Getting There
Cancun Airport International (CUN) has nonstop flights from several U.S. cities: three hours from Charlotte; two-and-a-half hours from Dallas; one-and-a-half from Miami.

Make sure you and your family have the appropriate documents to enter Mexico

Tourist Information

Riviera Maya Tourism: 877.746.6292; www.rivieramaya.com Visit Mexico: 800.446.3942; www.visitmexico.com

(and, more importantly, to get back into the United States). Passports are recommended for U.S. and Canadian citizens, but, through December 31, 2006, a birth certificate with a picture ID will be accepted. After that date, check with the Department of State (http://travel.state.gov/) as the laws are set to become stricter.

Getting Around
Most resorts offer cheap or free van shuttles to and from the airport. You can also hire a Riviera Maya Taxi or a Private Service Car from Cancun Shuttle (866.922.6286; www.cancunshuttle.com), the airport's official transportation service. Plan this part of the trip before you go so you don't get stuck relying on an unofficial, potentially illegal, transportation operations.

Resort shuttles for day trips to local attractions are typically available, but costs run high—around U.S. $25 per person round trip. Consider renting a car at the airport if you intend to make multiple excursions. U.S. drivers' licenses are valid in Mexico, and you'll recognize most of the rental agencies.