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Mexico

How to Get from Cancun to Cozumel

How to Get from Cancun to Cozumel 2025

May 27, 2023

What’s the best way to get from Cancun to Cozumel? As an expat who lives here, I’m sharing the various Cancun to Cozumel transportation options.

Playa del Carmen, locally referred to as Playa, attracts visitors with its lively vibes and expansive palm-fringed beaches. In addition, the city’s strategic location makes it an ideal destination for exploring the best of Riviera Maya, from cenotes (natural sinkholes) to Mayan ruins and eco-adventure parks.

All the major places of interest in the Yucatan Peninsula are just a day trip away from Playa del Carmen. Playa is close to Cancun international airport, yet far enough to allow easy access to Isla Cozumel, Tulum, or Coba. That’s the reason why many ex-pats (myself included) and remote workers have made this city a home base.

In this post, I will explain how to get from Cancun to Playa del Carmen. I live in Playa del Carmen and have myself travelled from Cancun to Playa del Carmen many times using different modes of transport. So, let’s dive into the various Cancun to Playa del Carmen transportation options.

How to Get from Cancun to Cozumel


Table of Contents

    • Where is Cozumel?
  • How to Get from Cancun to Cozumel
    • By Air
    • By Ferry
    • By Private Transfer
  • How to Get from Cancun to Playa del Carmen
    • 1. By Shared Shuttle
      • Pros and Cons of a Cancun Airport Shared Shuttle
    • 2. By Car Rental
      • Approximate Driving Distance to Playa del Carmen
      • Pros and Cons of Renting a Car from Cancun to Playa del Carmen
      • Tips for Renting a Car from Cancun Airport
      • Is it Safe to Drive from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen?
      • Driving Tips in Mexico
    • 3. By Bus
      • Approximate Cost and Time by Bus
    • 4. By Colectivo
    • 5. By Taxi
    • How to Get from Downtown Cancun to Playa del Carmen
    • Ferry to Cozumel
    • How to Get Around Cozumel
    • Where to Stay in Cozumel
      • Budget: Albatros Suites by Bedsfriends
      • Mid Range: Westin Cozumel
      • Luxury: Secrets Aura Cozumel
      • Luxury: Presidente InterContinental Cozumel Resort & Spa
    • Further Reading on Mexico

Where is Cozumel?

Located off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, Cozumel is the biggest island in the Mexican Caribbean. Cozumel Island is just 12 miles (20km) off Playa del Carmen, where we currently live, and it’s just 1 hour by car from Cancun. Since moving to Mexico, we’ve hopping over to Cozumel as often as we can!

In contrast to commercialised coastal cities like Cancun and Tulum, Cozumel Island is wild and relatively unspoiled. Most of the island is covered by lush tropical forests, nature reserves and empty beaches. Yes, it is a popular cruise destination — but time your visit to avoid the cruise ship and you’ll have the island to yourself.

It may be the biggest island in the Yucatan Peninsula (far bigger than Isla Mujeres and Holbox island), but it still retains a laidback, island feel. There are resorts dotted all along the island’s west coast, so you won’t have to sacrifice creature comforts. Check out my list of things to do in Cozumel.

Welcome! I’m Nellie — a travel writer, book author, and worldschooling mum. Since moving to Mexico in 2021, I’ve been sharing my secret haunts, favorite towns, and the many things that make Mexico so special on this blog. Read about me here.

getting from cancun to cozumel


How to Get from Cancun to Cozumel

Considering that Cozumel is an island, it’s actually really easy to get there. It’s just a 1-hour drive and then a quick ferry ride away from the Playa del Carmen. Taking the ferry is the most popular way, but you can also fly to Cozumel is your budget allows. Let’s drill in on the details of different ways to get from Cancun to Cozumel.

By Air

Cozumel has a small international airport. Flying is of course the most expensive way to get from Cancun to Cozumel. But if you’re short on time, this is the fastest and easiest.

Vuelatours run private charter flights from Cancun to Cozumel 24 hours a day every day. You’ll get to fly over the Caribbean Sea and drink in views of the wonderful turquoise sea from above. The 25-minute flight on a Cessna206 costs around US$550 (up to 5 passengers).

It’s a pretty good deal if you’re traveling in a group — considering the total cost of a journey by land for a group of 5 people is close to $400 and takes up to 3 hours.

Aeromexico also runs flights to Cozumel, but they only fly direct from Mexico City (i.e. flying from Cancun to Cozumel involves a transit in CDMX which doesn’t make sense). Return flights from Cancun currently cost around US$500.

cancun to cozumel by air

By Ferry

The most popular way to get to Cozumel is by ferry from Playa del Carmen, a beach town just 1 hour away from Cancun. The ferry is a comfortable, affordable and convenient way of traveling to Cozumel — the boats are always air-conditioned and they leave regularly in a well-organised manner.

However the ferries to Cozumel only leave from Playa del Carmen, there are no direct ferry from Cancun to Cozumel. So you will first have to get to Playa del Carmen, in order to catch the ferry. I will explain in details how to get from Cancun to Playa del Carmen below.

