Mexico Vacations

Off-the-beaten-path romantic getaway
Hotel Secreto on Isla Mujeres, Mexico

If Cancun is a party animal, Isla Mujeres is its quiet younger sister. Located just a short 30 minute ferry ride away from the frenzied pace of Cancun, Isla Mujeres is a tiny island with lots to offer. The warm waters are crystal clear, and the white sand beaches are laid back and uncrowded.

Na Balam resort offers a torch lit romantic 4-star barefoot dinner for two right on the beach at sunset (which is unbeatable), even for those who are not staying there. Advanced reservations required, and prices are reasonable.

Hotel Secreto is tucked way from the rest of the village on an unmarked side street without so much as a sign out front, but its nine rooms offer relaxed luxury and seclusion. An infinity pool seems to meet the very tip of the private beach it backs into.

Use coupon MEX15 to get $15 off on your Mexicana Airline flight bookings.

The few palapa thatch-roof hut bars that dot the beaches offer friendly swings and hammocks instead of chairs where you can watch the world pass by.

A turtle farm, small Mayan ruins, world-class shark free snorkeling (including reasonably priced private trips with only one or two guides), and a lively central village with a surprising variety of restaurants, clubs, bookstores and artisans and silver merchants also await.

We honeymooned there (as did many family members and savvy travelers we know), and in the words of my brother-in-law, "I went three years ago, but I have daydreamed about it every single day since."

By Brooke Preston

Here is a short list of some facts about Isla Mujeres:

Most stores have English speaking staff.
All stores accept US dollars.
You can buy Cuban cigars here.
You can get a taxi anywhere on the island.
There are a few Internet cafes in town.
There are laundromats in town.
The island utilizes a water purification system. Bottled water is available at stores, hotels and restaurants.