When Floridians crave warmer weather, there's no better escape than a trip to Cancun, Mexico. And what better way to book your getaway than with JetBlue Vacation Packages? With everything from airfare to accommodations and round-trip transportation included, it's the ultimate stress-free vacation solution.
The flight from Florida to Mexico was a mere hour and a half, making it a quick and convenient journey. Traveling with a group of three adults, we opted for accommodations at the Hyatt's Breathless Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa—an all-inclusive, adults-only paradise offering a plethora of entertainment, relaxation, and culinary delights.
Wonder what to pack for an All-Inclusive Mexican Resort? Find your travel essentials here!
Day 1: Arrival
Stepping off the plane into the balmy 83°F weather and beneath the azure skies of Cancun, our excitement soared. Thanks to JetBlue Insider, who greeted us with a sign for JetBlue Vacations, our transition from the airport to our destination was seamless. Pro tip: Pre-booking transportation is a must when arriving at Cancun International Airport, as airport taxis can be exorbitant, and Uber isn't permitted to pick up passengers. A swift 20-minute ride later, we arrived at Breathless Riviera Cancun Resort, where check-in was a breeze.
Welcomed with hot towels and a glass of champagne, the reservations team efficiently verified our information before escorting us—and our luggage—to our rooms. Our accommodation, situated on the first floor, boasted a stunning view of the swim-out pool, located on the resort's Xcelerate side.
After settling into our room, we couldn't wait to explore the resort and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Cancun. But first, we had dinner plans at Funky Geisha Cancun—an Asian-inspired gem nestled in the heart of the city's bustling Hotel Zone. Stepping into Funky Geisha, we were immediately captivated by its bohemian-styled decor, intimate lighting, and lively entertainment. We had pre-booked a table with a prime view of the stage, ensuring we wouldn't miss a moment of the action. Throughout the evening, we were treated to three captivating performances, including a spirited Taiko Drum performance, in which guests were invited to join. And yes, yours truly couldn't resist taking part in the fun!
While the food at Funky Geisha was delicious, it was the overall experience, lively atmosphere, and expertly crafted drinks that truly stole the show. It's worth noting that the Cancun Hotel Zone can be pricey compared to other areas in Quintana Roo—and Funky Geisha is no exception. However, if you find yourself in the vicinity and craving a memorable dining experience coupled with top-notch drinks, a visit to Funky Geisha is an absolute must.
After bidding farewell to Funky Geisha, we opted for a convenient Uber ride back to Breathless Riviera Resort, a 30-minute journey that whisked us back to the comfort of our temporary home. Eager to prolong the night's festivities, we ended the evening with a few nightcaps and some light dancing at the resort's After Dark nightclub, savoring every moment of our Cancun adventure.
Day 2: Discovering the Turquoise Wonders of Isla Mujeres
Rested and refreshed from a peaceful night's sleep, we eagerly welcomed the new day with a satisfying breakfast spread at Spoon, the resort's culinary hub offering a tempting mix of authentic Mexican flavors and international delights. And what better way to kick-start our island adventure than with a cheeky breakfast shot of Tequila?
Fueled by anticipation, we embarked on a short 30-minute Uber journey from the resort to Ultramar Puerto Juarez. Here, we boarded the Ultramar ferry, a convenient gateway to Isla Mujeres from Cancun, complete with panoramic views of the crystalline waters and onboard amenities like a bar and air-conditioned seating for added comfort.
As the ferry glided effortlessly across the shimmering expanse, we found ourselves immersed in the natural beauty of our surroundings, eagerly anticipating our arrival at Isla Mujeres. After a swift and smooth 20-minute voyage, we stepped onto the sandy shores of our destination, greeted by the inviting ambiance of Playa Norte.
With the sun warming our skin and the gentle breeze in our hair, we wasted no time in treating ourselves to refreshing margaritas, perfectly chilled and delightfully affordable. Energized and ready for exploration, we set out in search of local cuisine, eager to discover the culinary treasures that awaited us on this picturesque island paradise.
Venturing off the beaten path, we stumbled upon Loncheria El Poc Chuc, a hidden culinary gem cherished by locals on Isla Mujeres. Nestled away from the hustle and bustle of tourist hotspots, this quaint eatery welcomed us with open arms. As we perused the menu, it became evident that we were in for a treat. With a delightful array of authentic dishes at reasonable prices, Loncheria El Poc Chuc promised a taste of true Mexican cuisine. And it certainly delivered. Of course, no meal would be complete without a refreshing beverage to accompany it. The margaritas, a house specialty, were a revelation. Crafted with precision, they struck the perfect balance—not too sweet, not too strong, but just right.
