Despite its Spanish moniker, Cinco de Mayo is an American holiday, originally instituted to commemorate freedom and democracy during the American Civil War. In the 1940s, the holiday rose to it's current renown – and became inextricably linked to wild parties and plenty of tequila. That said, Cinco de Mayo does double-duty as a day to down some margs and celebrate Mexican heritage and pride. After all, it is a Mexican holiday -- just to a lesser degree. No matter how you slice it, the fifth of May is always a great day to let loose, grab a Corona or tequila shot, and get your fiesta on. Here are five of our favorite Mexican hotels perfect for south-of-the-border celebrations.
1. Krystal Puerto Vallarta
On a wide, sandy beach just outside of Puerto Vallarta, the Krystal Puerto Vallarta is a great budget pick — and the complete review with photos was just recently added to Oyster.com! There are six pools and six whirlpools, plus a poolside bar — perfect for Cinco de Mayo reveling. The wallet-friendly day spa offers inexpensive massages, aromatherapy treatments, and salon services — and best of all, guests on the all-inclusive plan get 30 percent off all treatments.
2. The Royal Hideaway Playacar, Playa del Carmen
This five-pearl, all-inclusive resort is a Leading Hotel of the World and one of the most luxurious picks in Playa del Carmen. It’s adults-only, and attracts a fun-loving clientele: the main pool (there are six) often gets loud and boisterous, thanks to bar service and music throughout the day. Bottom line: if you’re looking to celebrate Mexican heritage with serious style — and some seriously awesome fiesta-ing, this exclusive hotel is the perfect choice.
3. Hotel B Cozumel
For the young and hip crowd, Hotel B fulfills every Cinco de Mayo dream with a gorgeous lounge-style beach, spectacular infinity-edge swimming pool, fabulous restaurant, and some of the best mojitos in Mexico. Plus, the hotel strives toward sustainability, incorporating local products into the decor, sprinkling the menu with Mexican fare, and taking social responsibility very seriously. Best of all, the Hotel B’s high-class amenities don’t come with a sky-high price tag: it’s one of best values in Cozumel.
4. ME Cabo
If you like to party hard, try the ME Cabo on for size. Located in — you guessed it — Los Cabos, this trendy, fiesta-infused resort offers chic rooms, poolside cabanas, a swim-up bar, and (nearly) round-the-clock music. The ME definitely has a sexy side, as evidenced by its provocative artwork, after-dark hotspots Passion Club & Lounge and Nikki Beach (a popular pick for Los Cabos nightlife), and its young, often-scantily clad clientele. Oh, and did we mention the dual-level lagoon pool? Enough said.
Warning! Ultra Caliente: 5. Desire Resort & Spa Riviera Maya
For a sexy Cinco de Mayo, head to the aptly-named, couples-only (and clothing-optional) Desire Resort & Spa. On a pristine beach outside the Riviera Maya’s Puerto Morelos, the Desire Resort & Spa promises a truly steamy Cinco de Mayo celebration for adventurous vacationers. Be aware that swingers and nudists are common at Desire, and sex is permitted in certain public spaces, including the whirlpool and the Sin Room (a self-fulfilling prophecy?). And if you’re itching to get away from the resort, there are plenty of options: book a scuba or snorkeling adventure at the world’s second-largest coral reef; take your honey on an adventure through the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza and Tulum; or get your nightclub on in hopping, party-hearty Cancun.
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