Sixteen Days in Latin America: Wasting Time in Gentleness and Surprises

October 28 to November 12, 2025 D1: The First Meeting Across Mountains and Seas After a transfer in Beijing from Shanghai, a flight of over ten hours finally arrives in Mexico City. Check in at Hotel Ritz Ciudad de México, where European elegance meets Latin American warmth. The city’s twilight gently unfolds outside the terrace, writing a romantic prologue for this long journey. D2: Encounter with Ancient Civilization and Hot Springs After breakfast, head to Teotihuacan. The grandeur of the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon carries the millennia-old weight of Mayan civilization. Authentic flavors at a cave restaurant soothe the palate. After a three-hour drive in the afternoon, arrive at Grutas Tolantongo hot spring river. The “first come, first served” accommodations hold unexpected delights. Soaking in the steaming spring water, let nature’s tranquility envelop body and soul. D3: Fairy Tale Pools and Colorful Leisure Set out early morning to witness the “fairy tale appearance” of the hot spring river—flowing water reflecting the sky, surrounded by greenery like poetry. After a 4.5-hour drive, arrive in San Miguel de Allende. After checking in at Hotel la Morada, abandon the itinerary and wander through colorful streets and alleys, where bougainvillea climbs the walls, and the slow pace brings unhurried comfort. D4: Dual Romance of Sunset and Festivity A two-hour drive brings you to Guanajuato, where you stay at Hotel Suites Corazón Mexicano. In the afternoon, meet the sunset at Pipila Hill, watching the mountain city bathed in golden-red light. As night falls, immerse yourself in the lively celebration of the Day of the Dead parade. This day unlocks the ultimate contrast between tranquility and exuberance, with Latin American charm blooming fully. D5: Fireworks Market and Day of the Dead Celebration Stroll through Mercado Hidalgo market to feel the vibrant life in the bustling atmosphere. The old town’s cobblestone streets wind and twist, hiding unique charm. In the evening, return to the old town to join the Day of the Dead festival. Between colorful decorations and traditional songs and dances, understand Mexicans’ reverence and love for life. Overnight at Hilton Garden Inn Silao Airport. D6: Fly to Cancun, Unlock Coastal Time Take an early flight to Cancun and check in at The Westin Cancun Resort Villas & Spa. White sandy beaches and the deep blue Caribbean Sea, walking on sand and listening to waves, let the sunshine and sea breeze wash away fatigue and start pure vacation mode. D7: Cenote Exploration Drive to Chichen Itza to check in at two major cenotes, Suytun and Ik Kil. The clear spring water reflects the stalactite wonders, a natural masterpiece that amazes. Overnight at Hotel Mundo Maya Chichén Itzá. D8: Romance of the Ancient City Visit the ancient city of Chichen Itza, touching the traces of Mayan relics with your fingertips. In the afternoon, head to the pink lake, then return to Cancun to stay at One Cancun Centro. D9: Fly to Havana, Encounter Caribbean Vibes Arrive in Havana by evening flight and check in at Iberostar Selection La Habana. Tropical vibes greet you, and the air is filled with Cuba’s unique laziness and passion. D10: Pure Joy in Slow City Time After breakfast, head to Cienfuegos, then arrive in Trinidad in the afternoon. This “eight o’clock call” small town hides pure beauty. Wander dim alleys with friends and chat in the square, rediscovering long-lost simple happiness. Overnight at Hostal Victoria Cuba. D11: Chasing Light and Return Follow Che Guevara’s footsteps to visit Santa Clara. The colorful streets are full of Cuban charm. Due to intense sun and no internet, after a brief visit, return to Havana and stay at Hotel El Comendador. D12: Relaxed Daily Life in Havana Spend the whole day exploring the old town on foot. Colonial architecture offers endless photo opportunities. Visit Hemingway’s 5-cent bar and find 8-year-old rum. A lobster feast near the Capitol delights the taste buds. In the afternoon, visit the Rum Museum, sit in the old square watching passersby, with cold beer and a breeze, suddenly understanding the true meaning of slow life relaxation. D13: Unexpected Surprises Still craving lobster, wander Havana’s streets again. Though the wish is unfulfilled, unexpectedly enter the National Art Museum’s artistic atmosphere and buy favorite coffee beans for $17. It turns out that beauty never follows a plan. Flying back to Mexico City full of happiness, return to Hotel Ritz Ciudad de México. D14: Cultural Stroll in Mexico City Spend the morning at the Soumaya Museum, amazed by both the collection and architectural aesthetics. In the afternoon, take the aerial cable car across the city, feeling the wind while overlooking the city’s texture. In the evening, visit the world-class murals at the National Autonomous University of Mexico. Exhausted but fully satisfied, the romance of solo travel hides in every step of exploration. D15: Return Full of Memories Return to Shanghai via Beijing from Mexico City. The sixteen-day journey connects ancient civilizations, natural wonders, and local life. Those unexpected surprises and gentle moments have become the most precious treasures in life, leaving a long-lasting aftertaste.