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The Mexican Caribbean is the favorite destination for Americans traveling abroad.
With its turquoise waters, charming coastal settlements and wellness atmosphere, there really is no better place for sun worshipers, but if Cancun no longer appeals to you, then vacation in a smaller beach destination away from the big city that is gaining popularity. . this might be your best bet.
Akumal is the next hot spot in the Caribbean
Akumal is one of the trendy beach resorts in the Riviera Maya, with the Mexican Ministry of Tourism reporting occupancy rates of 87.6% for the first quarter of 2023.
according to a report issued by the entity, already exceeds well-established tourist cities such as Playa del Carmen, its closest competitor in the Caribbean (86.6%), Cabo San Lucas on the Pacific coast (84.5%), Nuevo Nayarit (84.4%), Puerto Vallarta (83.6%) and even the powerful Cancun (80.5%).
As we’ve discussed above, while Cancun remains Mexico’s number one sunny resort in terms of overall numbers, largely due to its record-breaking tourism: last year, there were more than 30 million arrivals at Cancun Airport, It has long since ceased to be the fastest. growing destination.
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For months now, it has been displaced from the number one spot by competing cities, as both returning travelers and first-time visitors seek alternatives to the teeming Mayan city.
In a way, it seems that Cancun is yesterday’s newsand places like Akumal and the lesser known Bacalar are finally getting the attention they deserve.
What can Akumal offer?
Akumal is a small coastal community of approximately 1,300 inhabitants, located between the much busier Playa del Carmen and Tulum, 62 miles south of Cancun.
It straddles Akumal and Half Moon Bays, two of the most picturesque swimming spots in the state of Quintana Roo, where marine life still thrives, and overtourism has yet to drive out most locals with its gentrification. associate.
Due to its size, can feel more exclusive, with a more limited selection of hotels, resorts and luxury stays than the internationalized Cancun. More specifically, there are only 23 five-star properties listed on booking.comagainst the 48 in Cancun or the 32 in Tulum.
Although it is much smaller, it is by no means less well equippedoffering visitors all-inclusive, adults-only resorts Unique Riviera Maya Hotel it’s a perfect romantic getaway for couples, and charming boutique hotels nestled in the jungle, where you can go glamping.
Fellow budget travelers, rejoice: unlike other Caribbean destinations, Akumal still gives us a warm welcome.
A king room with garden view in the three stars Akumal Nature Glamping it’s just $84 for a night in June, while private stays at the colorful Del Sol Beachfront Hotel are on the market for $89.
Overall, whether you’re the spendthrift type or a budget-conscious tourist, Akumal has great offers for you.
beautiful natural attractions
Seen from above, it looks like a beautiful crescent bathed in crystal clear waters, and although it is a miniature development area, it certainly has there is no lack of attractions.
Aside from the gorgeous beaches, most notably the iconic Playa Akumal, a sandy stretch of coastline bounded by the translucent waters of the Caribbean, tourists have access to a monkey sanctuary, shallow, family-friendly inland cenotes such as Ya -kul, and relaxation spas.
Based in Akumal, you can also take some day trips to explore the Tulum ruins or spend a day at the Xel-ha water theme park. Adult tickets start at USD $89 and include all food, drinks, and unlimited snorkeling.
But above all, Akumal is a natural oases where people go to escape the hustle and bustle of Cancun.
If you’re wary of the latter’s mega-resorts and Instagrammable crowds, and expect to have a more relaxed Caribbean experience, then this is the place for you.
Mexico is set for a record year in tourism
Overall, Mexico has achieved occupancy rates of 60.5% in the first quarter, 9.5 percentage points higher than in 2022, indicating that the country could be ready for another record year once the December count arrives. .
In the beach areas, an average of 142,685 rooms were occupied, compared to 124,300 the previous year, with a year-on-year increase of 14.8%. In terms of occupancy, this means an even higher rate of 71.7%, exceeding the national average, which accounts for not only coastal areas but also inland destinations such as the country’s capital, Mexico City, or beautiful Guanajuato.
Although facing strong competition, Akumal has re-emerged as a one of the main beach areas amid the reactivation of tourism in Mexico after the crisis.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
