Flor De Lis on Av. Tulum offers authentic Mexican food in Cancun, where the locals dine.

Cancun, Mexico is known for its stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. One of the best ways to experience the local culture and truly immerse oneself in the authentic food scene is by exploring the local cuisine. The food in Cancun is a mix of traditional Mexican cuisine and flavors from around the world, thanks to the influence of tourists from all over the globe.

Experience Cancun as a foodie

By following these tips, you can experience the best of the local cuisine and truly immerse yourself in the culture of this beautiful city.

Visit the local markets that offer a wide range of fresh and flavorful food items. These markets are the perfect place to explore the local cuisine and discover unique and authentic dishes. The Mercado 28 is one such market that offers a wide range of food items, including traditional authentic Mexican food and dishes. Other popular markets include the Mercado 23 and the Mercado 20.

Cancun is home to several local restaurants that serve authentic Mexican food. These restaurants are a great way to experience the local food scene and try out new dishes. Some of the best local restaurants in Cancun include La Parrilla, El Fish Fritanga, Flor De Lis, and Los de Pescado.

Cancun hosts several food festivals throughout the year that showcase the local cuisine. These festivals are a great way to sample different dishes and experience the local culture. Some of the most popular food festivals in Cancun include the Cancun Food and Wine Festival, the Cancun-Riviera Maya Wine and Food Festival, and the Taste of Playa Festival. Attend one of these to experience authentic Mexican food in Cancun.

Take a Cooking Class Taking a cooking class is an excellent way to learn about the local cuisine and how to prepare authentic dishes. Several cooking schools in Cancun offer classes that cover traditional Mexican dishes, including tamales, tacos, and guacamole. Taking a cooking class exposes you to authentic Mexican food.

Street food is a popular and affordable way to experience the local cuisine in Cancun. There are several street food vendors throughout the city that offer a wide range of dishes, including tacos, quesadillas, and elotes. However, it is important to be careful when trying street food and make sure that the food is prepared hygienically.

I am heading out to try authentic Mexican food in Cancun, with Abel, head concierge at Now Emerald Cancun. It is Abel’s day off and he has come to pick me up and we head to Flor De Lis on Av. Tulum. I told Abel, I want to go to a restaurant where the locals eat, not a touristy place.

Flor de Lis has been recognized for almost 100 years for its traditional Mexican cuisine in Mexico City. In 1944 it opened its doors in the Condesa neighborhood, where the most demanding families in the city held events and meetings. special for the quality and prestige that the restaurant offered. Flor de Lis is now in Cancun catering to the local population offering grilled chicken breast, tamales, enchiladas poblanas, Oaxacan moles, atoles, and every kind of authentic Mexican food you can imagine.

After a nice drive through Cancun’s heavy traffic, we arrive at the restaurant.

The first thing I notice is that there is not a single tourist in the restaurant. There are lots of Mexican families enjoying themselves. I am excited.

Abel orders soup and moles, his nephew has the steak special. We go for tacos. For drinks, we try the Horchata (A long-established Mexican drink made up of white rice soaked in water, with cinnamon, sweetened with granulated sugar).  It is absolutely delicious.

I take a sip of the soup, it is delicious. The mole is soft and amazing and so is the steak. The tacos are different and delicious.

The service at the restaurant is fast and amazing.

I had a great time at the restaurant and the food is authentic and amazing.

The post Authentic Mexican Food in Cancun appeared first on Four Columns of a Balanced Life.

Now Emerald Cancun is located in Cancun’s Hotel Zone between the Caribbean Sea and the Nichupte Lagoon. The all-inclusive hotel offers an amazing experience that the whole family can partake and enjoy. This beautiful ornament is set on a beautiful white sand beach with crystal blue water and features 427 rooms and suites with garden, lagoon, and ocean views. Now Emerald Cancun is located eight miles from Cancun International Airport. The hotel is ensconced in a plush of palm trees with all the conveniences of an all-inclusive. Enjoy unlimited gourmet food and beverages at 8 restaurants and 8 bars.

