Maui/Kaui/BI vs. Cancun/Cozumel?
 

Hubby and I are trying to decide which is better for us to go to. We want half beach relaxation/nice beaches and resorts, and half sightseeing/land activities. We don't know if it's more interesting to see the rainforests and volcanoes in Hawaii or the Mayan ruins in Mexico. Any recommendations?<BR><BR>We've heard some people are disappointed with the volcanoes, but they probably weren't that much into nature. We've also heard that Cancun is more like Vegas than Mexico. But is it worth it to see the Mayan ruins?<BR>

Why don't you try the area around Playa del Carmen. There are numerous all inclusives to choose from and a few upscale hotels in Playa. If you would like some information on Playa please e-mail me wisth any questions, Been traveling to that area for 11 years. Can't tell you much about the als, as we have not stay at one. I agree,about Cancun-to busy. Cozumel is nice for the scuba and snorkeling, but just keep in mind if you want to explore the ruins, you will have to take the ferry back forth ot Playa to do this(or take a tour on a small plane)Good luck!

just a few thoughts on Hawaii. First, we live on Maui and are planning a drinving trip in the near future through the Yucatan to experience the Maya ruins, and of course the wonderful warm Mexican culture and people. As the weather is fairly similar that is not an issue. Keep in mind, that there are no active volcanoes on any island other than the Big Island Of Hawaii. Which is an easy day trip from Hilo, should be an overnighter from Kona, a long and twisty drive. Of course, all the islands have spectacular scenery, warm and open peoples, waterfalls,, easiest access again on the Big Island. On Maui, we have a dormant volcano, you can drive from sea level to summit, which is over 10,000ft. with views on a really really clear day of many islands. Most days you can see the Big Island, Lanai, Molokai, and Kahoolawe. Maui is again a beautiful island, can be very expensive, depending on travel style. Molokai is remote, the last vestigee of the REAL Hawaii. Very slow live style, one traffic light, no national chains, Oahu is a big city on a beautiful island. Kauai is a wet, island, depending on time of year, time of day, they get a lot of rain, the wettest spot on the planet is there as is the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. A lush verdant place. Bear in mind that you must take a plane between islands. Hope this helps.

We've been vacationing in the Hawaiian islands every year for 15 years, but this year changed our annual trip to Akumal south of Playa del Carmen only because the plane ride for us is about 6 hours less. The pros of Hawaii over Mexico is there is no language barrier, no money exchange, and the food and water are safe. For nature lovers, you cannot beat Hawaii, there's waterfalls, lush areas, rainforests, mountains and beautiful beaches. But on a recent quickie vacation to Cancun, we found the beaches along the Mexican Yucatan to be as good, if not better than Hawaii. Since we did not like all the commercialism in Cancun, we are going to try Akumal. I hope I can give you more pros and cons when we return.

We have been to akumel last summer and it was the most relaxing holiday. Less expensive also than Hawai. We loved maui, the nature, relaxed atmosphere etc. Akumel is very relaxed. Our condo was on the beach. We saw little seaturltels coming out of their eggs and dash for the sea. Swam with a seaturtles and numerous fish. It was not commercial at all. We even found a deserted beach with big waves for our children to dive into. Hawai allways stays special in our memory, but akumel we can afford. (had free flight to hawai).

Wow! Just got back from Maui in December, and have been to Cancun and Cozumel many times, so I think I can compare the two. <BR><BR>There is no comparison, Hawaii is superior hands-down, but alot more $$$. I would pick Cozumel over Cancun in a heart-beat. Alot less crowded, not scary to walk down any street, great undeveloped side of the island plus a good nightlife/restaurant area on inhabited side. Stay in a 5-star hotel in Mexico, otherwise you will think it is a dump. Also note there is limited air connection to Cozumel except in peak tourist seasons. Riveria Maya would be a better bet if you are interested in the Mayan ruins; then you can always take the ferry to Cozumel for a day or take a drive up the coast to Cancun. Cancun is a party-animal place. I was never impressed with their beaches. Pacific ocean ALOT better for beaches.....Maui had the cleanest water I have ever swam in. Hawaii is superior but you will spend $5000 for Maui compared to $2000 for Cozumel.

Claudia, this is just my opinion, but I've never stayed in a 5 star hotel anywhere in Mexico, but none of the places were a 'dump'. Mexico has great variety in accommodation. I've been over a dozen times to Mexico and probably stayed in 3 dozen different hotels and B&B's in beaches and cities in the interior. Many of them were charming places that I wouldn't hesitate to stay in again.

I think I would choose Hawaii over Cancun if I wanted mostly a beach vacation or was heavily into nature. However, if your goal includes experiencing another culture, then Mexico wins. Personally, I found the Mayan ruins fascinating, and they are especially nice if you go when there aren't so many people around. No doubt, both have lots of variety. In regards to natural scenery, Hawaii is far above the Yucatan. Cancun can't provide a whole lot of Mexican culture outside some of the restaurants (particularly downtown ones), but if you also get outside to places like Playa del Carmen, Akumal, Tulum, and Merida you can experience culture with the beaches. I love Playa del Carmen, although I am sure it has changed a little in the 3 1/2 years since I was there. If you want to get a better feel for these places, especially the ruins, take a look at my travelogue at www.oneeyed.homestead.com.

Mahalo to al of you who have responded to this question...we live Maui and are going to Yucatan this year....the insights have been soooo bery helpful...I have not yet been there, but I think I have to agree, Maui/Hawaii better as to natural scenery, warmth and cleanliness of waters, etc, but do agree, is expensive unless you do your research....lost of affordable places, takes time to find. again, mahalo for the great tips on Yucatan.