See also  30 Things to do in Playa del Carmen (by an Expat) 2025
cancun to cozumel ferry

By Private Transfer

If you want to be free of the stress of getting a cab, I recommend booking a private transfer from Cancun to Cozumel. This includes the transfer to the ferry terminal in Playa del Carmen AND the ferry to Cozumel. I always book with Cancun Airport Transportations, as they are reliable, responsive, and provide door-to-door service from Cancun Airport to Cozumel.

Travel Insurance for Frequent Travelers

We’ve been using Safety Wing for years now, and it’s one of the best decisions we’ve made as digital nomads. Their Nomad Insurance plan is affordable and provides solid coverage for medical emergencies regardless of where we’re traveling. 

Private transfer from Cancun Airport to Cozumel  not only saves you time but it’s convenient and keeps you away from haggling with the drivers. It usually costs around US$85 one-way or US$165 round-trip. This is ideal if you’re traveling as a family or with a group of friends as you can split the cost!

You’ll have a bilingual driver who speaks English (and actually drives safely!), waits for you for arrivals even if your flight is delayed, and drives you in an air-conditioned car straight to your hotel on Cozumel island.

How to get from Cancun to Cozumel By Private Transfer


How to Get from Cancun to Playa del Carmen

If you’re not flying to Cozumel or booking a private transfer, you will need to first get to Playa del Carmen to catch the ferry. Thankfully the beach town is only an hour drive away (or 35 miles/ 55 km away).

There are 5 different ways to get from Cancun to Playa del Carmen. I commute regularly between Playa del Carmen and Cancun and have tried all kinds of transport modes. In this article, I’ll share the pros and cons of each of them.

1. By Shared Shuttle

Shared shuttle services to Playa del Carmen are a good transport option for solo travelers and budget travelers, who don’t want to spend a lot yet seek a comfortable and convenient service.

You can pre-book your ride from Cancun to Playa del Carmen in a shared shuttle vehicle online for 600 MXN (US$30) per person one-way. Whenever I travel alone, I always book a seat in a shared shuttle with Cancun Shuttles. The vehicles are sanitized, comfortable, air-conditioned, and always clean. You’re also greeted by a bilingual driver.

The only drawback of opting for a shared shuttle is that you’ll have to wait for the driver to pick up and drop off all the passengers (usually max 12). That means it can take up to 1 h 45 minutes or 2 hours to get from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen.

If you are traveling with another person (or more), booking the shuttle from Cancun airport to Playa doesn’t make sense. Even if there are just two of you, you’ll only be saving US$10 and that would not be worth the extra time. Book private transfer instead.

cancun to playa del carmen shuttle

Pros and Cons of a Cancun Airport Shared Shuttle

Pros – You get picked up by a bilingual driver, usually in a comfortable, air-conditioned van. The driver is always reliable and will pick you u on time. It’s fairly cheap.

Cons – The journey takes much longer than a private transfer and you will be sharing with 10+ other people.

2. By Car Rental

Renting a car is one of the best ways to get from Cancun to Playa del Carmen. It’s convenient, flexible, and relatively affordable; the average price ranges from 600-800 MXN (US$30-40) per day, including insurance and taxes.

I always use DiscoverCars.com to for car rentals worldwide. The search engine compares rental-prices from all the major companies and has consistently given me the cheaper rates and best services. Search for car rentals in Cancun here!

Approximate Driving Distance to Playa del Carmen

  • Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen – 35 miles (55 km); 50 minutes
  • Cancun Downtown to Playa del Carmen – 45 miles (70 km); 1 hour
  • Tulum to Playa del Carmen – 40 miles (65 km); 1 hour
  • Merida to Playa del Carmen – 180 miles (290 km); 3.5 to 4 hours
renting a car  - cancun to cozumel flight

Pros and Cons of Renting a Car from Cancun to Playa del Carmen

Pros – Allows you to travel at your leisure, make as many stops on the way as you want, and even make small detours to nearby areas.

Cons – You don’t really need a car in Playa del Carmen, unless you want to explore the surrounding cenotes and Mayan archaeological sites. If your hotel does not have a parking space, you may have to find paid parking spaces in Playa that might cost 200-300 MXN/day (US$10-15).

Pros and Cons of Renting a Car from Cancun to Playa del Carmen

Tips for Renting a Car from Cancun Airport

  • Purchase a Personal Liability Insurance and a Car Insurance without fail.
  • Inspect and take good photos and videos of the car’s interior and exterior. Focus on any visible dents, scratches, stain marks, rips in seat fabric, etc.
  • Keep a copy of all the rental agreements, booking information, and car papers.
See also  10 Best Islands in Mexico to Visit

In Mexico, it’s very common for car rental companies to find a way to get more money out of you when you return the car. The first time we rented a car here, we were told a safety device was missing from the car, which we didn’t even remember having it in the first place (but sadly had no proof) and had to pay a fine of $50.

Is it Safe to Drive from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen?

Yes! Highway 307 is a 4-lane smooth road that is rather well maintained. It’s the main highway that connects all the beach towns along the Riviera Maya and beyond. We have a car and I drive along Highway 307 everyday, and never had any issue.

