Day 1 - Cenote Azul and Cenote Cristallino
For the first part of your Mexico and Caribbean vacation, visit two cenotes in Mexico.
What are cenotes? Cenotes are deep water wells, which are fed by the filtration of rain and the currents of rivers. They are formed by the dissolution of rock resulting from the collapse of limestone.
Cenote Azul and Cenote Cristallino are a 25 minute drive south from Playa Del Carmen along Highway 307. Since the cenotes are located right next to each other, you can travel to both easily by car or taxi. Swim and snorkel in the cenotes, or jump off the cliffs. There is snorkel equipment available for rent, or bring your own. Don’t forget to bring cash in pesos for admission fees!
Day 2 - Snorkeling in Akumal
Akumal is a 35-minute drive south from Playa Del Carmen along Highway 307. Akumal a peaceful beach town known for its crystal-clear waters and sea turtles. Book a snorkel tour with Akumal Dive Center, which includes a short boat ride and guided swim to view turtles and tropical fish. The best time to see turtles is May through November, during their nesting season. After your snorkel tour, have lunch at Lol-Ha Restaurant next door, and swim at the gorgeous beach.
Day 3 - Tulum
Tulum is a one-hour drive south of Playa del Carmen along Highway 307, and is a must-see destination for anyone interested in Mayan history and culture. You can explore the stunning ruins of the ancient city, which are situated on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
Read more about Tulum here.
Day 4 - Puerto Moreles for Dolphin Encounter
At Delphinus Puerto Moreles, you can swim with dolphins and marvel at the second largest barrier reef in the world, all in one place. Book your swim online.
It’s a once in a lifetime experience, and totally worth it! Photographs are sold separately, but you will want to buy them as a keepsake. It’s impossible to take your own pictures during the dolphin encounters, because no cameras are allowed near the swimming area.
Day 5 - Si'an Kaan Biosphere Reserve
Si’an Kaan is a protected area that encompassed more than 1 million acres of pristine jungle, wetlands, and beaches. Take a boat tour to explore the area and spot wildlife like crocodiles, dolphins, and exotic birds. You can find more information about the reserve by visiting the website.
Day 6 - Relaxing Beach and Pool Day
After a busy 5 days, you can relax on your last day before heading home. There are many accommodation options that have pools and are close to the beach. If you want to be walking distance to the beach and restaurants, you can’t beat Calle 38 in Playa Del Carman. The Terrazas building is beautiful and centrally located, and you can book an apartment in that building or a building nearby on Airbnb.
The Terrazas building is also a very short walk to Fifth Avenue, the best shopping street in Playa del Carmen.
Playa Del Carmen Restaurant Recommendations
Top 7 List of Best Restaurants in Playa Del Carmen for any travel budget
1) 500 Gramos Grill – this upscale steak restaurant rivals any fancy restaurant in the United States.
2) La Cueva del Chango – this open-air restaurant is nestled in a lush jungle setting and serves up delicious Mexican dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
3) Trattoria del Centro – this Italian restaurant serves delicious pizza and pasta, and features live bands and singers in the evenings.
4) La Brioche – this Parisian style bakery serves fresh breads and pastries daily along with strong coffee. It’s an excellent choice for a quick and inexpensive breakfast.
5) Los Aguachiles – this eatery serves the freshest seafood in town, where you can sample ceviche, shrimp tacos, and other local seafood specialties.
6) Chela De Playa – this is right next door to the Terrazas building, and has the best fish tacos I’ve ever tasted! There is also delicious guacamole and local beers to choose from on the menu.
7) La Famiglia – this is another great Italian restaurant with fresh pasta and wood fired pizza.
5 Days in Aruba: Vacation Itinerary
Day 1 - Eagle Beach
Aruba can be an expensive vacation island. If you want a comfortable boutique hotel at a reasonable price, Swiss Paradise Aruba is by far the best option. As a family, you can splurge on a villa with a private pool without breaking the bank. If you stay at Swiss Paradise, you will need to rent a car. The owner, Juerg, will give you recommendations for the best car rental companies. After you settle into the hotel, take a quick drive to Eagle Beach. This beach is absolutely stunning, with clear and calm turquoise water that is perfect for swimming. For dinner, you can eat a delicious dinner at Oak Restaurant. The steak at Oak Restaurant is cooked to perfection!
Day 2 - UTV Island Tour
A UTV island tour is a great way to see the desert island sights. ABC tours is an excellent tour company, with many tour options to choose from. We opted for the Wild Side tour, which included a visit to the California Lighthouse, ruins, beaches, and a stop for fresh coconut juice. The tour is adventurous, and incredibly fun for the whole family. For dinner, stop at Lola Taqueria for amazing fish tacos! You can take pictures in front of the Aruba sign next door to the taqueria.
Day 3 - Snorkeling and Pool Time
For the best snorkeling on the island, take a short drive to Tres Trapi (3 Steps) Beach and Malmok Beach. There are colorful fish all along the coral, and you can see turtles during their nesting season from March through September. Then, return to your hotel for some relaxation at the pool. Finish your day with an amazing meal at Flying Fishbone Restaurant. The food is delicious, and the ambiance is exceptional. You can eat your meal with your feet in the beach sand, or with your feet in the clear ocean.
Day 4 - Day in Oranjestad
From Swiss Paradise, take a 20-minute drive to Oranjestad. Start your day with pancakes at the famous Dutch Pancakehouse Restaurant in Oranjestad. Afterwards, head to Renaissance Mall for some shopping and walk along the port to view the cruise ships. Complete your day in Oranjestad with an upscale Caribbean dinner at Madame Janette’s Restaurant.
