When we cruised to Amber Cove, Dominican Republic in March of 2022, cruisers that were unvaccinated were required to book a tour in order to get off of the ship. Since the twins were only 4 (and not eligible for the vaccine), this rule applied to us.
After doing a little research, we decided on booking a day at the Playa Bachata Spa Resort in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic.
The main selling points for us were:
the resort is literally right next door to the cruise port so that meant very little travel time
it included lunch
they had a lovely beach and pool
Oh…and it included free drinks.
The Playa Bachata Resort
It took us less than 5 minutes to drive from the Amber Cove cruise port to Playa Bachata Spa Resort. We were transported in a well-airconditioned Coach bus, which was a nice plus. The resort itself was pretty much like the resorts you see sprinkled across the Caribbean. It was nice and quaint and in need of a little facelift (which they were working on while we visited).
The staff at Playa Bachata Spa Resort was very welcoming. We got a personal tour of the entire complex which featured: the lobby, restaurants, local vendors, the beach, and pool.
Interestingly, when we visited there were more people that were actually staying at the resort for an extended period of time, rather than on a day pass like cruisers are. Many of the people that we spoke to were local Dominicans staying at the resort. Perhaps this is why the staff all spoke to us in Spanish first before communicating in English (which is totally cool by the way, it is their home language after all!). It was a great opportunity for me to practice using my conversational Spanish.
The Beach
The beach at Playa Bachata Spa Resort is absolutely stunning. You can tell that they’ve put a lot of money into developing this area. There were countless lounge chairs lining the beach as far as the eye could see. The entire beach was lined with gorgeous, massive palm trees and outlined with beautiful shrubbery. The beach was very attractive!
The beach also had a recreational area, a stage, and a swing that you absolutely have to stop by to get a shot for Instagram.
Fun Fact: Bachata is a style of romantic music originating in the Dominican Republic.
The waves on this side of the island are a bit intense, so this isn’t the best spot of snorkeling or for young children to swim out very far. There was also a lot of seaweed in the water. Our kids decided they wanted to spend the day poolside, much to my disappointment.
The Pool at Playa Bachata
The Pool
That being said, the pool was quite lovely. It was conveniently located next to the bar and near the bathrooms. Smiley bounced back and forth between the large resort-style pool and the kiddie pool, whereas the boys stayed in the shallow kiddie pool (pictured above). The kiddie pool was tiny, but there were not a ton of young kids at the pool so it wasn’t an issue. Chairs around the pool were a little harder to come by. There’s also less shade on the pool deck.
The Restaurant
Our day at Playa Bachata included lunch. The resort has a large restaurant that serves Dominican food buffet style. If you’re a little less adventurous when it comes to eating, they also served pasta, pizza, salad, and other very-American dishes.
Closing Thoughts on Playa Bachata
Overall, Playa Bachata Spa and Resort was a nice little spot. The beach was beautiful and we really enjoyed the pool area. The complex itself needs a little bit of work, but it appears as that process has started. It was a nice place to spend the day- since we were required to book an excursion to get off of the ship.
We’re planning on returning to Amber Cove/Puerto Plata in the fall of 2023. By that time, the twins will have been vaccinated, so if these restrictions are still in place, we will be able to get off the ship without booking an excursion. As of right now, our plan is to just hang out at the port area while we’re there. Although we had a wonderful day at Playa Bachata, I don’t see us returning.
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Are you heading to Amber Cove, Dominican Republic? This cruise port is quickly becoming one of the most popular cruise destinations in the Caribbean. In fact, the Dominican Republic itself is the most popular destination in the Caribbean. To help you plan out your day, we’ve come up with a list of 12 Things to Know about Amber Cove.
If you’re a long-time cruiser, I’m sure you’re dying to check a new port. Carnival has designed this port similarly to Mahogany Bay, Costa Maya, and Grand Turk. You could absolutely get away with not booking an excursion here and simply spend the day shopping, zip lining, enjoying the pool, or even drifting in the lazy river!
12 Things to Know about Amber Cove
1. It's the Dominican Republic's Newest Cruise Port
Amber Cove is a stunning 25 acre cruise port complex nestled on the northern shore of the island of Hispaniola. Located on Maimon Bay, just outside of the beach town of Puerto Plata. The $85 million cruise port was open by Carnival Corporation in 2015. When the complex opened along Amber Coast, it brought cruise ships to the Puerto Plata area for the first time in 30 years.
The site is absolutely gorgeous and offers cruise passengers a way to enjoy the island free of charge. Basically, the cruise corporation designed this space to KEEP YOU HERE!
2. The Area is Rich in History
Sure, Amber Cove is new but Puerto Plata certainly isn’t. The area dates backs in the 1490s when a little-known fellow known as Christopher Columbus first “discovered” the island. The site was home to one of the first forts in the Americas, Fuerte de San Felipe. Today, Puerto Plata is a popular beach town with deep roots in their Spanish colonial past. Although it is tempting to stay at the cruise center, we implore you to get out and explore! Check out the local museums and landmarks honoring their past.
