When you come to Cancún and the Yucatán, the water you really need to swim in is in a “cenote”! What’s that? Pronounced “sen-oh-tay,”It’s an underground pool: a sinkhole where fresh water, which comes from the low-lying region’s many lakes and rivers, mixes with salt water from the sea. 

The ancient Mayans believed that cenotes were a direct link to the underworld. And in ancient times, human sacrifices may have been held at them. Now, however, these wonderful pools of blue-turquoise water have a much less menacing draw. They’re a favorite spot – for locals and tourists alike – to plunge into the glowing, clear water and go for a swim. 

A trip to Cancún wouldn’t be complete without a stop at a cenote. Fortunately, these unreal geologic formations – not found anywhere else in the world – are more than commonplace on the Yucatán Peninsula. There are hundreds; but here are some of the best: 

• Cenote Dos Ojos is very close to Tulum, and it’s worth setting up a day trip to see both of the ruins and the pool together. At the cenote, you have the option to swim, snorkel, or just jump into the luxurious, tepid water. If you’re licensed for scuba diving, that’s an option too here – as long as you aren’t claustrophobic! 
• Gran Cenote in Tulum is one of the best cenotes on the Yucatán Peninsula, though it is heavily trafficked. However, it includes all the amenities, and two swimming areas connected by a cave. In short, this visit to underwater stalagmites is well worth dealing with a few crowds.
• Cenote Suytun is one of the best cenotes to visit straight from Cancún – complete with a beautiful sunbeam that shines through the cave in the summer, giving this magical place the aura of an ancient Mayan sacrificial altar. Which – like many of its neighbors – it really once was! 
• Cenote Samula is a bit off the beach – and off the beaten path – near Valladolid. And while it may be necessary to hire a driver to get there, the stunning watering hole is well worth it. The contrast between the brown rock and perfect blue water is stunning, as light shimmers through the pool in colors you’ve probably never seen before. 
• Cenote X'keken is in the same complex as Cenote Samula, and it’s easy – and well worth it – to go to both. You’ll get one of the best views of the startlingly pure blue waters of a cenote, just beneath the jutting rocks of the jungle from which dangle a multitude of exposed roots. The colors are spectacular and Instagram-worthy, for sure – so make sure you’re brought enough SD cards for your camera or phone! 
• Cenote Angelita isn’t a touristy site. But if you’re a diver, you’ll have the experience of a lifetime here. Rotting wood on the bottom of this 60m (200ft)-deep, vertical sinkhole collects into a greenish-black cloud of hydrogen sulphate that hangs at the point where saltwater and freshwater – because of their differing densities – refuse to merge. Above, it may be daylight, but dive under this cloud, and you’re swimming in the dark. 

Are you ready to dive in? 
​

I don’t know about you, but the closer and closer that first day of my long-awaited vacation gets, the harder it is to concentrate on anything else. As soon as the week before the trip rolls around (or sometimes two), I start the countdown. 

As a travel curation specialist, I’m an expert at making sure I’ve gone over every detail with a fine-tooth comb. However, that doesn’t keep the pre-trip jitters away entirely. I blame the excitement and anticipation for the excessive amount of times I check my packing list or remind all of my friends and colleagues that I’ll be out of town… (Sorry to rub it in!)

Despite all of the nervous excitement and giddy anticipation, I like to make sure that the moment I step foot onto the plane and find my seat it is time to sit back, relax, and let the good times roll. Just a short snooze and I’ll be waking up in paradise…

But we all know that isn’t always the case. Plane rides can be noisy, stuffy, bumpy, and far from relaxing. 

As a seasoned traveler, I’ve found a few ways to avoid the more unpleasant plane ride experiences that we’ve all encountered at least once before. And I’m happy to share! 

Here are my 3 tips for a relaxing plane ride.

1. Get yourself some noise cancelling headphones!

This is my number 1, must-have, no-doubt-about-it tip for anyone that is about to endure a long plane ride. Invest in a decent pair of noise cancelling headphones to cancel out crying babies, overly chatty seat mates or any other bothersome sounds. 

I suggest Bose QuietComfort 35 II Wireless Bluetooth Headphones. These are high quality and come equipped with Alexa voice control for easy access to music, podcasts, information and more. The Bluetooth is an extra perk - especially for sitting long periods on planes. No tangling of cords! And they come in Rose Gold for a classy touch.

2. Dress in layers!

Airplanes can go from zero to sixty real quick - and I’m not only talking about their travel speed. One minute it is hot and stuffy, the next minute you’re shivering in your seat. Be sure to dress in comfortable layers. 

I prefer to bring a light to medium jacket with me that can double as a blanket. This helps to avoid elbow-bumping with the person next to me every time I need an outfit change. 

3. Set an alarm!

If you’re a deep sleeper, set an alarm 30 to 45 minutes before landing. This will give you time to use the restroom, stretch your legs, get your things together, and mentally prepare for exiting the plane. 

Enjoy your trip…

Plane rides don’t have to be a drag. I hope these tips help you have a great flight and start  your vacation off the right way. Happy travelling!




​