Day 5 - Hooiberg Peak Hike and Water Sports
Hooiberg Peak is located on the outskirts of Oranjestad, standing 165 meters above sea level. The easiest way to access the top of this famous hill is to climb up the 587 steps built by Eduardo Tromp in 1951. At the top, the spectacular Aruban landscape extends outwards in every direction. On a clear day, Venezuela is visible to the south. After your hike, return to Noord and rent a wave runner or jet ski from Delphi Watersports. Have your last tasty dinner in Aruba at Azia Restaurant and Lounge, a restaurant that specializes in Asian cuisine. After this amazing trip, you’ll know why they call Aruba “One Happy Island!”
Aruba is a great travel destination for any time of year, and a seasonal guide to Aruba can be found here.
6 Days in Panama: Vacation Itinerary
Day 1 - Panama City Historic District
Spend your first day in Panama City strolling through Casco Viejo, the historic district. You can view the unique architecture and historic sites. The Casco Viejo Metropolitan Cathedral, a Catholic church constructed in the 18th century, is worth a visit.
From there, walk to the world famous fish market and taste some of the freshest ceviche found anywhere!
Day 2 - Panama Canal
Take a 15-minute taxi ride to the Panama Canal, and learn about this incredible engineering wonder. Depending on your arrival time, you can view a cargo ship pass through the canal. There is a visitor center on-site, with a museum and cafe. You can view the canal from the balcony of the visitor center or from a boat tour of the canal. Take a taxi back to Panama City, and sample a delicious local dinner at Casablanca.
Day 3 - Cinta Costera
The Cinta Costera (Coastal Beltway) is a 4.3 mile recreation area that runs along the Panama Bay and includes gardens, bike lanes, sports fields, lookouts, and traditional restaurants. The views are beautiful, and there is plenty of room to exercise or just take a walk. Panama is hot year-round, so it is best to avoid rigorous exercise midday. After Cinta Costera, head back to your hotel and rest. Then, spend your evening at Lazotea, a rooftop restaurant and bar. The food and views of the city will not disappoint!
Day 4 - San Blas Islands
You can fly to the San Blas Islands through from the Albrook Airport in Panama City. Private flights to the islands are made on 2-8 seater planes that take about 40 minutes. The islands are part of an autonomous territory that is governed by the Kuna people, and visitors are required to pay a fee to enter the area. It is worth the journey, because it is a truly magical experience to have an “off the grid” vacation. Cell reception is virtually non-existent and development is minimal on the islands, so the San Blas Islands are a true escape from modern life. When you arrive to your accommodation, be sure to swim in the warm ocean of this tropical paradise.
Day 5 - San Blas Islands
Although Yandup Lodge is closed, there are other accommodation options available on Booking.com and TripAdvisor.com. More information about San Blas Island hotels can be found here.
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to be on a private island, you can definitely experience it here. Spend your day snorkeling around the coral reefs, take a hike to El Cora Waterfall, or take a boat tour of the mangrove forests. There is plenty of natural beauty to choose from on the San Blas Islands!
Day 6 - Return to Panama City
Take a small airplane back to Albrook Airport, and then drive about 35 minutes to the Tocumen International Airport for your flight home. Or if you have time, take a last walk around Panama City and grab a Japanese Peruvian fusion meal at Lima Nikkei. Although Panama is not a common tourist destination, it is definitely a must-see country!
5 Days in Dominican Republic: Vacation Itinerary
According to the U.S. Department of State, travelers should exercise increased caution when visiting Dominican Republic due to crime. Therefore, I opted for a reputable and modern all-inclusive resort for this trip. Majestic Mirage Punta Cana is a great choice for travelers that want to have a relaxing vacation in a tropical paradise. This is a sample 5-day itinerary for the Dominican Republic portion of your Mexico and Caribbean vacation.
Day 1 - Resort Arrival and Dinner
Majestic Mirage Punta Cana is an impressive all-inclusive resort with well-maintained buildings and landscaping. Upon arrival, you are welcomed with a drink and snacks while you wait for your room to be ready. The staff will take your luggage, and your assigned butler will send you to a buffet lunch. As soon as our room is ready, head to the pool to enjoy some tropical sunshine. For dinner, try one of the restaurants that don’t require a reservation. Tell your butler that you would like to make dinner reservations for the Japanese and French restaurants during the rest of your stay.
Day 2 - Beach and Pool Day
Start your day at the beach, because that is the time of day with the least seaweed. After a buffet lunch, spend the afternoon exploring the family and adult pools in the resort. Both pool areas have swim up bars, so there is little reason to leave the pool area. There are plenty of snack bar options near the pools as well. Enjoy this relaxing day of your Mexico and Caribbean Vacation!
Day 3 - Resort Spa Day
The Majestic Mirage Spa is beautiful, and very clean. The service is impeccable, and massages include an hour of access to the saunas and plunges before your appointment. So, be sure to arrive an hour early! Prices for massages are typical for the United States: approximately $100 per hour massage. Spa employees will guide you through the different saunas and plunges, and serve you whatever drink you request. You are guaranteed to feel relaxed after your massage!
Day 4 - Beach and Pool Day
Spend another morning at the beautiful beach, and swim in the warm Caribbean Sea. After lunch, head to the adult pool for some quiet time. Make sure to catch the afternoon foam party at the family pool and dance your worries away before dinner!
Day 5 - Resort Departure
Depending on your departure time, enjoy a hearty breakfast or lunch before you leave. Take in the last of the warm Caribbean air as you complete the Dominican Republic portion of your Mexico and Caribbean vacation!