Ask the Locals Travel Guide: Cancun, Mexico

Peter is broadcasting his latest radio show from the Ritz-Carlton Cancun in Mexico.

Long known as a party-centric destination, the Cancun area has evolved into so much more.

So we asked locals what they recommend for activities, restaurants and fun in the area.
Jesús Mesa del Castillo Bermejo, sustainable tourism advocate for Yum Balam ecological reserve

Birds flyingShare experiences with Mayan communities guided by NGO Kanché, a non-profit organization working for sustainable development in the rural communities around Cancun. It’s a wonderful experience getting to know a great culture through adventure and natural activities while helping to improve the environment and local economies.

There are several protected areas around Cancun that are worth a visit:

Sian Ka’an Ecological Reserve is located near Tulum, just south of Cancun, and is a model for sustainable development in the tropics.

The ecological preserve where I work, Yum Balam, is made up of Holbox Island and surrounding areas, which is an absolute paradise for nature lovers.

Cancun beachDon’t miss out on birdwatching, snorkeling and other outdoor adventures on Isla Contoy, a small island that’s easily accessible from Isla Mujer.

About 17 miles from Cancun, Puerto Morelos is a small and quiet old fishermen’s village. All it takes is a walk on the beach and a stroll along the small side streets to really feel as if you’re in the “real” Caribbean.

Once you’re in Puerto Morelos, it’s worth visiting the Dr. Alfredo Barrera Marín Botanical Garden, one of the largest botanical gardens in the country, which is a beautiful location to get up close and personal with the local flora and fauna.

In Puerto Morelos, there are plenty of places to dine, including Hola Asia, which serves delicious, inexpensive Asian food; La Suegra de John Gray, a seaside seafood restaurant, and L’Escargot, which features French dishes in a quiet little garden.

Cancun’s coastline boast the second largest coral reef in the world which is why visiting Isla Mujeres (which means Women’s Island) is a must to enjoy pristine beaches and the Caribbean underwater dreamland. The tiny island is just a 20-minute ferry ride from Cancun across the Bahia de Mujeres (Bay of Women). The ferry departs every 30 minutes from three locations.

If you are not a diver, Garrafón Reef Park on Isla Mujeres is the perfect spot for snorkeling, as well as kayaking, swimming and hiking. After that, be sure to visit the Punta Norte, which is the most beautiful beach in the island.

Explore under the sea without getting wet in this slideshow from photographer Rick Sammon: Exploring the Underwater Wonders of the Caribbean.

Cancun is well-known for its gorgeous beaches and nightlife, however only the locals and a few tourists know about the Pelopidas Museum. Located in La Isla Shopping Village, right in the heart of the hotel zone, this museum hosts local and Mexican artists, as well as international exhibitions which have included the works of Picasso and Dali.

John Gray’s Downtown is high-end restaurant with all the glamour, decor and superb cuisine as the top restaurants in the hotel zone, but is located in downtown Cancun. Chef John Gray opened the famous Ritz-Carlton’s restaurant, The Club Grill, when the resort open 16 years ago, and has since moved here.

Don’t miss Peter’s radio show from Cancun. Check out a complete guest list here.

Related links on PeterGreenberg.com:

* Off the Brochure Travel Guide: Cancun & Riviera Maya, Mexico
* Ask the Locals Travel Guide: Riviera Maya, Mexico
* Mexico Travel section
* Mexico Travel Tips: Cancun Resorts & Ecotourism