Even though it may still seem months away, now is the best time to plan a great summer vacation. But with so many attractive destinations, it can be hard to choose the right one — especially if you need to factor in kids, friends, or a spouse. Deciding what to do once you get there can be even more of a headache.
Fortunately, Apple Vacations makes the vacation planning process easy by offering all-inclusive packages, covering everything from your flight and food to lodging and even your visa if necessary. Whether you're looking for somewhere to relax on your honeymoon, a place that will entertain the whole family, or a thriving nightlife for your group of friends, there are plenty of travel options.
Check out these four great destinations — and find out which activities to do, as well as where you should stay, at each of them.
SEE ALSO: Here are the destinations you absolutely have to visit in 2016
Riviera Maya, Mexico
If you're interested in combining relaxation, culture, and sightseeing, Mexico's Riviera Maya is the perfect destination. The 100-mile stretch along the Caribbean coastline may be known for its many all-inclusive resorts, but there are also plenty of historical sites and activities to keep adventure-seeking travelers occupied.
Tulum, home to many yoga retreats and remnants of Mayan civilization, is less than an hour's drive away. Co.ConAmor, a healthy vegan restaurant featuring smoothies and cold-pressed juices, is a favorite among locals in Tulum. On the way to Tulum, you can stop by and see some of the many cenotes — natural pits or sinkholes once considered sacred for the Mayans — in the area, like Cenote Azul, Chinkin Ha, and El Eden.
For some history, you can sign up for a guided tour of Chichen Itza, the famous archaeological site — and a UNESCO World Heritage site — to learn about the Mayan-Toltec civilizations. After the 90-minute tour, feel free to explore the pyramid and surrounding buildings, including the Temple of Warriors, on your own.
Río Secreto, the "Secret River," is an underground river filled with thousands of dramatic stalactites and stalagmites where people can dive. For shopping and dining, go to La Quinta, a popular strip of 30 blocks lined with restaurants and bars. For a more hole-in-the-wall experience, follow the locals. At Riviera Maya, that's El Pirata, a casual seafood restaurant where generous portions of fish, ceviche, and shrimp are served.
Where to stay in the Riviera Maya:
The Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya is "not your parents' all-inclusive resort," according to Frank Maduro, VP of marketing for Hard Rock's All Inclusive Collection. The upscale resort features a la carte dining in addition to buffets, music memorabilia throughout the property, a nightclub, and even a team of "vibe managers" to create the right atmosphere.
Travelers ages 18 and up can opt to stay at Heaven, an 85-acre, adults-only retreat with a private beach — a popular choice for destination weddings. But the Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya also caters to families. At the end of this year, it will debut Camp Woodward, a facility where adults, teens, and kids can snowboard and ski indoors, learn parkour, or participate in a number of physical activities. The music-driven resort also offers Music Lab, a program where guests ages 12 and up can form their own rock bands and create music.
Another place to consider in the Riviera Maya is Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa, a luxurious resort for couples and families. Parents can enroll their children in the Explorer's Club for kids and Core Zone Teens Club for supervised day and evening activities. The Mayan-themed Explorer's Club features a planetarium, sandcastle contests, a pyramid-shaped climbing wall, and more. The entire Explorer's Club staff is American Red Cross-certified both in CPR and first aid.
Meanwhile, couples can spend time by the pool, enjoy a romantic dinner under the gazebo, tee off at a nearby golf course, dance at the Desires Music Lounge, or just relax in one of the resort's spacious rooms, which offer stunning ocean views.
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