3. It's Easy to Get Around
Since the entire area is designed around cruise passengers, it’s super easy for them to get around. From the transportation hub, cruisers have easy access to rental cars, taxis, and guides willing to show you Puerto Plata and the surrounding area.
Another great feature is that as soon as you get off the ship, you are greeted by pedi-cabs that will whisk you down the pier to the cruise center. Although it is not a long walk, this is great for those who need a little help getting around or those traveling with young children. The pedi-cabs work for tips only.
4. There are TONS of Great Excursions
The port offers some of the best excursions in the region. Visit the majestic waterfalls of Rio de Damajagua, zip line, take in the historic sights, hit the beach, swim with dolphins, go on an ATV adventure, or try your hand at watersports. Whatever you’re into- there’s plenty to do in Amber Cove.
You know those luxurious overwater cabanas that you see all over Instagram? You could totally spend your day relaxing in one! The overwater cabanas at Amber Cove are exactly what you’ve been daydreaming about. We’re talking Caribbean breezes, air-conditioning, WIFI, a hot tub, and a personal waiter that will take your food and drink orders. The Grand Cabana also features 2 water sports that you can enjoy for a full hour. Choose from kayak, stand up paddleboards, or aqua cycles. The cabana accommodates up to 20 guests so they are perfect for large groups!
6. You Can Hit the Beach and Pool All in One Day!
Our water babies love places like this because they don’t have to choose between the beach or the pool. At Amber Cove, you can enjoy both! You can book a beach excursion (or take a taxi to the beach), or set up at the water park and pool for the day. The Aqua Zone has a resort-style pool with a swim-up bar, waterslides, a relaxing lazy river, and an ample number of lounge chairs to kick back and relax. There’s also a super-fun children’s splash area. Oh, and the best part? It’s totally free!
Note: There is not beach access at Amber Cove.
7. The Are Shops Galore
If you are looking for the perfect souvenir, or simply need to take a break from the sun, there are plenty of shops for you to explore at Amber Cove. The shops feature authentic arts and crafts by local Dominican artisans. You’ll also find plenty of classic souvenirs such as t-shirts, beachwear, shot glasses, magnets, etc. While you’re in the shops, be sure to grab some local rum, coffee, chocolate, or amber.
8. You Can Swim with Dolphins (and Sharks!)
If swimming with dolphins is on your bucket list, you can check that off while visiting Amber Cove! Ocean World offers encounters with dolphins, stingrays, and sharks. The cool thing about the dolphin encounters is that they are done in waist-deep water making them accessible to young children.
9. Zip Lining is a Must!
Are you an adrenaline junkie? Me too! I love zip-lining so I was super excited to find out that there are twin 650-foot zips that traverse the Aqua Zone. Purchase a day pass for $20 for unlimited thrills. While you’re at the summit, be sure to check out the Sky Bar for spectacular 360-degree views- and a bit of liquid courage.
10. The Weather Will Probably Be Pretty Perfect...
Due to Amber Cove and Puerto Plata being on the northern side of the island, the weather is pretty perfect year-round. In the summer you can expect the temperatures to be in the 80s, whereas the winter brings average temps of 75 degrees. December is the wettest month of the year.
11. Puerto Plata is Nearby
The town of Puerto Plata is literally a stone’s throw away. Puerto Plata is a popular beach vacation spot for Dominicans. Grab a cab and explore the Amber Museum, Brugal Rum Factory, check out the historic downtown, visit the 3-mile long boardwalk, check out historic Fort San Felipe. Venture a little further inland to explore the impressive Damajagua Falls. If you’re looking to relax away from the crowds, we suggest spending the day at Playa Bachata Resort.
If you don’t mind traveling a little bit further out, Sosua Beach is about 30 minutes away and offers stunning blue waters and decent snorkeling. There are also jet-ski rentals.
12. It's Totally Insta-Worthy!
There are plenty of photo opportunities staged around the cruise port area. Be sure to snap a few photos with the carnival masks, the vibrant blue Amber Cove sign, the stone wall entrance, and the man-made waterfall. Oh, and obviously you’ll want a shot of you sipping on a pina colada at the swim-up bar.
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One of my favorite things about planning out my cruises is picking out my shore excursion(s). There is an abundance of things to do and sometimes it can be hard to narrow it down to just one activity each port! Selecting which cruise excursion is right for you, but we’ve outlined some of the best activities in the hottest ports of the Caribbean.
Swimming with Nurse Sharks at Shark and Ray Alley, Belize
Each port lends itself to different activities. For instance, Belize, Costa Maya, San Juan, and Cozumel are excellent for experiencing ancient cultures however, they are also great for outdoor adventure activities.
Ports like St. Maarten, St. Thomas, and Antigua are great for shopping and hitting the beach.
Of course, there are some ports, like Grand Turk, Amber Cove, Costa Maya, and Mahogany Bay where you really don’t even have to book an excursion because they been developed by Carnival.
What is a Cruise Excursion?
