The jewel of Mexico’s beach resort destinations, world-famous Cancun is set on a small sliver of island real estate in the northeast corner of the Yucatan Peninsula. The development of the famed beach resort town started in the 70s, when the Mexican government built a causeway connecting the island to the mainland. Each year thousands of travellers visit Cancun to enjoy its clubbing, beach parties and bikini contests. Culture seekers should head to the various Mayan ruins in the region, such as the ancient settlements of El Meco and El Rey, and Yamil Lu’um, a Mayan temple dating back to the 14th century. The other-worldly Underwater Museum is another must-see, and other exquisite dive sites beckon too. Nature lovers will delight in the chance to spot whale sharks, manta rays and turtles offshore, and explore gorgeous botanical gardens on dry land.