That said, there are quite a few police checkpoints and speed bumps along the way. The police usually check for any abnormal behavior and only stop drivers that look dodgy. We have been driving in Playa del Carmen for a year now and have only been stopped once and even then the police officer only said hi and let us get on our way.

map from cancun to playa del carmen

Driving Tips in Mexico

  • In Mexico, you drive on the right side of the road.
  • Always keep your driving license, car rental papers, and proof of insurance handy.
  • The main road hazards are reckless drivers; they tend to go very fast, changing lanes as and when they like without signaling. Be wary of these drivers and keep calm!
  • There are plenty of speed bumps along the Federal Highway, especially when you get close to Playa del Carmen. When you see the signpost “TOPE”, slow down and prepare for the bumps.
  • Avoid driving at night as you won’t be able to see the speed bumps and drivers go even faster than usual.

3. By Bus

Taking a bus is the cheapest option to get from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen. All major cities in Mexico are well-connected with an extensive bus network. These buses are clean, safe, comfortable, and air-conditioned.

ADO is Mexico’s largest bus company that has regular departures from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen throughout the day. I’ve traveled in ADO buses many times and can safely say the bus company is top notch. They always leave on time and boarding is pretty well organized.

Pre-book your bus tickets here before arriving at Cancun Airport to ensure availability or visit the ADO counter at the airport to get tickets for the next bus. Bus tickets from Cancun airport to Playa del Carmen cost around 225 MXN (US$11) each way.

The first ADO bus from Cancun Airport departs at 8:00 AM, and the last bus leaves at 11:40 PM. Several buses are scheduled in between, and the waiting time is not more than 1 hour. The bus drops you off at the Playa del Carmen’s ADO stop on 5th Avenue and also at Juarez Station near Walmart.

ADO bus from cancun to playa del carmen

Approximate Cost and Time by Bus

  • Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen – 225 MXN (US$12); 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Cancun Downtown (Centro) to Playa del Carmen – 100 MXN (US$5); 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Tulum to Playa del Carmen – 115 MXN (US$6); 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Merida to Playa del Carmen – 600 MXN (US$30); 4 hours

4. By Colectivo

Colectivos are shared minibus/minivan-like vehicles that run on set routes in Mexico. They are a cheap transport, without any fixed schedules. For those on a shoestring budget, this would be the cheapest way to go. A colectivo ride from Cancun to Playa del Carmen costs only about 40-60 MXN (US$2-3) per person.

There’s no advance booking for colectivos. You simply get to the starting point of the colectivo, or flag down one as it passes by, ask for a seat, get through your journey, and pay the driver directly. The driver will stop many times along the way to pick up and drop off passengers.

There are 2 companies that operate colectivos from Cancun to Playa del Carmen – Playa Express and Colectivos Foraneos. These colectivos do not service Cancun Airport. To catch one, you either have to walk from your terminal to the Highway 307 roadside and flag one or take a bus from Cancun Airport to Downtown Cancun, where the colectivo stand is (right opposite the ADO bus station).

I personally wouldn’t recommend catching a colectivo. Firstly, it is not a comfortable ride, and secondly, there’s little to no luggage space. The colectivos also make many stops in between, lengthening the journey time. They are only good if you are on a day trip from Cancun to Playa del Carmen, have no luggage, and are looking for a means of cheap transport.

colectivo from cancun to playa del carmen

5. By Taxi

Taking the taxi is the worst option, and I’d suggest only considering taxis as your last resort. Taxis here don’t have meters and drivers will often offer an inflated price based on how you look.

See also  20 Natural Wonders of Mexico

As you near the airport exit, you’ll find many locals approaching you offering taxi services. Nod and say ‘no thank you’ politely. Many taxi drivers look decent but will trick you into taking a taxi regardless. Some will say that rental companies are closed or buses are not running due to the rain etc.

Even if you opt for a taxi to get to Playa del Carmen, agree on a fare before getting into the taxi. A fair cost for a taxi from Cancun Airport to Playa ranges from 1700-2000 MXN (US$85-100). I highly recommend booking a private transfer rather than going through the hassle of negotiating with the taxi drivers.

taxi from cancun to playa del carmen


How to Get from Downtown Cancun to Playa del Carmen

If you’re spending a few days in Cancun first (Remember to check out our list of things to do in Cancun), the bus is the best option to travel from downtown Cancun to Playa del Carmen. The ADO bus from Cancun to Playa del Carmen leaves from the bus station and runs multiple times per hour. Click for the location of the bus station on Google Maps. The bus will drop you at the ADO bus station at Fifth Avenue in Playa del Carmen. A ticket costs around 80 MXN (US$4).

Don’t miss my recommendations on where to stay in Cancun.

getting from cancun to cozumel


Ferry to Cozumel

There are only ferries to Cozumel from Playa del Carmen. Two ferry companies run the route: Ultramar and Winjet. Currently, Ultramar runs on even-numbered dates, and Winjet on odd-numbered dates. Both companies have comfortable ferries that air-conditioned and punctual, and take 45 minutes each way.

You can book tickets online directly on their websites (links below).