A cruise excursion is an activity that you book in a cruise port. The excursions range from historic tours, snorkeling and beach tours, visits to popular attractions, activities that will get your adrenaline pumping, and cultural activities. They are booked through local tour companies and cost additional money. Excursions can go from anywhere from $39 to hundreds of dollars for scuba diving, golfing, and helicopter tours.
How to Select the Perfect Cruise Excursion for YOU
Really, it all depends on your idea of fun. The great thing about cruise excursions is the fact there is literally something for everyone! I like to pick something adventurous and something cultural each cruise.
For the History Lovers
I’ve always been quite a bit of a history nerd so I really enjoy historic island tours and visits to Mayan ruins. In the past six cruises, I have visited 3 different sets of ruins and been on many island tours. I like doing island tours because you get to see a lot of the island/port, learn a bit of history and you still get time to shop and/or hit the beach.
Not all island tours are created equally though. I booked an island tour on Grand Turk and was really disappointed. The island doesn’t really have much to offer. I would have been much better off just staying at the port and enjoying the beach and pool area. However, islands likeAntigua, Tortola, St. Maarten, and St. Thomas all offer incredible island tours that are full of rich history.
Xunantunich Ruins, Belize
Recommended Island Tours: Antigua, Tortola, St. Maarten, St. Thomas, Bahamas and San Juan
Each cruise, I like to do something that scares me…. just a little. It’s a great opportunity to open myself up to new experiences, to conquer fears, and to try new things. I must admit, I have done some really, really cool things while traveling. I’ve zip lined, snorkeled with sharks and rays, explored caves in Mexico and Belize, gone off-roading, and been on high-speed boat rides.
Recommended Activities: Ziplining (anywhere!), Cave Tubing in Belize, 4×4 safari in Aruba (it was so amazing!), catamaran rides (anywhere!),Rio Secreto(Cozumel), snorkeling (Bonaire, St. Thomas, Belize, Grand Turk), and Sting Ray City (Grand Cayman), Swimming with Sharks and Rays(Belize).
Snorkeling in Bonaire
You may have noticed that I don’t always book tours. There are some ports that have been really well developed by Carnival. Rather than just having the usual Carnival stores, they have added special features such as wide sandy beaches (with amenities), pools, bars, and restaurants. In places like Half Moon Cay, Grand Turk, Mahogany Bay, and Amber Cove it isn’t necessary to spend your money on an excursion. Whereas I strongly recommend booking something for Belize as Belize City itself has absolutely nothing to offer.
There are other ports where I don’t book tours but I either hit the local beaches or shop at the local shops. Ports, where this is totally doable, include Nassau, St. Thomas, St. Maarten, Costa Maya, Cozumel, and Grand Turk. I hope this helps you get an idea of how I choose my shore excursions. I mix a little history, with a bit of adventure and outdoor activities to create the trip of a lifetime!
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“Do I Need to Book an Excursion in Costa Maya?” This is a question that I get asked a lot. Quite frankly, there are some cruise ports where you absolutely must book an excursion, and then there are others where you really don’t have to.
Costa Maya is an absolutely stunning corner of Mexico. The turquoise blue waters crash into the vibrant green jungle and the white sand beach to form some of the most beautiful beaches you’ll ever encounter. Believe it or not, you can experience this port to the fullest without shelling out a ton of cash! Although it isn’t nearly as developed as Cozumel (130 miles north), it still offers visitors plenty to do.
Senor Frogs, Costa Maya
What is an Excursion?
An excursion is an activity that you book in a cruise port. The excursions range from historic tours, snorkeling and beach tours, visits to popular attractions, activities that will get your adrenaline pumping, and cultural activities. They are booked through local tour companies and cost additional money. Excursions can go from anywhere from $39 to hundreds of dollars for scuba diving, golfing, and helicopter tours.
Do I Need to Book an Excursion in Costa Maya?
Carnival has developed some ports as “destinations” and created a safe environment for cruisers to relax by the pool, spend some money in the shops or dine at restaurants. Costa Maya even gives you the option to swim with dolphins- if that is your thing. The port also features an aviary, a fish spa, and a place for you to experience Maya healing rituals. Oh, and of course there’s a tequila bar.
When you get off the ship you’ll need to walk down a long pier to the port. If you are not comfortable walking, or unable to, there are free shuttle buses that cart folks back and forth.
Although there is plenty to do at the port, if you want to truly experience Mexico, we suggest leaving the port area.
What are the highlights of Costa Maya?
Beautiful, large pools (with free floats)
Souvenir shops
Restaurants and bars (Senor Frogs, & Carlos and Charlies, etc).
Tequila Bar
Aviary
Fish Spa
Kakaw Chocolate
Dolphin Encounter
SCUBA diving
Free Entertainment in Costa Maya
Nearby Beaches
Walk towards your right from the port entrance, past the shops to the grand staircase. To the right of the staircase, there is a small pathway leading to a ticket selling booth/table. Here you can purchase tickets for a taxi or trolley ride. They can take you to any of the popular beach clubs.
Costa Maya, Mexico
The beaches here are unique in the sense that many of the bars, restaurants, and hotels actually own the beach that their establishment is on. Often times this means that you can receive bar and restaurant services while soaking up the rays. Pretty cool, huh?
