Trip Ideas

What Makes Cancun a Paradise Destination

What Makes Cancun a Paradise Destination

Not sure if Cancun is worth a visit? This list may make you immediately pack your bags and book a ticket.

The year was 1970 when construction began for many Cancun hotels and resorts. But for centuries before it, the area was nothing but virgin beaches, jungles, and wetlands.

After a lot of effort, Mexico transformed Cancun into one of the world’s most popular vacation destinations. Its establishments go on for a stretch of 93 miles, all without disrupting much of the natural area’s natural beauty.

If the picturesque scenery isn’t reason enough to book a trip, here are some other things that make Cancun a paradise destination for all ages.

Beautiful Beaches

The best things to do in Cancun always include a trip to the beach.

Its ivory beaches, white sands, and turquoise water simply make Cancun one of the most gorgeous locations on the Yucatan coast.

Know that the period from December to April is perfect for enjoying the warm ocean water, swimming, or snorkeling.

You can find rugged beach conditions on Chac Mool or Playa Delfines, in particular.

For crowded spots that keep the party going all day long, the northern part of the city makes more sense. Particularly noteworthy is Playa Las Perlas, long-considered one of the loveliest beaches in all of Cancun.

Despite no heavy development, there’s still a lot of undisturbed natural beauty, which is why tourists have been flocking to Cancun for decades.

Amazing Hotels and Resorts

If you want to spend time in Cancun, Mexico, you can do so in style. The city has hundreds of accommodations after all.

There’s enough to cater to a budget traveler, but Cancun also has some of the country’s most luxurious beach resorts.

The tropical retreat offers something for everyone, whether it’s the unrivaled luxury, boutique hotels, spas, or anything else you may fancy.

Wildlife Interaction

Swimming with dolphins is one of the most popular things to do in Cancun. It’s a family-friendly activity that you even partake in against a gorgeous tropical backdrop.

But wildlife interaction in Cancun doesn’t end there.

Between July and September, you can also book another underwater adventure – swimming with whale sharks. Isla Mujeres and Isla Contoy, in particular, offer the most shark tours.

You can also see rare sea turtles, go bird watching, and check out hundreds of amazing sea species. What’s also exciting is a trip to the Sian Ka’an UNESCO biosphere. It’s very close to Cancun and houses the rarest native land animals.

Diverse Culinary Scene

After a day of snorkeling in Cancun, you might want to rest and give your taste buds a treat. Cancun may be famous as it is for its beaches but it also shines when it comes to food.

Freshly caught seafood is always tasty. But you can also easily find oriental-inspired dishes, local treats, American burgers, Mediterranean menus.

If you can name it, some restaurant or resort probably makes it.

Count on getting excellent service all year long. Even in the offseason, some of the best chefs in the world call Cancun their home.

Great for Water Activities

Not every tourist that goes to Cancun is an explorer. Some people want a more thrilling experience.

Playa Chac Mool is one of the best if you want to do some traditional water activities or go windsurfing.

Cozumel Island is another hotspot for adrenaline-seeking travelers. The locals say it has some of the best water conditions. You won’t see big and scary waves, but you can rely on their consistency, which is great for practice.

Ruins Exploration

Exploring Cancun can give you a good sense of why it’s a paradise destination for many.

The ruins surrounding the city and the ancient temples have tourists looking in awe without fail. And the lush forests and vegetation create a mesmerizing background for complexes like Chichen Itza or Tulum.

Many tourists book day trips to go and see the thousands year old ancient ruins of Mayan architecture.

Exploring is one of the best things to do in Cancun with kids, partners, or by yourself. Along with going on guided tours that tell the story of Cancun’s history, you can also go on numerous hikes and discover the city’s past on your own.

A Never-Ending Party

There are plenty of secluded places in and around Cancun where you can relax. But, one of its unique draws is that the party never stops.

If El Centro is where most of the residents stay, Cancun Island is where everything else happens. It’s the part of Cancun designated for tourists, resorts, clubs, and fun activities.