Ferry ticket prices are as follow (per person):

  • Ultramar: US$25/adult, US$20/child
  • Winjet: US$25/adult, US$17/child

*Car Ferry: There is also a car ferry to Cozumel, but it leaves from Punta Venado, outside Playa del Carmen. The ferry takes 1.5 hours each way and you need to be there at least 1 hour before departure. Tickets can only be reserved through Whatsapp. Check out the Ultramar Carga website for rates.

cancun to cozumel ferry


How to Get Around Cozumel

The best way to get around Cozumel is by hiring a car. The island is relatively large and you won’t be able to explore without a car. Taxis are expensive — a taxi ride to any resort on the west coast would cost US$20 each way.

We hired an open-roof Nissan hatchback for 800 Pesos ($40) per day from HTL Rentals, a block away from the ferry terminal. It worked well for us, although we did get pretty wet whenever it rained. Alternatively, you can book your car rental online to ensure availability.

Here are the rental prices from HTL Rentals:

  • Scooter — 500 Pesos or $25 a day
  • Normal sedan — 1000 Pesos ($50) a day
  • Jeep — 1200 Pesos ($60) a day
  • ATV/quad —1500 Pesos ($75) a day
renting a car in cozumel - cancun to cozumel


Where to Stay in Cozumel

Read my guide on where to stay in Cozumel, including the best areas to stay and hotel recommendations for all types of travelers.

Budget: Albatros Suites by Bedsfriends

With a great location near San Miguel, this budget hotel has simple, modern suites decorated with a tropical feel. Check rates here.

Mid Range: Westin Cozumel

With surprisingly reasonable prices, this new hotel is a high-end resort with a small beach on the north end of the west coast. It looks more upscale than where we stayed and was just $30/night. Check rates here.

Luxury: Secrets Aura Cozumel

This is one of the few adults-only resort, perfect for those looking for a more exclusive experience. Check rates here.

Luxury: Presidente InterContinental Cozumel Resort & Spa

Lauded as the best resort on Cozumel, the Presidente is swanky and modern (pictured). It’s not cheap of course, but you’ll be guaranteed the best digs. Check rates here.

hotel presidente - where to stay in cozumel


Further Reading on Mexico

A trip to Cozumel is a dream come true for beach bums and active travelers who love underwater adventures. Getting to Cozumel Island is pretty easy; I hope I’ve answered all your questions. Don’t forget to check out this list of things to do in Cozumel. Feel free to leave a comment below if you have any questions.

For those who are planning to travel more of Mexico, check out other articles I’ve written on Mexico:

  • Cozumel Travel Guide
  • Where to Stay in Cozumel
  • 10-Day Yucatan Road Trip Itinerary
  • 35 Fun Things to Do in the Yucatan Peninsula
  • 30 Best Things to Do in Cancun
  • Where to Stay in Cancun
  • How to Get from Cancun to Playa del Carmen
  • How to Get from Cancun to Tulum
  • How to Get from Cancun to Isla Mujeres

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links i.e. if you book a stay through one of my links, I get a small commission at NO EXTRA COST to you. Thank you for your support!


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Nellie Huang

Nellie is a book author, travel blogger and worldschooling mum. Having traveled to over 150 countries, she currently lives in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, with her digital nomad family. She started this Mexico travel blog to share her love for her adopted home. Read more about her and get real-time updates from her on Facebook and Instagram.

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  • brian robinson
    February 23, 2024

    We’re a family of 4 arriving at 5pm Tue 19th March into Cancun, with 1 x week staying on Cozumel and then 1 x week in Tulum. We are trying to find the best option for car hire and i’d hoped to hire in Cancun then simply drive to the car ferry and take this across to Cozumel. However, i read on Tripadvisor someone suggesting it was better to hire the car on Cozumel to avoid a really long wait for the ferry, i’m also thinking we might not get to the ferry port until 7.30pm (by the time we have got bags and our car) so don’t want to miss the last car ferry. Any advice would be appreciated.
    Thanks
    Bri

    Reply
    • Nellie Huang
      brian robinson
      February 26, 2024

      hi Brian, I agree that it’s easier to hire a car on Cozumel rather than taking the car ferry. I personally haven’t taken the car ferry before, but my friends who have said it took a lot longer than the passenger ferry. It’s more of the waiting around for the ferry to load up than the actual sailing time. Also you are arriving at 730pm so you might risk missing the ferry. I’d recommend booking a transfer from Cancun airport to bring you straight to the ferry terminal in Playa del Carmen (or take the ADO bus) then rent a car there. Or rent a car from Cancun for the entire trip, but take your time and stay the night in Playa del Carmen before hopping on the ferry the next day. I live in Playa del Carmen, and I’d say it’s not a bad place to stay for the night! 🙂 Hope this helps!

      Reply

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@wildjunket
Nellie Huang | Adventure + Family Travel

@wildjunket

✈️ Travel writer & @lonelyplanet author 🌎 Sharing all about digital nomad family travel 🗺️Visited 150 countries 📍 Singaporean in Mexico 🇲🇽
  • 💌 Send this to another parent or save it as reminder to why you need to book that trip!

Did you know your family adventures are literally building your child’s brain? The science behind travel’s impact on development is fascinating! 🧠

I’ve seen these incredible benefits firsthand on Kaleya (who’s already 10 and have traveled to 60 countries) — she’s incredibly adaptable, creative, and has a deep interest in learning. She’s a great problem-solver and likes to challenge herself.

