Some travelers love the decidedly lively tradition known as spring break. The youthful energy of its extended parties and long beach days are certainly — shall we say — intoxicating for a certain segment of the traveling public. A lot of other vacationers, however, would rather avoid that scene altogether, and might even rejigger their vacation plans just to avoid being anywhere near a group of college kids when spring comes around. Happily, though, Mexico offers plenty of options for both types of people.
For a Lively Spring Break
For people interested in experiencing (or selling) spring break, a company called StudentCity — which is part of TUI Group, a German multinational travel company — provides a detailed listing of spring break dates for universities around the U.S. In Mexico, StudentCity’s top party destination is Cancun, where the so-called spring break “headquarters hotels” are Krystal Cancun, Krystal Grand Punta Cancun and Oasis Cancun Lite. The company also sells the Park Royal and the Occidental Tucancun, as well as Hotel Dos Playas Beach House and Hotel Imperial Las Perlas for party-oriented vacationers on a budget.
Additionally, StudentCity promotes Inception Music Festival, an annual Cancun event that features DJs and other performers throughout March at various venues.
On a smaller scale, StudentCity sells Puerto Vallarta for Spring Break, with Las Palmas by the Sea as its primary hotel and a Gold Pass package that includes admission and an open bar at various nightclubs.
A company called Go Blue Tours also sells spring break packages to Puerto Vallarta, with accommodations at Buenaventura Grand Hotel & Spa and Krystal Puerto Vallarta. In Cancun, Oasis Cancun Lite is considered the most popular hotel for Go Blue guests. Packages include accommodations, transfers, flights and optional parties and excursions as well as, according to Go Blue’s website, the opportunity to take home “incriminating stories about your friends.”
For a Quieter Spring Break
Travelers looking to avoid those festive crowds, of course, have several options. One is to skip visiting during this season completely. Another tactic is to choose a destination and hotel that are less likely to attract spring breakers.
Cancun, for example, may be party central at some hotels, but more upscale properties — such as The Ritz-Carlton, Cancun; JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa; Hotel Riu Palace Las Americas; and Le Blanc Spa Resort — are generally out of the price range of budget-conscious university and high-school students.
Remotely located hotels also keep loud party crowds at bay. Outside of Cancun, options include upscale properties such as the new Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya, Secrets Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort and the recently renovated Royal Hideaway Playacar Resort, an adults-only, all-inclusive resort.
Los Cabos is another ideal destination for a peaceful spring vacation. The Towers at Pacifica, which opened in December 2016 at Pueblo Bonito Pacifica in Los Cabos, is an adults-only resort option with a decidedly tranquil beach and pool area.
Still, Los Cabos can cater to a variety of tastes. One hotel brand — Mexico Grand Hotels — positions itself perfectly for both partiers and peaceful types alike. Its Marina Fiesta Resort & Spa, located in downtown Cabo San Lucas, is just steps away from the nightlife and restaurants of the Golden Zone, which is perfect for vacationers looking to create some of their own spring break excitement without joining an organized group. Mexico Grand’s Hacienda Encantada Resort & Spa, meanwhile, is located in a secluded area along the Sea of Cortez, with upscale amenities. Of course, the quieter the place, the less likely you’ll find “incriminating stories” among your souvenirs.
The Details
Go Blue Tours
www.gobluetours.com
Inception Music Festival
www.inceptionfest.com
StudentCity
www.studentcity.com
