This must-read guide to planning a girls getaway in Cancun includes how to get there, where to stay, things to do, and more!

If you’re looking to plan the ultimate girlfriend getaway to Cancun, Mexico, then you’ve come to the right place. Cancun is the perfect destination to hang with your besties as it’s notoriously sunny, there are a ton of activities, and it’s home to some incredible hotels.

Specifically, the Grand Fiesta Americana is an award-winning all-inclusive resort that’s located on the most pristine stretch of white sand. It’s luxury to the max with multiple levels of experience suited to various types of travelers.

Cancun has everything you need to plan a girlfriend getaway — from great weather and unlimited water activities to adventure and spa relaxation. Read on to learn about the best tips for how to plan a girlfriend getaway in Cancun!

How To Plan A Girlfriend Getaway In Cancun, Mexico

Where is Cancun?

Home to roughly 880,000 people, Cancun is located on the northeast tip of the Yucatan Peninsula in southeastern Mexico. The city and resort area belong to the state of Quintana Roo and face the ever-blue Caribbean sea.

How to Get to Cancun

The easiest way to get to Cancun is to fly into Cancun International Airport. You’ll find there are direct flights from many American cities. From there, the easiest way to get to your accommodations is to take a shuttle, provided you book your stay there in advance.

To get downtown, you can either take a private shuttle or hop on the public ADO bus.

Transportation in Cancun

Though the Grand Fiesta Americana provides complimentary transportation for many of its offered activities, there are some options if you want to do your own thing. Firstly, taxis are plentiful in Cancun and, provided you don’t go too far out of the core, you’ll have no problem getting around with them (although they can be pricey).

For further trips around the area, you can either rent a car or take the Mexican bus company ADO. The bus is by far the cheapest option, although you’ll be a tad limited in where you can go.

Read more: 15 Best Places To Have A Destination Wedding

Best Time to Visit Cancun

Without a doubt, the best time to visit Cancun is between December and April. This time of year may be the area’s peak season, but it’s worth braving the crowds for beautiful weather.

Though most Cancun hotels and activities are open year-round, June through November is hurricane season. Further, the temperature and humidity are at their peak this time of year so if you don’t handle stifling heat well, then it’s best to avoid this season.

Best Things To Do in Cancun

Take an Isla Mujeres Day Trip

With a name that translates to “Island of Women, ” Isla Mujeres is one of the most beautiful day trips from Cancun. Only 20 minutes away, you can easily book your excursion through Grand Fiesta Americana. Plus, if you upgrade to their Infinite Club tier, then you’ll get access to the exclusive Garrafon Natural Reef Club on the island, complimentary ferry tickets, and more.

You’ll find Isla Mujeres to be much more quaint and laid back than Cancun. On the island, some of the best things to do are to watch baby turtles hatch at the conservation center, rent a golf cart and explore, visit the Ixchel temple, snorkel the pristine waters, shop for souvenirs, and check out the Hacienda Mundaca ruins.

Snorkel at a Nearby Reef

Snorkeling the reef off of the coast of Cancun will surely be a highlight of your girls trip. The water is often a gorgeous shade of blue and the Great Mayan Reef is full of sea life.

Not to mention, there’s an underwater museum to explore called MUSA. Created with materials that help the coral ecosystem, the museum is home to 500 unique sculptures such as statues of notable Mexican figures, artistic scenes, and cars. This museum can also be explored by glass-bottom boat or by scuba diving.

Have a Spa Day

Having a Spa Day at Grand Fiesta Americana is the ultimate way to relax with your friends in Cancun. The spa in the resort is called the Coral Beach Gem Spa — a 40,000 square foot facility with a hydrotherapy circuit, massage treatments, a fitness center, beauty treatments, and more.

Rest assured you and your friends will feel like a million bucks after a few hours in this gorgeous space.

Read more: 15 Affordable Tropical Destinations (For Every Budget)

Swim in Cenotes

Feel like getting out in nature? The Yucatan Peninsula is noted for its cenotes — natural limestone sinkholes filled with fresh water – and there are some great ones near Cancun (but unfortunately none in the city itself). Cenote La Noria, Cenote Azul, Cenote Kin Ha, Cenote Mojarras, Verde Lucero, and Cenote Tajma Ha are a few of the best within a 2-hour radius.

