[tippyclubb]

We have been all over Mexico and our favorite place is the Riviera Mayan area. The beaches are beautiful and you can swim in front of the resorts. When we stayed in Cancun we were not able to enter the water 6 out of 7 days. Cancun is about 45 minutes from Riviera Mayan.

We preferred RM area because it was closer to Cozumel, Xcaret, and many of the tourist attractions. We felt safer in RM than we did in Cancun. When we went to downtown Cancun there were armed police holding machine guns scattered along the street. Very intimidating and nerve wracking. Downtown RM is not like that.

Be forewarned anywhere you go in Mexico once you get into shopping areas you will be hounded relentlessly by vendors selling their goods. After a few days of this its very aggravating. The best way to handle the vendors is don't look at them and just keep walking.

As for your safety the resorts are very safe. Almost all of them are gated and patrolled by armed guards. Once you leave the hotel area stay on the beaten path and don't venture off too much. Its not much different than going to any large American city. There are boundaries and one should not cross them. Use common sense is the best approach.

When choosing a resort or which area to visit try using Trip Advisor. Lots of good information on there and some good reviews also. Trip Advisor has a forum and they are always eager to answer any questions.

One last thing when you get to Mexico you MUST go to Xcaret and see the live evening show. It last for 2 hours and it is spectacular.

We love Mexico and hope you will enjoy your trip.