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Party capitals and Caribbean coasts
Holidays in Mexico offer something for everyone - fascinating ancient ruins, tropical forests, exquisite diving sites and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Explore the pyramids at Chichen Itza; visit the sea turtle sanctuary at Cancun or simply unwind by the ocean with a margarita in hand.
Head to the picture-perfect Riviera Cancun, where you’ll be taken aback by its beautiful coastline, complete with palm trees and chic beachfront hotels. Perfectly located, Riviera Cancun is a short distance from the lively town of Cancun, which is home to swanky bars, restaurants and shopping malls. Playa Mujeres may just be the hottest beach resort in the area, boasting a large array of upmarket shops, restaurants and golf courses. Golf enthusiasts will love the Playa Mujeres Golf Club; designed by golfing legend Greg Norman, it’s one of the top rated golf courses in Mexico.
Alternatively, head to the Riviera Maya, where you’ll find 30 kilometres of perfectly white sand and the world’s second largest coral reef just offshore. If you’re looking to relax, visit the sleepy town of Tulum, or head to the eco park of Xcaret to indulge in family fun such as river tubing, zip lining and snorkelling.
Holidays in Mexico promise to provide the perfect balance between beach and leisure. You’ll find fabulous upmarket shopping, bars and restaurants, accompanied by white sand beaches and turquoise waters. Those who love diving won’t tire of the ocean here - coral reefs, caves, shipwrecks and even an eerie underwater collection of statues can be found off Mexico’s coast.
Sovereign offers an exciting range of luxury hotels in Mexico. Opt for the Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun for a romantic, adults only stay, where each bathroom comes with its own private jacuzzi. Seven gourmet restaurants and premium wines are also included as part of your all inclusive stay for that added taste of luxury.
Flight time from the UK to Mexico's Caribbean coast is around 11 hours.
Mexico is a year-round beach destination, with temperatures rarely dipping below 20°C – even in winter. The summer months are at their hottest between May and September, which have average temperatures of 28°C. While short rain showers are possible, they are helpful in taking the edge off the heat.
UK citizens travelling to Mexico do not currently require a visa. You will need to fill out a tourist card, which you will be provided with on arrival.
Mexico has a tipping etiquette similar to the USA. Service employees typically receive little or no base salary, so tips make up the bulk of their salary. Try to tip about 15% of the bill in restaurants and bars unless the bill includes propina (gratuity). Taxi drivers do not usually get tipped unless they have provided an extra service like loading or unloading your bags.
The official language of Mexico is Spanish. English is widely spoken too, so getting by is easy.
No vaccines are required or recommended for travel to Mexico, however all routine immunisations should be up to date. For full details, please contact your GP.
The Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos or Hanal Pixan in Mayan) is one of the most spectacular festivals. Mexicans welcome the souls of dead ancestors with parades, church services and elaborately decorated altars between 31 October and 2 November. Xcaret Park on the Riviera Maya lays on a family-friendly version that showcases a different Mexican state’s Day of the Dead traditions every year.
The island of Cozumel is famous for its pre-Lent carnival (usually at the beginning of February). Expect a New Orleans-style Mardis Gras with spectacular costume competitions and seafront processions.
Fancy partying like an ancient Mayan? Time your trip to Chichen Itza for the sacred Spring Equinox (20 March) or Autumn Equinox (22 or 23 September). Hundreds of people gather to see a snake-like shadow slide down from the top of the Temple of Kukulkan, just as the Mayans did 2,000 years ago.
