Mexico’s Hidden Gems: Beyond the Tourist Traps

Drive off the mezcal-fueled beaten path in Mexico, and you will discover whole new worlds that exist far from spring-break crowds and city center carousels. For the intrepid explorer who wants to experience a destination that blends the thrill of the new – of discovering traditions, landscapes and history unique to Mexico – with the feeling of an adventure. Getting off the hot spots will take you on a wild and rewarding ride. If you plan to hit the road in Mexico, you owe it to yourself to get a travelers auto insurance quote. Here are a few destinations that are considered to be a little off the beaten path. They are totally worth the five-hour trek south of the border.

Todos Santos: A Magical Place

It’s on the Pacific coast of Mexico in the state of Baja California Sur. Travel about 50 minutes from Cabo San Lucas, to Todos Santos. It’s an unassuming town of art galleries, trendy restaurants, and hotels. A historic colonial centre, it is one of Mexico’s ‘Pueblos Mágicos’, or ‘Magical Towns’. It’s an often-lit landmark on the mountain that rises above it.

Perhaps what this creative outpost of just under 6,000 inhabitants does best is simply lie low, be quiet, and inspire. The palm-lined streets of Todos Santos meander through a town that feels both gorgeous and organic. Its largely free of the manufactured ‘vibe’ that often mars smaller resort-style destinations. Its authentic Mexican community seems to gel effortlessly, while the Pueblo Mágico tag serves to promote tourism without making me wince.

Even on Saturday night when you can’t move for throngs of people, gringos, and rowdy, over-privileged kids, it’s full of life but never overly bustling. Take the time to strike up a conversation with a local. Slow travel, creativity, appreciation for fine craftsmanship, eating locally produced food, and mutual respect come forth. With your travelers auto insurance quote safely tucked away in my backpack, you can freely cruise along the picturesque roads of this desert oasis.

Holbox Island: A Serene Beach Paradise

The secluded island of Holbox in the Yucatán Peninsula lies at the point where the Sea of Cortez meets the Gulf of Mexico. Streets are sandy, golf carts and bicycles act as chief modes of transit. You come here to disengage. To tap into a sense of calm, slowed-down time, as the last cousin to a beach resort experience segues out of existence.

Bask in the bioluminescent illuminations of the waters. Peer longingly at the windows of a bar that enforces a strict ‘no cameras’ policy. Simply draw in the dusty roads to witness the island’s breathtaking sunsets. Swim alongside one of the largest fish in the sea with whale shark tours. Get an online travelers auto insurance quote before setting off on your aquatic adventure. Your trip to this off-grid oasis is covered, allowing you to experience all the island has to offer.

Copper Canyon: A Rugged Adventure

And for the most adventurous, the state of Chihuahua’s Copper Canyon (Barrancas del Cobre) offers rugged pristine landscape. It is as deep and photographically dazzling as the Grand Canyon. Made up of six canyons carved out by six rivers, the Copper Canyon belongs to the indigenous Rarámuri people. It is a trekker’s and ornithologists’ paradise. A majesty-of-scales suitable for anyone who’s ever been moved by a spectacular view.

You can ride the legendary ferrocarril El Chepe train through the canyon. Maybe hike to the bottom, but make sure you’re covered with the best travel auto insurance quote before setting out. Delve into Mexico’s heart beyond the well-travelled, drug-war-affected, spring-break corridors. Once you get there, the country rewards you with experiences beyond your wildest imagination. From the magic of Todos Santos to off-the-radar adventures that remain vivid long after you’ve returned, you’ll have a great time.

Whether you’re heading down to the calm and clear waters of Holbox Island, or deeper inland to the majesty of the Copper Canyon, the best way to secure your Mexico adventure is by getting a travelers auto insurance quote before you go.