October 7, 2007

Viva Cancun!

Jimmy Im READ TIME: 7 MIN.

Though the physical effects of Hurricane Wilma's destruction two years ago are no longer visible, the repercussions still echo in one of the Caribbean's top destinations: Cancun. The decrease in tourism has left many locals moving to other locations or straggling for jobs. In a paradoxical moment, it wouldn't be surprising if tumbleweeds rolled through the white sandy beaches. But, surprisingly, this works to your advantage. There's less tourists, which means more personalized attention, room upgrades and practically the whole beach to yourself.

After a year of destitution and reconstruction, this Caribbean gem is beginning to thrive again with international tourists enjoying its pristine beaches, excellent shopping and percolating nightlife. This year cuisine is a hot trend exploding in several top restaurants, and spoiling yourself is once again the new black (despite the "spring break association of party party party, Cancun does quite well in the luxury market). It couldn't be a better time to go, so don your sombrero and andale!

Stay

I checked into the vast Caribbean sea glimmering with little undulation, waves licking at the white shores as palapas and sunbeds were nicely aligned in neat rows on the beach. A fine touch was the outdoor patios along the hallways, which offered panoramic views of busy Hotel Zone sandwiched between the Caribbean sea and lagoon.
But it was my suite that induced the gasping "ay de mio!". Clean, stylish and swaying just a bit from the cliche "Caribbean decor," it was fit just for a king (or queen!). The bedroom was as large as the living area equipped with comfy sofas and coffee table, and the three-room bathroom had luxurious Forest Essentials amenities and a jacuzzi to boot. My terrace spanned the length of my suite with sliding-glass doors and a view of their sublime beach too precious for a camera's lens, but magnetic enough to have me change into my swimsuit and head outdoors.

After hours of wading, sunning and relaxing, I dashed over to the Boutique Spa, a tranquil haven for those who love getting pampered the right way. Their spa menu was extensive, but I opted for the Hot Stones massage, so relaxing I fell asleep (a good indication it was damn great!).

All 600 rooms are suites and ocean-front, with rates that begin at an incredible $279.

Shop

Sure, the traveler's rule of thumb is to avoid solicitors and unofficial guides. But just outside Fiesta Americana, I met Oscar, who wanted to give me a tour of the shopping plaza. Even though I said no, he was persistent, telling me that he did "PR" for the plaza and he pointed to his office (which was the sidewalk). Humored, I let him walk with me and he pleasantly pointed out the hot spots and local dives. He told me the best place to eat authentic tacos, and the most romantic spots. He walked me to Black Pearl, an outdoor bar raised above the lagoon, telling me to avoid stepping on the iguanas (there were several) and observe the lagoon for frogs and crocodile. Having lived in Cancun for 25 years, he had encyclopedic knowledge of the history, the present and the gossip. He distinguished the ubiquitous outdoor markets and plazas for shopping and pretended to talk to the "secretary of tourism" on his cell phone. Sure, I knew his job was fabricated, but I discovered much more about the plazas from a local who went away happy with five bucks for the tour.

Eat

Whether you're looking for cheap eats or fine dining (a burgeoning concept in Cancun), you won't be hard-pressed to find a good meal. A bounty of Mexican cuisine can be found in the Hotel Zone and downtown, featuring authentic Mexican cuisine that will guarantee to put the fiesta on your palette. Casa Tequila (Blvd. Kukulcan Km 8.5 zona Hotelera) is a popular choice in the center of the hotel zone, featuring inexpensive Mexican on two floors. Just down the street is the trendy