Puerto Vallarta A Hidden Gem Among Exotic Travel Destinations

BY  Mashum Sep 3, 2019

“Mexico is a mosaic of different realities and beauties” - Enrique Pena Nieto Mexico is a beautiful country filled with a rich bounty of natural, historical and cultural treasures. While Mexico is mostly famous for its breathtaking beaches dotted across the extensive shoreline, Mexico is so much more than just its beaches. It is one of the lesser-explored hidden gems of the world, which makes it even more affordable. There are so many things to do in Mexico that one trip would surely not feel enough! 12 Things That Everyone Should Try In Mexico: 1. Visit the Mexican Pyramids: If you thought that Egypt was the only place you could find pyramids, think again! Mexico has a huge array of stunning pyramids, which date back to the Mayan Civilization, as old as 300 BC. Some of the most striking among them is located in Cholula, Chichen Itza, Coba, etc. There are a number of pyramids from the Aztec civilization spread across sites, such as Teotihuacán, Tenayuca, and Tenochtitlan as well as those erected by several other civilizations. There are also a number of unexplored pyramids and it is yet to be determined which civilization constructed them. Some of these have been more recently discovered and it is only expected that there are more to be yet discovered. 2. Mayan Ruins in Tulum: Located on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, the town of Tulum is a beautiful blend of the ancient and the modern. Its proximity to Cancun, beautiful beach and Cenoteshas gained it the moniker of being a popular resort town. It ‘s also known for hosting some of the best Yoga Retreats in Mexico, which are an exciting archaeological site with incredible Mayan ruins, such as Temple of the Frescoes, Temple of the Descending God, El Castillo and the famous Tulum's wall. 3. Puebla and Cholula: Take a day trip to Puebla and Cholula and witness the creations of one of the most advanced ancient civilizations. Cholula is where you can feast your eyes in the glory of the largest pyramid in the world. A part of it hidden by the mountain, this majestic pyramid is way bigger, although not taller, than the pyramid of Giza. Visit other archeological sites like Convent of Santa Monica, Chapel of the Rosary, and Church of Our Lady of the Remedies. In Puebla, you can witness magnificent colonial architecture, which will leave you spellbound. 4. Explore Aztec history in Mexico City: Right outside the capital of Mexico City lies the archaeological sites of Teotihucán with its majestic pyramids, the Pyramid of the Sun being the largest. Other sites worth exploring are Tenochtitlán, Templo Mayor, Cuicuilco, Calixtlahuaca, Santa Cecilia Acatitlán, Plaza de las tres Culturas, etc. Take a trip to the museums in the city for an informative and comprehensive educational tour. 5. Appreciate art and architecture: Mexico is a throbbing canter of art, culture, and architecture. When in Mexico make sure you check out the mesmerizing and moving works of Frida Kahlo at the Frida Kahlo Museum, also known as the Blue House. Take a trip to the Museo Mural Diego Rivera to witness the famous mural along with Museo Casa Estudio Diego Rivera y Frida Kahlo where the works of both artists are exhibited. The culture of art in Mexico is so widespread that you will find gorgeous street art pieces made by contemporary local artists, which are worth stopping by and photographing. 6. Iztaccihuatl: A hike up to the extinct volcano of Iztaccihuatl, popularly known as the sleeping lady, is a must-do for all nature lovers. Leave behind the noise and people of the city and witness the beauty of the sylvan flora and fauna, which exhibit a vast range of habitats from the forests of evergreen trees like oak, pine, alnusetc to the alpine. There are thousands of species of plants that you can see. These mountains are inhabited by a variety of animals such as puma, lynx, white-tailed deer, teporingo rabbit, coati and various species of birds. 7. Cenote of Hubiku: The cenotes of Mexico are beautiful sinkholes, which are filled with the bluest of the clear waters making them irresistible. Given the sheer number of cenotes the region has, swimming in one is an absolute must to on the list of things to do in Mexico. While the cenote at Hubiku is the most popular there are more at Cancun, Tulum, etc. You can also go snorkeling at these cenotes for a marvelous view. 8. Swim with sharks in Cancun: If the thrill is your love, swimming with the sharks is something that you would not want to miss out. The popular beach destination of Cancun offers its visitors a rare and thrilling opportunity of swimming with giant whale sharks of the Caribbean Sea. The largest sharks in the world, these only feed on plankton and hence, pose no threat to humans. 