I want to weigh in on this topic that (seemingly) continues to be a concern for some. I have just returned from a business trip to Cancun and the Riviera Maya destinations of Mexico, spending almost two weeks in this gorgeous destination. I have had the pleasure to stay in four different resorts, from Playa del Carmen to Playa Mujeres, including the hotel zone in Cancun and south into the Riviera Maya. Additionally, I have visited another four resorts that we regularly do business with. This is a destination that I frequently visit – on average, 6-8 times annually. Most of these business trips, I am alone. For the over ten years that I have been traveling to Mexico, there has never been one single incident that has caused me concern.
Rather, the experiences are only positive. From the moment your plane lands, you deplane and feel the humidity and tropical climate that makes your hair ‘puffy’. Visitors filing into the Immigration area of the airport and filled with excitement and anticipation of this fairytale vacation experience. The hospitality everywhere is warm and genuine, the service is amazing, people are friendly, resorts are gorgeous, and the Caribbean Sea and beaches are some of the most beautiful in the world. Mexico, by far, provides 5-star luxury, exceptional value, amazing cuisine, the history and culture is alluring – it definitely provides the WOW factor.
I enjoyed spending time on 5th Avenue in Playa del Carmen, with my husband and another time with two ladies – both times at night. The streets are full of locals and visitors; there is all types of entertainment (most enjoyable the enlivening sounds of the Mariachi), quaint boutiques, shops that will engage to provide the best bargain, bistros, bars and more. Everybody (locals and visitors) are having a great time. There is absolutely no cause of concern. This is not my first experience in the fabulous area, and will most certainly not be my last. One evening, after my husband and I finished shopping in Playa, we decided to walk back to our resort (Paradisus La Perla) via the beach. We enjoyed the 25 minute stroll, an amazing moon-lit evening, with stars dotting the night sky – perfectly safe.
In each and every resort I stayed or visited, these vacation havens are full of happy, fun-loving visitors. Being curious to know first-hand, this time I was prompted to inquire with some visitors at these resorts during my stays, today in the Cancun airport and on my American Airlines flight if 1) did they have a good time, 2) was this a first visit to Mexico and would they return, and 3) did they feel safe? Answers by all: 1) yes-absolutely, didn’t want to leave, 2) no – in 90% of the cases it was a second or third return visit, and 3) yes – no concerns or fears. So, what’s the deal? I wonder if those who continue to report that there are these ugly issues actually travel to Mexico to know and experience these treasures and pleasures for themselves. I think this style of writing is called ‘fiction’ – isn’t it?
The fact remains: Mexico is an amazing destination … it provides the best service and warmest hospitality … accommodations to suit every palate and budget … unbeatable value … so much to do, to experience (water sports, adventure sports, golfing, spa, culture/history, cuisine) … never enough time.
People need to be ready for 2012 – celebrating Mundo Maya … December 12, 2012 will mark the end of a 5,126-year cycle, and the beginning of a new era! Research shows that 97% of travelers to Mexico are repeat visitors of, if they are first-time travelers, they plan to return. At Travel Concepts, we know Mexico, and look forward to sharing our expert knowing and experiences with you! 913-888-1671 / www.travelconceptskc.com
