For my 29th birthday I decided to fly to Mexico to spend 4 days and 3 nights by myself. This was only my third time outside of the country and first time in South America. I originally wanted to spend birthday in Jamaica, but when my flight was cancelled I took that as a sign to change my plans. Cancun was always a destination I imagined going when I grew up, but I couldn’t afford it in college for spring break (or perhaps didn’t feel confident enough to travel by myself then). This was my opportunity to finally go and see if it’s how I pictured it.
I booked a Frontier flight to Cancun, which was OK for the price, but I may opt for another airline next time. The flight is about three hours and the comfortability on a Frontier flight is nonexistent. I at least need a seat that reclines and in-flight entertainment when flying international. Also, frontier is more likely to be delayed or even cancelled. When it comes to a milestone trip or if you don’t get many opportunities to travel (like me), you want to have a peace of mind when you do.
Arriving in Mexico was an experience. After getting through customs successfully, it was time to find my way to my hotel. I didn’t get lured into taking a taxi, despite the drivers’ best efforts, as I know that’s the most expensive travel option. In an effort to save money I opted for the bus. I believe I tried to only speak in Spanish when I first arrived, so I purchased a bus ticket at the kiosk using Spanish. I thought I needed Spanish to make it easier but the workers in Cancun know English pretty well. Leaving the terminal and going outside I was welcomed by the sizzling hot weather Cancun is known for. Ay curumba! I almost bought a drink at the bar outside, which I think is genius spot. There was decent amount of other travelers there arranging their transportation or waiting for it to arrive. A little sip while you’re waiting is pretty on brand for kicking off a Spring Break in Cancun. I saved my first drink for later that day…..
The bus came after a short wait outside. I gave my ticket and got on the charter bus which felt way more deluxe than what I imagined in my head. I was one of the first few on the bus and picked my seat which was 10x more comfortable than my flight seat. I did get to chatting with another tourist from DMV who had been down there before. It was nice talking to someone similar about our experience. I couldn’t believe the views we were getting from our bus windows. The palm trees, dozens of hotels and resorts, and sweeping panoramic views of the ocean were completely mesmerizing. I took multiple videos of the scenes outside the bus but I know they will never do it justice. The architecture and landscaping I witnessed proved how much money is flowing down in Cancun after years of hyper tourism.
The bus dropped me at a shopping center that was a long walk away from my hotel. I didn’t feel like spending money on a taxi or anything else so I decided to walk. This was my first mistake, as I didn’t realize just how oppressive the heat and humidity was until I started walking. Anything beyond a 20 minute walk outside is brutal enough, but to have a suitcase and backpack too is borderline torture. I could feel my shirt becoming drenched with sweat, my hotel seemed a world away. After 20 -30 minutes hoofing it I finally reached my hotel. It was very nice and the hotel workers were quite welcoming. The suite I booked was huge, compared to any hotel I booked in the states. Hundreds of hotels and bed and breakfasts and room rentals compete with each other so that means during the slow season it’s easy to get a good deal. My suite was the best bang for the buck for me because it was technically in the hotel zone but still separate from all the other resorts. And the views from my room were incredible. It was a beautiful yard filled with palm trees, and overlooking the lake. The crystal blue pool was another big draw for me, because I wanted to just lounge and chill by the pool underneath the palms. It was truly a picture perfect hotel, and I’m happy I picked Sina Suites. After admiring all the space I shared with no one in my massive suite, I sat outside on my patio and admired my hotel property. I couldn’t believe I was really in Mexico for my birthday. Unreal!
After cooling off and relaxing bit, it was time for dinner. I wanted something I could just walk to quickly, so I picked the taco joint in the strip mall right off the main road I passed when I came. I was one of just a few patrons at this restaurants at the time so I received very attentive and focused customer service from the staff. I enjoyed a very fresh, strong mojito in a big glass with sugar on the rim and a tiny umbrella. It was very refreshing as they included a generous amount of sweet mint leaves and fresh lime juice. I don’t think I can find a better mojito anywhere near me. To pair with my mojito I ordered shrimp tacos and fish tacos that were yummy. Included with these were fresh toppings you expect like cilantro, chopped onions, etc. as well as salsa on the side. The vibe at this restaurant was immaculate, it perfectly encapsulated what I felt Mexico is. Having a taco and a mojito on the patio, listening to cultural music and watching local TV in Spanish while a gentle warm summer breeze flows in. I was feeling really good after this meal.
After making my way back home I just vibed inside the suite. I watched Netflix (boring I know, this is my creature comfort…..yes i can be a homebody even in a new country….also it was a Monday night). So this was my first day in Mexico. I will update with a new entry for everyday of my trip. Having everything in one post would make for a lengthy read. So stay tuned for more on my trip as well as if I recommend solo traveling in late 20s-early 30s and my opinions on Cancun and Mexico.