9. Relax with some yoga: There are a number of excellent Yoga Retreats in Mexico, which will leave you relaxed and rejuvenated before you head home or head off to the next leg of your vacation. Whether you want to lose some weight to look ripped in your vacay photos or you simply want to let go of stress, Xinalani Retreat, Spirit of Cacao Retreat, Jungle Taoist Retreat, Playa Viva Yoga Retreat, Amansalaetc are some of the Best Yoga Retreats in Mexico 10. Join in the festival fun: Festivals in Mexico are full of colors, sounds, music and so much life that you will not feel like an outsider in the celebrations. If there is one festival you must attend in Mexico, it is Día de Muertos or the day of the dead. Celebrating the life and journey of dead loved, thousands of people take to the streets decked up in vibrant attires and makeup, which represent the dead, such as skulls, something that is so uniquely stunning. Other festivals, such as Cinco de Mayo, Festival de México, Carnaval, Guelaguetza Festival etc are worth visiting too. 11. Pure food coma: Mexican food offers a vibrant burst of flavors, textures, and spices, which will leave your appetite asking for more. To have a real taste of Mexico, do try their tacos, chilaquiles, tostadas, pozole, enchiladas, mole, and tamales. There areseveral delectable vegetarian and non-vegetarian options that make this country a paradise for foodies. Do try out their freshest beans, authentic salsa and guacamole. Make sure you end your meal with popular Mexican desserts, such as jericalla, nieve de garrafa, pan de elote, etc. 12. Party till you drop: Head over to the Guadalajara for the most epic parties one can ever witness! The hub of exciting nightlife, the city teems with clubs, pubs, discos as well as tons of other party options where you can literally party till wee hours in the morning. Cancun boasts of some of the most epic beach parties as well as a vibrant nightlife with some of the best DJs belting out popular tracks and foot-tapping music. Final words… Mexico is one of the most amazing and lively countries that you can visit. Explore the beauties of nature, rich history of ancient civilizations, heritage and culture, music, food, beach, parties and much more. There are so many things to do in Mexico that you will want to come back for more! Read Also: Top 10 Places To Visit In Singapore 10 Best Things To Do In Dublin (Ireland) 10 Best Places To Visit In Sikkim Top 5 Unique Things To Do In Udaipur The Ultimate Guide To Travelling When You Have No Money 5 EUROPEAN DESTINATIONS NEGATIVELY IMPACTED BY ‘OVER-TOURISM

BY  Sibashree Sep 15, 2025

“Many violent crimes take place in Mexico. They include homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery. There is a risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Mexico.” This is how the travel advisory summary of the U.S. State Department opens. The advisory, issued on 12th August 2025, asks travelers to exercise Level 2 or increased caution.  Furthermore, the UK Foreign Travel Advice about Mexico says,  “In the aftermath of Hurricane Otis, normal work by local authorities to reduce risks to tourists in Acapulco’s tourist area has stopped while they focus on recovery efforts. There are reports of an increase in crime, robbery and looting across the city, including in previously designated tourist areas. Take extreme care if you travel to Acapulco.” Also on forums such as Reddit and Quora, everyone is talking about is Acapulco safe now or not. Moreover, about the declining popularity of Acalpulco, one user on Reddit has written,  “No, absolutely not. There were some incidents a few years back of dead bodies washing up on beaches with tourists taking pictures (cartel killings). The city is awash in crime and the economy is really bad. In the 1970s-1980s, most of the family-tourism traffic and nightlife moved to Cancun and the Riviera Maya (which is a purpose-built region) and then most of the upscale tourism shifted to Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas. Acapulco is a dump these days.” Once a dominant global destination, Acapulco is now a forgotten or lesser-celebrated name among travelers. In this Tour and Travel Blog, we will discuss the serious safety concern impacting the life and tourism in Acapulco and how it is planning to make a comeback.  Is Acapulco Safe Now? The Resilience And The Concerns Acapulco is the first international tourist destination in Mexico. With a beach area of 50 kilometers, verdant mountains, and lagoons, it is an ideal beach tourism retreat in the heart of Mexico.  Furthermore, Acapulco was prompt in response to the COVID-19 debacle and adhered to the safety and hygiene standards. The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) even awarded Acapulco the “Safe Travels” stamp.  