My husband and I (30s) are looking for a short flight (less than 5 hrs) from NYC area for April. We have about 6-7 days in total and thought Mexico may fit the bill. We've never been and the only part we ever hear about is Cancun. Where should we go that's not too touristy or commercial? We'd like to relax on beautiful beaches, enjoy good food/wine, explore some historical spots, and enjoy some adventure like hiking, snorkeling or diving. We're pretty flexible. Just want nice surroundings that are easy to get to. Thanks for your help.

Five hours isn't going to get you very far into Mexico, since you will have to go through either Mexico City or a commercial, touristy city on that short a trip. You could fly into Cancun, and then immediately to somewhere like Tulum or somewhere else in the Yucutan. Maybe even Merida.

Why not go to the Carribean?

Just as I posted, the other place that is likely going to be easier to get to from NYC is Puerto Rico. You could find everything you are wanting in P.R.

We just returned from Turks and Caicos in Feb and went to Puerto Rico last year. I could try another island in the Caribbean. Seems there aren't too may places within direct/short flying distance from the east coast. Looked into Belize but I think the only direct flight leaves on Saturdays, which we can't do. Any other ideas? Thanks.

If you think you might be interested in Mexico, I'd fly into Cancun and head south to Playa del Carmen. It's gotten a lot busier and built up in recent years, but still has a bit of the 'small town' feel. From there, lots of tour options. Also outstanding restaurants.

Personally, I prefer Isla Mujeres, but it's harder to do any tours.

Tulum is beautiful, but I think the prices are high for what you get. I also wouldn't spend much time there without a car.

We flew into Cancun and drove to Akumal, south between Playa del Carmen and Tulum. This is a great area that I think fits your bill. Akumal has the best snorkeling from land at Half Moon Bay, nice restaurants in walking distance, there are 2 dive shops in Akumal, easy drive to Tulum and Coba.

Here is our trip report from a week last year. http://www.locogringo.com/forums/tm....y=&#218048

You might try Cozumel. It is less touristy than Cancun, but just as easily accessed. You will find excellent food & wine and the diving and snorkeling can't be beat.

I flew out of Newark to Mex City lv 8:30 am , ar 1:30 pm. On the way back, don't forget you will lose 2 hours, one for DST and one for zone change. Not sure for your less than 5 hours reason, but if it has anything to do with health or the ability to sit still, please be aware that delays during line-up for the runway are getting increasingly longer, and you could sit up to an additional 1-2 hours. Most of the time is made up in the air, in my experience, but not always.

Thanks for all of your advice. We're skipping Mexico for now. It doesn't seem like this is the best time since we have such a short vacation. I appreciate all of your help and ideas.