The Best Adventures in Cancun

Famous for being a vacationer’s paradise, Cancun offers an array of ritzy resorts along soft white sandy beaches and warm, crystal blue water that any sun worshiper would fall in love with. But for travelers with a little more wanderlust in their blood, a trip to Cancun can also offer a non-stop adventure for the thrill-seekers, outdoor enthusiasts, and history buffs alike. The following is our list of top picks of where to stay and can’t miss adventures.

Where to Stay in Cancun: Krystal Grand Punta Cancun

Tucked away in the premier Punta Cancun hotel zone, the new Krystal Grand Punta Cancun (formerly a Hyatt hotel)  debuts as Cancun’s can’t miss beach resort and features brand new gourmet restaurants, unparallelled balcony room views, and an unbeatable semi-secluded beach with friendly cabana service. All this within steps away from Cancun’s touristic treasures and nightlife. Read More...

Chichen Itza

Ancient Mayan ruins scatter the Yucatan Peninsula but don’t miss out on the chance to behold Chichen Itza, by far the largest and most recognized site in the region.  Named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007, this ancient Mayan city boasts impressive architecture that reveals incredible insight into how this civilization existed with staggering sophistication that was far ahead of their time. While it is a 2 hour journey from Cancun, it’s well worth the trip if nothing other than to just to cross it off of your bucket list. Read more...

Tulum

Tulum may not be the largest of the Mayan ruins of the Yucatan, it is certainly considered by many to be the most beautiful. Set atop the cliffs overlooking the brilliantly blue Caribbean Sea, the ruins dazzle in the sunlight, a view that will surely leave you breathless. It is this mixture of the azure water and ancient Mayan culture that is the exquisite quintessence of the magical Yucatan. Read more...

Cenotes

Those needing to cool off from the sun should look no further than escaping to the mysterious underworld of turquoise pools where ancient Mayans communicated with the gods. Feel lost in another time as you swim past stalactites and stalagmites in crisp magical caverns under a jungle-framed sky. Read more...

Scuba Diving

Just off the shore of the Yucatan Peninsula is the world’s second largest barrier reef, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System. A short boat ride from Cancun takes you to the warm crystal clear water and abundance of vividly colorful marine life which makes for some of the best scuba diving in the world. Aside from reef diving, the Cancun area also offers wall diving, wreck diving, and even cavern diving. Read more...

Surfing Lessons

If all your life you've yearned to be finally be able to pop up on a surfboard, then look no further than Cancun to make it a happen. Unless you’re there during a hurricane, you will not be finding any big gnarly surfing waves due to Cancun’s shallow waters and sand banks. But with its pristine turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, beautiful year round weather, and gentle surf, Cancun makes for an ideal destination to practice water sports in the Caribbean. Read more...

Where to Stay in Cancun: Krystal Grand Punta Cancun

Tucked away in the premier Punta Cancun hotel zone, the new Krystal Grand Punta Cancun (formerly a Hyatt hotel) debuts as Cancun’s can’t miss beach resort and features brand new gourmet restaurants, unparallelled balcony room views, and an unbeatable semi-secluded beach with friendly cabana service. All this within steps away from Cancun’s touristic treasures and nightlife. Towering over the the white sandy point, this luxury hotel radiates elegance and sophistication.

Located in the heart of Cancun’s hotel zone, the Krystal Grand Punta Cancun is nestled perfectly in the northeastern most point creating a feeling of seclusion and serenity, while still offering close proximity to all the buzz. Krystal Grand Punta Cancun’s new business model of delivering true mexican hospitality, and a la carte service knocks it out of the park. Their staff is friendly and personable. They also offer a new all-inclusive package, as well as room and breakfast, or room only options, all of which are sure to please.

The atrium-style lobby is jaw-dropping. As much as you might want to play at the beach, you’ll have a hard time taking your eyes off of this architectural masterpiece.