Victor Martinez and his entertainment team will keep you entertained with endless daytime land and water activities. The options are endless with an amazing spa, three beautiful pools, and an adult-only pool.

 tips for enjoying yourself at the pools

Relax and unwind: The main purpose of an all-inclusive pool is to relax and enjoy yourself. Take the time to sit back, read a book, listen to music, or just take in the scenery.

Stay hydrated: Make sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water or other non-alcoholic beverages. This is especially important if you plan on spending a lot of time in the sun.

Try the pool activities: Now Emerald Cancun offers pool activities such as water aerobics, pool volleyball, or other group games. Don’t be afraid to join in and have fun.

Indulge in the poolside snacks and drinks: All-inclusive resorts usually have food and drinks available poolside. Take advantage of this and try some of the delicious snacks and refreshing drinks they offer.

Wear sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays by wearing sunscreen with a high SPF.

Bring a waterproof camera: Capture the memories of your all-inclusive pool experience with a waterproof camera. You’ll be able to take photos of yourself and your friends having a great time in the pool.

Socialize: Don’t be shy about meeting new people and making friends. Strike up a conversation with the person next to you and enjoy the company. All-inclusive resorts are great places to meet people from all over the world.

Remember, the key to enjoying an all-inclusive pool is to relax, have fun, and make the most of your vacation.

There are several ways to enjoy the various shows at Now Emerald Cancun. Here are a few tips:

Check the schedule: Most all-inclusive resorts have a daily schedule of activities and shows. Make sure to check the schedule to find out what shows are available and when they are taking place.

Arrive early: If you want to get a good seat for a show, make sure to arrive early. Shows can get crowded, and the best seats usually go quickly.

Bring snacks and drinks: Many all-inclusive resorts offer free snacks and drinks during shows, but it’s always a good idea to bring your own just in case. This way, you can enjoy the show without worrying about getting hungry or thirsty.

Participate in the audience: Many shows at all-inclusive resorts are interactive, and the audience is encouraged to participate. Don’t be shy! Get involved and have fun.

Relax and enjoy: Finally, remember that you’re on vacation! Relax and enjoy the shows at the resort. They are there for your entertainment, so take advantage of them and have a good time.

My favorite show was the fire show at the pool and the cabaret.

Now Emerald Cancun runs classes daily. My favorite was the Tequila tasting and cappuccino design.

Chichen Itza: Visit the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Learn about the fascinating history of this site with a knowledgeable guide.

Isla Mujeres: Take a boat trip to the beautiful island of Isla Mujeres, where you can snorkel in the clear waters and explore the local markets.

Tulum: Explore the breathtaking coastal ruins of Tulum and enjoy the stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.

Xcaret: Visit the eco-archaeological park of Xcaret, which offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and adventure. Swim in underground rivers, watch cultural shows, and admire exotic animals.

Cenote Tour: Discover the natural wonders of the Yucatan Peninsula by taking a tour of the famous cenotes, natural sinkholes filled with crystal-clear water that are unique to this region.

Cozumel Island: Take a ferry to the nearby island of Cozumel and enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, or just relaxing on the beautiful beaches.

Jungle Tour: Drive your own speedboat through the Nichupté Lagoon and the Caribbean Sea on this fun-filled tour.

Cancun is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and warm weather.

At the Now Emerald Cancun, the tour desk offers a variety of activities to their guests, including water sports, land-based activities, and cultural experiences.

Water Sports

One of the most popular activities at resorts in Cancun is water sports. With its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, Cancun offers a variety of activities for all ages and skill levels. Some of the most popular water sports include:

Snorkeling: Cancun is home to the second-largest coral reef system in the world, making it an excellent destination for snorkeling. Many resorts offer guided tours to popular snorkeling spots, such as the MUSA underwater museum, where you can see a collection of more than 500 life-sized sculptures.

Scuba diving: For those who want to explore the underwater world in more depth, scuba diving is a great option. Cancun has several dive sites, including the famous Cenotes, where you can dive in freshwater caverns and see unique rock formations and marine life.

Parasailing: Parasailing is a thrilling activity that allows you to soar above the ocean and enjoy breathtaking views of Cancun’s coastline.

