If you have seen Cancun depicted in movies or reviewed on cable TV then you probably think of the best "side" of the city: sunny skies, crowded sandy beaches and crystal blue water. Of course, that is the real Cancun! You can't fake scenery that gorgeous. Know that when you travel to Cancun you are indeed visiting one of the most beautiful tourist cities in the world. However, as a tourist vacationing in the real world you should also know that there is a change that occurs in Cancun weather throughout the various seasons. Planning around these seasons will provide you with the most enjoyable Cancun vacation.
The first challenge to overcome will be the heat. In the summer, particularly around late June, Cancun can become very hot in climate. If you plan to vacation in Cancun during the summer months, come prepared to resist the hot weather (umbrellas, sun lotion, lightly dressed) and spend more time indoors than out basking on the beach. Another challenge in adapting to Cancun weather will be adjusting to the threat of severe weather. Hurricanes in Cancun have been reported, and the peak season for a hurricane threat is from the summer to the early fall.
Why the threat of hurricanes, especially considering that other cities in Mexico Tourism are practically storm-free? Cancun is located in one of the Caribbean's main hurricane impact areas and is a land that is less stable in weather conditions than other locations like Acapulco and Cabo. Only two major hurricanes have affected the land: Hurricane Gilbert in the 1980's and Hurricane Wilma. However, in both cases all authorities were well informed and prepared to deal with any potentially harmful effects. Further plans to protect residents and shops have been instituted. Among some of the hurricane prevention plans put into affect: hurricane proof traffic lights, the suspension of trips in inclement weather and the evacuation of tourists. Hurricane weather can occasionally affect travel plans and may require the use of emergency grocery and survival items facilities. Inclement weather may affect travel plans to and from the airport, so it is best to have a list of professional contacts you can call in an emergency, such as your travel agent or airlines.
However, don't feel as if you have to avoid Cancun altogether or have to start planning for a hurricane survival style vacation. Having a safe and fun-filled vacation simply means that you plan your trip according to the peak season for Cancun tourism. This peaceful period (safe from hurricane threats and hot temperatures) lasts from December to April. The bad news is that traveling in peak season will cost much more as all vendors raise their prices in these peak months. If you're looking for a discount on airfare and hotel stay then planning a Cancun vacation in the off-season may be worth the relatively minor risk of a hurricane sighting. Cancun sees a lot of change in its weather, but you can rest with peace of mind knowing that if you plan accordingly you will find tropical fun and sun in the real Cancun.