‼️Pssst… You don’t have to fly to the other side of the world to travel! A day trip to the next town over, the beach 20 minutes away, or even a different ski slope creates the same brain-boosting benefits. It’s about NOVELTY! 

Have you noticed developmental leaps in your little ones after travel? Share below👇

*Comment STUDY if you’d like a link to the report from ISTC.

 Hi! I’m Nellie, a travel writer and I share all I’ve learned about digital nomad family travel here. So glad you’re here! 🌏 

Digital nomad family | traveling with kids | worldschooling | family travels | family adventures | digital nomad family travel #familytravel #travelwithkids #adventurefamily #worldschooling
  • 🇪🇸✨ Planning a summer trip to Spain with kids?

I lived in Spain for 7+ years (my husband is a Spaniard). Here are 10 tips to help your family to connect with local culture, and actually enjoy the heat, food, and fun — together. 

📚 1. Give your kids cultural context
Read books or watch fun YouTube videos about flamenco, Gaudí, castles, or even Real Madrid vs Barça ⚽ — so they feel excited and involved.

🏞️ 2. Prepare for the heat
Spain is experiencing a heat wave now, with temperatures above 46degC. Plan lots of pool time and downtime in the afternoons.

3. Trade tourist beaches for the mountains
Avoid packed coasts and head to the Pyrenees or Picos de Europa instead. 🏔️ Think hiking, rivers, cable cars, wildflowers — all cooler (literally and figuratively) and WAY less crowded.

⛺ 4. Try glamping or rural stays
Spain has amazing family-friendly glamping spots — think safari tents in the hills or cabins near rivers. 🌲 You’ll get nature, quiet nights, and kids can run wild without traffic or crowds.

🚂 5. Choose slower spots
Skip Barcelona and Madrid — they get ridiculously crowded in summer. Instead stay in small towns like Altea, Ronda, Cazorla, or Cadaqués. Easier to navigate, safer for kids, and rich in charm.

🌞 6. Embrace the pool + siesta combo
Book places with a pool 🏊‍♀️ and plan early outings. Siesta hours (2–5pm) are no joke — rest indoors, then head back out when the sun chills out.

📆 7. Check the local fiesta calendar
Spain = non-stop festivals. 🎉 Know what’s happening so you can either join the fun (like La Tomatina) or avoid being stuck in packed plazas with tired kids.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 8. Prep their taste buds early
Spanish food is incredible… but not always kid-approved at first glance. 🧄🍅 Serve tapas-style meals at home — like olives, tortilla, pan con tomate — so the flavors feel familiar when you arrive.

More tips in the comments section below. ⬇️
  • Lately I’ve received too many news of friends who have passed on way too early.

The truth is, we don’t get to choose how much time we have on Earth — but we can choose how we spend it. ⏳💛

🗺️ You don’t have to travel to make the most out of your life. This is just a reminder to do the things that light up your heart and spend time with the people you love. 

✨ Chase your dreams, NOW rather than later. Because life is too short to wait.

👋🏻 Hi! I’m Nellie, a travel writer and I share all I’ve learned about digital nomad family travel here. So glad you’re here! 🌏 

Digital nomad family | traveling with kids | worldschooling | family travels | family adventures | digital nomad family travel #familytravel #travelwithkids #adventurefamily #worldschooling #makeitcount
  • Argentina marks a milestone for us — it’s Kaleya’s 60th country visited! 🇦🇷

It’s been a truly special trip for the whole family. Alberto and I first traveled Argentina 17 years ago as part of a 5-month South America backpacking trip and we fell in love with the country’s food, culture and landscape. 🥩

We’ve wanted to bring Kaleya for years, so it’s extra special to come back together as a family. 

P.S. we don’t travel to collect passport stamps but we do like keeping track of where we’ve been as a way to reflect and see how far we’ve come. 📋

👋🏻 Hi! I’m Nellie, a travel writer and I share all I’ve learned about digital nomad family travel here. So glad you’re here! 🌏 

Digital nomad family | traveling with kids | worldschooling | family travels | family adventures | digital nomad family travel #familytravel #travelwithkids #adventurefamily #worldschooling
  • Life has a funny way of making you miss the present. I’m always looking ahead and dreaming up the next idea, planning the next move. Rarely do I stop to take it all in and reflect on all the things we’ve accomplished and goals we’ve hit. 🎯

Moving to Mexico was once a dream for us, a departure from our grey gloomy days in Europe. It changed the way our family live. We’re outside more, together more. We traded stuff for time and we live more intentionally. ✨

But it’s almost time to leave Mexico, so I’m making the most of our time here to soak it all in. This is a reminder to enjoy the moment and be grateful for where you are. Don’t let life pass you by. 

#livinginmexico #digitalnomadlifestyle #mexpats #lifeinmexico #familytravel
  • 🇻🇳 If you’re traveling Vietnam with kids, don’t miss this underrated gem — Ninh Binh is Vietnam’s inland Ha Long Bay (but without the crowds or chaos!).

📍Just 1.5–2 hours south of Hanoi by train, car, or bus — it’s super easy to reach and perfect for spending some time in nature. 

