During a recent trip to Cancun, Mexico, we stayed at the Grand Oasis Palm, an all-inclusive, family-friendly resort that’s part of Oasis Hotels and Resorts. The chain maintains a large fleet of Smart Cars, which it rents for about U.S.$50 a day — so we couldn’t resist taking a test drive, and ended up heading as far as Playa del Carmen in the Riviera Maya.
Touring around in one of these tiny cars was a fun way to see the sights — and cheaper than taxis, which have gotten rather pricey (although Cancun’s public bus system remains an economic and efficient alternative). In this video, my partner Angel and I talk about how it feels to drive the car, and what we like best about the experience.
Surprisingly, we found the seats comfortable and the leg room ample. We also liked the sun roof, which let in plenty of the natural light that’s helped make this Mexico beach resort famous. Overall, the energy level of the car seems on par with other economy car rentals — but the style level and attention-getting factor is definitely higher with the Smart Car.
It’s no surprise these Smart Cars made my list of 3 Cool Ways to Travel Around Cancun (although it’s a big contrast from some of the exotic and luxurious choices I mentioned in that list). I wish other destinations offered such reasonably priced — yet cool — ways to tour. If you happen to know of any, especially in Latin America, please let me know.
More Cancun Travel Inspiration:
• 5 Travel Tips for Choosing the Best All-Inclusive Family Resort
• VIDEO: Grand Oasis Palm Resort — The “Travel With Kids” Report (hosted by our niece, Alexandra!)
• How to Go Clothes Shopping in Cancun, Without Looking Like a Tourist