Recommended Excursions in Costa Maya
Chacchoben Maya Ruins & Blue Lagoon
This 6 1/2 hour tour combines Maya history, local culture, and a beach break at a blue lagoon with an open bar. The trip starts with an hour-long bus ride out to the ruins. Along the way, your tour guide will tell you all there is to know about the ruins. You’ll have plenty of time to explore the ruins and the three main temples before heading back to the coast for lunch and time at the blue lagoon. This tour won’t leave you much time to explore the port area.
Maya Adventure Park & Beach Break
Spend the day at the Maya Adventure Park (the faux temple you see on the horizon from the cruise ship). The park has 9 waterslides, 2 zipline courses, a ropes course, and a roller coaster. There is also a pool and a Cenote to cool off in. Afterwards, hit the Beach Escape Beach Club for a bit of fun in the sun.
Bacalar Lagoon, Mexico
Seven Colors Lagoon River Tubing
This tour will take you to the stunning Bacalar Lagoon known as the “Lake of Seven Colors”. You’ll spend an hour and a half floating down the picturesque river. The tour includes lunch at the pier pictured above.
Bacalar Fort & Seven Colors Lagoon
Want to experience the real Mexico? This is truly a hidden gem! You’ll head to the town of Bacalar home to Bacalar Fort and the Seven Colors Lagoon. The fortress was built in 1733 to protect the Spanish colonists from pirate attacks and rebellions by the local indigenous people. You’ll also get a chance to spend time floating on the lagoon.
Catamaran Sail, Snorkel & Beach
Of course, you can never go wrong with a catamaran and snorkeling excursion. In fact, I have done this on several trips to Mexico and it never gets old.
I have to tell you, I have experienced some pretty cool things and seen some incredible places. Some of my favorite places have been Alaska, France, and England and, of course, the locations I shared a couple of weeks ago in my 5 Favorite Cruise Ports post.
Today I thought it might be fun to share with you my least favorite cruise ports. Now, let me preface this by saying that I realize that I am extremely fortunate to be able to travel and this is, in no way, me whining. I should also say that none of these places are absolutely terrible, and it was impossible for me to come up with 3 places that weren’t spectacular. In fact, all of these places are actually nice, as I’m sure anyone who has visited them would agree, they just don’t rank high up on my list.
Alright, enough with the disclaimers. Let’s get the ball rolling, shall we?
My Least Favorite Cruise Ports
Atlantis, Nassau, The Bahamas
Nassau
I’ve been to Nassau six times and it grows on me more and more each time. This gorgeous island in The Bahamas is dotted with stunning beaches and a plethora of things to do. Nassau is a haven for tourists…which is actually why I don’t love it. For me, Nassau is far too crowded. Visiting the Straw Market is a nightmare due to the number of tourists that are jam-packed in such a small space. Will I return to Nassau? Absolutely. In fact, I’ll be there in 6 months time. The key to enjoying Nassau is getting away from the crowds. [7 Things for Cruisers to do Within Walking Distance in Nassau]
Stingray City, Grand Cayman
Grand Cayman
Again, I actually like quite a bit about Grand Cayman. The island features a lovely Sea Turtle Farm and phenomenal beaches. This is also a fantastic location for snorkeling and scuba diving. On one visit, I took a boat out to Stingray City where I got to swim with stingrays which was totally cool! The key to enjoying Grand Cayman is to get out and do things. If you stay around the tourist district you’ll just wander in and out of shops all day. Grand Cayman has a lot to offer. I do strongly recommend skipping paying for a trip to the tourist trap that is known as Hell. It’s not even worth a second thought.
Mahogany Bay, Roatan
Mahogany Bay/Roatan
If you’re a regular to 5 Suitcases you may be surprised to see Mahogany Bay on the list especially since I also included it in my Top 5. You see, although Mahogany Bay and Roatan are essentially the same places, they couldn’t be more different. Carnival develops many of its ports as destinations by putting in a ton of stores, restaurants, and bars and putting in an idyllic beach. Grand Turk, Amber Cove, Costa Maya, and Mahogany Bay are all prime examples of this. I have to admit, Carnival has done an amazing job with these projects. However, it’s not authentic.
When I first started visiting Roatan there was nothing. Literally nothing. We were greeted at the port by guerrillas brandishing machine guns. Many people turned back, but we forged on and got to see how gorgeous the authentic Roatan really is. The only reason I dislike Mahogany Bay is that most visitors will not go beyond Carnival’s secure walls and discover how fantastic the island truly is.
The people of Roatan are some of the most pleasant, welcoming people you will ever meet. It’s a shame that many people will never get a chance to experience this simply because they remain at Mahogany Bay.
Did you know that gold has played an important part in Aruba’s history? Aruba’s name roughly translates to “there was gold”. On the north coast of the island resides the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, a remnant of the island’s Gold Rush.
The Gold Rush of 1824
During the 1700s the Dutch explored the Caribbean in search of gold and treasures hidden by the Spanish. They explored Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao but left disappointed.
