This Hidden Gem in Mexico Was Just Named an Alternative for Tulum and Cancun-and It's Got Turquoise Waters

""Some of my most unforgettable travel moments come from immersing myself in local cultures, supporting local economies, and exploring less-traveled destinations," Ariane Gorin, the CEO of the Expedia Group, said in a statement shared with T+L. "With 1 billion average monthly travel searches, Expedia Group isn't just a travel marketplace-we're a catalyst for positive change. We have a responsibility to shape the future of travel: one that's smarter, more sustainable, and deeply respectful of the places we go.""

"As the home to popular cities like Cancún and Tulum, Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula has long been a traveler favorite. However, the popularity of these cities (and the overcrowding that comes with it) can make it difficult to fully enjoy a vacation. Fortunately, there are "detour destinations" to explore, which act as hidden gems, taking travelers away from the more-visited locales. In Mexico, the city of Cozumel is one of those destinations, according to a new report from Expedia that was shared with Travel + Leisure."

The Yucatán Peninsula's popular cities like Cancún and Tulum suffer from overcrowding that can diminish vacation enjoyment. Travelers can choose detour destinations that act as hidden gems and reduce crowds. Cozumel is highlighted as a scuba-diving paradise with national and adventure parks and is reachable via a short ferry from Playa del Carmen. Ariane Gorin emphasizes Expedia Group's high monthly search volume and the responsibility to promote smarter, more sustainable, and respectful travel. Expedia recommends detours such as Abu Dhabi from Dubai, Palm Springs from Los Angeles, and Reims from Paris. Visiting detour cities can lower costs, and all-inclusive resorts are growing in popularity among younger travelers.

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