Cancun

As one of the first planned tourist cities in the world, Cancun is wholly dedicated to the pleasures of a sun and sand vacation. On the Caribbean coast of Mexico's Yucatan peninsula, Cancun boasts fine white sand beaches and warm turquoise water. The Hotel Zone is just what it sounds - - hotels , dining and shopping, geared towards international tourists, cruise ship passengers and all-inclusive vacation resorts. To add a bit of adventure to your vacation, venture out into the city to go on a Jeep safari, visit Mayan ruins, swim with dolphins at an adventure park or explore offshore for a boat trip. While chain restaurants abound, Cancun's dining options have expanded upon the gourmet side featuring Yucatecan cuisine like poc chuc (shredded pork marinated in sour orange juice ) or succulent lobster. For night owls, Cancun has a vibrant nightlife, with a multitude of bars and clubs for all ages. These are especially packed during Cancun's busiest week with the under-25 set: spring break, which can run anywhere from mid-March to mid-April.