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Oh, the Riviera Maya! A slice of paradise with its powdery white sands, turquoise waters, and palm trees that sway as if they're dancing to the latest reggaeton hits. While it’s tempting to let loose and go wild, here’s a cheeky guide to what not to do in the Riviera Maya if you want your vacation to be more 'tropical bliss' and less 'tourist faux pas'.
1. Don’t Treat Sunscreen Like a Luxury—it’s a Necessity!
Ditching the sunscreen is like saying no to guacamole on your taco—just plain wrong! The sun here is more intense than your love for margaritas. Lobster-red skin is not a good look, and you'll end up spending your vacay hiding in your room instead of salsa dancing on the beach. Slather on SPF 30 or higher (better if it's waterproof), reapply often and remember: sunburns are the souvenirs that nobody wants. If ou plan on going in the ocean, we beg of you to use "reef safe" sunblock to help protect the coral reef and marine animals.
2. Say No to Overpacking
If you think you need to bring outfits for every possible occasion, think again! Packing like you're fleeing the country for good is a rookie move. This isn't Paris Fashion Week; it’s the Riviera Maya. Pack light to make room for all the goodies you'll want to bring back. Plus, juggling six suitcases on a sandy beach? Not cool, amigo. Here is our article full of great packing tips from fellow travelers - How to Pack for the Caribbean
3. Avoid Only Touristy Spots
Sure, everyone visits the Riviera Maya for a glimpse of Chichen Itza and a splash at Xcaret, but dare to be different! Explore the path less trodden. Visit a cenote that isn’t swarmed by tour buses or munch on street food in a quaint town. Mix a bit of local flavor into your trip—it's the spice that makes your vacation nice! The Riviera Maya is our home, our backyard, so don't hesitate to ask us for advice! We're here to make sure you have a safe and memorable trip to our little corner of paradise.
4. Don’t Ignore Local Customs and Etiquette
Remember, you’re not in your backyard anymore. This is Mexico—a land of warm smiles and cool traditions. Dress modestly where required, learn the magic word ('gracias'), and please, oh please, don't be that person who yells in English louder when not understood. Try a few words in Spanish, and watch the locals light up with appreciation! Just remember, if you learn how to ask a question in Spanish, be prepared for the answer in Spanish!
5. Resist the Urge to Stay Glued to Your Devices
If your idea of a beach day includes perfecting your smartphone tan lines, you’re doing it wrong. Disconnect to reconnect! The Riviera Maya offers too much beauty and adventure to experience through a five-inch screen. Postpone the posts and live in the now—your followers can wait. Also, if you're posting at the moment, then anyone can figure out you aren't at home, and that leaves your place vulnerable to thieves!
6. Don't Drink Tap Water
This is a no-brainer, yet many tourists forget and then spend a good chunk of their holiday getting up close and personal with the porcelain throne. Sometimes, it might be as simple as going to bed after having too much tequila, waking up in the night and drinking from the sink out of thirsty desperation. Don't ask if ice in a restaurant or bar is ok. Of course it is!
Keep in mind that if you do get sick, as many do, it's more than likely because you're being exposed to bugs that your body isn't used to, and that is super normal. It might be a good idea to have on hand some over the counter medicine to treat common symptoms for upset stomach, etc.
7. Don't Go Where You Don't Belong
This applies to anywhere you go, not just on vacation, and not just Mexico. Moonlit strolls on the beach sound romantic until you realize you're not alone. Beaches at night can be unsafe, and you don’t want to invite trouble in paradise. Keep your moonlit escapades to the well-lit and popular areas. Remember a little common sense will go a long way so don't leave that at home! For a complete guide to safety check out our article - Safety Tips for Mexico & Traveling in General
8. Don’t Haggle Like You’re on Wall Street
Bargaining in local markets? Absolutely—but know when to stop. These vendors make a living off their goods, so while it's okay to negotiate, don't go overboard. When you score that handcrafted souvenir, remember that paying a few extra pesos won't break the bank, but it could make their day.
9. Skip the Seaside Souvenir Shops
Those shops by the tourist traps? They're often overpriced and underwhelming. For authentic treasures, venture into local towns and buy directly from the artisans. Your souvenirs will have stories worth telling, not just a hefty price tag.
10. Don't Feed the Wildlife
It's tempting to share your snacks with that cute coati or cheeky monkey, but don't. Feeding wildlife disrupts their natural diet and behavior. It can make them become reliant on people feeding them and just like chocolate is poison to dogs, many foods can be poison for the local critters. Snap a pic, leave a footprint (but only where allowed), and keep the snacks for yourself.
Pictured to the right is a coati and the photo was provided by BlueBunny1024.
11. Never Forget to Tip
Service in Mexico is often impeccable, and while tipping might be optional, it’s always appreciated. Whether it’s the bartender who remembers your drink after one order or the housekeeper who turns your hotel room into a haven, a little extra shows a lot of respect. Check out our article, Tipping, Not Cows, Gratuities!
12. Avoid Ignoring Safety Advisories
Lastly, safety first! Whether it's a flag on the beach warning of strong currents or a travel advisory about certain areas, paying attention can mean the difference between an epic vacation and a cautionary tale. Another bit of advice, when doing an adventure tour, or anything that requires you to sign a waiver, take a moment to read it!
What NOT to do in the Riviera Maya
So there you have it, a list of the most important and most common mistakes to avoid ensuring your vacation is as smooth as the tequila you’ll toast with. Keep these tips in mind, and you’re all set for a fabulous time in this slice of paradise.
Here’s to sun, fun, and travel done right! Cheers!
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