Whether you’re looking to relax by sapphire blue waters, live it up on one of the world’s most famous nightlife scenes, or explore some of the fascinating history found in Central America, Cancun is a world renowned destination which has it all. Located on the northern coast of the Yucatan peninsula, this holiday paradise is primarily visited by American holidaymakers due to its close proximity to the US, but has also started attracting European visitors in recent years.

Cancun was purposefully developed into a tourist destination in the 1970’s, due to its incredible white sandy beaches, and wonderful surrounding landscapes. Throughout the remainder of the 90’s its fame and popularity grew amongst American visitors, due to the emergence of more and more high-end, luxury hotels, resulting in a chic and sophisticated ambience. The arrival of younger travellers, especially during the course of the American ‘spring break’ signified another stage of Cancun’s development, as this brought with it a large variety of different clubs and bars, creating a lively and sociable atmosphere which has made it famous across the globe.

Cancun’s location on the Yucatan peninsula means it is close to some of Mexico’s major cultural and historical sites, as this was the epicentre of the famous and influential Maya civilisation, which flourished here hundreds of years ago. Luxury holidays to Cancun usually include a day trip to explore one, or several, of these fascinating historical sites, which give visitors an insight into human life in the America’s before the arrival of Europeans.

Who visits Cancun?

As a result of its history as a well-planned holiday destination, Cancun has the ability to attract a large variety of different visitors. Many see it as an ideal beach getaway, due to the tranquil ambience which resonates all along the white sandy beaches lining the sapphire blue waters of the Caribbean Sea. The abundance of luxury hotels offering grandiose all-inclusive packages attract a sophisticated audience who come here to let loose, relax, and take a break from the worries of everyday life.

Cancun’s crystal clear waters are home to a wealth of colourful marine life, which attracts Scuba divers who visit to marvel at the biodiversity encountered here. Snorkelling also provides a wonderful insight into this magical underwater world, and sailing trips are easy to organise.

Several nature reserves, most notably the Yum Balam biosphere reserve, are in close proximity to Cancun, attracting a large number of nature-lovers to come here and explore the Yucatan’s fascinating flora and fauna. Unimaginable landscapes and adventurous trails make hiking here a memorable as well as a rewarding experience. The many national parks on the Yucatan peninsula boast a large variety of different characters resulting in many visitors returning here year after year, to explore more of Mexico’s fascinating wildlife and scenery.

Holidaymakers interested in Mexico’s history and culture also flock to Cancun, due to its proximity to several major Maya sites.

Some of the better-known cities such as Chichen Itza, Tulum and Uxmal are remarkably well preserved, and are a must-see for anyone interested in gaining an understanding of pre-Colombian America. Tulum is a wonderful example of typical Mayan architecture and city planning, whilst Chichen Itza is famous for its large Mesoamerican step-pyramid.

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