Guestrooms

Each of the 295 deluxe rooms and suites offer a private balcony (with wall to wall sliding glass doors) with breathtaking views of the azure Caribbean Sea or Nichupté Lagoon where you will no doubt enjoy many morning coffees. The deluxe rooms are simple modern and sleek and stocked with all the necessary personalized toiletries and services (bathrobes, hairdryers, etc). The one thing lacking is a refrigerator - if that’s something that’s important to you (the minibar remains locked until you access it). The refreshing rainfall shower is perfect for washing away the stubborn sand between your toes. Each room (as well as everywhere in the hotel)  features wireless internet, which is a huge perk and can be surprisingly hard to find for such a popular tourist destination.

Altitude Status

Stay on the highest 3 levels of the resort and enjoy Altitude exclusivity. As a member of Altitude you have special access to the private Altitude Lounge which offers a personalized wait staff, delicious continental breakfast and evening drinks and hors d’oeuvres with a sunset view. While you should never miss a chance to eat at one of the many restaurants on the property, it definitely comes in handy to have access to the lounge for quick grab and go mornings or for quiet relaxing evenings.

The Beach

Krystal Grand Punta Cancun is without a doubt, situated on the best spot on the beach. With it’s sister hotel Krystal Cancun to one side, and only ocean and sand on the other, the Krystal Grand Punta Cancun gives you a sense of seclusion that you won’t find anywhere else. Only from the point can you get the spectacular view of the entire hotel zone without the hustle and bustle of all the tourists. There are plenty of brand new bali beds and palapas speckling the powder sand, and the water is protected by cement breakers that creates for a safe swimming cove for those that are looking for a calmer sea experience.  

The Pools

The resort features 4 separate pools including a brand new adult only infinity pool that is surrounded by bali beds on 3 sides. For relaxation sans sand, this is the place to be. The three other pools on the resort each feature something different such as waterfalls, volleyball nets, or a kids area.

Restaurants and Bars

The top notch restaurants is really where the Krystal Grand Punta Cancun stands apart from other all-inclusive resorts. In the last month the Krystal Grand Punta Cancun has debuted a new Oriental and new Italian restaurant adding to their repertoire of other gourmet restaurants, each of which offer a la carte menus. The Grill with it’s indoor/outdoor seating options was our favorite for it’s ambiance and delicious angus beef and seafood.

The resort also boasts 4 bars including a brand new lobby bar with occasional live music, a new terrace lounge, and a pool side bar.

As if the resort did not offer enough food options, all-inclusive Krystal Grand Punta Cancun guests also have access to the buffet restaurants at the Krystal Cancun resort next door as well as the El Mortero restaurant a few blocks away where you can enjoy authentic mexican food and a live mariachi band- a definite must.

Beach House Spa

Nothing completes a vacation like a deep tissue or relaxing facial. Krystal Grand Punta Cancun’s Beach House Spa is located right on the beach and offers a variety of services and at times offers discounts depending on the day service.

The Nitty Gritty

Re-branding a hotel can be a difficult undertaking, but what Krystal Grand Punta Cancun has done is praiseworthy, especially with its focus on improving the customer experience. The the combination of friendly service, new (and good) restaurants, the great beach with additional bali beds and beach chairs, you will feel like you never want to leave, but will be close enough to everything just in case you do.

 

The Best Cancun Adventures: Chichen Itza

Ancient Mayan ruins scatter the Yucatan Peninsula but don’t miss out on the chance to behold Chichen Itza, by far the largest and most recognized site in the region.  Named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007, this ancient Mayan city boasts impressive architecture that reveals incredible insight into how this civilization existed with staggering sophistication that was far ahead of their time. While it is a 2 hour journey from Cancun, it’s well worth the trip if nothing other than to just to cross it off of your bucket list.

