Fodor's Choice Cancún

Although not exactly a jewel, Cancún is certainly the rhinestone of the Caribbean coast. Created by developers 30 years ago, the resort town became an instant hit among sun and fun types. It continues to be Mexico's most popular destination, and why not? The beachfront highrises offer loads of creature comforts, the restaurants are sensational, the hotels are among the best in Mexico, and the nightlife scene can easily compete with anything happening in Miami and Rio.

Overall, Cancún is more the domain of party animals than culture hounds, but the resort town is close enough to historic ruins to make it a worthwhile destination even for history and archaeology buffs.

Cancún and the Caribbean coast suffered considerable damage as a result of 2005's Hurricane Wilma. But it takes more than a hurricane to tamp down the party spirit in this neck of the woods. Learn more about the new resorts debuting in the region, and about the grand dames that are back in business after extensive renovations.

Learn more about Cancún and Mexico's Caribbean Coast

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