Jetsettersblog

From cultural learning experiences to zipping through the jungle, the region offers something for family members of all ages.

RIVIERA MAYA, MEXICO-The Riviera Maya, located on Mexico’s Caribbean coastline, provides families access to 81 miles of sun, sand, surf and rainforest, making it the ultimate playground for an unforgettable family adventure. The region is host to an abundance of family-friendly activities that allow children to become immersed in ancient cultures, zipline through the jungle, witness geological wonders and explore natural habitats.

Family Adventures

Xplor – As one of the Riviera Maya’s newest attractions, Xplor features 13 ziplines, underground river rafting, hammock ziplining, cave swimming and amphibious vehicles. To preserve the region’s dense jungle foliage, the park offers two circuits of seven/sixziplines each where guests zipline from one platform to another, ending with a splash in one of the park’s underground rivers. The all-inclusive model, which includes full access to the on-site buffet and all beverages, makes it easy for families to budget for their vacation while eliminating added stress associated with hidden costs.

http://www.xplor.trave

Hidden Worlds – As a less commercialized option, this off-the-beaten track attraction features skycycling, rappelling into a cenote, cave snorkeling and various ziplining offerings including the high-adrenaline zipline rollercoaster, the Avatar. Guests begin their journey by embarking on an extensive jungle buggy ride before departing at the Hidden Worlds secret location where they are immersed in Riviera Maya’s natural beauty.

www.hiddenworlds.com

Dolphin Discovery – At Dolphin Discovery, guests can get up close and personal with dolphins and other marine life including manatees and sea lions. Under the guidance of a professional trainer, families can swim with the dolphins and interact with the majestic creatures through a variety of specially designed activities including a dolphin kiss, hug and handshake.

www.dolphindiscovery.com/mayan_riviera

Additional Kid-Friendly Attractions:

• Xel-Ha – Mexico’s largest natural aquarium perfect for snorkeling & scuba

• Xcaret – Eco-archeological park featuring cultural, nature & wildlife activities

• Rio Secreto – Underground river and stunning geological wonder

Archeological Sites

Tulum – As one of the Riviera Maya’s most visited and famed archeological sites, Tulum is an ancient city home to numerous pre-Columbian Mayan ruins. The ruins are strategically situated on a scenic high bluff overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea.

Other Famous Mayan Ruin Sites:

• Coba

• Chichen Itza

Kid-Friendly Accommodations

Barcelo Maya Palace Deluxe – As one the resort’s five all-inclusive properties, sharing over a mile of beach coastline, Barcelo Maya Palace Deluxe is the perfect place for families. The property features a wide-variety of specialty restaurants and buffet options to satisfy everyone’s palate. From a discotheque specially designed for older teenagers and a children’s club for young ones to a full-service spa and shopping mall, the resort offers plenty of amenities for all ages.

http://www.barcelo.com/BarceloHotels/en-GB/Hotels/Mexico/MayanRiviera/MayaPalace/Home.htm

Additional family appropriate properties:

• Sandos Caracol Eco Resort & Spa – Includes an aqua park, baby’s club, kid’s club & teen activities

• Grand Velas – Features a kid’s club, arts & craft & wildlife encounter packages

For more information on family-friendly hotels and planning the perfect family adventure, visit www.rivieramaya.com

About The Riviera Maya

One of the world’s most desirable destinations, the Riviera Maya is situated along the Eastern coast of Mexico in the state of Quintana Roo. Nestled between the Caribbean Sea and protected jungles, the Riviera Maya stretches eighty-one miles, beginning south of the Cancun International Airport in Puerto Morelos and extending through Sian Ka’an, the first established Biosphere Reserve in Mexico and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Riviera Maya boasts the tranquility of sparsely-populated beaches, a vast network of underground rivers, more than 100 cenotes and numerous eco-adventure activities such as kayaking, scuba diving, snorkeling, trekking, bird watching and deep sea fishing. A vast variety of lodging options, from luxury hotels, all-inclusive properties to charming boutique hotels, provide excellent accommodations, first-class facilities and the warm hospitality of the local people. Many of Mexico’s most significant archeological sites are nearby, providing visitors with the chance to experience the fascinating Mayan culture. The Riviera Maya has been named a Top Destination in Mexico for five consecutive years by Travel Weekly (2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009), awarded with The Best Destination in Mexico by Crystal Apple Award 2008 and 2009; one of the hottest beach destinations byOrbitz in 2008 and was recognized as the Sexiest Destination by Recommend Magazine. For more information on the Riviera Maya visit www.rivieramaya.com