As a travel agent, I’m always searching for destinations that genuinely deliver and Mexico completely exceeded my expectations. What started as a last minute change of plan, turned into one of the most diverse, well rounded trips I’ve experienced, and it’s somewhere I’m now confidently recommending to clients who want a mix of relaxation, culture, and a bit of luxury.

What really stood out to me is how easy it is to combine completely different experiences into one itinerary.

Tulum laid back, boho, and effortlessly cool ... 

Our first stop was Coco Unlimited, and for anyone wanting a relaxed, beachfront stay with style, this is exactly the kind of place I’d suggest. It’s that barefoot luxury vibe, nothing overly polished or corporate, just beautiful natural design, open spaces, and a real connection to the beach. Service is spot on without ever feeling too much.

Tulum is perfect if you want something slower paced, think beach clubs, yoga, wellness, and boutique hotels over big resorts. Days are easy here, walking along the beach, dipping into different beach clubs, and just switching off.

We also built in some key excursions here, which I’d always recommend to really break up the beach time:

• Chichen Itza, absolutely worth doing, especially for first time visitors. It’s an early start, but arriving before the crowds and heat makes all the difference. Having a guide really brings it to life  
• Valladolid, a really nice contrast to the tourist heavy areas. It’s colourful, more local, and gives a much more authentic feel of Mexico  
• Lunch at El Atrio del Mayab, a highlight in itself. Set in a beautiful courtyard, it felt calm and traditional, and the food was a great introduction to regional dishes  
• Cenote Xux Ha, one of the standout experiences. Cenotes are completely unique to this part of Mexico, and no two are the same. This one felt peaceful and less crowded, with clear, cool water  

Evenings can be as chilled or as lively as you want, but Palma Central is a great option for something informal with a real local atmosphere.

Playa del Carmen more energy, more choice...  

Next, we stayed at The Fives Beach Hotel and Residences, which works perfectly as part of a twin centre trip because it’s such a contrast to Tulum.

The Fives is is a full service resort, ideal if you want plenty of dining options, more space, and a balance of relaxation and activity. There’s loads of variety here, and it has a much more social feel.

Playa del Carmen itself is definitely livelier, with shops, bars, nightlife, and a busier energy overall.

Excursions here were just as impressive:

• Kantun Chi, something I’d highly recommend if clients want a cenote experience that feels more immersive. It’s a collection of cenotes within a natural park, including caves, so it feels more like exploring than just visiting  

• Alux Restaurant, one of the most memorable evenings. The setting is inside a natural cave, and it’s not just about the food, it’s the whole experience. Perfect for a special occasion  

Playa Mujeres polished, luxury all inclusive ... 

For the final part of the trip, we stayed at SLS Playa Mujeres, and this is where I’d guide anyone looking for a more elevated all inclusive.

It feels more refined, with modern design, excellent food, and a quieter, more upscale atmosphere. Perfect for couples or special occasions. One of my highlights, and something I’d always include, is a day trip to Isla Mujeres.

• Isla Mujeres, this is where Mexico really delivers those standout moments. The water is that unreal turquoise colour, and the whole island has a much more relaxed pace. Hiring a golf buggy and exploring makes it even better  

• Mayan Monkey, Isla Mujeres, a great stop during the day, with a relaxed beach club feel. Perfect for unwinding and taking in the surroundings 

Practical information  -

• Direct flight from the UK to Cancún is around 10 to 11 hours  
• US style plugs, so an adaptor is needed  
• Currency is Mexican Peso  
• Tipping is expected in restaurants, hotels, and for drivers  

My advice is always to go for a multi stop itinerary here. You’ll get far more out of Mexico by mixing beach time with culture, and choosing hotels based on the type of experience you want.

Final thoughts ...

Mexico is one of those destinations that truly has something for everyone, but more importantly, it does everything well.

From the relaxed feel of Tulum, to the energy of Playa del Carmen, to the luxury of Playa Mujeres, it’s somewhere I would confidently tailor again and again for different clients.

And it’s definitely not a one time visit. Next on my list is Bacalar!

Thinking about Mexico for your next holiday?