Here’s your kid-friendly guide to exploring this magical region:

🛶 Tam Cốc Boat Ride – Glide through rice paddies and under caves with towering limestone cliffs around you. Boats are rowed by locals using their feet! Kids LOVE this.

⛰️ Hang Múa Viewpoint – 500 steps up, but older kids can totally do it! You’ll be rewarded with jaw-dropping views over the rivers and karst peaks. Kaleya loved the lotus flower gardens. 🪷 

🦕 Trang An Grottoes –  This was where they filmed “Kong: Skull Island”. The UNESCO site feels like a scene out of Jurassic Park. Peaceful, scenic, and a big hit with curious little explorers.

🐐 Hoa Lư Ancient Capital – Teach kids a little Vietnamese history where emperors once ruled. Wide open spaces for them to roam and learn.

🦜Thung Nham Bird Garden – Great for nature-loving families. Spot flocks of birds at sunset and explore hidden caves along the way.

🛏️ Where to Stay – Family-friendly homestays in Tam Cốc with rice field views, bikes to borrow, and home-cooked meals. Perfect for downtime after adventures.

🛵 Bonus Tip – Rent a scooter to weave around the rice paddies. Our family of 3 fit nicely into one scooter. It was our daughter’s favorite experience! 

👋🏻 Hi! I’m Nellie, a travel writer and I share all I’ve learned about digital nomad family travel here. So glad you’re here! 🌏 

Digital nomad family | traveling with kids | worldschooling | family travels | family adventures | digital nomad family travel #familytravel #travelwithkids #adventurefamily #worldschooling 
#familytravelvietnam #vietnamwithkids #digitalnomadfamily #worldschoolers
  • “Is Pakistan really safe to visit? Isn’t it irresponsible to bring your kid there?!” 

🇵🇰 Pakistan is a place I’d dreamt of traveling for years. I did the research and decided to finally visit with my family — and it turned out to be everything I’d imagined, and more.

📺 What you see on the news is never the whole picture — Pakistan is not a terrorist-filled war zone or a shell-shocked wasteland. 

🏔️ As we discovered, Pakistan is a country power–packed with mountains more impressive than anything I’ve seen elsewhere. Landscapes here are of truly epic proportions, framed by dramatic valleys, crackling glaciers and dreamy waterfalls. People are incredibly warm, welcoming and kind.

🕊️ There are still security issues in more remote areas of the country, such as Balochistan, KPK and the Tribal Areas, but many parts of Pakistan are considered safe for locals and foreigners alike.

So if you’re considering traveling Pakistan, take this as a sign to just GO! I highly recommend exploring with @hannanbalti, an experienced Gilgit guide who’s great with kids.

👋🏻 Hi! I’m Nellie, a travel writer and I share all I’ve learned about digital nomad family travel here. So glad you’re here! 🌏 

Digital nomad family | traveling with kids | worldschooling | family travels | family adventures | digital nomad family travel #familytravel #travelwithkids #adventurefamily #worldschooling 
#travelpakistan #pakistanzindabad #visitpakistan #pakistandiaries #gilgitbaltistan #pakistanwithkids
  • Traveling well is something kids aren’t born how to do — even we adults had to learn how to travel! 🧳 It’s a skill just like learning to read or ride a bike. It takes time and practice to master.

Many moms tell me how lucky I am to have an easygoing kid who’s a great traveler. Truth is she’s had lots of practice! We’ve traveled with her since she was 5 months old and we haven’t stopped. 

I remember the days when she screamed her head off in the plane, refused to walk in the middle of the Costa Rican jungle and had a meltdown in a mosque. 😂 But we kept going and never gave up. 

The more we traveled, the better she got at traveling. She’s an incredible traveler now, always up for adventures and ready to try anything! So keep going, things will get easier!!! 

👋🏻 Hi! I’m Nellie, a travel writer and I share all I’ve learned about digital nomad family travel here. So glad you’re here! 🌏 

Digital nomad family | traveling with kids | worldschooling | family travels | family adventures | digital nomad family travel #familytravel #travelwithkids #adventurefamily #worldschooling
  • This was the craziest thing I’ve ever done. 🤪

When I traveled New Zealand, I knew I had to do this canyon swing or I would totally regret it! It was such an epic experience thanks to the ridiculously fun crew at @shotovercanyonswing! 

They made me laugh, calmed my nerves and kept me safe (You can still see the look of fear in my face thou)! YOLO!!! So glad I did it. 🏔️

When I showed my kid this video, she went “I wanna do it too!” ☺️ That’s my girl! 