I recommend reading up on each cenote in particular as they each have different rules, but popular activities in them are swimming, scuba diving, cliff jumping, and snorkeling.

Read more: 10 Incredible Things To Do In Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula

Join a Temazcal Ceremony

For a truly unique activity for you and your friends, a Temazcal ritual is a traditional Mayan ceremony led by a local shaman. For the purpose of purifying your body, mind, and soul, the ritual is done in a hut and includes hot rocks and water for a Mexican sauna experience. Definitely wear your bathing suit for this!

The Temazcal ceremony takes place in total darkness and the shaman will chant and use various plants in the process. This is a great way to gain a deeper understanding of Mayan culture and have a meditation session in the process.

Read more: How To Choose The Best Spiritual Retreat For You (Detailed Guide)

Relax on the Best Cancun Beaches

Granted, the beach outside of Grand Fiesta Americana is one of the best (it’s secluded and just for hotel guests), but there are 13 miles of beautiful soft white sand that the area is famous for.

Some other great beaches in Cancun include Playa Delfines (home to the colorful Cancun sign), Playa Tortugas (perfect for swimming), and Playa Forum (near some great nightlife spots).

Go Shopping at Mercado 28

If you’re looking to venture into downtown Cancun, then you should definitely put Mercado 28 on your list. One of the largest shopping centers in the city, this location is less mall and more flea market — featuring more than 600 unique vendors selling a variety of products and souvenirs.

You’ll be able to grab a bus from the Hotel Zone to Mercado 28, so it makes for an adventurous, yet easy, excursion.

Indulge in the Nightlife

If you’re looking for premium drinks and an unlimited minibar, then booking an all-inclusive stay at the Grand Fiesta Americana is the way to go. In particular, their tequila bar at La Joya is famed and has regular themed nights on offer. They also have entertainment events for all ages.

Of course, if you and your girlfriends are looking to experience more of Cancun, then I have to mention some of the downtown nightlife spots (they do exist outside of spring break stereotypes). In particular, some of the best clubs include Coco Bongo, Amma Club, Ginza Nightclub, and H Roof.

Read more: 10 Epic Photos of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula

Where to Stay in Cancun

For our recent stay in Cancun, my friend and I stayed at Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach and absolutely loved it. The resort is home to 602 suites with private terraces (the prices range dramatically depending on what level of luxury you’re after), multiple restaurants and dining options, the aforementioned spa, a kids club, activities and entertainment, and more.

I found it to be the perfect place for a girlfriend getaway. We were never bored with all of the options at the hotel and it was extremely easy to plan any excursions — especially with the Isla Mujeres pick up point right in front of the hotel!

The food was incredible — everything from the variety of restaurants on site (nearly all of them included in our stay) to room service with a view from our suite.

Where to Eat in Cancun

Because my girlfriend getaway was at the Grand Fiesta Americana, these are a few of the best restaurants on the property:

AAA Five-Diamond Le Basilic

If you’re looking for an opulent, one-of-a-kind dining experience at Grand Fiesta Americana, then look no further than Le Basilic. This restaurant is one of only a few Mexican locations to have earned the AAA Five Diamond accreditation and features a menu consisting of French-Mediterranean cuisine. Plus, the dining experience is accompanied by a Mexican artist who performs to piano music.

Just keep in mind that because this restaurant is one of the best in the area, it does have a dress code and requires reservations at designated times.

Vina Del Mar

With white-and-gold decor and a delectable menu of international and local cuisine, Vina Del Mar is another upscale option at Grand Fiesta Americana. The restaurant features a split-level dining room, great views of the Caribbean sea, and operatic performers in the evening.

 Tuscany Trattoria

I don’t normally eat Italian food in Mexico, but this place was so good that we had to eat here twice. They offer everything from fresh pasta (including the favorite Roman dish Cacio e Pepe), salads risottos and traditional Italian main courses.

La Joya

If you’re looking for more authentic Mexican cuisine, then La Joya is a great choice. Elegant yet fun, this restaurant features traditional fare, nightly entertainment (a little more upbeat than the other options on this list), and tequila tastings.

