Whether you’re a seasoned jet-setter or preparing for your very first trip abroad, choosing to travel to Cancun for plastic surgery is a bold and empowering decision. This guide is designed to walk you through every step—from booking your flight to recovering peacefully—so you can feel confident, supported, and prepared from start to finish.
Plan Your Journey to Cancun with Confidence
Plastic surgery travel tips for a smooth, stress-free experience
Booking Your Flight
Arriving in Cancun is straightforward, with Cancun International Airport (CUN) offering numerous easy, nonstop connections from many U.S. cities. Planning your travel carefully ensures a smooth start to your trip.
Planning Your Arrival in Cancun
- Booking Your Travel:
- Flights: Compare prices on Google Flights, Skyscanner, Expedia, or Kayak. For best flexibility and direct support, consider booking directly on the airline’s official website.
- Hotels/Packages: Explore options on Booking.com, Hotels.com, Travelocity, or Expedia.
- Pre-Procedure Arrival:
- Plan to arrive at least two days before your scheduled procedure.
- This allows time to settle in, adjust to the climate, and mentally prepare, helping you avoid any last-minute rushing.
Important Considerations for Your Stay
To ensure a smooth and safe recovery, please keep these crucial points in mind for your time in Cancun:
- Stay Nearby: Pick a hotel 3-5 miles (5-8 km) from the clinic (Hotel Zone or Downtown recommended) for quick and easy trips to follow-up appointments.
- Confirm Care Team Access: Verify your dedicated care team or nurse can easily enter and park at your hotel, as some properties have strict policies that restrict outside visitors or require pre-authorization for parking.
- Prioritize Healing: Your recovery is paramount. Avoid direct sun exposure and swimming pools for the best surgical results and to prevent complications.
- Road Construction: Be aware of major construction in parts of the Hotel Zone (since 2022) which can cause 2-3 hour delays.
Protect Your Results: Skip the Sun
For optimal results, staying out of the sun is essential during your recovery. Sun exposure can significantly impact healing and your final outcome. We’ll remind you of this vital precaution throughout our guides.
Where to Stay in Cancun: Beyond Just a Bed
Cancun has a wide range of hotel options for every preference and budget. While you’ll be responsible for booking your own stay, Dr. Valdez’s office can provide a list of hotels popular with our past patients.
It’s always a good idea to check recent reviews yourself, as hotel quality can change over time.
For more affordable rates on both hotels and flights, consider visiting during Cancun’s low season (late May to November, excluding holidays).
When recovering from surgery, your needs extend beyond a typical vacation. Understanding the different hotel styles—including their provision for nutritious food, comfortable and quiet environments, and potential medical support access—will help you make an informed choice for your unique recovery needs.
Understanding Your Hotel Options
When choosing your recovery accommodation in Cancun, you have distinct options, each impacting your post-surgery experience. Whether it’s a fully self-service choice like an Airbnb (best with a caregiver), a limited service hotel offering basic amenities like breakfast, or a full-service hotel providing meals and room service, understanding these differences is key to matching your needs with your recovery goals.
Important Note
Always check recent reviews on sites like TripAdvisor or Expedia to gauge current hotel quality. Confirm specific amenities directly, and crucially, verify their policies and support for medical care team access during your stay.
Self-Service Accommodations (e.g., Airbnb, VRBO)
Ideal for experienced travelers or those with a dedicated caregiver, these options offer a highly independent and private recovery environment.
- What they are: Private homes, apartments, or suites booked through platforms like Airbnb or VRBO, typically featuring full kitchens, laundry, and separate living areas.
- Best for:
- Patients seeking a home-like environment during recovery.
- Individuals with a caregiver or companion who can manage daily tasks like cooking, grocery shopping, and household needs.
- Those who value privacy and more space compared to a hotel room.
- Travelers comfortable with managing their own logistics (meals, transportation, amenities).
- Recovery Implications: Requires significant self-reliance or reliable support. Ensure your caregiver is prepared for daily responsibilities, as no hotel staff will be available for meals or immediate assistance. Confirm accessibility features if needed.
- Torre Cartagena (Private Apartments): Excellent private apartment options offering easy access and no known issues.
- Malecon Suites: Suites/apartments that provide comfort and easy access.
Limited Service Hotels
These hotels offer a balance between the independence of a self-service option and the structure of a full-service hotel.
- What they are: Typically budget-friendly hotels focusing on essential comfort. They usually provide clean rooms, free Wi-Fi, and often a complimentary buffet breakfast. They generally do not have full-service restaurants, room service, or extensive amenities like spas.
- Best for:
- Budget-conscious travelers who still want some hotel structure.
- Patients who are mostly independent but appreciate a provided breakfast.
- Those with minimal post-op needs not requiring constant assistance or on-site meal preparation.
- Recovery Implications: While convenient for basic needs, you’ll need to plan for lunch and dinner yourself, either by ordering delivery, using nearby restaurants, or having your caregiver bring food. Support staff is minimal, so ensure you or your caregiver can handle all personal care and errands.
- Suites Malecon Americas
- Hotel Bonampak
- Hotel City Express Junior
- Wyndham Garden Cancun Downtown
Full-Service Hotels
These hotels provide the highest level of amenities and support, ideal for a recovery focused on minimal effort and maximum comfort.
- What they are: Typically larger hotels with extensive on-site facilities, including multiple restaurants, 24-hour room service, concierge services, and often pools, spas, and fitness centers. They offer comprehensive guest services designed for convenience.
- Best for:
- Patients seeking a stress-free recovery with all needs handled.
- Those who do not have a dedicated caregiver to manage meals or daily errands.
- First-time international travelers who might be more nervous and prefer extensive support.
- Individuals prioritizing comfort, luxury, and peace of mind over budget.
- Recovery Implications: All your needs, from meals to basic assistance, are typically available within the hotel. This allows you to focus purely on rest and healing without worrying about food preparation, cleaning, or external logistics. Be aware that this convenience comes at a higher price point.
- Krystal Urban Centro
- Renaissance Cancun Resort & Marina
- Hotel InterContinental Presidente
- Royal Cancun Resort
- Fiesta Inn Cancun
Explore Cancun Beyond the Beaches
While you focus on recovery, your companions can explore Cancun’s vibrant offerings:
- Local Culture: Wander through lively markets, enjoy upscale shopping, or visit the Mayan Museum.
- Adventures Await: Discover ancient ruins and mystical cenotes.
- Culinary Delights: Experience the city’s diverse and lively food scene.
Should you feel up to it, you’re welcome to join. This flexibility ensures your companion enjoys Cancun while you prioritize healing.
Getting Around Cancun & Essential Travel Tips
- Medical Transportation: Your concierge nursing service handles all medical transport (airport & appointments). Stress-free from arrival!
- Personal Travel: For leisure (dining, exploring), arrange your own:
- Local Bus: Affordable & convenient in Hotel Zone (~$1 USD/ride).
- Ride-Shares: Uber/similar services are readily available.
- Currency: U.S. Dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas.
Financial Considerations
- Cash is King: While credit cards are common, it’s smart to carry some cash.
- Notify Your Bank: Contact your bank/credit card company before your trip. Inform them of your travel dates and adjust daily spending limits for large expenses (hotel, medical). This prevents fraud alerts.
- ATM Access: Be aware some ATMs may not work with all international cards.
- Documents: Always remember your passport and essential travel documents for safe, seamless travel.