But make no mistake. Downtown Cancun has its fair share of eye-popping laser shows, legendary parties, and chic cocktail spots too.

Wherever you go, you can find fun things to do in Cancun during the day and especially at night. And if you love dancing, spending a night at the Coco Bongo is a must.

Retail Therapy on the Yucatan

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Going on vacation brings out the shopper in everyone, and Cancun has no shortage of chic fashion stores. Here you can browse through modern shopping centers or visit an array of small boutique shops.

You can also get some pretty good deals, too. Many sellers don’t have a problem with haggling, especially those who sell local crafts.

Make It a Memorable Trip

There are many gorgeous tropical locations in the world, but few also earn the paradise moniker. Cancun is one of the few as it literally provides every form of entertainment that you or those of all ages could ask for.

The combination of modern amenities, lush jungles, ivory beaches, and ancient ruins makes it a unique place to visit and explore.

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10 Things You Didn’t Know You Could Do in NYC (Even Locals Miss These)

New York City is famous for iconic landmarks like Times Square, Broadway, and Central Park. But beneath its glittering surface, the city hides countless secrets—even most locals don’t know these exist. Ready to see a different side of NYC? Here are ten hidden gems to explore:

1. Whispering Gallery in Grand Central Terminal

In the bustling Grand Central Terminal lies an acoustic marvel. At the intersection near the Oyster Bar, whisper into one corner, and your voice magically travels clearly to someone standing at the opposite corner.

2. Visit the Berlin Wall

Believe it or not, a piece of the Berlin Wall stands quietly on 53rd Street. Often unnoticed, it’s a profound reminder of history nestled right in Midtown.

3. Secret Garden at Rockefeller Center

Hidden away atop Rockefeller Center is a stunning rooftop garden, an oasis of tranquility that offers breathtaking views—if you can find it.

4. Explore Roosevelt Island Tramway

Take an aerial tram for the cost of a subway fare and enjoy stunning skyline views on your way to Roosevelt Island, a peaceful escape from Manhattan’s hustle and bustle.

5. See a Tropical Rainforest in Queens

The Queens Botanical Garden houses an indoor tropical rainforest, complete with exotic flora and a year-round tropical climate—right in the heart of the city.

6. Walk Through NYC’s Smallest Park

Septuagesimo Uno, Manhattan’s tiniest park, is a hidden sliver of greenery tucked between buildings on the Upper West Side. Blink, and you’ll miss it.

7. Discover the Abandoned City Hall Subway Station

Though closed since 1945, you can glimpse the beautiful, ornate architecture of the abandoned City Hall station through a special subway tour, revealing a forgotten piece of NYC’s past.

8. Browse an Undercover Bookstore

Behind an inconspicuous brownstone door lies Albertine, a unique French bookstore filled with rare international literature and charming ambiance.

9. Kayak for Free on the Hudson

Many visitors and locals don’t realize that you can kayak on the Hudson River completely free during warmer months, offering unbeatable skyline views.

10. Visit an Authentic Himalayan Temple

The Jacques Marchais Museum of Tibetan Art on Staten Island transports you to the Himalayas without ever leaving NYC. Explore authentic Tibetan architecture, meditation gardens, and fascinating art collections.

Next time you’re in NYC, step beyond the usual tourist spots and discover these amazing hidden treasures. Who knows what else you’ll uncover?

Arts & Culture

New Orleans Was Just Named the World’s Best Food City — Here’s Where to Eat First

New Orleans recently earned the top spot on Time Out’s “Best Food Cities in the World 2025” list—outshining global hotspots from Bangkok to Cape Town. With 93% of locals rating it sky-high for restaurants and affordability, the Crescent City is officially a food lover’s paradise. Ready to explore the dishes that earned NOLA its crown? Here’s where to start:

1. Willie Mae’s Scotch House – Soulful Fried Chicken

This legendary Treme spot draws lines for its crusty, perfectly seasoned fried chicken and soulful white beans.