Read more: The Best Carry-on Luggage (Detailed Buying Guide)

Need to Know Tips for Cancun

Budget For the Area

Though Mexico can be a budget-friendly destination, Cancun is a popular destination and the prices are higher than other places in the country. Definitely budget accordingly and book an all-inclusive stay (such as at the Grand Fiesta Americana) to get the best bang for your buck.

The Water is Safe to Drink

Being such a popular destination, the Hotel Zone in Cancun has safe tap water. Not only is the water filtered regionally, but it usually goes through a second filtration system at the hotels themselves.

Don’t Go Too Wild

Though having a few drinks at your resort is completely fine, having too much to drink while at a nightclub or in town can be a bad idea. Being inebriated in public leaves you more at risk for petty theft or worse, so take it easy on the substances and always keep an eye on your drinks.

What to Pack for a Cancun Girlfriend Getaway

Toiletries: On any trip to the Caribbean, reef-safe sunscreen and bug spray are essentials. The water areas in Mexico (both freshwater and ocean) contain fragile ecosystems and making sure you have a sunscreen that won’t harm anything is a must.

Camera Equipment: Your girlfriend getaway needs proper documentation after all! A GoPro Hero 10 and a floatie stick are great for most situations in Cancun.

Water Gear: Assuming that a solid chunk of your vacation will be spent in the water or on the beach, I recommend bringing along 2-3 swimsuits, water shoes, a quick-dry towel, Teva sandals, a rash guard/sun shirt, and a sun hat.

The post How To Plan A Girlfriend Getaway In Cancun, Mexico appeared first on Ordinary Traveler.

Kitchen lighting can be tricky, especially small kitchen lighting ideas where you need good light to prepare and cook food safely. In a small space, kitchen lighting becomes part of the overall design, so it needs to look good, be practical and add something to the kitchen scheme, and if you eat in there too, it could be the focal point, over the table for example.

Below we offer you a few lighting and small kitchen ideas for inspiration, with some expert comment from industry insiders on how to get the best lighting for your small kitchen

Small kitchen lighting ideas

Small kitchen lighting ideas are tricky to get right and need to be thought about early on in the planning process. If you want to put spotlights in for example, it will impact the floor above, so if you are renovating the bedroom, take this opportunity to put spotlights in before laying new flooring upstairs. If the kitchen is dark, with little natural light, kitchen lighting is even more important, so think about the different types of lighting you will need – good overall light, task lighting and feature lighting to create a scheme that is both stylish and practical.

1.  Make task lighting key

Image credit: Future PLC

Lights need to be positioned where you need them most, over the prep, cooking and sink area, especially in a small dark kitchen. These industrial-style bulb lights are simple but stylish and do the job perfectly, positioned above the work surface in this breakfast area. Their neat size is perfect for a small kitchen.

Combining different light sources is key in a small kitchen.’This can be accomplished by the use of directional down-lights or spot task with swivel joints within the prep and cooking areas and oversized statement pendants with dimmers over the table or island to add drama and atmosphere.’ says Mary Buchanan, Creative Director of Laura Ashley Lighting and Mirrors.

‘The kitchen is a space where task lighting is vital. If your room doesn’t have access to natural light, and you want to create a bright working space consider installing lighting with cool white low energy bulbs (LEDs).

2. Make a statement with your lighting

Image credit: Hudson Valley Lighting; Brigitte pendant, around £618, Ivy pendant, from £321 each,

Use your lighting to get the wow-factor in a small kitchen, positioning a modern chandelier over a kitchen island will create a wonderful mood, especially if it’s on a dimmer switch, and team with oversized bulb lights in a matching brass finish over the sink area.

Position all the lighting at the right height so that people don’t bang their heads on them too. This chandelier is over the island, so it’s out of the way and the bulb lights are spaced out so that there isn’t one above the sink where it might get in the way or cause tricky shadows.

3. Consider installing directional spotlights

Image credit: Future PLC/Katie Lee

Spotlights have been used in kitchens for years – for good reason, because they give excellent over all lighting, then whatever else you want to add, such as task or mood lighting is a plus. Spotlights have improved enormously over the years with the introduction of LED’s which save on energy bills as they last much longer and don’t need to be changed so often. Choose Cool White bulbs for a kitchen which are bright and clear.