Even after Hurricane Otis in October 2023, the city showed its resilience, with international travel airlines such as United Airlines resuming their services by May 2024. Since then, the city has also hosted major events such as the Mexican Open and Tianguis Turistico, or the annual tourism conference of Mexico.  In addition, there have been announcements of major inaugurations such as The Pierre & Diamonds, a luxury real estate project by the Mundo Imperial slated to open in 2026.  Moreover, Visit Acapulco, the official tourism organization of the city, has assured that hundreds of families enjoy trips to Acapulco because of the peace and tranquility.  While the grit and the character of the city to bounce back are not to be questioned, there are some areas of serious concern. The Increasing Crime Rate In Acapulco This increasing crime rate is one of the reasons why Acapulco is losing its charm as a spring break destination in 2025. However, places such as Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas are generally considered safer travel destinations in Mexico.  Nevertheless, here are the details of crime rates in Mexico. (Source: Numbeo).  Crime Rates in MexicoRatingCommentCrime Level80.56 Very HighCrime Increase Rate for the Last Five Years67.39HighViolent Crime77.52HighCrime due to Drug Dealing and Using67.44High From A Celebrity Hotspot To A Struggling Beach Location: The Transformation Of Acapulco Acapulco, on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, has been a popular celebrity tourism destination throughout the 20th century. It had earned the reputation of being the Riviera of Mexico, with celebrities such as Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor flocking to this Mexican beach vacation frequently.  However, the high rates of drug cartel crimes and violent crimes have made this beach retreat less popular among international tourists. Today, tourists are looking for safer alternatives such as Los Cabos or Cancun.  What’s So Special About Acapulco? Know Things You Cannot Miss In Acapulco The beaches and the unique gastronomic experience are the things you cannot miss in Acapulco. Here are the details.  1. The Best Beaches In Acapulco The beaches of Acapulco are beautiful, with the Pacific Ocean kissing the golden sandy shores. Bars, restaurants, and other amenities make the beaches of Acapulco the ultimate destination for family vacations.  At the same time, you can bring out your adventurous self on these beaches with activities such as snorkeling, surfing, parasailing, and skiing.  The most popular beaches in Acapulco are Condesa Beach, Pichilingue Beach, Majahua Beach, and Barra de Coyuca.  2. The Best Gastromic Experience In Acapulco Zocalo de Acapulco is the hub if you want to try the authentic flavors of Acapulco and the best international cuisines. You can try fish tacos, enchiladas, and tamales from the local vendors in Acapulco. Furthermore, Pozole is a kind of popular Mexican stew. It has variations such as green, white or red.  The Acapulco Se Transforma Contigo (Acapulco Transforms With You) Program: The Way Forward For Acapulco  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Partido Morena (@morena_partido) The Mexican Government has recently issued a decree and the Acapulco se Transforma Contigo (Acapulco Transforms With You) program to build an “Integrally Planned Center (CIP).” According to a report in Mexico Business News, Sebastián Ramírez, the Deputy Minister of Tourism, has said that the Federal Government will invest MX$800 million for the development of the port.  Furthermore, for many other cities in Mexico, CIP has been a successful model, promoting a tourism boom. Therefore, it will play a crucial role in the city's transformation.  In addition, there will be a revitalization of the Bay of Acapulco. The revitalization program will create a historical, tourism, and cultural circuit of 5 km.  Moreover, Acapulco is going to have the Maribus maritime transportation system, protected natural areas such as the Puerto Marques Complex, and the Coyuca-Tres Palos Lagoon System, along with amenities such as free Wi-Fi on the beaches.  In addition, there will be major road and public infrastructure developments, like the National Water Commission (CONAGUA) investing MX$7.9 billion for better potable water, sanitation, and flood management facilities.  So, Acapulco, Mexico, is standing on the verge of a massive transformation, and with a controlled crime rate, the city has every potential to regain its glory as a celebrated travel destination.  Is Acapulco Safe? Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about safety in Acalpulco.  