We spent six months living in Mexico, mainly in the Riviera Maya (between Cancún, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum) and some time in Mexico City. Mexico is not a country you simply visit; it is a country you experience through its flavors, music, and people.

Each region feels like a different country. The relaxed rhythm of the Caribbean has little in common with the vibrant intensity of Mexico City. Traveling here means embracing a constant contrast between the ancient and the modern.

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11 places to visit in Mexico: From Jungle to Metropolis

1- Mexico City (CDMX): One of the most fascinating capitals in the world. Don't miss Coyoacán, the pyramids of Teotihuacán, and the incredible street food.

2- Cancún: Home to some of Mexico's best beaches.

3- Playa del Carmen: A great combination of a walkable city and beautiful beaches.

4- Tulum: A paradise of cenotes and seaside Mayan ruins.

5- Isla Mujeres: A peaceful island escape just off Cancún.

6- Cozumel: Ideal for snorkeling and often the best refuge from sargassum seaweed.

7- Oaxaca: The culinary heart of Mexico. If you're looking for authenticity and living traditions, this is the place.

8- Chichén Itzá: One of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Local tip: Arrive as soon as it opens (around 8:00 AM) to get ahead of the tour groups coming from Cancún.

9- The Pacific Coast: Destinations such as Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita (perfect for surfing), and Mazatlán. This side of Mexico offers ocean sunsets and a more laid-back vibe than the Caribbean.

10- Baja California: Famous for whale watching in the Sea of Cortez, the vineyards of Valle de Guadalupe, and the desert landscapes of Los Cabos.

11- Northern Mexico and Copper Canyon: An epic journey aboard the famous "El Chepe" train through breathtaking canyons between Chihuahua and Sinaloa.

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Transportation in 2026: Getting Around Mexico

To plan your routes in 2026, these are the best transportation options depending on your itinerary:

• Maya Train (The New Giant): Ideal for long-distance travel across southeastern Mexico (Cancún, Mérida, Bacalar). Modern and comfortable, though not the cheapest option.
• ADO Buses (The Reliable Choice): The best way to travel between major cities comfortably and on time. Mid-range pricing.
• Colectivos (Shared Vans): The cheapest option for short routes in the Riviera Maya, such as traveling from Playa del Carmen to a cenote. Personally, I find them quite uncomfortable because they are often crowded and have limited space.
• Ride-Hailing Apps (Uber/Didi): Work very well in Mexico City. In Quintana Roo, use them carefully due to ongoing local transportation disputes.

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What to Eat: A Map of Flavors

• Tacos: Try Al Pastor (with pineapple) and Cochinita Pibil (a Yucatán specialty).
• Chilaquiles: The breakfast of champions. Tortilla chips with salsa, cheese, cream, and eggs or chicken.
• Aguas Frescas: Jamaica, Horchata, and Tamarind are lifesavers in the heat.
• Spicy Food: A real tip: even when locals tell you something "isn't spicy," it usually is. Always test a small amount before covering your food in salsa.

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Survival Tips and Useful Information

• Water: Never drink tap water. Even brushing your teeth with it can be a problem if you have a sensitive stomach. Stick to bottled water.
• ATMs and Cash: Cash is still king in many markets, food stalls, and cenotes. Important tip: When withdrawing money, always decline the ATM's currency conversion option (Decline Conversion) and let your bank handle the exchange rate. You'll save a significant amount.
• Sargassum: If you're visiting the Caribbean coast, check Facebook groups such as "Sargasso Seaweed Updates Riviera Maya." When seaweed levels are high, Isla Mujeres is often much cleaner.
• Safety and Insurance: Mexico is easy to travel with common sense, but never travel without medical insurance. Private healthcare can be expensive.
• Tipping: Service is usually not included. A tip between 10% and 15% is expected. Check your bill first to make sure it hasn't already been added.
• Cenotes: Always bring biodegradable sunscreen. Many cenotes will not allow entry otherwise to protect the ecosystem.
• Connectivity and Data: In 2026, the easiest option is an eSIM (such as Airalo or Holafly) so you have internet as soon as you land. If you're heading into jungle areas or remote towns, Telcel still offers the country's best coverage.

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Best Time to Visit

• November: Our favorite month. The heavy rains are over, and you can experience Day of the Dead, something everyone should witness at least once.
• December to April: Perfect weather, but also peak season with higher prices.
• May and June: Very hot, and the sargassum season begins on some Caribbean beaches.

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Our Experience: Six Months Living in Mexico

Living in Mexico changed our perspective. We learned that time moves differently here and that happiness can sometimes be as simple as a cheap taco from a street corner stand with music playing in the background.

We fell in love with the Riviera Maya, but not the version filled with large resorts. We loved the hidden cenotes deep in the jungle and the sunsets seen from the ferry to Cozumel. Mexico welcomes you with open arms, but it also asks you to leave your preconceptions behind and embrace its beautiful chaos.

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You May Also Like

• Complete Playa del Carmen Guide
• Visiting Isla Mujeres
• Cancún Travel Guide