Fast Forward to 1824 when a twelve-year-old herder discovered gold ore in the hills of Rooi Fluit. Almost immediately, gold became an important part of Aruba’s history from 1824 until about 1916. Nearly everyone on the island sought out the precious metal. However, what they found had to be sold to the government at a fixed price.
The fever died out in 1830 however, new gold veins were discovered in 1854. Afterward, locals were prohibited from digging for gold. A Dutch Company had exclusive rights for digging on the island before changing hands to American and English companies.
The island produced more than 3 million pounds, in total.
The Bushiribana Gold Mill
The Aruba Island Gold Mining Company built Bushiribana in 1874 to extract gold from the ore that was being mined in the hills nearby. The limestone mill was designed to look like a fort in order to intimidate potential pirates.
Eventually, in 1916 during World War 1, the Aruba Gold Mining Company decided to cease all operations on the island. The digging never resumed.
Visiting the Mill
Although it costs nothing to visit and explore the Bushiribana Ruins, you may want to visit with a tour guide. There are no guides, information pamphlets, or even signs that explain the history of the site. Everything is just kind of left open for you to interpret.
The views from the mill are absolutely remarkable. This is definitely one of Aruba’s most photogenic locations!
Visiting the Mill is a must, especially if you’re already in the area visiting the Aruba Ostrich Farm, the Small Natural Pool, or the Ayo Rock Formations.
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So you’re heading to Mexico, eh? LUCKY YOU! I’d love to help you with your Mexico packing list. The great news is Mexico has absolutely perfect weather so no matter what time of year you will be visiting you’re sure to have great weather. This also makes packing for a trip to Mexico a little easier.
Let’s Talk About the Weather
The climate in Mexico is tropical meaning that there is a wet season and a dry season. The best time to visit Mexico is during the dry season between December and April. During these months, there is virtually no rain. On the other hand, the wet season lasts from May until October.
The temperature in all areas of Mexico ranges between 50°F and 90°F throughout the year.
Beach in Cozumel Mexico
The Nitty Gritty
If you happen to accidentally leave something at home, you can always head into the large cities to do some shopping. However, items are typically more expensive in Mexico, and you may not find the particular brand that you would at home.
Mexico Packing List Essentials
When you’re getting ready for Mexico, there are some things that you absolutely must have with you. All of these items should be in your suitcase, purse, and/or carry-on.
Passport
You absolutely must have your passport to travel to Mexico. If you are visiting as a tourist, you donot require a visa. Visitors planning to stay more than 6 months get a visa.
Driver’s License
Visitors planning to drive in Mexico will need to be 18 years or older and have a valid driver’s license or international driving permit in order to rent a car and/or drive around legally. If you have a US driver’s license do not worry, it is a valid driver’s license in Mexico.
Although the legal driving age is 18, some rental companies require you to be 25 years or older and you must have a drivers license for a minimum of 2 years.
Portable and Plug-in Chargers
Obviously, you’re going to be taking a ton of pictures on your trip. You most definitely are going to want to pack a portable power bank for your phone. While you’re thinking about chargers you better grab all of the chargers for your electronics: phone charger, laptop charger, tablet charger, smartwatch charger, and maybe even an electric toothbrush charger!
The Anker PowerPort Cube Power Strip has 3 outlets, 3 USB ports, and includes a 5-foot extension cord.
Mexico uses 127volts, 60 cycle electricity, which is similar to the US. Plugs are typically the 2 pronged flat types so US travelers will not typically need a converter or adapter. Outlets rarely have 3 holes so if your device has a third prong, bring an adapter.
Camera & SD Card
Sure, you could just bring your phone along for photos but you’ll probably want to bring a legit camera along as well. I suggest a Nikon D5600 for high-quality photos. While you’re grabbing your camera, don’t forget our SD card! I travel with a 64 GB memory SD card. If you’re feeling wild, you can go for a 128 GB SD memory card.
If you’re planning on spending time at the beach, cenotes, or anywhere else on the coast you’ll probably want to have an underwater camera, as well. Those of you who will be using a phone as a camera, make sure you get a waterproof phone case. I take one of these with me on all of my trips to Central America and the Caribbean.
Cash $
It’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand. I would be careful about carrying around large amounts of money. I would suggest only having an equivalent of $100 (broken into small bills) on your person.
Mexico uses the Mexican peso (MXN). Some resort areas may accept USD however, you will most likely be charged extra if you are paying in USD.
Credit Cards
You will most likely be able to use your debit cards in Mexico. In fact, an easy way to access money while traveling is to use your debit or credit card in an ATM or cash machine in Mexico: you will receive Mexican currency, and your bank will withdraw the equivalent funds from your account plus a fee for the transaction.
Larger hotels, restaurants, and shops will typically be able to accept Visa and MasterCard. You could also use a credit card to obtain cash advances at major banks. I use a travel wallet to keep my passport, cards, and money safe in one place.
Travel Umbrella
If you’re traveling to Mexico during the wet season, you’ll definitely want to pack an umbrella. May through October are the wet seasons. I pack an EEZ-Y Windproof Travel Umbrella.