By the end of our meal, we found ourselves thoroughly enchanted by Loncheria El Poc Chuc. Without a doubt, Loncheria El Poc Chuc has earned its reputation as a beloved island favorite, and we were honored to be among its patrons.
As the day unfolded, our quest for the Green Demon Beach Club led us to a delightful diversion: a spot of shopping. Along the way, we stumbled upon charming local shops adorned with an array of treasures, from adorable stuffed animals to stylish wallets and purses. Amidst this trove of finds, a particularly enchanting pink cat caught my eye, priced at a mere 100 Pesos (5 USD). Unable to resist, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir for my little sister, and so it found its way into my shopping bag.
Continuing our journey in pursuit of our destination, we made several more stops, all the while reveling in the picturesque scenery that surrounded us.
Finally, we set foot on Playa Norte, and oh, what a sight to behold! The pristine beauty of the beach takes our breath away. Making our way to the Green Demon Beach Club, we quickly secure a spot for ourselves. But before diving into the inviting waters, we make sure to lather on sunscreen—safety first!
As we settle on the beach, a friendly woman selling necklaces and bracelets approaches us. My bestie and I decide to grab matching necklaces, while I pick out a bracelet for my boyfriend. They may be small souvenirs but serve as a sweet token of our time on Isla Mujeres.
With our accessories in tow, we head over to the Green Demon Bar to grab some drinks. Grabbing three passionfruit margaritas, we carry them to the ocean, ready to cool off and enjoy the beauty of Playa Norte. Splashing around in the crystal-clear waters, we enjoy every moment of our island getaway.
As the sun begins its descent, signaling the end of our time at Playa Norte, we know it's time to head back to the resort. We're well aware that it's a bit of a trek back, but there's something exciting awaiting us at the resort: the Neon Party!
With anticipation bubbling, we make our way back. Despite the commute, the prospect of dancing the night away under neon lights fills us with excitement. So, with a mix of exhaustion from the day's adventures and anticipation for the night ahead, we embark on our journey to the resort.
At the resort's courtyard, the Neon Party is in full swing. Dancers light up the stage with their moves, while artists create neon portraits, adding to the colorful atmosphere. Guests join in on the fun, filling the dance floor with their energy and enthusiasm. It's a night of pure enjoyment, with the lively music and vibrant ambiance setting the perfect mood for a memorable evening.
Day 3: A Rainy Day at Breathless Riviera Cancun Resort
On our third day in Mexico, the forecast predicted sporadic rain throughout the day. What a disappointment! But we refused to let it dampen our vacation spirits. Determined to make the most of our time at the resort, we shrugged off the gloomy weather and put on our bathing suits.
Embarking on our day with a hearty breakfast at the Spoon buffet, we couldn't resist indulging in our newfound tradition: tequila shot breakfast. Despite the brisk and damp weather, we ventured towards the pool, only to find it mirrored the chilly conditions outside – cold and wet. Undeterred, we seized the opportunity of the resort's all-inclusive offerings by embarking on a journey to explore its diverse bars, eager to sample an array of drinks. Among my top picks were the mango margaritas with a tantalizing tajin rim (trust me, don't skip the tajin) and a refreshing mango mojito.
Positioned along the beach, a bar offered stunning vistas of the ocean and sands, providing a scenic retreat from the rain. With swings adorning the beachside bar, we savored our cocktails while soaking in the serene views and protection from the rain.
As the rain subsided, we ventured to experience one of Breathless' iconic parties, featuring an electrifying DJ spinning remixes and EDM tracks. At the Xcelerate pool, boasting both a dry bar and a swim-up bar, we continued on a bar-hopping adventure, relishing the aquatic ambiance for an hour. Despite the temperature hovering around a seemingly pleasant 74 degrees Fahrenheit, the overcast skies and brisk winds made it feel considerably cooler. The gloomy weather tempered the party atmosphere, with most people gravitating towards the solace of the dry bar, while others sought warmth in the inviting waters of the Giant Jacuzzi. We joined them after having enough of the cool pool temperature. The giant jacuzzi felt warm and comfortable but relished in the warm comfortable water for a few more hours and met a few more people along the way.
That's enough water for today.
