simis

We are planning a honeymoon during the 3rd week of January to Mexico - budget around $4K. Thinking of Cancun, Cozumel or San Cabos as possible destinations.
Any suggestions how you go about finding the best possible resort or stay options? I have explored the popular online websites (expedia, etc.), but feel very confused . Lots of options, but not sure if it's really what I am looking for. I have not looked at Airbnb. May be, I should seek help from travel agents?

Appreciate any suggestions you have.
Thanks!

MichelleY

Pueblo Bonito Pacifica in Cabo San Lucas is very nice, adult only resort. Perfect for a honeymoon. Yo may also want to check out Trip advisor for resort ratings.

kja

No reason to seek help from travel agents if you are willing to do some research on your own!

Consider getting, or consulting, a good guidebook or two! I thought the Rough Guide and Moon Guide particularly useful (in addition to Fodor's). The cost will be nominal in comparison to the cost of your trip, and you will have a wealth of information at your fingertips. For that matter, you can go to your local library and comb any number of guidebooks....

jamie99

What are you looking for? All Inclusive (AI), non-AI, condo, etc. If AI do you want Adults Only or not (usually more expensive). Will you be leaving the hotel at all, how much? If planning on a lot of sight-seeing I would maybe eliminate Cozumel only because you would have to be taking the ferry back and forth to the mainland.
Is nightlife or shopping important? If so, maybe look at Playa del Carmen rather than Cancun with its high rises.
If looking for more laid back and low key, look at Tulum, Puerto Morelos, maybe Akumal.

suze

No you don't need a travel agent!!!!

If you tell us more specifically what you are looking for, we can help.

As above... we need to know a general budget, kind of amenities you are seeking, condo or hotel or resort, planning to rent a car or not, All Inclusive or eating out in town?

I know Puerto Vallarta best, you don't mention it in your post, but it's a very romantic town and perfect for honeymooning.

gmoney

First you have to decide Pacific coast or Caribbean coast. You will find most people prefer one or the other. Here is the same info I gave on another similar thread, I happen to prefer the Caribbean coast (Also referred to as the Riviera Maya). I also use a travel agent who specializes in the Riviera Maya. Have used her several times and she is wonderful, extremely knowledgeable about that particular area.

Check out

http://www.applevacations.com/riviera-maya/

or

http://www.funjet.com/destinations/riviera-maya

These are two of the most popular companies that sell packaged vacations including air fare. Put in your dates and it will give you a pretty substantial list of hotel choices at all different price points.

I put in 5 nights from Minneapolis to Cancun/Riviera Maya and got dozens of choices from $813 to $2193 per person. I have been to this area many times and use a travel agent who uses these two companies almost exclusively. Never had any problems with either of them. The hardest part will be picking a hotel. Good luck.

rsotocruz

I think for most first time travelers is a great idea to get some help from a LOCAL travel agent. I know that some travel agencies have trip planners that have never been there before, so trying to get in contact with the local people is a very good move.

zootsi

For the Caribbean side, the locogringo web site is a great resource - great descriptions of the towns & beaches, and lots of lodging options. Your biggest decision is do you want a self contained AI resort, a non AI hotel, or a condo?
Some towns to consider on the Carribean - Puerto Morelos, Akumal, Tulum, Playa del Carmen.

Weather2Travel

On of things about Mexico in January is that it is nice and warm in the daytime 22°C (around 72°F) but drops right down at night to just 4°C (39°F)

You're better off heading to the south eastern hemisphere at that time of year, but if your heart is set on Mexico then check out Playa Del Carmen.

We love Mexico's Caribbean coast, although it has quite a few other names so it gets confusing. The Yucatan Peninsula, Quintana Roo, and the Mayan Riviera are all mentioned in most holiday guides, but what do they all mean? You need to take the time to learn about the area's unique geography and understand the variety of atmospheres and activities on offer along the coast for different types of holidays.

zootsi

The weather on the Mexican Caribbean In January is quite mild - low to mid 80's in the day, low 70's late night. It is extremely rare to dip below the mid 60's even late at night. I don't think it's ever gotten close to 39!