The Riviera Maya is always a good idea.
The cheapest fares with JetBlue & United do not include a full-size carry-on. In general, it costs $30-$40 each way to upgrade to regular economy if you want a carry-on. Alternatively, a checked bag costs $30-$35 each way. Several routes are operated by multiple carriers. Be sure to keep this in mind when deciding which flight to book.
Note that dates through November fall during hurricane season. Though the Yucatán only occasionally gets directly hit by hurricanes, this time of year is definitely rainier than other times. Rainstorms tend to be intense (and beautiful, if you’re into that sort of thing) but relatively brief. On the plus side, crowds are thinner, accommodation prices are lower, and a little extra cloud cover makes exploring ancient ruins more enjoyable.
Travel Tip
Head inland to the sprawling Mayan ruins at Cobá. The gorgeous, jungle-shrouded ruins are a delight to explore via bike (which you can rent on-site). Get there early to beat the crowds (which are considerably smaller than those at Chichén Itzá or Tulum) then duck out of the midday sun for a dip at the nearby and super-tranquil Choo Ha cenote.
Route: New York – Cancun – New York
Sample dates:
September 4 – September 11, 2021
November 10 – November 17, 2021
- these rates are valid at the time of publication of the article