Dinner beckoned us at the resort's Strip Grill, offering panoramic views of the Energy pool and the serene Caribbean Sea. Following our delectable meal, we eagerly anticipated the night's event—a captivating performance featuring songs from different decades. The night wouldn't be complete without a visit to the After Dark nightclub, where we danced the night away.
Day 4: Tequila Tasting, Cenote, Zipline Soars, and ATV Thrills
Wake up, wake up, wake up! Another day of Mexican exploration awaits, and the sun is shining, and the temperature is a perfect 83°F. We're kicking off the day with breakfast at Spoon Buffet. Today, I'm taking a break from the breakfast tequila shots and opting for a peach bellini instead.
Our adventure for the day? A Tequila Tasting, Cenote, Zipline, and ATV ride, all booked through Viator—a site I can't recommend enough for excursions. The excitement builds as we're transported to the park offering these thrilling experiences. Upon arrival, we're handed tickets for bottled water and two tacos, promised as rewards at the end of our escapade. Of course, there's the classic upselling, tempting us with more zipline courses, extended time in the Cenote, and even a private ATV tour. But we stick to the base 4-hour package; after all, we're here for the full experience.
Our first stop? A tequila tasting, where we learn that authentic tequila hails exclusively from Jalisco, with a few select regions in four other states. With each new tequila, we join in the lively chant: "¡Arriba, abajo, al centro, pa' dentro!" My favorite tequila sampled? A unique coffee-flavored tequila that I would've loved to bring home—if only airport security allowed it. But fear not, the tastings are small, less than 0.5 oz each, ensuring we stay well within our limits.
Next on our agenda is a visit to a public cenote—a natural wonder steeped in beauty. Despite being told we'd have 20 minutes; we find ourselves with only 12. Not ideal for someone like me, who needs a bit more time to ease into water activities. Despite the time constraint, the sight before us takes our breath away. Yet, as others leap into the crystal-clear waters with abandon, I find myself hesitating—a lingering apprehension from childhood memories of nearly drowning. Though determined to conquer this fear, the prospect of diving into unknown waters within minutes feels daunting. Nonetheless, I’m content with admiring the beauty of the cenote from the sidelines—a sight I've never seen before, and one I'll treasure despite not taking the plunge.
Third on the agenda, the moment of anticipation arrives: ziplining. Led to the gear area, we're given a brief safety demonstration before being suited up for our aerial adventure. As someone unfamiliar with ziplining, nerves tingle through me like electric currents. Initially, the ziplines appear deceptively low, perhaps only 15 feet above ground. However, once perched at the edge, peering down, the height looms gloomily. Yet, with resolve, I take the plunge—3, 2, 1—and suddenly, I'm soaring through the sky, embraced by the rush of wind and the exhilarating speed. From this vantage point, the park unfolds below me like a sprawling canvas, punctuated by verdant trees and winding trails. Unfortunately, the zipline course proves fleeting, comprising of a short rope bridge and a brief zip back and forth. Despite its briefness, the experience proves undeniably thrilling, igniting a desire for future ziplining escapades, perhaps amidst the lush jungles of Costa Rica.
Finally, it was time for the ATV rides. We made our way to the shaded path where the ATVs were
waiting for us. Opting for a two-seater, my boyfriend took the driver's seat while I held tight in the back, ready for the adventure ahead. After a quick vehicle demonstration, we were off!
Initially, our pace was sluggish as we trailed behind some hesitant riders. Fueled by excitement, we decided to overtake them, eager for a more exhilarating ride. With each twist and turn, the rush of wind and the thrill of the rugged terrain invigorated me. We splashed through large muddy puddles, leaving us splattered with mud but adding to the excitement of the journey. Navigating through the wilderness, I felt a sense of freedom and adventure wash over me. Despite the short half-mile path, we managed to loop around two and a half times, relishing every moment of the adrenaline-fueled ride. As we returned to the starting point, I found myself already yearning for more of the heart-pounding excitement that ATV riding had to offer.
After all the excitement, it was time to refuel with the promised snack of tacos and water. It was a well-deserved treat after a day filled with adventure. Each of us received two tacos, small yet packed with flavor, satisfying our hunger for the time being. While tempted by additional drink and food options available for purchase, we opted to wait until returning to the resort.
As we enjoyed our meal, we were treated to a traditional Mayan dance performance. It was a captivating display, offering a glimpse into Mexico's rich cultural heritage through the art of dance. The intricate movements and vibrant costumes painted a vivid picture of Mayan traditions, adding an enriching layer to our Mexican exploration and leaving us with memories to cherish.
