No matter who you ask, this world famous tourist destination is one of the most irresistible university Spring Break destinations on earth. That's because while Cancun is wonderful normally, Spring Break makes it spectacular. The nights seem to light up red hot and the days are nothing but white sandy beaches, tall magnificent palm trees and rich blue Caribbean splendor. The best part of Cancun during this magical week is the incredibly high population of college students. Indeed, it peaks at this time of the year because everybody knows that this is really the place to be for the most fun to be had.
And what with all of the clubs, restaurants and beautiful beaches - who could ask for more? The truth is that curious college students like you very often do ask for more. Why? The reason probably lies in your innate desire to explore the world around you, and there's no getting around the fact that Cancun itself has a lot less history than other locations that are right nearby. Actually, to find out how new the resort complex of Cancun is, just ask anyone who was around here in the 1960's and before. You'll find out that it wasn't there.
Indeed, it was in the 1970's that the government of Mexico - the tourism ministry, to be specific - cut out a block of white sand and forest and declared it to be the "spot." They did well, and since then Cancun has granted fun and happiness to countless resort vacationers from all around the world, especially the United States.
But while many will be happy to tell you that there is no culture in Cancun, this is simply not true. That's because the surrounding area is extremely rich with exciting and fascinating sites where tourists can check out native villages and authentic indigenous relics. In fact, many of these amazing points of interest are within a very short distance from Cancun itself. Take a day trip, a half day trip - the adventurous can even stay overnight somewhere (although this is not too common) - there's plenty of interesting, authentic culture to be experienced for those who visit this fabulous resort town on the Yucatan. So, the idea that Cancun is an isolated, North Americanized destination devoid of interest for any conscious person is completely false. Interesting people do come here, and many ride the Spring Break wave as well.
But where, exactly, are all of these fantastic places to go for a day trip? Eager college students like you will find that there are several islands and place on the inland that can be very interesting to visit. The Isla Mujeres or "Island of the Women" is home to a turtle farm full of amazing number of these beautiful sea creatures. It was built to help protect the turtle, which is endangered due to widespread poaching all across Latin America (turtle meat is a highly prized food in some circles). Here you can see huge 600 pound turtles as well as little guys that weigh only a few ounces.
Another great Island to check out is Isla Contoy. Accessible from Isla Mujeres, It's a virtual haven for bird watchers, full of a wide variety of many different amazing species - even brightly colored flamingos!
But islands are certainly not the end of the interesting day trips that can be made from the city and islands of Cancun. For those who are interested in learning about the resident and indigenous populations of the surrounding area, a wonderful place to start is the Anthropology and History Museum. Located nearby, it houses a large collection of fascinating artifacts many of which are pre-colonial - and I mean way pre-colonial. In fact, one piece here actually can be traced back to the 500's. It's a series of stairs that is inlayed which an ancient indigenous symbol based language. Look further and you will find an array of interesting objects that include fine jewel ornamentation, remnants of decapitated heads and the masks that they might have worn.
But the museum is just a start - if you're really seeking an adventure, then you will want to take a trip out to the Mayan ruins. They're quite a ways out there, but it is definitely worth it if you have the time. Closer by, you may also want to have a look at the Garrafon National Park, take a ferry to Puerto Morelos or Cozumel Island, or even Isla Holbox.
While still having the time of your life, there is plenty for you to check out while on your Cancun Spring Break vacation.