Sun Care
Trust me, there’s nothing worse than getting sunburned on a vacation. Plan on using a strong sunscreen to protect your skin. If you are hitting the reefs, you’ll want to pack coral reef-safe sunscreen. While you’re at it toss some Chapstick with SPF into your bag. You may also want to consider a hat and a sun shirt, as well. I always pack a bit of aloe with me on vacation- just in case. Better safe than sorry, right?
Mosquito Repellent
Mexico has a tropical climate so there are mosquitoes, bugs and other insects buzz around mostly in the early mornings and late evening. However, in most areas, most time of the year they are that not annoying.
You should always pack your necessary prescription medications in your carry-on bag. Make sure they are in their original containers.
El Castillo, Tulum, Mexico
What to Wear on the Plane to Mexico
Although you’ll be traveling to a tropical destination, you may want to dress a little more warmly on your flight. Since airplanes are typically cool, you’ll want to dress in layers. Consider wearing a tank top with a light sweater, a light hoodie, or a long sleeve shirt. I also usually don’t wear shorts on a plane because my legs tend to get cold.
Make sure you wear shoes that are easy to slide on and off and consider leaving your belt in your suitcase. If you plan on packing a large floppy sun hat, you may want to bring it on the plane so that it doesn’t get squished in your suitcase.
FUN FACT:
These adorable little cocktail sets are perfect for a drink on the go. Believe it or not, they are TSA compliant! They are great for travel days but also would be handy on an impromptu picnic!
Rio Secreto, Mexico
What to Wear During the Day
Keep in mind that the average temperature in Mexico is 84 degrees. It’s also typically super humid. Consider packing clothing that will be comfortable in this climate.
You’ll also want to consider what activities you’ll be doing on your trip. If you’re spending most of your time on the coast you’ll want to focus on coverups, bathing suits, and sandals. If you’re heading to the jungle and rainforest to zip-line or going to the ruins like Tulum or Chicken Itza you’ll want to pack activewear. I usually wear breathable yoga pants, a t-shirt, comfortable tennis shoes, sunglasses, and a hat when I hit the ruins.
The dress code in Mexico is super laid back. It’s cool if you stick with casual outfits.
Misc. Electronics
Kindle
If you don’t want to lug a guide book around, you may want to invest in a Kindle. These are a great alternative to packing physical books. They take up way less space! The Kindle Paperwhite is waterproof making it a great option for travel.
AirPods
These headphones are MADE for travel. They are compact, lightweight, and recharge themselves when they are in the case. AirPods are great to have on the plane, train, or when relaxing by the pool or on the beach!
Tulum Beach
Other Items for Your Mexico Packing List
Scanned Copies of Important Items
It is always smart to carry a scanned copy of the information page of your passport. That way, if you misplace it it’s easier for you to get a replacement. Make sure you pack it in a different place than you keep your physical passport. You can also take a photo of it and store it on your phone.
Packing Cubes
Guys! Packing cubes are LIFE! They are the perfect way to keep your suitcase neat and organized. They have been a total game changer for me!
First Aid Kit
Raise your hand if you’re a klutz like me! Anybody? If you’re anything like me then you totally need to pack a first aid kit. I take one with me when I travel.
Guide Books
If you are a terrestrial traveler, rather than a cruiser, you may want to pack along a guide book. I’m a Lonely Planet fan.
While You’re in Mexico
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The beach next to the ship is perfect for snorkeling and swimming!
One of the first decisions you’ll have to make when planning your cruise is deciding when you’ll go. Cruises (traditionally) run 365 days a year- but some times of the year are better than others. There are things you need to take into consideration such as school breaks, hurricane season, and other factors. Join us as we explore the best and worst times to cruise.
Tulum Beach, Mexico
The Best and Worst Times to Cruise
January Through February
January and February are some of my favorite months to cruise. Since most of the ports have tropical or sub-tropical climates, the weather is absolutely gorgeous this time of the year. This is the perfect time of year to cruise if you live up north and want to escape the frigid winter temperatures.
The water temperatures are a tiny bit chilly, but you’ll adjust quickly and should be fun. Be advised that you can still get sunburned during this time of the year, so be sure to bring your sunscreen along.
Magens Bay, St. Thomas
March Through Easter
This is one of the most popular times for people to book a cruise thanks to Spring Break. I’ve been on many Spring Break cruises, and they really aren’t that bad. The crowds during this time tend to be younger- we’re talking lots of families and a ton of intoxicated college kids.
I will say I don’t sleep well on cruises during this time of the year because there are kids and drunkards running up and down the halls at all hours of the night.
This is also the beginning of peak season so expect the prices to be a bit higher and the lines to be a bit longer at the buffets. These cruises were fun when I was in my twenties however, now that I’m a bit older I tend to avoid cruising during this time.
Atlantis- Paradise Island, Bahamas
May Through August
Look, I get the appeal of booking a cruise during the summer. The kids are out of school, it’s the perfect weather for a day at the beach, and you’re guaranteed to get some color on your skin. Seemingly, this is the perfect time to cruise. However, believe it or not, this is my least favorite time to cruise.