4. Reap the benefits of cabinet lighting

Image credit: IKEA; Enhet Shelving Unit

Sometimes small kitchens are in the middle of the home and away from natural light, so under cabinet lighting really comes into its own. It puts light where you need it, so you can see to carry out the task at hand safely. These LED Skydrag lighting strips, £13 for 60cm can be clipped onto shelves, they are small but powerful, can be operated from your phone and there is also a wireless dimmer available.

5. Introduce wall lights

Image credit: Original BTC

Wall lights are another form of task lighting, so they are ideal above a cooker or preparation area, putting light exactly where it’s needed. They also add a stunning design feature that is also practical. These ones are made from bone china, Oxford Wall Light, £235, Original BTC, and always use the ‘rule of three’ for the most appealing look.

6. Add drama and shine

Image credit: Pooky; Spangle pendants, from £83

Using metallic surfaces will bounce light around a small space making the room appear larger, and these large, gold pendants will add a touch of glamour too, especially in the evening when they will offer a warm glow. Position them over the island as a focal point.

7. Think about drawer lights

Image credit: IKEA

There is nothing worse than scrabbling about in kitchen drawers looking for something, so make life easy on yourself with strip lights inside the drawers. It will make life so much easier. These are Skydrag LED lighting strips from £13 for 60cm at IKEA.

8. Pair downlighters with reflective surfaces

Image credit: Higham

Use thoughtfully placed downlighting to illuminate a splashback. Choose a high gloss material such as acrylic or aluminium for maximum reflection – or seek a more subtle approach with marble or tiled designs.

Natural daylight makes a kitchen come alive, but if you don’t have a lot of natural light, or to make the most of the daylight you have this idea is perfect. The reflective surface will also make the kitchen look bigger.

 9. Add a burst of colour

Image credit: Future PLC/ Jo Henderson

To create a focal point in a small kitchen add a brightly coloured pendant light – these sunny yellow and sea blue, easy-fit shades inject a splash of accent colour and personality to a space. Then you could work a colour scheme around it.

Using lights to add colour rather than the walls or cabinets allows you to keep the colour scheme white, bright and airy without it be devoid of colour.

10. Go for industrial style

Image credit: BHS; 3 Light Diner Pendant Light, £110, BHS.

For something a bit different, choose a mesh diner pendant with an Industrial look and work your scheme around it. It will sit perfectly above a narrow bar table like this one with it’s metal legs and rustic wooden top – the ideal dining spot in a small kitchen. Metal and wood stools complete the look. Narrow tables like this are ideal for tricky places and the stools can be pushed underneath, out of the way.

Can you put pendant lights in a small kitchen?

‘Pendant lights can help draw the eye upwards and give the illusion of more space’ explains Peter Legg, lead designer at Dar Lighting. ‘With clever placement, they can be a great addition to smaller kitchens. Always opt for those with adjustable cords so that you can account for any low ceiling levels and remember to check you can open any high level cabinets without having to fight with them.’

Single pendants can make a great statement on their own, but you could try a multi-level cluster to frame a key area, such as over a table where any walkways won’t be impacted. Minimalist designs are best for adding a hint of interest without encroaching on the space.

Clear glass concepts will help to illuminate the whole area, while colourful designs can add a pop of warmth and personality. Pendants can also be great for those looking to install lights on a sloped roof. Those featuring flexible joints can be fitted on pitched roofs and still hang perfectly.

How do you light a kitchen without recessed lighting?

‘There’s lots of ways you can achieve the perfect lighting for your kitchen without recessed lighting’ says Lizzie Beesley, Head of Design at Magnet. ‘For small kitchens, ceiling level spotlights are a great alternative and can be installed to target areas which need most light, with the option of dimmer switches to create atmosphere.

And under cabinet lighting is a great space saving lighting solution, not only as accent lights, but as an effective way to light food preparation areas rather than the whole room. It can also assist those Friday night kitchen discos through multicolour as well as be controlled through a smart application such as Alexa.’

How much light do I need for a small kitchen?

