First Time in Cancun

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Scuba diving is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Cancun and, as such, there are plenty of options. But before venturing into the sea, it is strongly recommended to get advice from experts like the Nautilus Dive Training Center. Their experienced team of professional divers will be able to provide training before getting into the sea. Some of their courses are held in swimming pools and with all the safety requirements to help new divers gain confidence. For prices, timetables and training, please contact Nautilus directly.

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There is a reason why this restaurant is on virtually everyone's recommended list. Intricate Mexican tile leads you in to a magnificent tropical dining room, split by a flowing stream, and lush with exotic plants and fauna. Situated right on the water, Laguna Grill is a satisfying experience from the moment you enter, but enchanting as the restaurant is, the real showstopper is the kitchen. Chef Alex Rudin's use of fresh seasonal ingredients keeps the menu ever changing, but always innovative. Choices like Shrimp Ceviche in a spicy Oriental sauce and Lobster and Truffle Lasagna are just a few examples of how the cuisine does not know countries, only flavors. Desserts are equally imaginative and the Pineapple-Papaya Strudel bathed in Malibu Rum Sauce is pure ecstasy.

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If you enjoy the idea of sailing through the turquoise Cancun waters in a yacht just for pleasure and relaxing while you enjoy the landscape and the good company, La Gran Marina de Cancún has a selection of the best boats for hire. Many of the celebrities' yachts are also anchored at this marina. Don't miss a beautiful trip on board one of the most elegant forms of marine transport.

Description:

A magnificent presence on Cancún, this resort has 602 rooms (all are suites) and boasts a 1,000 ft. beach with an expansive pool complex. All suites are oceanfront, with panoramic views, separate sitting areas, and luxurious details. Guests enjoy a huge pool complex, a children's program, and an indoor "street" lined with a health spa, tennis courts, and restaurants, including the award-winning La Joya restaurant.

Our Local Expert Says:

Accessible only by tour from an authorized operator, this small island nature reserve is a bird-watchers paradise. Tours usually include snorkeling the reef along the way, and an informative Visitor Center provides the basics on local ecosystems and wildlife.

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Isla Contoy, one of the beauties of nature, has been preserved as an ecological reserve. It is surrounded by mangroves, where the flora and fauna are zealously protected by the Mexican authorities. An expedition to this island is a must for nature lovers or adventurous spirits. Enjoy the waters in a small boat, watching wildlife in its natural habitat. You will be surrounded by monkeys, birds, small mammals and fish. Ask for expedition timetables and prices at your hotel reception or from a travel agent.

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This is one of the most exclusive restaurants in Cancún. Catering to a clientele with demanding tastes, the chefs are extraordinary at preparing delicacies. Delights include the Mango Shrimp, crocodile fajitas and the famous "impossible" flan, an unusual mixture somewhere between chocolate cake and vanilla flan, merged in a sort of sandwich. It has a tropical atmosphere, ideal for feasting on seafood and extravagantly prepared fish. This dining establishment won't let you down. Valet parking is available.

Description:

A magnificent presence on Cancún, this resort has 602 rooms (all are suites) and boasts a 1,000 ft. beach with an expansive pool complex. All suites are oceanfront, with panoramic views, separate sitting areas, and luxurious details. Guests enjoy a huge pool complex, a children's program, and an indoor "street" lined with a health spa, tennis courts, and restaurants, including the award-winning La Joya restaurant.

Our Local Expert Says:

Recently voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this is the most famous site of Mayan ruins in the region. A "must-see" on anyone's list, this popular site can get crowded, particularly during equinoxes and solstices.

Description:

Chichen Itza, located approximately 120 miles west of Cancun, is the largest and most important site of Mayan ruins in the region. The expansive park can be seen in two or three hours and its main focal point is a large pyramid, called the Temple of Kukulkan (also known as "El Castillo").

Each year, crowds flock to the park for both the spring and autumnal equinox. On those two days of the year, as the sun sets, shadows appear on the stairs of El Castillo in such a way that it looks as though a snake is slithering down the stairs. The Mayan people had a great understanding of astrology and mathematics. The pyramid was built with such accuracy and regard to astrology that the phenomenon of the slithering snake can only be seen on the days of the two equinoxes.

The Mayan calendar ends on December 21, 2012 and there is great debate about what will happen at the end of the cycle. Some people believe the world will end, but experts on the Mayan civilization believe it will simply be the beginning of a new era; a rebirth. To learn more about the Mayan calendar, and about Mayan history, visit Chichen Itza between now and the end of 2012.

Description:

A magnificent presence on Cancún, this resort has 602 rooms (all are suites) and boasts a 1,000 ft. beach with an expansive pool complex. All suites are oceanfront, with panoramic views, separate sitting areas, and luxurious details. Guests enjoy a huge pool complex, a children's program, and an indoor "street" lined with a health spa, tennis courts, and restaurants, including the award-winning La Joya restaurant.

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This ranch is located on the Cancún-Tulum Highway at Kilometer 79, and it is ideal for horseback riding. The natural landscape will captivate you and your children as you horseride across the ranch. Instructors are available at all times and, if you prefer, they will walk beside you holding the reins. There is a beautiful lagoon in the surrounding area where you can watch the many species of birds and small animals.

