# 1  Arrive 30 minutes before your ferry

To heighten your chances of catching the ferry on time over to Isla Mujeres, make sure you line up at least 30 minutes before its scheduled to depart Cancun. We made the mistake of thinking we could arrive at the terminal by 1:50pm to catch the 2pm ferry – and this was not the case. There are tour groups and other “VIP” wrist-banded patrons who have first preference through the gates and who arrive right on time, so be warned even if the line does not look big, you still may not be at the front.

# 2  Diving in Isla Mujeres

I can only comment as a one-time diver but being able to experience the Underwater Museum and turquoise waters of the Mexican Carribean was incredible! If you are looking to do your Open Water Dive course or just have a go for a day to test the waters, I would highly recommend Isla Mujeres! There are dive centres on every corner, all offering fairly competitive prices. We scuba’d with the amazing Steph from Mexico Divers who we can’t speak enough about. She was so beautiful, as was her team who went out of their way to make us feel really safe and comfortable throughout the day. Our Discover Scuba was about $140 USD and worth every cent!

# 3  Swimming with the Whale Sharks

As well as diving, this beautiful little island is renowned for swimming with the Whale Sharks. Our hostel was filled with wide-eyed travellers who had experienced this amazing swim and could not stop showing off their go-pro footage. It’ll set you back about $90 USD but by the sounds of the stories, the memories will last a lifetime.

# 4  Playa Norte

So as not to fight for a spot among the “I Love Cancun” tshirts on the beach, opt to get down to Playa Norte before 9:30am. This will ensure you get to choose where your lovely little piece of white sand will be for the day, and generally the swarms of tourists will give you a wide berth if you looked settled into your book when they arrive. When you hit the beach turn right and walk further down to avoid heavily over-crowded swimming areas.

# 5  Where to eat – Lola Valentine

Lola Valentine is a restaurant you must visit while staying on this little island. It is a feast for the senses, serving thee most scrumptious tacos, curries, salads and smoothies. Be warned about the delicious chocolate cake, even Bruce Bogtrotter would struggle getting through that portion size!

# 6  Souveniers – Aztlan Galeria

The real hidden treasure lies within Aztlan Galeria. It’s walls are adorned from top to bottom with crosses, bleeding hearts, crying Maria’s and all things beautiful! The wall hangings are absolutely exquisite, and make for fantastic keep sakes, gifts and souvenirs. It is easy to walk past, but well worth stepping inside, you will be lost for hours gazing up at it all!

# 7  Cheap – Mexican Food market

The local Mexican Food Market consists of about 4 stalls and boasts the cheapest, most authentic plates around. For a few US dollars, sit down at one of the plastic tables and chairs and enjoy the buzzing ambience surrounding you. The market is located just off Playa Norte and highly regarded by the locals.

# 8  Vegetarian heaven – Aroma Isla

Another sensational cafe is Aroma Isla. This vegetarian friendly menu has everything from smoothie bowls to rice dishes with great Main Street views, exceptional service and scrumptious treats. Wifi is also pretty strong here if you need a place to buckle down and gram your dive pic.

# 9  Live music is everywhere

If you are staying at Pocna, make sure you still venture out and source live music elsewhere. It is easy to fall into the trap of drinking the hostel’s cheap drinks, listening to their entertainment and then partying at their beach party.. BUT Isla offers lots of great bars and fabulous musicians. Follow the sounds to upstairs terraces and alleyway hideaways, you won’t be disappointed.

Where we stayed: Poc na Hostel (Address: Av, Matamoros 15 Mz 26 LTE. 3, Centro)