Mexico and I broke up a little over ten years ago. Let's just say I had a bad travel experience—one of my worst—and never looked back, vowing to go anywhere but there. But with everything in life, things change…. My in-laws asked us on a trip to Mexico. I immediately started sweating bullets. This time would be different my husband promised. We'd fly into Cancun and drive south to Riviera Maya, staying at an all-inclusive resort. The adventure sounded a bit different than my disastrous spring break trip years ago. I was willing to give Mexico a second chance. After all Greece left me with bed bugs, Italy held me captive for ten hours in their airport and Machu Picchu served as rescue grounds for me, my friend and her broken leg. I didn't let those moments stop me from traveling. Why should Mexico be any different? A lot can change in ten years and you'd be happy to know Mexico and I have rekindled our relationship and are back together. With that said, this is the latest I noted while there.

  • It does rain (yes, as in all day).
  • You can drink the water (at least at the resort).
  • You can eat most anything without torturing your stomach.
  • There are a lot of Canadians.
  • Canadians like their cigarettes.
  • The only people not overweight seem to be Mexican or Mayan.
  • The snorkeling is breathtaking.
  • The water is amazing.
  • Mexico time is different than American time. Five minutes really means an hour.
  • Bathe in sunscreen and layer on lip balm with SPF. The sun is hot, hot, hot.
  • Super tan (aka: pruned skin) is not always better or attractive.
  • Tequila is oh so good.
  • There are lots of fun little critters walking around.
  • It helps to speak fluent Spanish (gracias Ben!).
  • The lines at the airport are longer on a Saturday.
  • Motion sickness meds on a six-hour fishing trip are like a best friend.
  • There is great history in Mexico.
  • It's safe (at least where we were).
  • The country really is beautiful.
  • Second chances are worth it!

What has been your worst and greatest travel experience in Mexico?