Paradise Found on the Island of Women - Isla Mujeres

How to get there:
Isla Mujeres is located 8 miles off the coast of Cancun.  From the airport, grab a cab or a pre-arranged private shuttle (I've used Best Day) to transfer to the Puerto Juarez ferry terminal.

With the fresh Caribbean breeze and warm sunshine, you'll feel like your vacation is officially underway as you sip your first Corona on the top deck. There's a good chance that there will also be some live music as well. Buy the beer at the ferry terminal and carry it on board.


Where to stay:
There are plenty of accommodations options on Isla - beach front on Playa Norte; in the heart of El Centro where many of the restaurants and shops are located; the residential area Colonia La Gloria, mid-island; or the rocky shores of Punta Sur at the southern end of the island.

If you want to be where the action is, you'll want to choose a hotel in Centro, on or near Playa Norte. 

I've stayed at, and plan to return to Hotel Las Palmas.   Las Palmas is located only a block from the main street of restaurants and bars - Avenue Hildago; and a 2 minute walk to the beach. 

The hotel is owned and operated by a mother-daughter duo of Kate and Safari, who hail from British Columbia, Canada.  Don't hesitate to seek their advice on anything related to Isla, they are the most friendly and helpful hosts a solo traveler could hope for. 

You will find Las Palmas' rooms clean and comfy with great beds, air conditioning and hot water pressure.  The rooftop patio has lovely loungers and a plunge pool for a quick dip to cool off.


Where to eat:
You do not want to tie yourself down with an all-inclusive dining plan on Isla!  You will find a surprising number and variety of food experiences to choose from.  Whether it's the freshest fish caught daily; street tacos; or the traditional Yucatan dish of cochinita pibil which is available at the local mercado (market) on Sundays; you will want to take advantage of the opportunity to eat your way around the island.

Read restaurant reviews on Trip Advisor before you travel and make a list of places you would like to try. 


What to do:
The beauty of Isla is that you can do as much or as little as you want. 

Ordering and studying a Map Chick map prior to your trip will be a huge help in familiarizing yourself with the layout of the island and the places you are likely to visit. The maps are very detailed and well worth their cost of $10 U.S.


Here are just a few ideas:

1) Watch the sunrise from the boardwalk on the eastern side of the island, and the sunset between Playa Norte and Playa Sol.



2) Get a little Zen with some yoga.  There are many options for classes on the island, for people of all skill levels.


3) Spend a day sipping cervesas, reading a good book, and people watching on Playa Norte.


  4) Sample fine Mexican tequila with new friends.  This can easily prompt some dancing at the beach party held nightly at Poc-Na Hostel.

5) Rent a golf cart to check out the whole island.  You will want to make your way to Punta Sur, the southern tip of the island.  There are some spectacular views from the walking path and a small Mayan ruin and sculpture garden to visit.