Reflecting on the excursion, I found it to be somewhat underwhelming. While the experience was fun and certainly adventurous, it felt somewhat rushed overall. Despite the advertised 4-hour duration (excluding transportation time), the brief visit to the Cenote, the short zip line course, and the small ATV track left me wanting more. That being said, I don't regret participating in any of the activities. I had the opportunity to try things I've never done before, like ziplining, and witnessing some cultural heritage through the Mayan dance performance was truly memorable. It's just a shame there wasn't more time allocated for each activity. Nevertheless, I'm grateful for the experiences gained and the memories made.
Day 5: Our Last Full Day in Paradise
Wow, time fly's when you're having fun! These past few days have been a whirlwind of excitement as we've mingled with people from every corner of the globe. Along the way, we've picked up some insider tips and tricks for making the most of our resort experience. One hot tip we received was about snagging reservations at Silk City, the resort's fabulous Pan Asian restaurant equipped with entertaining hibachi tables. Acting on their advice, I made an early morning effort and, after some persistence, secured late-night dinner reservations at 9 pm. It might be a tad late for dinner, but hey, better late than never, right?
With a relaxed vibe in the air, we decided to take it easy this morning, skipping the usual breakfast rush at the buffet. Instead, we slipped into our swimsuits and headed straight for the pool bar. Everyone seemed to have the same idea of enjoying the sunny weather by the water. But while others lounged, I was itching for some activity. So, I hopped on a water cycling setup nearby. After a week without much exercise, it felt good to get moving. Just 30 minutes of pedaling in the water was all I needed to kickstart my day with a burst of energy.
Amidst the nine bars scattered across Breathless Resort, our mission was clear: find the margarita guy. Word around the resort was that his mango margaritas were unbeatable, and the best part? He brings them right to you. Finally tracking him down, we wasted no time ordering three mango margaritas, Tajin rim and all.
With our drinks secured, we plopped down by the pool, soaking up the sweet sunshine. It was the perfect moment to swim, dance, and sip our margaritas, grateful for the awesome weather and even better company. This was living, right here, right now, at Breathless Resort.
We spent a few blissful hours lounging by the pool, soaking in the warm sun and enjoying the carefree atmosphere. But as the weather cooled down, we decided to switch things up and head over to one of the giant Jacuzzis. Nestled in, we let the warm water envelop us while we took in the stunning beach views. It was the perfect spot to unwind and mingle with fellow guests, sharing stories and laughter as we watched the day turn into an evening.
As hunger sets in, we eagerly prepare for dinner, anticipating our first taste of hibachi at Silk City. Arriving at the restaurant, we're greeted by a server who takes our drink orders while the chef checks for any allergies. Being the odd one out with my vegan diet and dairy allergy, they kindly prioritize preparing my meal first before diving into the typical hibachi show. With flair and finesse, the chef showcases his culinary prowess, treating us to a mouthwatering display as he cooks up a delicious feast before our eyes. The sizzle of the grill and the aroma of savory dishes fill the air, tantalizing our taste buds with each flip and flourish.
After indulging in our meal, my bestie and I head back to the room to pack up for our departure the next morning. Meanwhile, my boyfriend, having made new friends, opts to linger and soak up the social atmosphere. Once I'm finished packing, I make my way back to join him and his newfound companions, ready to cap off the evening at the After Dark Nightclub.
Day 6: The Departure
Today marks the bittersweet departure from our tropical haven. Who wants to leave behind the sun-kissed shores and endless relaxation of a paradise vacation?
My bestie and I had the foresight to pack our bags the night before, ensuring a smooth checkout. But alas, my boyfriend's night of revelry at the nightclub left him nursing a nasty hangover come morning. Too queasy to pack his own bag, I stepped in, hastily cramming his belongings in with little finesse.
Thankfully, our JetBlue airport transfer was arranged, waiting to whisk us away from the resort in just 30 minutes. With my boyfriend still recovering in bed, I hurriedly fetched some trusty over-the-counter remedies—Pepto Bismol, anti-nausea meds, and electrolytes—to soothe his discomfort before urging him to get moving.
Finally ready to depart, there's no time for a leisurely breakfast at the buffet today. As we bid farewell to the resort, I can't help but feel a pang of envy for those lucky souls who get to extend their stay in this tropical paradise.
The airport is just a quick 20-minute ride away, and before we know it, we're breezing through security, ready to board our flight. As we settle in at the gate, I reflect on the unforgettable moments we've shared and silently vow to return to this slice of heaven someday.
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