Lizzie Beesley Head of Design at Magnet, says: ‘Good lighting is essential for any kitchen space. It first needs to be bright and shadow-free, making food preparation safe and easy. But secondly, it can also be used for atmospheric effect and to highlight architectural features. The amount of lighting required in a small kitchen depends on different factors. Including the size of the room, the availability of natural light, and the colour of the walls.’

“It’s a good idea to incorporate spotlights in small kitchens as they can be recessed in the ceiling. Creating a smart, streamlined effect. Dimmer switches are also a great addition and allow you to easily create different moods for all occasions.’

The post Small kitchen lighting ideas – 10 ways to add light to a small space appeared first on Ideal Home.

An average cup of coffee in the UK currently costs £2.44. And that’s for a basic brew, without any plant-based milk or extras. So, for any of us who are officially back in the office for 5 days a week, you’re looking at spending a minimum of £12.20 a week just on coffee. That’s just short of £50 a month! Now, we’re not saying it’s not worth it, because we of all people know how just one cup of the good stuff can change the path of your day. What we are saying, though, is that there’s a way you can get your caffeine fix for a lot cheaper, and you needn’t queue in a long line to get it. All you need is one of the best coffee machines in your kitchen (which you probably already own for your weekend fix) and one of these incredible thermos flasks we’ve spotted and featured below.

There’s a reason that thermos flasks are having a moment. Mostly because they are great for helping clean up our planet, and also because they can save you a decent amount of money. Invest £15 (or less) just once, and you’ll save £600 a year just by making your own coffee at home. It might add an extra 2 minutes to your morning routine but rest assured it’ll be worth it.

But which coffee thermos flask should you buy, you ask? We’re here with some editor-approved picks that we use day in day out, to take a cup of the hot stuff into the Ideal Home HQ. Invest in one of these now and you can thank us later. Put that £12+ a week into a savings account or use it for any bills to make a difference.

We’ve got more money-saving hacks to help you save as the prices of utility bills rises across the country. For advice on how to save energy at home and how to keep your house warm, we’ve been in touch with the experts for guidance, and we spotted plenty of budget-friendly solutions that can offer instant effect.

The 3 best thermos flasks – as rated by the Ideal Home team

The best-rated thermos flask

Thermos Mondial Flask: £14.96 at Amazon
With 3,000 positive reviewers to back us up, this is one of the best thermos flasks that money can buy. Especially if you are on a budget. In fact, Amy Cutmore, Editor in Chief of Homes Audience at Ideal Home, uses this flask on the daily. ‘I couldn’t be without this Thermos – I’m not exaggerating when I say it’s saved me hundreds of pounds.’ ‘Of course it’s great at keeping coffee, tea and hot chocolate warm for hours. So I don’t need to fork out for a pricey double-shot-no-foam-grande-cappuccino on the way to work each morning. But it’s also a money-saver when it comes to lunches. It can hold soups or my cut-price slow cooker creations. Best of all, I like to fill it with boiling water and frankfurters and take it on a hike. You’re everyone’s best friend when you can serve up a tasty hot dog in a bun after a particularly challenging climb! Just don’t forget the ketchup..’.
What are you waiting for?

Buy now from Amazon

The eco-friendly thermos flask

Circular and Co Leakproof Reusable Coffee Cup: £14.95 at Amazon
This eco-friendly thermos flask has a seal of approval from us, and while it might not be the best for keeping your coffee hot for an entire day it should keep your drink warm for an hour or so. What else do we love about it? Its leak-proof design means you can chuck it in your bag worry-free. It’s actually made from recycled coffee cups and you can clean it in your dishwasher, plus it comes in a range of colours. It’s the ultimate eco-friendly buy, in our eyes.

Buy now from Amazon

The small thermos flask

Smash Soft Touch Purple Coffee Flash: £8.50 at Argos
If you’re looking for a smaller thermos flask, then this one from Argos is both highly-rated and affordable. It’ll keep your coffee hot for up to 12 hours with a stainless steel inner, plus it’s BPA-free and you can use it to hold soups and other hot food. Nice and compact for once your coffee is done, it can slot in your handbag no problem.

Buy now from Argos

Better yet? You might also be searching for affordable coffee to use in your machine. Shop for your pods and ground coffee below.

The post Save £50 a month with these brilliant thermos flasks – all less than £15 appeared first on Ideal Home.