Travel Diaries: Quintana Roo Round Up
BY MAHI KUMAR
I’m back with another travel diary with the perfect mix of partying, relaxation and some eat, pray love.
4 JUL - 2023
Quintana Roo is a Mexican State which houses popular tourist destinations such as Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen.
If you’ve read my other travel diaries, you know that Mexico is a captivating destination that is so large. Quintana Roo, in particular, is a state in Mexico (and known to many United States holidayers as being on the “New York” side of Mexico. Quick geography lesson, Los Cabos is on the California side of Mexico. That’s how large Mexico is!).
When I went to Quintana Roo, I absolutely fell in love with it. It’s known for its stunning Caribbean coastline, vibrant culture, and rich history.
Cancun
Cancun is the most popular of the Quintana Roo cities. It’s a world-renowned resort city situated on the northeastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. It boasts breathtaking turquoise waters, pristine white sandy beaches, and a lively atmosphere. It is home to a number of all-inclusive resorts and luxurious living. In the bustling hotel-zone, you have all of your intense and vibrant nightlife vibes, but extremely luxurious resorts that you can get day passes to. Cancun is the spot for you in Quintana Roo if you’re one for a big party scene, and want to spend the next day relaxing.
My top unmissable thing to do is to hit Coco Bongo. Coco Bongo is unlike anything you’ve seen before on this side of the world, as it’s the top nightlife venue with a live show and disco, but also simultaneously a party! There’s unlimited drinks, performances (people swinging on trapezes and full on musical type acts) and confetti being thrown everywhere. I went here for New Year's Eve to christen in 2023 and was blown away at how fun and absolutely crazy it was. We got called up to dance on the stage, which meant we had prime access to the show and a non-stop party with bartenders serving us from an inbuilt bar on the stage. It’s a must!
Tulum
Tulum, a town located south of Cancun, is a coastal paradise known for its bohemian charm, ancient ruins, and eco-friendly atmosphere. It gives ‘eat, pray love’ with the tourists zooming around on their bicycles or ATV’s, and has a relaxed atmosphere.
The sculpture of Ven A La Luz (meaning “come into the light”) which is a giant sculpture of a 33-feet tall woman is a Tulum must see.
Rich with its cafe culture (I’m talking so many acai bowls), daily yoga classes and music festivals, it attracts many people from those looking to relax, and ravers who wish to attend the music festivals. When I was there, we attended the Zamna music festival, but also went to beach clubs on the main hotel strip (these are a dime a dozen and all of them offer beach view massages to really hone in to the feeling of relaxation.
The town is home to the iconic Tulum Ruins, where visitors can explore the remnants of a walled Mayan city overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Tulum’s archaeological sites add a richness and culture that balances the gentrification evidenced by Tulum’s numerous yoga studios, unique boutique hotels and beachfront cabanas. If you’re in Tulum, the ruins are a must visit.
Last, but certainly not least, It’s not a Mahi travel diary without talking about a rooftop bar right? The Hotel Azulik rooftop bar has views for days, which were complimented by the gorgeous cocktails on offer. So if you’re tired of cycling around the Tulum streets, park up at Hotel Azulik for a drink.
If you couldn’t tell already, Tulum was my favourite of the three, and has a special place in my heart!
Playa del Carmen
Last but not least, Playa del Carmen is a treat. Situated along the Riviera Maya, it’s a vibrant coastal town that seamlessly blends modernity with a bohemian atmosphere.
We unfortunately spent the least time here, which means I definitely have to go back.
Its most famous spot is Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue). It’s known for the bustling pedestrian street lined with shops, restaurants, and bars. We thoroughly enjoyed strolling the streets of Playa Del Carmen, visiting its many cafes and bars, eating authentic Mexican food near the beach and taking photos as we went by.
Overall, Quintana Roo, Mexico offers a diverse range of experiences. Cancun showcases the epitome of entertainment, Tulum offers a boho-chic beach escape with a touch of ancient history, and Playa del Carmen charms with its lively ambiance. So if you’re planning your next getaway (and you love Mexican food), I cannot recommend hitting the state of Quintana Roo enough. Whether you seek relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, Q.Roo something for everyone.
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