I’ve got a little story to share about the power of breaking stereotypes and how our preconceived notions about places can be seriously misleading and this time I am travelling to Cancun. As a solo female traveler, I’ve had my fair share of adventures, and I can’t stress enough how important it is to challenge stereotypes about cities and destinations.
Is Cancun Safe To Travel?
Let me take you to Cancun, a place that’s often painted with a broad brush of misconceptions. Before my trip, I heard so many stories about how dangerous and unsafe it could be for tourists. But you know what? Traveling solo to Cancun was an absolute game-changer for me!
From the moment I landed, I felt welcomed with open arms. The locals were incredibly friendly, and I never once felt unsafe or uncomfortable. In fact, I found Cancun to be even safer than some places back home. Exploring the city and its stunning beaches solo allowed me to immerse myself in the local culture, savour the delicious food, and make new friends from all around the world.
This experience taught me a valuable lesson: Don’t judge a destination by its stereotypes!
How to Spend 5 Days Travelling Solo in Cancun?
So today, I’m excited to share with you my incredible journey to Cancun, where I defied stereotypes, challenged misconceptions, and experienced a side of this Mexican paradise that often goes unnoticed. As a solo female traveler, I embarked on a 5-day escapade that not only shattered preconceived notions but also left me with unforgettable memories. Join me as I take you through my itinerary and share some travel tips along the way.
Day 0 – Landed in Cancun and Checked into Mayan Monkey Hostel in the Hotel Zone: 🏨
As a solo female traveler, my first priority was safety and comfort. I found both at the vibrant Mayan Monkey Hotel, which turned out to be the perfect base for my Cancun adventure. The welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff put me at ease right away.
Day 1 – Catamaran Sailing Cruise to Isla Mujeres: ⛵
Setting off on a breathtaking full-day catamaran cruise to Isla Mujeres was a highlight of my trip. As a solo traveler, safety was my top concern, and the tour operators ensured everyone’s well-being. Snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, savoring a sumptuous buffet, and exploring the island’s vibrant streets and beautiful beaches was an absolute dream.
Day 2 – Chichen Itza Early Access Tour: 🌄
Rising early for the Chichen Itza tour was an adventure in itself. The early access tour was not only a game-changer for avoiding crowds but also for my peace of mind as a solo female traveler. I could fully immerse myself in the wonder of the ancient Mayan ruins without distractions.
Day 3 – Travel to Tulum and Explore Downtown Tulum: 🚌
Transitioning from Cancun to Tulum was smooth and safe thanks to the ADO bus service. I booked the tickets in advance from Bookaway and took R1 bus from Cancun Hotel Zone to Cancun Downtown ADO bus terminal. In Tulum, exploring downtown was a delightful experience. The streets were bustling with life, and I felt perfectly comfortable as I wandered through local shops and indulged in authentic cuisine at cozy restaurants.
Day 4 – Tulum Ruins and Tulum Beaches: 🏖️
Visiting the Tulum Ruins was a bucket-list moment. Perched on the cliffs with stunning ocean views, this archaeological site left me in awe. The nearby Tulum beaches were an ideal place to unwind. As a solo traveler, I had no worries about safety and enjoyed the sun and turquoise waters to the fullest.
Day 5 – Cycling to Cenotes and Farewell to Tulum: 🚴♀️
Biking to the nearby cenotes was a highlight of my Tulum adventure. These natural sinkholes were perfect for a refreshing swim, and the experience was made even more special by the freedom of solo exploration. In the afternoon, it was time to bid farewell to Tulum, leaving with a heart full of memories and a strong belief that solo female travelers can have incredible journeys filled with safety and adventure.
Cancun Travel Tips:
Obviously, there are general safety measures that one needs to take while travelling solo in Cancun and that includes
- Trust your instincts and do your research when choosing accommodations.
- Join group tours for added safety and to meet fellow travelers.
- Use ADO buses and Collectivos to travel on a budget.
- Early access tours can enhance your experience and provide a safer, less crowded environment.
- Embrace the local culture but stay aware of your surroundings.
- Solo travel can be incredibly rewarding; don’t let misconceptions hold you back!
My journey to Cancun and Tulum challenged my perspective in the best way possible, reminding me that solo female travelers can explore the world with confidence, curiosity, and a sense of wonder. Every place has its own unique charm and, more often than not, is far different from what the media or rumors might suggest. It’s crucial to keep an open mind, do your research, and experience a place for yourself.
So, fellow travelers and wanderlust seekers, I encourage you to challenge those misconceptions, break free from the stereotypes, and explore the world with an open heart. You might just discover your own hidden gem, just as I did in Cancun.
Let’s continue to celebrate the beauty of diversity and share our experiences that challenge the norm.
