Where to stay
- All-inclusive Hotel Zone resorts are the norm. Grand Oasis Cancun is a long-time student headquarters.
- Tour operators sell packages with flights, hotel and transfers. Inertia offers three resort tiers.
- Condo rentals give more space and a kitchen for groups.
Nightlife
- Coco Bongo: Las Vegas-style shows, acrobats and live acts. It's the essential night out.
- The City, Mandala, La Vaquita and Dady'O: the Hotel Zone club strip around KM 9.
- Señor Frog's, Carlos'n Charlie's and Margaritaville for drinks and contests.
- Mandala Beach: day and night beach parties.
- Tour-operator party programs (theme nights, express entry, open bar) are the best-attended events.
Days out
- Day trips to Tulum, Chichén Itzá and Cozumel.
- Snorkeling and diving on the Mesoamerican Reef near Puerto Morelos.
- Catamaran and booze cruises to Isla Mujeres.
Rules and tips
- Use official taxis or your hotel's transport, and agree on the fare first.
- Skip moped rentals. Damage disputes are common.
- Drink bottled water, and don't drink in public on the street.
- Enroll in the State Department's STEP program and check the Quintana Roo advisory.