👋🏻 Hi! I’m Nellie, a travel writer and I share all I’ve learned about digital nomad family travel here. So glad you’re here! 🌏 

Digital nomad family | traveling with kids | worldschooling | family travels | family adventures | digital nomad family travel #familytravel #travelwithkids #shotovercanyonswing #newzealand #newzealandtravel
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💌 Send this to another parent or save it as reminder to why you need to book that trip! Did you know your family adventures are literally building your child’s brain? The science behind travel’s impact on development is fascinating! 🧠 I’ve seen these incredible benefits firsthand on Kaleya (who’s already 10 and have traveled to 60 countries) — she’s incredibly adaptable, creative, and has a deep interest in learning. She’s a great problem-solver and likes to challenge herself. ‼️Pssst… You don’t have to fly to the other side of the world to travel! A day trip to the next town over, the beach 20 minutes away, or even a different ski slope creates the same brain-boosting benefits. It’s about NOVELTY! Have you noticed developmental leaps in your little ones after travel? Share below👇 *Comment STUDY if you’d like a link to the report from ISTC. Hi! I’m Nellie, a travel writer and I share all I’ve learned about digital nomad family travel here. So glad you’re here! 🌏 Digital nomad family | traveling with kids | worldschooling | family travels | family adventures | digital nomad family travel #familytravel #travelwithkids #adventurefamily #worldschooling
19 hours ago
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1/9
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🇪🇸✨ Planning a summer trip to Spain with kids? I lived in Spain for 7+ years (my husband is a Spaniard). Here are 10 tips to help your family to connect with local culture, and actually enjoy the heat, food, and fun — together. 📚 1. Give your kids cultural context
Read books or watch fun YouTube videos about flamenco, Gaudí, castles, or even Real Madrid vs Barça ⚽ — so they feel excited and involved. 🏞️ 2. Prepare for the heat Spain is experiencing a heat wave now, with temperatures above 46degC. Plan lots of pool time and downtime in the afternoons. 3. Trade tourist beaches for the mountains
Avoid packed coasts and head to the Pyrenees or Picos de Europa instead. 🏔️ Think hiking, rivers, cable cars, wildflowers — all cooler (literally and figuratively) and WAY less crowded. ⛺ 4. Try glamping or rural stays
Spain has amazing family-friendly glamping spots — think safari tents in the hills or cabins near rivers. 🌲 You’ll get nature, quiet nights, and kids can run wild without traffic or crowds. 🚂 5. Choose slower spots
Skip Barcelona and Madrid — they get ridiculously crowded in summer. Instead stay in small towns like Altea, Ronda, Cazorla, or Cadaqués. Easier to navigate, safer for kids, and rich in charm. 🌞 6. Embrace the pool + siesta combo
Book places with a pool 🏊‍♀️ and plan early outings. Siesta hours (2–5pm) are no joke — rest indoors, then head back out when the sun chills out. 📆 7. Check the local fiesta calendar
Spain = non-stop festivals. 🎉 Know what’s happening so you can either join the fun (like La Tomatina) or avoid being stuck in packed plazas with tired kids. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 8. Prep their taste buds early
Spanish food is incredible… but not always kid-approved at first glance. 🧄🍅 Serve tapas-style meals at home — like olives, tortilla, pan con tomate — so the flavors feel familiar when you arrive. More tips in the comments section below. ⬇️
2 days ago
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2/9
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Lately I’ve received too many news of friends who have passed on way too early. The truth is, we don’t get to choose how much time we have on Earth — but we can choose how we spend it. ⏳💛 🗺️ You don’t have to travel to make the most out of your life. This is just a reminder to do the things that light up your heart and spend time with the people you love. ✨ Chase your dreams, NOW rather than later. Because life is too short to wait.
 👋🏻 Hi! I’m Nellie, a travel writer and I share all I’ve learned about digital nomad family travel here. So glad you’re here! 🌏 Digital nomad family | traveling with kids | worldschooling | family travels | family adventures | digital nomad family travel #familytravel #travelwithkids #adventurefamily #worldschooling #makeitcount
3 days ago
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3/9
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Argentina marks a milestone for us — it’s Kaleya’s 60th country visited! 🇦🇷 It’s been a truly special trip for the whole family. Alberto and I first traveled Argentina 17 years ago as part of a 5-month South America backpacking trip and we fell in love with the country’s food, culture and landscape. 🥩 We’ve wanted to bring Kaleya for years, so it’s extra special to come back together as a family. P.S. we don’t travel to collect passport stamps but we do like keeping track of where we’ve been as a way to reflect and see how far we’ve come. 📋 👋🏻 Hi! I’m Nellie, a travel writer and I share all I’ve learned about digital nomad family travel here. So glad you’re here! 🌏 Digital nomad family | traveling with kids | worldschooling | family travels | family adventures | digital nomad family travel #familytravel #travelwithkids #adventurefamily #worldschooling
4 days ago
View on Instagram |
4/9
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Life has a funny way of making you miss the present. I’m always looking ahead and dreaming up the next idea, planning the next move. Rarely do I stop to take it all in and reflect on all the things we’ve accomplished and goals we’ve hit. 🎯 Moving to Mexico was once a dream for us, a departure from our grey gloomy days in Europe. It changed the way our family live. We’re outside more, together more. We traded stuff for time and we live more intentionally. ✨ But it’s almost time to leave Mexico, so I’m making the most of our time here to soak it all in. This is a reminder to enjoy the moment and be grateful for where you are. Don’t let life pass you by. #livinginmexico #digitalnomadlifestyle #mexpats #lifeinmexico #familytravel
