​Essentially, this is a geographic area on the coast of the Caribbean Sea in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. It stretches south of Cancun to Tulum. For whatever reason, I believe I am going to retire to this geographic location in Mexico. However, I love what I do, so retirement is not in the cards. BUT, I highly recommend The Riviera Maya for a fun-filled vacation with or without the kids.  
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FAST FACTS
Destination: Riviera Maya
State: Quintana Roo
Country: Mexico 
Primary Language: Spanish
Timezone: Eastern 
Currency: Mexican Peso (US Dollar can be used in larger tourist areas)

Nearby Tourist Areas:
Cozumel
Playa del Carmen
Cancun
​Tulum

​​Passport: Yes, Americans need a valid passport to enter Mexico
Visa: American citizens do not need a visa if traveling for vacation

More information on passports & visas can be found here.

I love traveling abroad as much as I love traveling within my home country of the United States. However, I want you to be safe and be an excellent representative of your home country. Even in places that are very friendly to visitors, remember that you are in a foreign country and understanding local customs is critical. So, here are a few tips as you prepare for your adventure.
  1. Before you depart from your home country, call The US Embassy (or your home country embassy) and tell them you are leaving your home country. That way they are aware of your whereabouts in case of emergency.
  2. Carry only the credit cards you are using to charge expenses. Call those credit card companies before you leave. Do not travel with your debit cards. 
  3. Clean out your wallet or purse and carry only what you need. 
  4. Solve your mobile phone situation before you depart. Usually a phone call to your provider will get you started.
  5. Keep all medications with you in your carry on.
  6. Leave a photo copy of all your travel documents (passport, itinerary, copy of your credit cards) with a friend or at your home. 
  7. Do not travel with expensive jewelry.
  8. Make sure you travel with a valid passport or visa (if required). Also, bring another valid form of photo I.D., and photocopies of both I.D.s. in case of loss or theft.
  9. Read up on local laws and practices before you get here.
  10. Be a respective guest of the local customs and obey the local laws.
  11. If English is not the primary language, then familiarize yourself with key phrases and make attempts in the country's primary language. Locals usually appreciate the effort.  
  12. Keep luggage, handbags or backpacks in view at all times.
  13. Keep possessions close to your body.
  14. Don’t take around large amounts of cash.
  15. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry on road trips or excursions.

For US citizens, visit the US State Department's website (for American citizens) before you travel abroad. Her'e's a direct link to get started. 
TRANSPORTATION
​​Airport(s):
The closest major airport to the Riviera Maya is in Cancun. However, Cozumel International Airport is close but only accessible by ferry from Playa del Carmen. 

By Boat
The ferry terminal in Playa del Carmen will take you to Cozumel.  

Cruise Ships
Cozumel is one of the most visited ports in Mexico by cruise ships. 

​Train: n/a
THE WEATHER
The hottest month on the Riviera Maya is August with an average temperature of 82°F (28°C) and the coldest is January at 75°F (24°C). The wettest month tends to be September. The best month to swim in the sea is in August when the average sea temperature is 84°F (29°C).
WHERE TO STAY
Hard Rock Riviera Maya
​Grand Hotel Paraiso
WHERE TO EAT
Coming Soon 
OFFICIAL LINKS
Mexico has an official tourism bureau. Learn more by watching this video. In addition, here are links to the official bureaus for this destination, the state and the USA. 

​Mexico Official Tourism Site

HELPFUL LINKS