There are precious few destinations on the tourist map whose sole raison d’être is to offer unabashed luxury, relaxation and pampering.

And even fewer which offer all this plus miles of powder-white beaches, azure lagoons and year-round tropical sun. But nestled on the north east tip of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula lies a resort which does just that. Cancun truly excels as one of the world’s most exclusive holiday destinations.

Thirty years ago, Cancun was a little more than an undeveloped spit of land just off the Yucatan’s Caribbean coast. But since its first hotel opened in 1974, the thin ribbon of coral sands - now bridged to the mainland, has become a byword for the very best in resort holidays. Meaning “Pot of Gold” in the native Mayan; rarely has a name been so apt.

The resort, which is part of the so-called Mayan Riviera, stretches for 14 sandy miles along the L-shaped Isla Cancun and also takes in the mainland district of Downtown Cancun –where much of the city’s buzzing nightlife scene is based. On the north and east sides of the island, the Caribbean Sea laps the shore, whilst on the inland-facing coast the still waters of the Nachupte Lagoon are well-suited to myriad water-sports on offer. Off the northern coast is the five-mile long, Isla Mujeres - gateway to the Mesoamerican Reef, the world’s second largest coral reef. Compared to Cancun, life on Isla Mujeres is slower; a laid-back haven for sun-worshippers, scuba divers and snorkellers alike with many visitors ambling along in golf buggies.

Cancun is probably best known for the Zona Hotelera- the stretch of some of the world’s finest hotels – including the Hilton Cancun, which features the resort’s only hotel golf course. For those that manage to force themselves out of their sun-loungers, water-sports and other activities are plentiful – scuba diving is particularly popular, with beginner’s lessons widely available. The international flavour that predominates is mirrored by the cuisine – with Asian, Caribbean and European dishes as much on the menu as more traditional Mexican fare.

Cancun is also well placed for the visitor to experience the remarkable Mayan heritage of the Yucatan. Intriguing lost cities and impressive pyramids and temples should bring out the Indiana Jones in you. The best known of the Mayan archaeological sites is Chichen Itza – a two-hour drive west. The Mayan settlement is dominated by the staggering El Castillo Pyramid which dates from the ninth century – an extraordinary structure that utilises sunlight and shadow to act as both a compass and a calendar. Other highlights include the ancient port of Tulum, 80 miles south of Cancun and the largely unexplored ruins of Coba, 110 miles south west of the resort.

Equally as captivating is the beautiful eco-park, Xcaret. An hour’s coastal drive south, the park brings together – amongst a plethora of attractions: wildlife – including a jaguar sanctuary and a dolphin pool, an underground river and a recreated Mayan village. Next to Xcaret are the dazzling coral reefs of Playa del Carmen and Mexico’s largest island, Cozumel – well worth a visit for a Cousteau eye-to-eye with the diverse sea-life. Back in Cancun get further acquainted with all things marine at Aquaworld. Snorkel or ride a waverunner through wild mangroves or explore the coral gardens in a “sub-sea” submarine. Back on dry land, indulge in some retail therapy in one of the resort’s chic malls such as the Flamingo Plaza or for some of the best Mexican handicrafts, hotfoot it to colourful markets like the Mercado Ki Huic.

But if this all seems like far too much hard work; just lie back and let the Mayan Riviera experience wash over you.

Resort: Hilton Cancun Golf & Spa Resort

Andrew Morris is a UK-based freelance journalist, travel writer and editor who has been published internationally in both newspapers and magazines as well as on-line.

www.aimorris.co.uk

© Andrew Morris 2004