5 days ago
View on Instagram |
5/9
@wildjunket
@wildjunket
•
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🇻🇳 If you’re traveling Vietnam with kids, don’t miss this underrated gem — Ninh Binh is Vietnam’s inland Ha Long Bay (but without the crowds or chaos!). 📍Just 1.5–2 hours south of Hanoi by train, car, or bus — it’s super easy to reach and perfect for spending some time in nature. Here’s your kid-friendly guide to exploring this magical region: 🛶 Tam Cốc Boat Ride – Glide through rice paddies and under caves with towering limestone cliffs around you. Boats are rowed by locals using their feet! Kids LOVE this. ⛰️ Hang Múa Viewpoint – 500 steps up, but older kids can totally do it! You’ll be rewarded with jaw-dropping views over the rivers and karst peaks. Kaleya loved the lotus flower gardens. 🪷 🦕 Trang An Grottoes – This was where they filmed “Kong: Skull Island”. The UNESCO site feels like a scene out of Jurassic Park. Peaceful, scenic, and a big hit with curious little explorers. 🐐 Hoa Lư Ancient Capital – Teach kids a little Vietnamese history where emperors once ruled. Wide open spaces for them to roam and learn. 🦜Thung Nham Bird Garden – Great for nature-loving families. Spot flocks of birds at sunset and explore hidden caves along the way. 🛏️ Where to Stay – Family-friendly homestays in Tam Cốc with rice field views, bikes to borrow, and home-cooked meals. Perfect for downtime after adventures. 🛵 Bonus Tip – Rent a scooter to weave around the rice paddies. Our family of 3 fit nicely into one scooter. It was our daughter’s favorite experience! 👋🏻 Hi! I’m Nellie, a travel writer and I share all I’ve learned about digital nomad family travel here. So glad you’re here! 🌏 Digital nomad family | traveling with kids | worldschooling | family travels | family adventures | digital nomad family travel #familytravel #travelwithkids #adventurefamily #worldschooling #familytravelvietnam #vietnamwithkids #digitalnomadfamily #worldschoolers
6 days ago
View on Instagram |
6/9
@wildjunket
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•
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“Is Pakistan really safe to visit? Isn’t it irresponsible to bring your kid there?!” 🇵🇰 Pakistan is a place I’d dreamt of traveling for years. I did the research and decided to finally visit with my family — and it turned out to be everything I’d imagined, and more. 📺 What you see on the news is never the whole picture — Pakistan is not a terrorist-filled war zone or a shell-shocked wasteland. 🏔️ As we discovered, Pakistan is a country power–packed with mountains more impressive than anything I’ve seen elsewhere. Landscapes here are of truly epic proportions, framed by dramatic valleys, crackling glaciers and dreamy waterfalls. People are incredibly warm, welcoming and kind. 🕊️ There are still security issues in more remote areas of the country, such as Balochistan, KPK and the Tribal Areas, but many parts of Pakistan are considered safe for locals and foreigners alike. So if you’re considering traveling Pakistan, take this as a sign to just GO! I highly recommend exploring with @hannanbalti, an experienced Gilgit guide who’s great with kids. 👋🏻 Hi! I’m Nellie, a travel writer and I share all I’ve learned about digital nomad family travel here. So glad you’re here! 🌏 Digital nomad family | traveling with kids | worldschooling | family travels | family adventures | digital nomad family travel #familytravel #travelwithkids #adventurefamily #worldschooling #travelpakistan #pakistanzindabad #visitpakistan #pakistandiaries #gilgitbaltistan #pakistanwithkids
7 days ago
View on Instagram |
7/9
@wildjunket
@wildjunket
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Follow
Traveling well is something kids aren’t born how to do — even we adults had to learn how to travel! 🧳 It’s a skill just like learning to read or ride a bike. It takes time and practice to master. Many moms tell me how lucky I am to have an easygoing kid who’s a great traveler. Truth is she’s had lots of practice! We’ve traveled with her since she was 5 months old and we haven’t stopped. I remember the days when she screamed her head off in the plane, refused to walk in the middle of the Costa Rican jungle and had a meltdown in a mosque. 😂 But we kept going and never gave up. The more we traveled, the better she got at traveling. She’s an incredible traveler now, always up for adventures and ready to try anything! So keep going, things will get easier!!! 👋🏻 Hi! I’m Nellie, a travel writer and I share all I’ve learned about digital nomad family travel here. So glad you’re here! 🌏 Digital nomad family | traveling with kids | worldschooling | family travels | family adventures | digital nomad family travel #familytravel #travelwithkids #adventurefamily #worldschooling
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
8/9
@wildjunket
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This was the craziest thing I’ve ever done. 🤪 When I traveled New Zealand, I knew I had to do this canyon swing or I would totally regret it! It was such an epic experience thanks to the ridiculously fun crew at @shotovercanyonswing! They made me laugh, calmed my nerves and kept me safe (You can still see the look of fear in my face thou)! YOLO!!! So glad I did it. 🏔️ When I showed my kid this video, she went “I wanna do it too!” ☺️ That’s my girl! 👋🏻 Hi! I’m Nellie, a travel writer and I share all I’ve learned about digital nomad family travel here. So glad you’re here! 🌏 Digital nomad family | traveling with kids | worldschooling | family travels | family adventures | digital nomad family travel #familytravel #travelwithkids #shotovercanyonswing #newzealand #newzealandtravel
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
9/9
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