Because Chichen Itza is not exactly the best kept secret in the world (and for good reason) you can easily find a number of different tour companies itching to take you there. Gray Line tour company is one of the oldest in the business and offers several different ways to see this awe-inspiring place. Our favorite package was their Chichen Itza Deluxe Tour. For a reasonable price Gray Line offers comfortable transportation to the site, a private back gate entry into Chichen Itza through the Hotel & Bungalows Mayaland (avoiding the sometimes very long lines), a two hour small group tour, and a multi-cultural buffet back at the resort. The tour also provides  you with  plenty of free time after lunch to either return to the ruins and visit the sacred cenote or lounge at the resort pool and enjoy the scenic gardens there - a perk you wouldn't enjoy if you were to use the main entrance.

The Best Cancun Adventures: Cenotes

Those needing to cool off from the sun should look no further than escaping to the mysterious underworld of turquoise pools where ancient Mayans communicated with the gods. Feel lost in another time as you swim past stalactites and stalagmites in crisp magical caverns under a jungle-framed sky.  

These cenotes are scattered throughout the entire Yucatan Peninsula and all can be easily reached by private car or as a part of group combo tour like the Tulum Ruins & Cenote Tour by Alma LDS Tours.

The name cenote means 'sacred well' and the Mayans revered these pools because they were a water source in dry times. The Mayans even settled villages around these spiritual wells and believed that they were a portal to speak with the gods. Today, many are owned by private parties that maintain the area and charge an entrance fee to enjoy the pools. For those that are experienced scuba divers, the cenotes can be an unreal experience. Otherwise, rent or bring your own snorkel gear or goggles and prepare to get lost in the peaceful beauty. No doubt your  fingers and toes will turn prune-y before you’re ready to be finished.

The Best Cancun Adventures: Learn to Surf

If all your life you've yearned to finally be able to pop up on a surfboard, then look no further than Cancun to make it a happen. Unless you’re there during a hurricane, you will not be finding any big gnarly surfing waves due to Cancun’s shallow waters and sand banks. But with its pristine turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, beautiful year round weather, and gentle surf, Cancun makes for an ideal destination to practice water sports in the Caribbean. Because surfing can often be a daunting and challenging sport to learn, it’s smart to have professionals teach you the basics, critique your form, and give you some tips.

360 Surf School, which basically consists of a closet full of equipment next to a burrito shop, might not seem like much, but it’s run by a few enthusiastic surfing instructors who boast they can get anyone up on a board, or your money back. Not a bad gamble, if you ask us. The surf instructors there are personable and encouraging. They make safety and feeling comfortable in the water the first priority, with having a total blast a close second. 360 Surf School offers private or group lessons on the beach right around the corner from their shop and they include the boards rash guards so all you have to do is show up and have a good time.

Sedona Marathon: "If the hills don't take your breath away, the scenery will!"

Few races in the Country can compete with the stunning views of Sedona’s majestic red rock. Perhaps it is those views, or the challenging course, or maybe the friendly race staff that attracts nearly 2,600 runners for the Sedona Marathon each year. Many runners come from all over the globe for the chance to pound the pavement in Sedona. For the 9th annual race in 2014, officials announced that runners from as far as Canada, Brazil, Europe, Japan, and even Afghanistan were in town for the event. The event continues to grow from year to year, with women making up 70% of registrants. It’s hard to keep your eyes on the road when such stunning and vibrant color abound. Very few races can offer the views and the challenge that the Sedona Marathon provides. You might never run anything like it again. 

The Courses

While the Sedona Marathon is certainly one of the more stunning races nationwide, your legs will pay the price. Be prepared, for this isn’t your traditional marathon. The route follows a series of unforgiving hills that wind along the towering red rock formations making for a scenic and tough competition. And if the hills aren't enough of a challenge, just over 6 miles into the course (which is the half marathon turn around), the pavement turns to hard-packed dirt filled with all manner of little obstacles waiting to trip runners up. Trail Runner Magazine named Sedona as one of the "Top 3 Most Beautiful Trail Running Cities in America." If you're a trail runner at heart, you will love this race.