Jet skiing: For those who love speed and adventure, jet skiing is a popular option. You can rent a jet ski and explore the waters around Cancun at your own pace.

Land-based activities

While Cancun is known for its water sports, there are also plenty of activities to enjoy on land. Some popular options include:

Golfing: Cancun has several world-class golf courses, including the Cancun Golf Club at Pok Ta Pok and the Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort. These courses offer stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding jungle.

Zip lining: Zip lining is a fun and adventurous activity that allows you to fly through the jungle canopy and see the local flora and fauna up close.

ATV tours: If you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled adventure, an ATV tour is a great option. You can explore the jungle, beaches, and archaeological sites on an ATV and experience the thrill of off-roading.

Cultural experiences in Cancun

Cancun is also rich in history and culture, and there are many opportunities to learn about the local traditions and customs. Some popular cultural activities include:

Mayan ruins tours: The Yucatan Peninsula is home to several ancient Mayan ruins, including Chichen Itza, Tulum, and Coba. Many resorts offer guided tours to these sites, where you can learn about the Mayan civilization and its impressive architectural achievements.

Cooking classes: Mexican cuisine is world-famous, and taking a cooking class is a great way to learn about the local ingredients and techniques. Many resorts offer cooking classes where you can learn how to make traditional dishes like guacamole, ceviche, and mole.

Tequila tastings: Tequila is Mexico’s national drink.

Have a great time at this amazing resort.

The post Things to do in Cancun appeared first on Four Columns of a Balanced Life.

Now Emerald Cancun is an all-inclusive hotel that offers an amazing experience that the whole family can partake and enjoy the Cancun Mexican experience. You can enjoy unlimited gourmet food and beverages at 8 restaurants and 8 bars. The Barefoot Grill offers grilled specialties like hamburgers and sandwiches by the pool. Enjoy the sound of the ocean waves and delectable Italian food at Capers. Carnival offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily buffet style. Cin Cin gives you gourmet Mediterranean food. Paramour is French and for adults only. Tamarindo has all the Cancun Mexican favorites and Coco Cafe offers amazing coffee, snack, and delicious ice cream with a Cancun Mexican twist. Spice is the ultimate glass-enclosed restaurant with amazing views and out-of-this-world sushi and Pan-Asian dishes.

Before you read my review regarding the food at the resort, I strongly recommend that you read my article on how to enjoy an all-inclusive vacation and how to have a great restaurant experience.

My review of this resort will be broken into the following sections:

1. Introduction
2. How to enjoy the food at this resort
3. Have a romantic day at the Now Emerald Cancun
4. Take in all the activities

In this section, I will guide you as to how to enjoy a week here with healthy and delicious food.

Now Emerald Cancun is aware and sensitive to the fact that we are eating away from home and it can be challenging and concerning for those with food allergies and a special diet.

Day 1 Breakfast

Carnival Restaurant Breakfast: 7 a.m. – 11:30 p.m. Lunch: 12:30 p.m. – 4 p.m. Dinner: 6:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.

The host will ask you for your room number, the number of people, and any allergies and you will be seated. This is your first day at the resort. At the buffet restaurant, there is a bar,  and different sections for an omelet, a grill, salads, fruits, cornflakes, hotdogs, French toast, pancakes, loaves of bread, and dessert.

The coffee, tea, and hot chocolate are amazing. The green juice which is a mix of fresh orange, pineapple, and spinach is amazing. Have a plate of fresh fruits with juice.

Have the finest buffet waiter in the business Tito serve you.

Day 1 Lunch 

Barefoot Grill Lunch: 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

You are on vacation. Relax by the pool. Order a cocktail of the day.

The Barefoot Grill is next to the pools and offers burgers, sandwiches, fries, nachos, and salads. Everything is delicious here.  My favorite is the artisan sandwich with fries.

Day 1 Coffee

Coco Cafe 7:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.

It’s 4 pm. You get the craving for coffee. Head to the Coco Cafe and let Theo work his magic. There is a whole variety of coffees to choose from and also have a snack.

Day 1 Dinner

Spice Pan-Asian Specialties and Sushi 6:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.

