When tourists dream of a Caribbean vacation in Mexico, they think about crystal turquoise water and lounging in a hammock on a tropical beach while sipping a cool drink.
However, much of the area around Cancun is developed these days, and nearby towns such as Tulum, Playa del Carmen, or even islands like Cozumel and Isla Mujeres, are more like tourist cities instead of the traditional Mexican Caribbean escape.
However, there is a place not too far from the traffic and hoards of people in Cancun where life takes a slower pace and the main drag down the middle of the town is not even paved.
Welcome to the Mexican Caribbean island paradise of Isla Holbox.
Destination Isla Holbox
When tourists dream of a Caribbean vacation in Mexico, they think about crystal turquoise water and lounging in a hammock on a tropical beach while sipping a cool drink.
However, much of the area around Cancun is developed these days, and nearby towns such as Tulum, Playa del Carmen, or even islands like Cozumel and Isla Mujeres, are more like tourist cities instead of the traditional Mexican Caribbean escape.
However, there is a place not too far from the traffic and hoards of people in Cancun where life takes a slower pace and the main drag down the middle of the town is not even paved.
Welcome to the Mexican Caribbean island paradise of Isla Holbox.
Destination Isla Holbox
Isla Holbox is the rural tropical getaway most people dream of when they think of the Mexican Caribbean. What the island lacks in glitzy nightclubs and fine five-star dining, it makes up with the travel trends of nature and sustainability.
It’s where travelers come to Mexico to escape and enjoy life without all of the noise, hassles, traffic, and headaches of the major tourist towns. However, it does get some getting used to for travelers visiting Isla Holbox for the first time.
It’s rustic. It’s raw. It’s car-free. But it’s beautiful and captivating.
The streets are not paved and become muddy in the rain. Bars will welcome you like family and really remember your name. Reservations are not needed for restaurants, but please at least wear shoes.
It’s traditional Mexican Caribbean and once travelers have tried it, they never want to go home.
Exploring the Area
If travelers really desire to venture from the white sand beaches to seek adventure in other parts of the area, here are a few ideas to tempt the explorer in everyone.
The first adventure is getting here from Cancun. The easiest way is a bus ride. However, it is about two and a half hours to get to Isla Holbox.
Come during the right time of year and visitors to Isla Holbox can connect with whale sharks as they make their migration around the curve in the Yucatan Peninsula. Typically this is between mid-May and mid-September.
Travelers can also connect with the local culture by checking out the many brightly painted and colorful murals around the town. Each one displays a unique part of the traditional heritage.
Another popular side trip is renting a golf cart and exploring the different parts of the island. Rental prices are reasonable and allow tourists to explore the natural windswept beauty of Isla Holbox on their own time.
Need to take a dip? Travelers can hire a guide to take them to a local nearby cenote, a freshwater sinkhole suitable for swimming. Plunge into the water and cool off!
But one of the most popular activities on Isla Holbox, besides lounging and doing absolutely nothing, is to go on a wildlife excursion to the local mangroves.
Everything from flamingos and pelicans along with toothy alligators are on display in their natural environment. Grab a pair of binoculars and see how the original inhabitants of Isla Holbox live their lives.
Tips For Travelers
Isla Holbox is a true vacation island paradise in the Mexican Caribbean.
With some of the accommodations being pretty luxurious, don’t come to Isla Holbox expecting Cancun.
That’s not what the Isla Holbox experience is all about. It’s about getting away and unplugging while relaxing and enjoying peace and tranquility at the same time.
Travelers can get to Isla Holbox by flying to Cancun and taking a bus or ferry to the island. The bus is the most common and affordable, taking just under two and a half hours.
One thing travelers need to be aware of when planning a trip to Isla Holbox. The number of hotel and resort rooms is limited and in high demand.
Expect to pay high prices for rooms at times, especially during the peak travel season in the Mexican Caribbean, and book way in advance. Many people think booking a year in advance is often a smart move for the busy season.
Then kick off your shoes, grab a cold drink, and enjoy the sun, sand, and surf that makes Isla Holbox a dream Mexican Caribbean destination with travelers from around the world.
Source: Travelling Lifestyle