1. What Is The Safest Way To Go Around Acapulco? Acapulco has an extensive bus network. It also has many other shared ride services. However, considering the safety scenario of the city, it is better to book app cabs or opt for the pre-arranged airport services.  2. What Language Do They Speak In Acapulco? Most people in Acapulco speak Spanish. However, if you don’t know Spanish, you will also find people speaking English. Still, you can learn some basic words and phrases in Spanish for easy conversations.  3. What Is The Safest City In Mexico? Mérida, the capital of Yucatán, is often considered the safest city in Mexico. The U.S. State Department also considers Mérida safe for travelers. The USA travel advisory has also just issued a “Level 1: Exercise normal precautions" statement for the region. Furthermore, the city boasts a strong sense of community involvement and civic pride. In addition, it has the best infrastructure.  4. Is Acapulco Or Cancun Safer? Cancun is a safer place than Acapulco, considering the level of crime in Acapulco is 80.56, and in Cancun, it is 60.50. Furthermore, the overall crime index of Acapulco is 66.27, and for Cancun, it is 55.27. (Source: Numbeo).  Read Also: What Is Mazamitla Mexico, Known For? (Directions, Things To Do, Accommodations, And More) Is Monterrey Mexico Safe For A Holiday? Decoding Your Travel Safety For A Trip To Mexico Valladolid Mexico: Exploring The City That Was Built In 1543

BY  Priya Mar 30, 2022

Mexico City is a vast metropolis with endless neighborhoods to explore. It can be hard to know where to start with so much to see and do. So, we've put together this guide on the best neighborhoods in Mexico City! Whether you're looking for history, culture, nightlife, or shopping, read on and discover the best of Mexico City's neighborhoods! 1. Santa Fe Looking for a trendy, upscale neighborhood in Mexico City, look no further than Santa Fe. This newer neighborhood is home to some of the city's best shopping, dining, and entertainment. Santa Fe is also one of the most convenient neighborhoods in the city, with easy access to public transportation. Hotels in Sante Fe, Mexico City are also some of the best in the city if you are looking for the perfect place to stay. 2. La Condesa La Condesa is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Mexico City, and it's easy to see why. This hip and trendy neighborhood is home to some of the city's best bars, stylish sidewalk cafés, trendy restaurants, and clubs. It is home to a lot of art deco apartment buildings, tree-lined avenues, and art nouveau mansions. 3. Roma Roma is another popular neighborhood in Mexico City, and it's known for its bohemian atmosphere. However, this is a great place to come for art, music, and good food. Roma is also one of the most walkable neighborhoods in the city, so it's perfect for those who want to explore on foot. 4. Coyoacan Coyoacan is one of the unique neighborhoods in Mexico City. This colorful neighborhood is known for its art, food, and markets. Coyoacan is also home to Frida Kahlo's former home, which is now a museum. 5. San Miguel Chapultepec San Miguel Chapultepec is one of the best neighborhoods in Mexico City for history and culture. In addition, this neighborhood is home to some of the city's most important museums, including the Museum of Anthropology and the National Museum of Art. Also, it is home to the city’s largest park, the Bosque de Chapultepec Park. 6. Tlalpan If you're looking for a neighborhood with a more relaxed atmosphere, Tlalpan is the perfect place. This residential neighborhood is full of parks and green space, making it a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. 7. Centro Historico Centro Historico is the historic center of Mexico City, and it's one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city. In addition, this neighborhood is home to some of the city's most important landmarks, including the Zocalo, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Templo Mayor, the former main temple of the ancient Mexica people. 8. Zona Rosa Also known as the "pink zone," Zona Rosa is one of the best neighborhoods in Mexico City for nightlife. This vibrant neighborhood is full of bars, clubs, and restaurants, and it's always buzzing with energy. As the city center of Mexico City's gay community, Zona Rosa is also a great place to experience the city's LGBTQ+ nightlife. 9. Polanco If you're looking for an upscale neighborhood in Mexico City, Polanco is the perfect place. This chic neighborhood is home to some of the city's best shopping, dining, and entertainment as well as upscale accommodation options. Read Also: What Can You Expect From The New Year’s In Mexico 6 Best Delicious Destinations That You Can’t Miss How To Turn Your Tulum Trip Into An Unforgettable Adventure