Have there ever been moments when you’d just like to slow down time? It seems impossible between everything you’re juggling but there are some places on earth where that dream could just become a reality. One island where time slows down and tranquility reigns is Isla Mujeres in Mexico.
With its name translating to the Island of Women, Isla Mujeres exudes feminine energy. She is beautiful, laid back, and alluring. The island has seduced many divers, musicians, artists and travelers to her shores and many have decided to stay. This creates a vibrant, diverse community on the island that is unlike any other.
Located just across the Bahia de Mujeres (Bay of Women) from Cancun, Isla de Mujeres is highly accessible. From Cancun, take a short taxi or bus ride to the Puerto Juaréz ferry terminal where you can buy tickets for a 15 minute ferry ride to Isla Mujeres. The ferries leave every half hour from 5:00 am until 9:30 pm and every hour after that.
The tiny, peaceful island has always been cherished. For centuries, it was revered as a holy place by the Mayans for being the sanctuary of the goddess Ixchel who ruled over the moon, happiness, medicine and fertility. The southern tip of the island houses a temple dedicated to Ixchel and also serves as a lighthouse.
Isla Mujeres is still celebrated as a different kind of sanctuary today – one where time slows and you can relax to the fullest. The tranquil environment, picture perfect beaches, amazing food and charming people are a welcome contrast to the party culture of Cancun across the bay.
While it’s peaceful, that doesn’t mean that it’s boring. There are countless activities in Isla Mujeres for visitors of all ages. From sightseeing to relaxing on beaches, to fine dining and shopping – you could fill out an itinerary to please any traveler on this island.
Some of the best places to see in Isla Mujeres are Playa Norte (North Beach) which is one of the best beaches in Mexico. With powder soft white sand, beautiful palm trees and bright blue water, this is the perfect place to forget time and unwind.
Sunrise lovers must visit Garaffon Park at Punta Sur – at the other end of the island. Here, the rising sun first touches Mexican soil and treats visitors with the most spectacular sunrise. There are natural reefs, breathtaking cliffs and plenty of water sports here to enjoy.
Another destination you wouldn’t want to miss is Tortuga Granja, an incredible sea turtle sanctuary on Sac Bajo. A joint initiative of the government and private sector, this aquarium houses tropical fish, seahorses, manta rays, sea turtles and a variety of other sea life.
There are enough activities to do here to fill your days with lots of adventure, magic and wonder. With its proximity to the United States, unparalleled beauty of its beaches and complete set of amenities for a comfortable life, Isla Mujeres makes an excellent choice to move to for your Flip Flop Life. Best of all, it’s also very affordable. At Isla Mujeres, a budget of $2,500 to $3,000 per month is more than enough for a couple to live very comfortably.
That’s less than you would spend in major cities in the US! What are you waiting for? The island is calling you to visit, pause, unwind and explore.
If you’re getting ready for your next big beach trip, or planning to take the plunge and live a full-time Flip Flop Life, then you’ll need to prepare your wardrobe for the tropics. Say goodbye to your stuffy suit and shoes and get ready to feel free in shorts and flip flops around the clock.
Check out our flip flop reviews, recommendations and shopping guide to choose the best fit for you.
