Cancun, Mexico, is a formidable vacation destination where the party never ends. This bustling city is filled with locals and tourists alike, and the streets are brimming with life. The beaches are gorgeous; a vibrant blue in the summer, cool and turquoise in the winter. This, along with their lively nightlife, is one of the reasons why Cancun is a popular tourist spot.
But what if you visit during the rainy season, and the gray buckets of rain wash out the lively blues and energetic street life?
I have traveled to Cancun during the rainy season, a season known for its hurricanes and rains. Don’t be frightened when you see rain on the forecast during your trip, this is normal during early June to November and each day’s rain doesn’t usually last long. The peak season for weather is from December to April, but during the offseason — or rainy season — there are advantageously fewer tourists but still plenty of activities to partake in.
Additionally, due to the rainy season, prices for plane tickets are sometimes lower. For example, United Airlines offers a roundtrip flight from Houston to Cancun only for $245 in June, compared with October when tickets go for $333.
My most recent trip was in the rainy season, but I was determined that I was going to make the most of my time in Cancun.
As I stepped out of the sliding metal doors of the Cancun International Airport, the palm tree and spirited life stuck out to me almost instantly, as if begging me to explore it some more.
And explore I did, often taking advantage of smaller crowds and endless amenities offered at resorts. My time at Cancun was tremendously better because there were fewer people. The beach wasn’t crowded so I had the opportunity to take a relaxing walk with only a few people lingering around. The restaurants weren’t packed either, so I had the pleasure of enjoying some delicious food without the hordes of tourists.
You should never fear the promise of sporadic rain, you can still have fun. In fact, many resorts — like Cancun Marriott, which I stayed at — offer indoor amenities, such as a spa and a fitness center. Additionally, more often than not, you can find restaurants to relax at. My hotel offered bingo — a hidden gem among the beach-y landscape.
My hands glistened with sweat as I eagerly picked up a colored poker chip to place onto my bingo card. I needed one last square filled, one more. The anticipation was killing me slowly as I waited for the announcer to determine my fate.
Would I win?
Or would I suffer the loss?
“Number 17—“
At that moment, my fate was sealed. The fear, the anticipation, the pain, all drained away. What was replaced instead, was a happy, satisfying victory. The sounds of clapping and cheers filled the air, and, suddenly, I was the center of attention.
I had won bingo.
I was able to find a number of rainy-day activities because the hotel had prepared these beforehand, catering toward children and adults alike. For instance, as mentioned above, bingo was a popular activity, as well as karaoke and face painting. The staff were well prepared and were ready to assist you at a moment’s notice.
Additionally, you should also never underestimate all of the food options hotels offer if you’re trapped inside on a stormy day.
I tried the margarita pizza, which was warm, freshly made, and delivered by room service. It was enough for one person and I finished it all within a few minutes. The food was done very carefully with tomatoes placed on each slice. I thought it was a bit plain; but to my delight, once I added some flavoring, it became much tastier.
My hotel offered another activity to participate in during a rainy day — or rather, a rainy night. A band, consisting of four members playing a mix of tunes. Many people of all ages listened to the music intently, some even dancing to the beat alone, while others engaged with their significant others, dancing together.
The band played close to large, wide windows overlooking the pools and ocean, playing popular songs, allowing all of the guests nearby to be entertained and awestruck. Some of the guests even sang with the members of the band.
No matter the weather, the key to an enjoyable time in Cancun is to immerse yourself in the experience. Cancun is an enjoyable experience for everybody because of its activities. Whether you’re traveling alone or with family, this is the right place for you — no matter the season.
–June 26, 2024–
