If you’re thinking about taking a cruise to Mexico—do it! It’s a super easy, low-stress way to get a taste of the culture, food, and coastal beauty without needing to plan every detail yourself.
My Recommendation:
- I took a weekend cruise to Mexico in January, and it was perfect. The weather was just right, not too hot, not too crowded, and the vibes were relaxed but still fun. I genuinely think January is the ideal time to cruise, especially if you’re looking to kick off the year with some sun and shake off any hint of seasonal depression. I cruised with Royal Caribbean on a 4-day itinerary, and it was super clean, well-paced, and clearly catered to weekend travelers. The ship wasn’t overly packed, which made everything from dining to lounging by the pool more enjoyable. If you’re craving a short getaway that feels refreshing and easy, this is it.
Advice & Tips:
- Book excursions early. Whether it’s snorkeling, city tours, or taco tasting spots fill up fast.
- Bring small bills ($1s and $5s) for tips and quick purchases. It makes things way easier.
- Get off the boat. Even if you’re not doing a paid excursion, walk around the port town, try local food, and talk to people; it’s where the memories are. ( Please, go explore- I got my first tattoo because I did that!
- Pack motion sickness bands or pills, just in case (especially if it’s your first cruise). – I had cramps the first day, and it came in clutch^
- Hydrate! Between sun, saltwater, and walking, water is your best friend. (I almost passed out because of how hot it was once we docked.)
- Don’t overthink outfits, simple & breezy wins. A good swimsuit and comfy sandals go a long way.
Side note:
During my cruise, I noticed a lot of older adults and families, which brought a really peaceful, relaxed vibe but not so many that it felt crowded or chaotic. It was easy to find quiet moments and enjoy the ship without feeling overwhelmed.
We stopped in Cozumel, which might not be on everyone’s “must-see” list, but I actually appreciated that. It felt more laid-back and less commercial than some other spots, which made it easier to soak in the experience without the pressure to do or see everything.
Budget:
I work hard not to spend too much money while I was docked, but that doesn’t mean you can’t. Almost all the food was under $20, from tacos to souvenirs, unless you’re trying to splurge. Vendors might try to upsell you (which is normal in tourist spots), but if you stay aware, you won’t fall for it. I kept it simple and just grabbed food when I arrived. Even without spending much, there’s a lot to see just by walking around, like historic chapels, a market full of homemade treats, and even museums packed with local history. It still can be remarkable, if you were on a budget just like me; I also had been to Mexico a couple times, so I knew it wasn’t a one-all-be-all. You can absolutely enjoy Cozumel on a budget and still soak up the culture.
Walk by Faith 
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