2. Commander’s Palace – Haute Creole Classics

A landmark for over a century, and a magnet for celebrities like Mick Jagger and Sandra Bullock. Here, elegant Creole dishes meet timeless Southern hospitality.

3. Dooky Chase’s Restaurant – Community & Culture

A civil-rights landmark and local favorite. Don’t miss their famed gumbo—it’s part of NOLA’s cultural heartbeat.

4. Dakar NOLA – Senegalese Gem

Named one of the 12 best new U.S. restaurants and James Beard Award–winning. It offers bold African flavors that add a global twist to the local scene.

5. Arnaud’s – Creole Tradition & History

Since 1918, Arnaud’s has defined Creole cuisine. Besides food, it houses a Mardi Gras museum—lesser-known but culturally rich.

6. Acamaya – Mariscos with a Mexican Flair

A newer hotspot on Dauphine Street specializing in Mexican seafood. Named a NYT “Top 50 U.S.” restaurant, it’s a must for adventurous eaters.

7. Café du Monde – Iconic Beignets & Chicory Coffee

You can’t talk NOLA food without beignets and café au lait. The powdered-sugar pastries at this legendary spot are a sugary introduction to the city.

8. Parkway Bakery & Tavern – Legendary Po’ Boys

Time Out ropes in Parkway for “if you only eat one thing…”—their roast-beef po’ boys are simple, iconic, and unforgettable.

9. Monday Bakery – Sweet Potato Beignets

TikTok star Keith Lee raves about them — “sweet potato beignets at Monday… he went back for another order.”

10. Hidden Courtyard Eats at Patula

A new addition praised by local critics: tucked away off the beaten path with atmospheric vibes and inventive dishes.

Why This Buzz Matters

– Local pride: 93% of New Orleanians rate it a top-tier food destination
– Global recognition: Top of Time Out’s worldwide list
– Celebrity appeal: Frequented by Beyoncé, Swift, Gordon Ramsay & more

Start with These Neighborhood Food Adventures

– Treme & French Quarter: Willie Mae’s, Parkway, Arnaud’s, Café du Monde
– Uptown & Magazine Street: Dakar NOLA, Acamaya, Monday Bakery
– Hidden Courtyard: Seek out Patula for something off-menu yet unforgettable.

New Orleans’s mix of tradition, innovation, and deep-rooted passion isn’t just a culinary scene—it’s a story you can taste. Now that it’s officially the world’s best, there’s no better time to plan your escape one bite at a time.

Cancun

You Won’t Believe What $147 Gets You In Cancun – Unlimited Food, Drinks & 5 Nights

Sound too good to be true? We thought so too. But it’s real. For just $147 total, you can stay 6 days and 5 nights in one of Mexico’s most iconic beachfront destinations—Cancun—with unlimited food, drinks, and sunshine included.

Thanks to a special offer from Booksi, this isn’t just a vacation—it’s a steal. Here’s what you get:

🌴 Stay at the The 5-Star Grand Cancun All Inclusive Resort

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You’ll be living the beachfront dream at the stunning The 5-Star Grand Cancun All Inclusive Resort. Think white-sand beaches, infinity pools, ocean views, and luxe resort vibes. Rooms are spacious, elegant, and made for unwinding.

🍽️ Unlimited Food + Drinks

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That’s breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and even top-shelf cocktails—all included. Dine at multiple on-site restaurants and sip tropical drinks by the pool without ever reaching for your wallet.

🎉 All-Day, All-Night Entertainment

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From pool parties and live music to salsa lessons and beach games, there’s always something happening. Want to just relax in a hammock by the sea? You can do that, too.

💵 Why Is It So Cheap?

Booksi negotiates insane rates with premium resorts. This is not a gimmick—it’s an exclusive, limited-time deal that travelers in the know are jumping on fast. At just $147 total for 5 nights, you’re paying less than the cost of a single nice dinner back home.