The glass-enclosed restaurant has an amazing view.

Guillermo the deft and professional server starts me with an amazing glass of white wine.

Guillermo recommends that we start with an array of sushi with a variety of sauces.

For the main course, we have Thai noodles and teriyaki salmon. Both dishes are outstanding.

For dessert, we share the ice cream tempura. Delicious.

Guillermo and his team are amazing.

After dinner head over to Moments the bar in the Lobby and ask Sergio to make you a cocktail.

Day 2 Breakfast

Carnival

Carnival is spacious and well-lit.

Try an omelet made in front of you, along with some fruits and Danish pastries.

Talk to some of these amazing servers and learn a few words of Spanish while enjoying your fresh juice, coffee, or even a mimosa.

Day 2 Lunch

Carnival

There is a wide selection of salads, soups, hot and cold starters, and a variety of meat, fish, and seafood available daily. There is also a variety of desserts.

Start with a nice healthy salad.

Have a delicious hot Mexican starter.

For the main course, you can have roast beef or seafood.

For dessert help yourself to a variety of pastries and fresh fruit.

Day 2 Dinner

Cin Cin

Cin Cin is an a la carte fish and Mediterranean dining experience for adults only, open between 6:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. Cin Cin serves soups, fish, seafood, salads, and desserts.

Start with the Galician octopus with confit potatoes. The second starter I recommend is the lamb with pita.

For the main course have the salmon with romesco sauce and the short ribs.

For dessert, go for the Baileys and goat cheese flan and Baklava.

Go for a walk on the beach or head to one of the bars and order a glass of Champagne.

Day 3 Breakfast

Coco Cafe 7:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.

An amazing cafe next to the adult pool. Coco Cafe has a great selection of Danish pastries, fresh fruit and fruit salads throughout the day. Have a Danish along with a specialty coffee.

Day 3 Lunch

Carnival

Have a delicious salad and for the main course try the beef fajitas.

Day 3 Dinner

Tamarindo 6:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.

Tamarindo offers a la carte Mexican food served in a friendly atmosphere with traditional dishes. This is the best of Cancun Mexico.

Start with delicious guacamole and chips.

Experience the best of ceviche and spinach salad.

For the main course pork with avocado and steak Mexican Cancun style.

Tamarindo has a variety of desserts to finish an amazing meal.

Day 4 Breakfast

Carnival

At Carnival try some cold cuts with bread or a Mexican Cancun option of fried plantain and cheese quesadilla.

Day 4 Lunch

Carnival

Carnival offers a variety of salads at the buffet.

For the main course have fish and vegetables

For dessert help yourself to fresh fruit and pastries.

Day 4 Dinner

Capers 6:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.

Capers offers a la carte Italian food served in an elegant, friendly atmosphere with traditional Italian dishes.

Start with bruschetta, Caprese salad, fried cheese or risotto.

For the main course try steak or fish.

For dessert the famous tiramisu or flan.

After dinner head to one of the bars and try the cocktail of the day.

Day 5 Breakfast

Carnival

This is your fifth day. It is time to take some risks. Chocolate was used by the Mayans for thousands of years. Try it Mexican Cancun style.

Have a European-style breakfast with German cold cuts and Italian cheese with bread.

Day 5 Lunch

Carnival

Have the chef cook in front of you. You can try grilled chicken, fish, and sausages. Have vegetables or pasta with it.

Go ahead. You are on vacation. Try an array of desserts.

Day 5    Dinner

Mexican BBQ by the pool

Get ready for a feast in Cancun Mexican style and have a great night of food and entertainment.

Day 6 Breakfast

Carnival

Try a plate of fresh fruit from the buffet.

Day 6 Lunch

Carnival

Try a worker’s lunch with vegetables and Mexican seasoning.

For dessert head to Coco Cafe and try their amazing ice cream.

Day 6 Dinner

Spice

Spice is the best restaurant in terms of food, service, and views.

Start with avocado sushi.

For a hot starter have fried wontons.

For the main course chicken with rice and fried rice.

For dessert a delicious cake.

