Everyone's heard of Cancun. After all, it's the most popular vacation spot in Mexico. Unfortunately, that also means everyone thinks they know exactly what Cancun is all about. Some see it as a spring break destination, others, a nice relaxing place to kick back by the water. But the truth is much better than all that. And we're going to show you why.

Location

Cancun is located in Quintana Roo. Never heard of it? Then picture this. It’s a vibrant and lush paradise resting right along the breathtaking Caribbean Sea, overflowing with an abundance of natural beauty and rich culture. And if you think that sounds like the perfect vacation hot spot, you’d be right. Plus, the city’s modern international airport is located just 15 minutes away from most of the resorts. Cancun is smack dab in the middle of everything fun.

Beaches

If we had to use one word to describe Cancun, it would have to be “beaches”. Probably because this pristine paradise has 14 miles of the world’s most beautiful white, powdery sand beaches. And if you’re wondering what makes these beaches so much better than anywhere else, it’s the fact that Cancun is perfectly perched where the warm water of the Caribbean meets Cancun’s unique coastline. This protects the soft white shoreline and turns it into something really special. In other words, it’s the perfect beach location all year long.

Shopping

Shopaholics, it’s time to smile. Cancun is bursting at the seams with street stand vendors, glistening high-end retail stores and downtown shops that are the perfect therapy you deserve. And if you’re looking for some insider tips on where to stock up, we have more than few. First, make sure you check out the east side of Tulum Avenue and Plaza Las Americas. It has some of the best shopping anywhere in the city. Seeking more of a hip shopping spot? Coral Negro is an absolute must. And if you’re in search of more of a high-end paradise, Kukulcan Plaza is just the ticket. Plus, the best part of all this shopping is you can get back all the taxes you paid at the end of your trip. This can be done at terminals two and three in the airport before you leave. Which is pretty much the ultimate tip.

Entertainment

We get it. You could lounge on Cancun’s perfect beaches all day, every day and never tire of watching the waves roll in. But, if you were craving some scenery that was, say, a little unexpected, look no further than La JOYÀ —Mexico’s first Cirque du Soleil experience. It’s a true feast for the senses where world-class, gourmet grub and absolutely unreal acrobatics are always on the menu. And the best part? It’s so intimate. You’ll be close enough to the action you might just be inspired to try the trapeze yourself. Though we recommend leaving the triple-backflips to the professionals.

Sightseeing

Okay, we’ve almost wiped away all the preconceived notions about Cancun. But there’s still one left. Most people still believe Cancun is a “tourist trap.” A place with all the glitz, but no true character or real sights to see. Fortunately for you, that couldn’t be any further from the truth.

First of all, do you like museums? It doesn’t matter. The Museo Subacuatico de Arte (Underwater Art Museum) is just for you. Rather than displaying artifacts behind glass, MUSA shows them off below the surface of the water for visitors to either dive or snorkel through. So even if you’re not a fan of those traditional museums, you’ll still love this truly stunning once-in-a-lifetime experience.

If you’re looking for a more interactive underewater experience, we’ve got just the idea. Whale sharks are frequent visitors to the area between May and September, and you can see them up close and personal when you swim alongside them. All you have to do is book a tour (and convince your friends you actually did it).

But if these experiences still aren't quite enough adventure for the adrenaline junkie in you, take your pick of either zip lining or four-wheeling through the Mayan Jungles.

Or, if you prefer to spend some time in the water, kayaking or diving through a Yucatan cenote (an underground river in caves) is a stunning exploration of natural wonder. And since whale sharks are frequent visitors to the area, you’ll want to make sure you see them up close and personal by swimming alongside them from May through September.

Mexico: A world of its own.

So if you thought Cancun was just your run-of-the-mill vacation getaway, don't worry, we'll keep that our little secret. Just check it out for yourself and spread the truth about the real Cancun.