The Mexican Caribbean is entering fall on a high note, showcasing its renowned beach destinations and vibrant Mayan heritage, bolstered by prestigious accolades, enhanced accessibility, and a calendar filled with internationally acclaimed events. From Bacalar to Holbox, hotels and resorts in the region have been recognized as among the finest by the MICHELIN Guide and The World’s 50 Best Hotels. The excitement continues with the announcement of Playa Las Perlas as a “100% inclusive beach,” equipped with new facilities and resources to ensure that disabled visitors can enjoy seamless beach experiences. With highly anticipated events like Xcaret’s Festival of Life and Death Traditions celebrating the Day of the Dead and significant sporting competitions such as Ironman, this destination, which will also mark its 50th anniversary in October, is ready to offer exceptional experiences for all visitors.

“For half a century, the Mexican Caribbean has been an iconic destination loved by visitors from around the world. Our tropical climate, white sand beaches and oceanfront resorts have always been the primary draw to our region, and over the years, travelers have discovered the magic of our lush jungles, mystical cenotes and pristine nature reserves,” said Andres Martinez, Director of the Tourism Promotion Council of Quintana Roo (CPTQ). “It is now easier than ever to explore all the Mexican Caribbean has to offer thanks to infrastructure developments like the new Tulum International Airport and Tren Maya that have improved accessibility to further reaches of the region. We look forward to welcoming repeat and first-time visitors to all of our 12 destinations this year as we celebrate this new era of tourism and look toward the future.”

Eighteen Hotels and Resorts Honored with MICHELIN Key Distinctions

On September 12, the MICHELIN Guide announced its inaugural One, Two, and Three Key distinctions for “the most outstanding hotels in Mexico.” The MICHELIN Keys, awarded by MICHELIN Guide Inspectors, highlight unique hospitality concepts, distinctive character, and exceptional service. Eighteen hotels and resorts in the Mexican Caribbean received this prestigious recognition:

Three MICHELIN Keys:

Hotel Esencia in Tulum, celebrated for its beachfront bungalows and an organic spa offering bespoke programs utilizing local ingredients and ancient Mayan medicinal practices.

Two MICHELIN Keys:

Riviera Maya: Banyan Tree Mayakoba

Riviera Maya: Etéreo, Auberge Resorts Collection

Riviera Maya: Palmaïa – The House of AïA: All-Inclusive Wellness Resort

Riviera Maya: Rosewood Mayakoba

Riviera Maya: Maroma, A Belmond Hotel, Riviera Maya

Tulum: Casa Chablé

One MICHELIN Key:

Bacalar: Boca de Agua Bacalar

Bacalar: Casa Hormiga

Bacalar: Our Habitas Bacalar

Cancún: Waldorf Astoria Cancun

Holbox: Nomade Holbox

Riviera Maya: The St. Regis Kanai Resort, Riviera Maya

Riviera Maya: Viceroy Riviera Maya, a Luxury Villa Resort

Riviera Maya: Chablé Maroma

Tulum: Be Tulum Beach & Spa Resort

Tulum: MILAM

Tulum: Wakax Hacienda – Cenote & Boutique Hotel

Two Properties Recognized in “The World’s 50 Best Hotels”

On September 17, The World’s 50 Best Hotels unveiled its 2024 list, featuring Maroma: A Belmond Hotel at Number 18, which also earned the 2024 Flor de Caña Eco Hotel Award, and Hotel Esencia at Number 48, praised for its “boho beach chic with an aristocratic edge.”

Cancun Introduces Mexican Caribbean’s First Fully Inclusive Beach

Recently, local officials introduced new accessibility equipment at Playa Las Perlas, a public beach in Cancun’s Hotel Zone. The beach now offers three wheelchairs, two aquatic chairs, two aquatic beds, and two aquatic walkers and mats, along with accessible palapas and wheelchair-friendly restrooms. Known for its gentle waves, Playa Las Perlas is perfect for families with young children and includes a public playground. Activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding, as well as boardwalk dining, are also available.

Exciting Fall Events Celebrate Heritage and World-Class Sports

Festival of Life and Death Traditions (October 30 – November 3, 2024): Experience the rich traditions of the Day of the Dead at Xcaret’s Festival of Life and Death Traditions, recognized as an Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. In its 18th year, the festival features themed entertainment, an All Saints’ Day mass, workshops, exhibits, and interactive haciendas for guests of all ages to learn about this significant cultural event.

GFNY Cozumel (November 10, 2024): Hosted by the global endurance sports brand GFNY, this personal endurance cycling challenge offers 160 and 80-kilometer course options, set against stunning ocean views and refreshing breezes. A kids’ version, GFNY KIDS Cozumel, will take place on November 9, featuring courses from 270 meters to 5 kilometers for children aged 3 to 13.

Ironman Cozumel (November 24, 2024): Athletes from around the globe will converge for Ironman’s Latin American Championship, competing in a three-part course that includes swimming, biking, and running.

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