You’re planning your next travel jaunt and have whittled the world’s vast number of options down to two: Cuba or Mexico. That’s a choice many would like to be faced with. But how exactly do you decide? Here are few destination highlights that will help you make this tough but enviable decision!
Mexico — An Action Destination
Mexico is a destination for adventure lovers, so if you and your loved one like to be where the action is, it’s the destination for you. The Xel Ha National Park sits along the Riviera Maya. There you can snorkel among angelfish, pufferfish, parrotfish and other species; climb the 5 meter ‘Cliff of Courage’ and jump off into the water below (many do it!); explore natural caves; go zip lining and do a host of other activities.
A visit also provides you with access to some of the world’s most famous historical sites too. Cancun and Playa del Carmen both offer day trip opportunities to the legendary Chichen Itza, the ancient Mayan city. The best known part of these ruins is El Castillo, which has 365 steps, one for each day of the year. Visit early in the morning and it will be quieter, creating much better opportunities to photograph the ruins.
There’s no hiding the fact that Mexico has some magnificent beaches. The Mexican island of Isla de Mujeres boasts some truly top class beaches and calm turquoise waters. It’s also a suitable destination if you’re looking for a quieter vacation.
Cuba — An Island of Tranquillity
The attractions above throw down a heavy gauntlet to Cuba, but this Caribbean island rises to the challenge. Into the bargain, you can benefit from that little unique something, as the home of salsa dancing, of course. Who better to learn a few steps from than from the absolute masters? It’s a perfect activity for couples and you’ll never be far away from somewhere (or someone) to teach you a few steps.
Cuban destinations such as Guardalavaca and Varadero offer splendid beaches that allow you to take a pedalo out onto the tranquil waters. The former has three different beaches which easily enable you to laze from one to the other. In Guardalaca you can also live the Hemingway-esque lifestyle with a spot of deep sea fishing.
Cuba is also the place to visit for a touch of nostalgia. Renowned for the number of classic cars that you’ll see on the streets, the laidback nature of the island makes a refreshing change from the hectic pace of contemporary life. With loveholidays.com you can stay in Varadero, from there you can take a day trip out to the capital, La Havana, where you can visit the Plaza de la Revolución, art museums and also swing by the headquarters of Bacardi, a treat for rum lovers!
Whether you go to Cuba or to Mexico, the choice is yours, but the best way to decide is what kind of holiday you’re looking for. Both destinations promise warm weather, but Mexico offers adventure as well as relaxation and you can count on Cuba if you want to take it really easy.
Images by pavelcab, mickou, Nick Kenrick and Fathzer, used under Creative Commons license