 

Because of the level of difficulty of the full marathon course, the majority of runners choose to instead compete in the half marathon distance. But don't be fooled, the half marathon is no slouch.  Organizers designed it so that the steepest hill is smack dab in the middle of the course. The 5k and 10k courses also offer an excellent blend of beauty and difficulty for those who’d rather attack a shorter distance but still want that triumphant feeling of racing across the finish line.

Aid stations are set up about every two miles and offer water and Gatorade. The aid stations located deeper into the routes also provide bananas, orange slices, and gels. Runners won’t suffer for lack of fuel or water as the aid stations are plentiful. This also means that runners shouldn’t bother with carrying water with them; its an unnecessary weight.

The Event

While the marathon has an international attraction, it's not without that welcoming small town feel. The marathon is produced and directed by the Sedona Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by many local businesses and seems to have the full support of the town. From city officials to high school athletes, it seems like the entire community is either supporting the event, or competing in it. There are plenty of support vehicles, volunteers, and aid personnel to ensure the event’s success. Many of the city’s hotels offer discounts to runners, as do several of the more popular restaurants in town.

 The Town

Sedona has recently been ranked #13 in the Top 25 Best US Destinations by TripAdvisor. The town is perfect for girlfriend get-a-ways boasting over 80 art galleries and boutiques, world-class hotels and dinning options, and resorts and day spas. The best part is that all of this is surrounded by jaw-dropping scenery that certainly rivals that of any national park, offering hundreds of miles of red dirt trails with incredible opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding, trail running, and photography. With so much to do and the perfect blend of hippie and chic, modern and old town, there's little question why Sedona draws travelers near and far. 

Get more information on things to do, dining, and places to stay here

How To Find An Outdoor Summer Sleeping Bag

Experiencing the great outdoors is a wonderful family activity that can be done all year round. Many people thoroughly enjoy camping under the stars in the summer and taking outdoor themed vacations with the little ones for a great learning and bonding experience. To find a quality summer sleeping bag can be a challenge as most of the sleeping bags are manufactured to keep you warm in cold weather, but there are a few that are just what you would be looking for.

A summer sleeping bag should be able to keep you cool and dry during the evenings and hopefully be easy to take care of as well. Most sleeping bags get wet and even tend to smell after you have used them for a few days outdoors, you always want to look for one that you can easily rinse off and line dry. Also carefully read the fabrics and materials your summer sleeping bag is made of to avoid any allergic reactions from occurring during your adventure.

One type is called the Coleman Trinidad Warm-Weather Sleeping Bag and it is extremely affordable for any family road trip at only twenty three dollars. The Coleman bag is seventy-five inches long and can keep you cool and dry during overnight sleeping temperatures that drop to forty degrees. It is suitable for an adult with a blue exterior that is appropriate for men and women alike. The liner is made of tricot and it also bodes a comfort smart element only used by Coleman to ensure a cozy night’s rest. Easy to fasten with the quick cord mechanic and no need to waste time with long string ties. Portable and compact at only four pounds.

The Kelty Light Year XP 40-Degree Climashield XP Sleeping Bag is another great option for a summer sleeping bag. It is slightly higher in price than the previously mentioned Coleman sleeper, but it does have a few more additional features. The Kelty model is a mummy style sleeping bag that wraps around the head with a ventilation system built in the foot area that has a vent for keeping feet cool and dry during the night. It also has unique chevron stitching that will not snag or rip when opening and closing the bag. With the Climashield protection you will sleep without being concerned about the weather should it rain overnight as you will stay dry. The liner inside bodes a polyester micro fiber filling for a soft feel similar to your bed sheets at home. The Kelty Light Year XP 40-Degree Climashield XP Sleeping Bag is available for around one hundred dollars.

Searching for a quality summer sleeping bag can be quite simple if you look on the web. Going to stores may take you hours to find any models that are specifically for the warmer weather months. Be cautious when seeking yours to not be alarmed with the pricing as some models that are higher in price are not your average sleeping bag and they do come with lots of additional features that may just surprise you.