Being our next door neighbor, Mexico can sometimes be forgotten about when it comes to choosing a cruising vacation. After all, why go to Mexico when the tropical paradise of the Caribbean is right on our doorstep? If these are your very thoughts, then why not take some time out to uncover the delights that await you on a Mexico cruise. What you discover will surprise and fascinate youI guarantee it!

The majority of cruise lines operate Mexico cruise round-trips from the ports of Los Angeles and San Diego. The main points of interest (cruise-wise) in Mexico are to be found down the western coastline. Mexican cruise destinations on the Gulf of Mexico side are catered for by Caribbean-oriented cruise vacations departing from Galveston, New Orleans and some ports in Florida.

From the Californian ports a wide choice of Mexico cruises are available through several different cruise lines. These vary from a short 3-night cruise that takes in one Mexican port of call - Ensenada - before heading back, to 14-night cruises down to Acapulco and back.

Ensenada is in Baja California. It is less than 100kms from San Diego and is the third largest city on the Baja Peninsula of Mexico. The city is a tourist hotspot, attracting many people from all over the world to its shops, restaurants, beaches and wineries. One 'must-see' attraction here is the La Bufadora natural blowhole, which spouts ocean water a full 35ft into the air!

Further down the coast on the Mexican mainland is Mazatlan. Miles of beautiful golden sands lined with palm trees await at this port of call, aptly named as the Pearl of the Pacific. Fine restaurants, nightlife and shopping can be enjoyed in Mazatlan, as well as a whole host of watersports and land-based sports activities.

Puerto Vallarta is another popular port of call on a Mexico cruise, where more excellent beaches and fine restaurants await. From this port, shore excursions up into the spectacular mountains behind the city can be taken. The city of Guadalajara and its fine Mexican heritage can easily be reached from Puerto Vallarta.

The furthest point that most cruise lines will sail to on a round-trip is the dream destination of Acapulco. Known as the 'Hollywood' of Mexico, Acapulco has everything from water parks and balloon rides over the city, to rock diving and a complete raft of watersports activities. There are excellent restaurants, great shopping opportunities and a buzzing nightlife to enjoy too. Be warned though, once you've visited Acapulco you may become addicted to the place!

With all this to enjoy, and much more besides, Mexico really is a top cruise destination that should be on everyone's travel itinerary. Just kick off those work shoes and enjoy the good life!