
The Riviera Maya ranks as having some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. But for me, the selling point for this region of Mexico compared to others is the Mayan ruins in the area. There’s Chichen Itza, one of the new 7 world wonders; and there’s Coba, one of the most important sites of the Mayan civilization, and the only one you can still climb. (Note: The Mexican government has been saying for years that they are going to ban climbing Coba. It may be a tourist tactic, but climb it while you still can!). However, ever since beginning my research on the area, I had wanted to visit Tulum. Google it and you can see why: old ruins overlooking the ocean with one of the most beautiful beaches below. What an ideal location for an old city. I had to see it for myself.

For the last few years, I’ve been on some great adventures for which I am grateful: hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, road-tripping through Denmark, and being helicoptered out of Everest Base Camp. In fact, I would say I’m drawn to worldwide adventures! So when someone would mention an all-inclusive vacation, I would often say “I don’t think it’s really my thing these days”. Granted, I’ve been to Cuba and the Dominican Republic for one week stints of pure relaxation, and I loved those vacations! But with so many treks and hikes around the world that remain on my to-do list, should I choose to use precious vacation days to lounge on a beach? I’m not exactly great at sitting still. Well, after spending a week at Akumal Bay Beach and Wellness Resort in Riviera Maya, Mexico, I have concluded that sometimes an all-inclusive vacation is exactly what I need.

