Have any of you been to Mexico? I just spent a couple of days in Playa del Carmen and it was incredible! I stayed in Mareazul, a complex right on the beach with amazing amenities; highly recommended if you’re looking for a quiet and peaceful stay. The place has a large (as in super LARGE) swimming pool, gym, on-site restaurant, beach umbrellas, hammocks, a playground for the kids….I have to say, my cousins sure did a great job finding a place where to stay 🙂
We would spend the day at the beach, then hit the pool, and of course, we couldn’t miss visiting the Cenotes. Do any of you know about them? They are naturally formed sinkholes or “swimming pools” found in Mexico (especially in Tulum, Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Merida) often connected by underground caves where you can swim, snorkel and dive. Each Cenote is different, some have cliffs to jump from, others have ziplines, some of them are shallow, but all undoubtedly beautiful. We visited one called Verde Lucero and another one called Chikin Ha, but there are tons of them all over the region. If you plan on visiting them (please do, they are a MUST!) here are some tips:
. Entry fees to the cenotes vary and while cash is preferable, credit cards are usually accepted.
. Fees vary depending on the the size of the Cenote and what is offered (ziplines, on-site restaurant, and so on).
. Life vests are usually free and snorkelling masks can be rented for 30-50 pesos.
. Some cenotes are deep and there’s usually nowhere to hold on to except for a rope, so if it makes you feel more comfortable, get a life vest for the kiddos.
. Make sure to apply sunscreen (it can get VERY hot!) and spray mosquito repellent before arriving as they won’t allow you to apply either one before entering the Cenote to protect the ecosystems.
. Some places will even make you take a quick a shower before entering.
. Make sure you wear comfortable footwear (water shoes or rubber sole footwear) as the terrain is a bit tricky to walk on and rocks can be slippery.
. I’d recommend bringing some water and snacks. Don’t forget a towel!
. Just bring the essentials with you as there is nowhere to leave your belongings at except a for a spot on the ground (some cenotes offer lockers for rent, others will have a seating section, just ask!)
. Kids under 5 are usually free, kids under 12 normally pay half the fee, and adult fees can fall anywhere between 300 and 500 pesos.
Below are some photos from the trip, hope you enjoy them and if you have any questions just shoot!