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At Rancho Loma Bonita you can enjoy jet skiing off their beautiful natural scenic private beach which has no buildings, just a shaded refreshment area. This calm beach makes for smooth skiing. You can cruise off the scenic coast line and see really truly natural tropical beach areas. Their modern jet ski fleet of single and two-seaters are reliable and extremely stable. Both experienced and novice riders will delight in this experience.

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Just a 40-minute drive and you are at the private ranch where you receive a quick training lesson on our modern ATV quads in the training field. You are than ready to set out to conquer the jungle. The routes are well-maintained for your safety and pleasure. When you reach the beach front you than can cruise along the Caribbean coast line or stop for refreshments and take the optional jet ski tour. After a jaunt through the sand dunes, cruise back through the jungle to the ranch. There you can relax at the ranch next to the pool or the shaded area and have complimentary Mexican snacks and refreshments.

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Night dives and wreck dives for beginers and advanced divers. Parasailing, wave runners, snorkeling, deep sea fishing.

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Delicious and well-prepared Asian dishes are here, cheaper than at the resort area. Try the set menus, which include soup, boiled or fried rice, your choice of sushi rolls or teppanyaki. To complement this, try some sake or a beer and tempura ice cream as dessert. Very reasonable prices and high quality service. There's a sushi bar where you can watch as your sushi is prepared before your eyes. The staff is always helpful and friendly.

Description:

A magnificent presence on Cancún, this resort has 602 rooms (all are suites) and boasts a 1,000 ft. beach with an expansive pool complex. All suites are oceanfront, with panoramic views, separate sitting areas, and luxurious details. Guests enjoy a huge pool complex, a children's program, and an indoor "street" lined with a health spa, tennis courts, and restaurants, including the award-winning La Joya restaurant.

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In the ever-changing restaurant community that thrives in Cancún, it takes more than a little luck to stay on top. La Habichuela has been a staple of the downtown scene since 1977, with a romantic atmosphere and award-winning menu, it shows no sign of slowing down. The dishes are prepared from only the freshest ingredients, and the chefs stick to traditional recipes that make for a great culinary experience. The outdoor patio is a great place to unwind with that special someone after a long day, as the full gardens and soft lighting transport you to a country retreat. Also, check out the drink menu, as there are some great choices to complement any meal.

Description:

A magnificent presence on Cancún, this resort has 602 rooms (all are suites) and boasts a 1,000 ft. beach with an expansive pool complex. All suites are oceanfront, with panoramic views, separate sitting areas, and luxurious details. Guests enjoy a huge pool complex, a children's program, and an indoor "street" lined with a health spa, tennis courts, and restaurants, including the award-winning La Joya restaurant.

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This tourism agency offers all intrepid adventurers several options for water sports such as diving, snorkeling, sailing or sports fishing. It has specialized instructors so you can enjoy your adventure safely and pleasantly. Don't miss the opportunity to thrill to new experiences. Diving is an experience you can't miss. The coral reefs are some of the most beautiful spectacles that nature has to offer. This tour agency can provide information and prices.

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As a tribute to the famed Puerto Madero of Buenos Aires, this trendy restaurant has quickly earned a reputation for its outstanding steaks and buzzing atmosphere. Overlooking the Nichupté Lagoon, the decor re-creates a 20th-century dock warehouse similar to what you'd find in the real Puerto Madero, with dark woods, exposed brick, and visible pipes. This steakhouse offers an extensive selection of prime-quality beef cuts, pastas, grilled fish, and shellfish, meticulously prepared with Argentine gusto. In addition to the classic carpaccio, the tuna tartar and halibut steak are favorites, but the real standouts here are the tender grilled steaks (particularly the rib-eye), served in ample portions. Enjoy a cocktail or glass of wine from the extensive selection, while viewing the sunset from the lagoon-side deck. Service is excellent.

Description:

A magnificent presence on Cancún, this resort has 602 rooms (all are suites) and boasts a 1,000 ft. beach with an expansive pool complex. All suites are oceanfront, with panoramic views, separate sitting areas, and luxurious details. Guests enjoy a huge pool complex, a children's program, and an indoor "street" lined with a health spa, tennis courts, and restaurants, including the award-winning La Joya restaurant.

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An environmentally aware tour operator with ecotours through the Mayan world, including biking, bird watching, kayaking, snorkling, and visiting archaeological sites.

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Argentine cuisine has moved to Cancún, and it likes it so much, it's staying for good! The boom in specialized restaurants has been encouraged by the enormous influx of international tourism to Cancún. Here, even gauchos won't miss the delicacies of their homeland. You'll find steaks, a very good wine list and specialties such as meat juice, Argentinian churrasco and, for dessert, crêpes with caramelized condensed milk. This place is expensive and parking is available.

Description:

A magnificent presence on Cancún, this resort has 602 rooms (all are suites) and boasts a 1,000 ft. beach with an expansive pool complex. All suites are oceanfront, with panoramic views, separate sitting areas, and luxurious details. Guests enjoy a huge pool complex, a children's program, and an indoor "street" lined with a health spa, tennis courts, and restaurants, including the award-winning La Joya restaurant.