Longing for Mexico

All of this snow has me reminiscing about my trip to the Mexican Riveria Maya this summer. The all-inclusive jumbo resorts of Cancun are just not for me. I far prefer quaint little budget hotels, eating at local hang-outs, and exploring different areas. Breakfast was included at all of the hotels I mention.

First stop, Playa Del Carmen. Less than an hour's drive from Cancun. No high-rise hotels here. But development is going on everywhere, and construction noise was fairly common. This was probably the most touristy place I visited (it had the only Starbucks I saw when in Mexico). But the sandy beaches and turquoise waters made up for that. I stayed at the Hotel Playa Del Karma. Around $80 a night.



Onto Cozumel, about a 30 minute ferry ride from Playa. Avoid the tourist center and stay at the Tamarindo Bed & Breakfast, for only $45.

A street in Cozumel


Definitely rent a scooter and ride around the island


The highlight of my entire trip. When riding around the island, I stumbled by turtle shells hatching and making their trek to the sea.




Off to the sea...good luck!


Onto to Valladolid. Out of about 40 people in this bar, which was filled with locals only, I was the only woman!

A band came in and serenaded the crowd.


A woman sitting in a store front.


Street dogs are everywhere in Mexico, which is so heartbreaking. This one got the nickname, Yuca, since I was in the Yucatan Peninsula. This sweet soul was so friendly. I wish I could have put her in my suitcase.


Next stop: Chichén Itzá, a must-see. Don't miss the light show in the evening.

A resident on the grounds of Chichén Itzá.


I stayed in this campy little hotel, Dolores Alba, for under $60. After exploring the ruins, relax with a Corona at the poolside bar, or take a swim.


In Tulum, I stayed at Posada Luna del Sur, for $70 a night. The owners were so friendly, and often aid the street dogs with food, water and veterinary care.

Cheerful towel arrangements like these are common in Mexico.


When you visit the ruins in Tulum, don't forget your swimsuit. You can take a dip in the ocean.


"You could taste heaven perfectly," Tori Amos sings in "A Sorta of Fairy Tale." That could summarize my entire trip.


Up next, a vegan food update.

Hotel Playa Del Karma, Playa Del Carmen
Posada Luna del Sur, Tulum
Dolores Alba, Chichén Itzá
Tamarindo Bed and Breakfast, Cozumel