Ahhh, Mexico - One of the Most Relaxing Places on Earth

Story and photos by Jennifer Stock

Even though the heat and humidity hits you like a wall as you get off of the plane, and even though there is the feeling of being completely lost as you look over the heads of the clumped mass of travelers at the Cancun airport, you still can’t help but feel that anticipatory grin spread across your face. Ahhh, Mexico!

Your bones feel that the ocean is nearby, despite wondering silently to yourself (like nearly everyone else there), “Where is the luggage pick up area? Do I have to go through customs? Which form do I have to keep out while I juggle my passport, my iPod and the 20 pound backpack on my shoulder?” The slow pace of the towns and resorts is palpable, despite the ferocious taxi ride out of the airport. Without even noticing, you slip into relaxation mode or party mode, depending upon your personal preference. But even the partiers find relaxation immersed somewhere in their tequila, and it doesn’t take long either way.

Whether you settle into a small town of expats and locals or wile away the hours at an upscale all inclusive resort, the Riviera Maya cradles you like her baby, singing a lullaby to your over-stressed soul. Even when your travels find you opting for excitement, from parasailing to driving a rental car yourself, the adrenaline in this tropical paradise is of a subtler variety than it is back home.

I’ve toured around a little in Mexico; seen Chichén Itzá, Xel-Há, native communities in the jungle, Playa del Carmen, and the Tulúm ruins. They were all great, fascinating, interesting, and fun, but when it gets right down to it, swinging in a hammock or sitting on the beach gazing at the ocean is all I need. Oh, and some guacamole. Lots of guacamole! And maybe a smoothie or a piña colada!

Just noticing the feeling of not having to do a single thing and simply enjoying the wild sounds of the jungle birds combined with the smell of the ocean and some sort of delicate flower scent hanging in the air is heaven. It is the perfect combination of warmth and humidity, moist like a rose petal, so unlike the big city humidity that leaves you feeling greasy and boiled.

Some of the best and most relaxing spots I’ve found:

Puerto Morelos: the nearly tourist free beach, sharing great food with friends at any of the local restaurants and, most especially, a delicious and creamy cappuccino at Café de Amancia.

Tulúm: endless beautiful, soft sandy beaches; lots of fun hippie hangouts and El Paraiso’s bar on the beach with swings in lieu of stools. At the Tulúm ruins, be sure to wear your bathing suit under your clothes so you can jump in the water when it starts getting too hot!

Playa del Carmen: Ah, Cacao Chocolate Café, where I found out, much to my surprise and delight, that there is possibly such a thing as too much chocolate – at least when eating all of it in one meal! But don’t take my word for it, treat yourself! It’s Mexico!!!

Akumal: Great snorkeling can be had amid beautiful rocky seascapes for a modest fee at the Yal Ku Lagoon but only rocks on which to sit. Also visit the Centro Ecológico Akumal Information Center where you can learn about and participate in the area’s dedicated efforts to reduce negative environmental impact on one of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world.

For a generally non-touristy traveler, I was surprised at how much I enjoyed Xel-Há. It’s as if they’ve taken a wonderful assortment of the culture and environs of this part of Mexico and packaged it all nicely, complete with lifeguards and restrooms. The night show is really great – much better than the one at Chichén Itzá. Check it out it and you’ll be glad you stayed for it after all!

I still can’t pinpoint exactly what it is about Mexico. The gentle humility of the locals, the surf and sand and the ancient echoes from the ruins all add up to relaxation that gently fills your soul. Relax and enjoy!