Day 7 Breakfast

This is your final day and your flight could be after breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Carnival

Try the Cancun Mexican equivalent of the hot cross bun it is delicious.

If you are being picked up after breakfast for your flight, pick up some bananas or an apple. Or pick up a snack from Coco Cafe.

Day 7 Lunch

Carnival

If you are being picked up around 12.30 for your flight, I suggest going to the buffet and having a quick salad and getting ready to be picked up.

These are fresh, healthy, and filling.

Day 7 Dinner

Carnival

This is your last meal at the resort before you are picked up. Go try the sushi and raw tuna and salmon.

I have laid out countless options for you at this resort. There is so much variety of food and they are all delicious. Enjoy your stay.

The post Now Emerald Cancun Mexican appeared first on Four Columns of a Balanced Life.

Now Emerald Cancun is located in Cancun’s Hotel Zone between the Caribbean Sea and the Nichupte Lagoon. The all-inclusive hotel offers an amazing experience that the whole family can partake and enjoy. This beautiful ornament is set on a beautiful white sand beach with crystal blue water and features 427 rooms and suites with garden, lagoon, and ocean views. Now Emerald Cancun is located eight miles from Cancun International Airport. The hotel is ensconced in a plush of palm trees with all the conveniences of an all-inclusive. Enjoy unlimited gourmet food and beverages at 8 restaurants and 8 bars. Victor Martinez and his entertainment team will keep you entertained with endless daytime land and water activities. The options are endless with an amazing spa, three beautiful pools, and an adult only pool.

I am in the ocean-view room, facing the jewel-blue sea.  The sky is clear, the sea song of the waves dash the sand and it is soothing to the mind, body, and soul. The beach looks like it has been dipped in earthshine gold. The palm trees are dancing to the ambling wind, welcoming me to paradise. I am here to savor this beauty and let it seep into my conscience. As I cast my eyes out to sea, the horizon is confined in sardine silver and it is mesmerizing. The creamy clouds are dangling in the sky as perfect ornaments. The cormorant is diving time and time again to catch the fish. This is feng shui at its best.

I am on vacation at the Now Emerald Cancun. I am glad to get away from the daily hustle and bustle of life.

Before you read my review, I strongly recommend that you read my article on how to enjoy an all-inclusive vacation.

My review of Now Emerald Cancun will be as follow:

Introduction

The food at the all-inclusive

Have a romantic day at Now Emerald

Enjoy the daily activities

Getting to Cancun Mexico

Visitors to Cancun fly into Cancun International Airport.

Now Emerald Cancun is 20 minutes from the airport.

Check-In

The entrance is lined with palm trees and a step waterfall.

The check-in process is easy and flawless. You are also welcomed with cocktails and champagne. There is a good chance if you come in the morning or early afternoon the room will not be ready. Go and have a walk around the property and get a feel of it.

I then want you to go and find the chief concierge Abel Castorena. This man is the magician. He can make things happen. If you have any problem or issue look for him.

Now go and look for a restaurant and enjoy the meal, have a cocktail, and get ready for an amazing vacation.

If you want to go on a shopping tour or are looking for other services ask for Eric or Gerardo.

Relax, have a great time, and treat people exactly the way you want to be treated.

It is true that the people who work at an all-inclusive resort can have a significant impact on the overall quality of the experience for guests. The staff members who interact with guests directly, such as those who work in restaurants, bars, and activities, can make or break a guest’s experience. Friendly, attentive, and helpful staff can create a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere, while rude, unhelpful, or uninterested staff can leave guests feeling disappointed or even frustrated. The competitive advantage of Now Emerald is its amazing staff.

However, it is also important to note that the quality of the facilities, amenities, and activities at the resort can also play a significant role in the guest experience. A well-maintained property with a variety of options for dining, recreation, and relaxation can enhance the guest experience and make up for any shortcomings in the staff’s performance.

Ultimately, the quality of an all-inclusive resort is the result of a combination of factors, including the quality of its people, its facilities, and its amenities. A resort that excels in all of these areas is likely to provide an exceptional guest experience. Now Emerald excels in all these areas.

The post Now Emerald Cancun appeared first on Four Columns of a Balanced Life.