Mexico - any suggestions for extended stays?
Oh I guess while we're talking about Mexico...can you guys suggest somewhere to stay for an extended period..and what I'm after...
not too "touristy" but would like to be able to access transport to the "touristy" places
- love archeological stuff
- love the ocean
- love mountains (but of course not essential for this trip)
Anything that fits the bill? Let me know - gracias..
8 Answers
Yesero said:
Tulum is beautiful.
I agree. This is also fairly close to everything you are looking for. You are within driving distance of both Playa del Carmen, an interesting city for you to investigate (especially Avenida Cinco). At Playa del Carmen, you can take a short boat ride over to the island of Cozumel, which has a lot to explore, along with excellent diving.
A short distance north of Playa del Carmen is Cancun, which is extremely touristy. However, we discovered a great little island, which is a thirty minute boat ride from a port in Cancun. It is called Isla Mujeres. You can spend a day or two there. There are breathtaking views of the Caribbean on this island.
There is so much to do in this Riviera Mayan region of the Yucatan. All of this is located in the state of Quintana Roo. Enjoy! 
I'm with Sunshine... Tulum is beautiful. We've stayed in Akumal and Puerta Aventuras, both on the water, and both within a half hour of the ruins. There is also Chichen Itza which is even more spectacular than the Tulum site. There is everything the warm Caribe can offer as well as the cenotes for an unforgettable cavern experience.
Valladolid is another possiblity, if you're investigating the Yucatán. It's close to Chichen Itza and you could catch a bus to Cancún & Tulum on the east, Tizimin to the north, and Mérida (another good-sized city) and possibly even Uxmal (if you're up for a long bus ride) to the west. I reccommend el Mesón de Marqués if you're looking for a hotel. They have a web page.
Oaxaca has several archeological sites and the people are super friendly.
I also appreciate these suggestions because every time I go to Mexico it's on business in very industrial areas, so it would be nice at some point to experience something different.
Even so, I've found that every city I've visited has its interesting points, if you have a local that can point you in the right direction. The old town square and aquaduct in Querétaro spring to mind. There is a lot of history in Mexico.
Guys thanks so much for all the fabulous suggestions...Mmm...was going to stay for approx two months - might have to stay longer.....
My husband and I loved Huatulco and the town of La Crucecita which is about 10 minutes or so from Santa Cruz. La Crucecita is still very Mexican. There are some great bays there along the Pacific coast from which to swim or do whatever water sport you like. There are some great mountain tours available. We stayed at a Barceló hotel at Huatulco Beach. It was wonderful.
Tulum is amazing
