Cancun & Riviera Maya Guide
Everything we wish we’d known before booking in Cancun and the Riviera Maya.
Resort areas, hotel vibes, airport tips, money, transfers and the little stuff that makes the trip easier.
The Mexico checklist before you go. Everything you need in one place.
Are You Cocktail Ready?
That holiday countdown might still be over 100 days away, but the little bits are what save the stress later.
From tourist tax and transfers to cards, tips and resort choices, this is where we keep the useful Mexico stuff in one place.
- Tourist Taxes Made Easy
- Hotel Resort Essentials
- Cash vs Cards vs Travel Cards
- Which Currency? Pesos vs USD
- E-Sims, Data and Free Wi-FI (new post coming with esim options)
- Tipping at All-Inclusive Resorts
- Airport Transfers from Cancun Airport
- Mistakes to Avoid in Cancun & Riviera Maya
Not booked yet? Check out what area fits your vibe below.
What Area Suits My Vibe?
Cancun
20-30 mins transfer time
Best for bigger resorts, nightlife, shopping, easier airport transfers and first-time visitors who want plenty going on.
Akumal & Tulum
80-90+ mins transfer time
Best for quieter stays, nature, turtles, cenotes, boutique hotels and slower Riviera Maya trips.
Playa Del Carmen
60-70 mins transfer time
Best for beach days, walkable areas, restaurants, bars, shopping and people who want a bit more freedom outside the resort.
Find Resorts Based on Location
All-Inclusive Resort Map
Not sure where your hotel actually is? Our resort map helps you see which hotels are near Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, Akumal, Tulum and the airport, so you can get a better feel for transfer times, nearby areas and whether the location suits your trip.
Deep-Dive Resort Reviews
Must Do Excursions
An Epic Ocean Safari
Sia’n Ka’an Biosphere
If you love nature, this is YOUR tour! All in the wild you’ve got the chance to see dolphins, sea turtles, manatees, crocodiles and thousands of fishies snorkelling one of the largest barrier reefs in the world.