“Why?” you might ask. There are fewer drunk college kids during the summer months, but more families. The pools, hot tubs, and food lines are swarming with young kids. There are children everywhere. And quite frankly, it’s rather annoying.
The weather in the Caribbean at this time of the year is dreadfully hot and humid, and this is coming from a Floridian. If you do choose to cruise during this time of year pack plenty of sunscreen and aloe and stay hydrated.
The prices this time of year are much higher, and quite frankly not worth it (in my opinion). At this time of the year, I’d much rather cruise to Alaska than to the Caribbean.
Half Moon Cay, Bahamas
September Through October
Many people shy away from cruising during this time of the year because it is the peak of hurricane season. Sure, there there is a chance of having to deal with a storm (more on that below) but to me, it’s a chance worth taking.
This is my favorite time to cruise! The weather is fantastic, the water is absolutely glorious, and the prices are lower.
Natural Bridge, Aruba
November Through December
Hurricane Season
Hurricane season officially lasts from June 1 to November 30th. The season tends to peak in September. Traditionally, this is when you’ll see the lowest cruise fares. Some people tend to steer away from traveling during hurricane season however, I’m not one of those people. Oftentimes, when there is a storm your itinerary will change a bit. I’ve had two cruise itineraries that were impacted by a tropical storm or hurricane. On the first one, we simply skipped a port and had an extra sea day. On the second one, we visited Grand Turk instead of St. Thomas.
Planning a cruise during the shoulder season, or off-season can help you save money on your cruise. Of course, you’ll see the highest cruise fares during holidays and cruising seasons. You’ll pay more money to sail during the December holidays as well as from late February throughout Easter, due to Spring Break.
Personally, my favorite months to cruise are September, October, January, and March.
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Are you asking yourself, “Where should I cruise to?” One of the first decisions you’ll have to make when booking a cruise is deciding where you should cruise to. There are tons of options scattered all throughout the Caribbean. From the Bahamas in the northeast all the way down to Aruba in the very southern Caribbean.
The Caribbean is generally split into three regions: Western Caribbean, Eastern Caribbean, and Southern Caribbean. Each region differs primatrily by the departure port, number of ports on your itinerary, and the length of your trip. For instance, if you’re interested in going to the Southern Caribbean, you’ll probably want to/need to leave from Miami or Puerto Rico.
Caribbean cruises can range from 2-10 days (and sometimes even longer!) depending on the cruise line, departure port, and itinerary. It can be overwhelming to pick the itinerary for your family especially if you’re a first-time cruiser.
Where Should I Cruise To?
God of the Winds Temple, Tulum
Western Caribbean
The Western Caribbean is a popular selection for first-time cruisers. The ports have a more exotic feel than those in the Eastern Caribbean and are a bit less glitsy. Western Caribbean cruises typically feature destinations such as Grand Turk, Grand Cayman, Cozumel, Jamaica, or Costa Maya. The week-long cruises will often times visit Belize and Roatan, as well.
The Western Caribbean is perfect for adventurers, history buffs, and beach bums. This is where you’ll find the Maya ruins of Tulum, Xunantunich, Cahal Pech, Chichen Itza, as well as many others. Snorkeling and diving are also top-notch here, especially near Belize and Mexico where you’ll find the Blue Hole.
Other popular excursions include off-road ATV adventures, catamaran rides, ziplining, and other cultural experiences.
Western Caribbean cruises tend to be a bit more budget-friendly. Due to the distance between ach port, you’ll typically have at least 2 full sea days where you can relax, enjoy onboard activities, or recover from your active days in port.
These cruises typically depart from ports in Florida, Texas, and New Orleans. The itineraries typically have 3 or 4 stops and last 7 or 8 days.
Half Moon Cay, Bahamas
Eastern Caribbean
Eastern Caribbean cruises often feature ports such as San Juan, St. Thomas, St. Maarten, Tortola, Grand Turk, and The Bahamas. Itineraries typically range from the 5 to 7-night range, however, they can be shorter if you’re looking to just zip over to The Bahamas from Florida.
These cruises generally depart from ports in Florida or from San Juan, Puerto Rico. Ports of call on Eastern Caribbean cruises are some of the most popular ports so it’s not unusual to see 3 or more ships on the same day.
The Eastern Caribbean is full of colonial history, pirate history, shopping, beautiful beaches, and volcanic islands with lush green hillsides. These are easily some of the most stunning places in the Caribbean! What’s even cooler is many of these ports offer excursions that will take you to nearby islands such as St. John and St. Barths which are a bit more off the beaten path.
These itineraries are generally best suited for active travelers. Since the ports of call are fairly close to each other, you’ll often wake up in a new port each day. In fact, you may even need a vacation day to recover from your cruise!
The View from Shirley Heights Lookout, Antigua
Southern Caribbean
Last but not least, is the Southern Caribbean. These itineraries require a bit more time but trust me, they are totally worth it! Since the ports are further from the United States, the cruises tend to be in the 7+ day range and cost a bit more.
