Feeling So At Home in Mexico

When people ask us where we are traveling from collective pride spills all over the person we’re speaking to. Diego pridefully claims Guatemala of course, and I say: “Yo soy Mexicana de Michoacán.” At times, folks look at us strangely; likely the kids give us away with their choppy Spanish and fast-talking English.

Puerto Rico and Belize were such a great start to our adventure. However, I’ve been most thrilled about this leg of our trip. Mexico just feels like home and it’ll be just that for five weeks this summer. 

As soon as we crossed the Belize-Mexico border, I was ready to share the joys of Mexico with our children. Today, that joy meant educating them on who Frida Khalo was and what she means to art. In Mexico, the kids seem at ease and happy. My husband in particular has enjoyed the food, alcohol, Caribbean climate, and probably most importantly, the price tag for it all.

Visiting the Mayan Cultural Museum of Chetumal

We picked a city flying well below most tourists’ travel radars for our first stop in Mexico. Though in the same state where wildly popular Cancun is, we opted for the capitol of Quintana Roo, a city called Chetumal. Chetumal is rich with history, friendly people, sun-filled day trips, one-of-a-kind lagoons and bays, fortress exploring, Mayan influence, delicious restaurants, impressive storefronts, and so much more.

There’s something for the whole family to enjoy throughout the city. Our evenings in Chetumal were full of engaging activities seven nights a week… live entertainment, family fun such as cheap bike rentals, bounce-houses, and a mini-car derby. There’s also an abundance of delicious food options (be warned: following our Instagram page ‘queventure.abroad’ will make you hungry). There’s vibrant nightlife for those traveling without kids and staying the weekend. We managed to enjoy a ride throughout the city on a double-decker party bus blaring loud music and perhaps 20,000 flashing lights.

Those visiting the region will particularly appreciate how inexpensive it  is. Cab rides as cheap as $1.00 and beers as cheap as $2.00. We fed a family of five often with $25-$35. We’ve also visited museums and fortresses and spent less than $10.00 for a family of five. Yes, you read that right. A beautiful day at the Museum of Mayan Culture led to free admissions for the kiddos and about $8 to admit mom and dad.

Another great fact about Chetumal is that you can visit near by Ambergris Caye in Belize. A daily $50-$90 ferry-ride (2-3hrs) takes you over to this renowned island and just like that you’ve knocked out two birds with one stone and spent time in both Mexico and Belize.

Ambergris Caye, Belize

Divers, snorkelers, and anyone who loves crystal clear blue waters will appreciate the convenience since both Belize and Mexico boast amazing dive spots (think Cenote Azul in Bacalar or any Cayes of Belize). Foodies will also love the seafood options and children the beautiful calming clear waters perfect for swimming. If you have yet to visit this region, I vote get your passports ready, and start planning your vacation today. You won’t be disappointed and perhaps just like us….  you’ll feel right at home!