Mexico

Why Go

With so many treasures to explore, it would be easier to ask, 'why not?' - for holidays to Mexico, and particularly its magical Mayan Riviera, offer that rare thing - a destination that ticks all the boxes - and is a great choice for winter holidays too.

Tired of the Caribbean? Mexico's silica sands and phosphorescent blue waters are every bit as good. Its resorts are meticulously planned mini towns where four-and-five-star hotel complexes rub shoulders with air conditioned malls and pleasingly landscaped open-air food villages, water parks and cultural centres.

Yet Mexico holidays aren't just about the all-inclusive hotels. This country, while relatively new to mass tourism, has a history that stretches back far, far further. And, thankfully for tourist chiefs (and for you!), it's a history that's easy to explore - with many of the Mayan Riviera sites within a comfortable day's exploration from your resort.

Add one of the world's richest coral reefs, a balmy year-round climate, friendly, welcoming people and sociable cuisine (who doesn't like sharing a burrito with friends?!) and you're looking at a country that's no longer the poor relation of the US, but a confident, modern holiday destination that's every bit as luxurious and stylish as the best in the Caribbean - but, often, at a fraction of the price.

Mexicans have always been fiercely proud of their country, but only now has their pride seemed wholly justified. Whichever side you're headed – Pacific or Caribbean – you'll find cool modern Mexico hotels, restaurants of all persuasions and no shortage of mariachi-fuelled, memorable nights.

Away from the tourist honeypots, thrilling, colourful and historic cities are waiting to be explored - from the bubbling hothouse of capital, Mexico City, to the US border-hugging Tijuana, a lively cultural centre, and music-loving Guadalajara, with its fabulous cathedral.