Cruises that venture to the southern Caribbean often feature Antigua, Barbados, St. Lucia, Martinique, Grenada, Guadalupe, St. Kitts, and the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao) on their itineraries. These ports of call have a distinct European charm to them.
Many cruises that hit these ports are out of Miami or Puerto Rico, so it is important to consider that when booking the trip, as well.
These ports are steeped in rich colonial history that is evident as you wander around the island. This is a prime location for scuba diving, snorkeling, hiking, and zip-lining.
“Do I Need to Book an Excursion in Cozumel?” This is a question that I get asked a lot. Quite frankly, there are some cruise ports where you absolutely must book an excursion, and then there are others where you really don’t have to.
Cozumel is an island off the coast of mainland Mexico. It is close to Playa del Carmen and the super-popular Cancun. The island is a cruise-goers paradise. Many people don’t realize that much of Cozumel is actually undeveloped. Cruisers tend to hit the downtown area or take a ferry to the mainland and very few actually venture out to check out the island, as a whole. The island is so undeveloped that much of the Atlantic-side doesn’t even have electricity.
What is an Excursion?
An excursion is an activity that you book in a cruise port. The excursions range from historic tours, snorkeling and beach tours, visits to popular attractions, activities that will get your adrenaline pumping, and cultural activities. They are booked through local tour companies and cost additional money. Excursions can go from anywhere from $39 to hundreds of dollars for scuba diving, golfing, and helicopter tours.
Do I Need to Book an Excursion in Cozumel?
The fact that there is a Hooters and a Starbucks at the end of the dock is a pretty damn good hint that you don’t need to book an excursion in Cozumel.
While in Cozumel we recommend snorkeling or taking atour of the island via Beach Buggyor Jeep. One of our favorite things to do on the island is to spend the day sailing on a catamaran. Cozumel is also one of the top diving sites in the world!
Most of the time, we actually hop a ferry to head to the mainland. There are a ton of incredible things to do on the mainland- from Maya ruins, eco-parks, and even exploring underwater caves.
Beach in Cozumel Mexico
Nearby Beaches
Playa Mia Grand Beach
This is the perfect beach to visit with children! For just a small entrance fee, you have access to 20+ activities including a 200-foot long water slide, a 500 foot long Floating Park, and a play area with water cannons. This is also a fantastic place to snorkel and hit the white sand beach. There is plenty to do and eat at Playa Mia Grand Beach.
Chen Rio
This popular beach is on the southeastern shore of Cozumel. This area is not protected by a reef so the water can be a bit choppy- so it’s not the best place for snorkeling. However, there is a natural pool area that is separated from the open sea by jetties making it a safe place to swim. There are plenty of restaurants close by.
Punta Sur
Punta Sur is the highest point on the Yucatan. It is surrounded by impeccable ocean views, a sculpture garden and even an ancient Maya temple!
The Best Excursions in Cozumel
Ancient City of Tulum
Tulum is one of the most popular tourist destinations in all of Mexico. Each year, more than 2 million visitors flock to the Yucatan to visit these ruins overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Even if you aren’t a history nerd, chances are you’ll love the Tulum ruins simply because of the picturesque location.
You may also want to consider checking out the world-famous ruins of Chichen-Itza. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most important archaeological sites in the world! There is quite a bit of traveling involved to get to Chichen-Itza. It is a 2.5-hour ride to the ruins, once you’re on the mainland. Although this is offered as an excursion, this site is better visited when you have more time (IE: Not as a cruise excursion).
Deluxe Beach, Catamaran Sail & Snorkel
This is one of our favorite excursions in Cozumel. I mean, is there anything better than sailing aboard a 65-foot catamaran to a private beach that has an AMAZINGLY fun Aqua Park? The Aqua Park has sea kayaks, beach floats, a water trampoline, and other water toys.
Xcaret Parks
This tour takes place on the mainland, so you’ll have to hop a 30-45 minute ferry and head to Playa del Carmen. Once you’re at the Eco-Archaeological Park, you can swim in the natural pools, lagoons, and cenotes. You can even take a slow-paced float down an underground river.
If you’re looking for something a little less commercial, we suggest checking out Rio Secreto. One of the Mexican Riviera’s best-kept secrets!
Adventure Jeep, Snorkel & Tequila at Punta Sur
Drop the top on the Jeep and drive off-road to Punta Sur. Once you’re at the beach club, you can explore the marine park, relax on the beach, or join a guided snorkel trip. Automatic vehicles are available upon request. Another option is the Beach Buggy & Snorkel Tour.
Thrill & Chill: Zip Line, Snorkeling & Beach
Soaring through canopies on zip lines is one of my favorite thrills! A short taxi ride will take you to a private beach club. After your safety briefing, you’ll walk a series of 6 suspension bridges (yikes!), and traverse 3 zip lines. You’ll conclude your adrenaline-pumping adventure with a 75-foot free rappel back to the ground. Next, you’ll grab your snorkel gear and cool off in the stunning turquoise water. If snorkeling isn’t your thing, there are also paddleboards, kayaks, wave runners, and other toys available at an additional cost.
