared kitchen is on site. Rooms have private bathrooms and air conditioning.
Tribu Hostel
Break Out
Holbox
Coast Line
What To Do In Holbox
Punta Coco
Visitors to Punta Coco often go to relax, swim, sunbathe, and enjoy the serene surroundings. It's also a great place for birdwatching. Holbox is home to numerous bird species, including flamingos and pelicans. Due to its remote location, there are limited facilities at Punta Coco, so it's a good idea to bring your own snacks, drinks, and shade if you plan to spend a significant amount of time there.
Bird Watching
Explore the island's mangroves and lagoons to spot a variety of bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, and herons.
The Main Town
The main town of Holbox is a charming place with colorful buildings, shops, restaurants, and bars. Stroll through the streets, enjoy the local cuisine, and shop for handmade crafts.
Playa Mosquito
Playa Mosquito is less crowded compared to some other beaches on Holbox, thanks to its somewhat remote location. It offers a more serene and peaceful atmosphere, making it perfect for those seeking a tranquil beach experience.
Horse Back Riding
There are opportunities on this beautiful island for a horse back trip usually during sunrise or sunset hours and through the mangroves budget circa £65 per person.
Where to Eat In Holbox
Roots Pizza
Known for its wood-fired pizzas, Roots Pizza is a popular spot for those craving a taste of Italy. They offer a range of pizza options, including vegetarian and vegan choices.
Mandarina
Tropical ambiance, serving fresh seafood and Mexican dishes. It's a great place to try ceviche or other seafood specialties.
Holbox
Beach
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Luuma
Vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurant think salads, wraps, smoothies with fresh ingredients.
El TacoQueto
If you're in the mood for Mexican street food, El TacoQueto is a good choice. They serve tacos, burritos, and other Mexican favorites in a casual setting.
Casa Nostra
Italian restaurant with a romantic ambiance and candlelit tables make it an excellent choice for a special evening.
Time for Tulum
or
TULUM
0.3.
Backpacking Tulum
Tulum has become a bohemian town, it is close to the well-preserved costal Mayan ruins, has a laid-back atmosphere, and eco-friendly tourism. The town has been made vibrant through street art and murals. Tulum is also a great base for exploring the cenotes or heading out to jungle parties. You can also consider doing a day tour to Chichen Itza. You will find a lot of backpackers here as well as holiday makers but if you are beginning your backpacking in Mexico, Tulum is a fantastic start place to settle you into the backpacker lifestyle.
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Eat
Vegan
Street Tacos
Drink
Smoothies
Coffee
Modelo
Tequila
Cocktails
Do
Cenotes
Beach
Party
Explore
Travel
Bus
Collectivo
Bicycle
Walk
Stay
Hostels
Time
3-5 Days
Where To Stay In Mexico
Tulum
Street Art
What To Do In Tulum
Explore the Streets
The central road through Tulum also acts as the main street front, you will find shops and bars but you will also uncover fantastic street art.
Visit the Cenotes
With hundred of cenotes in and around Tulum its a great place to grab a bike and peddle across to go and see these otherworldly environments.
Hit the Beach
A laid back beach day is a great option, just a 15 minute bike ride away the beautiful Playa Pescadores awaits with its golden sand and warm blue waters.
Visit the Ruins
One of the last cities built and inhabited by the Maya civilization and on the beautiful coast line. Not the most well preserved ruins you will see in Mexico, but still worth a trip, especially if coupled with a beach day. For maps and more check the blog post below.
