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You’ll be hard-pressed to find a country as filled with world-class hotspots as Mexico, whose popularity has surged to unprecedented levels this year.
However, one big downside to visiting a destination as coveted as, say, Cancun, Cabo San Lucas, or Tulum, is that the crowds can feel truly suffocating, especially now that Mexico is entering its peak season.
That’s why an ever-increasing number of travelers are turning their eyes towards an often underrated city located just a couple of hours away from Los Cabos — La Paz.
Though it’s the capital of the iconic Baja California Sur, La Paz has always managed to fly under the radar as a tourist destination, especially compared to its much more popular neighbors.
So, why does it seem like the city is finally stepping into the international limelight?
A Tranquil Oasis Amidst The Bustling Hotspots
As Mexico continues to exceed all of its tourism expectations, the appeal of La Paz lies in its ability to provide a respite from its overcrowded and overcommercialized counterparts.
Unlike the chaotic beaches of Cancun or the never-ending foot traffic in the streets of Playa del Carmen, the Baja California Sur capital offers a serene escape where visitors can truly immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region without the stress or inconvenience of overwhelming crowds.
All this also plays into the fact that the city boasts some of the most pristine, untouched beaches in all of Mexico.
Playa Balandra, generally included in every single list ranking the country’s most beautiful beaches, is a must-see for every traveler looking to experience the crystal-clear turquoise water and powdery white sand Mexico is known for in its purest form.
The contrast of the desert landscape against the Sea of Cortez creates a jaw-dropping effect that’s sure to leave an indelible impression on those fortunate enough to witness these views.
Those coming to the city for the first time also need to make ample time to explore the historic Malecón, a waterfront promenade that comes alive with vibrant street art, local vendors, and unforgettable performances.
One Of Mexico’s Safest Havens
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, La Paz’s tranquil atmosphere is beautifully complemented by the fact that the city is one of the safest destinations in all of Mexico.
Those who’ve been keeping up to date with travel updates already know that several of Mexico’s biggest hotspots, including Los Cabos and Cancun, have been making conscious efforts to build back a safe image that makes visitors feel welcome and at ease.
During this time, though, the underrated Baja California Sur capital has been outpacing both of these tourism magnets in terms of safety.
Just this past September, the city saw a remarkable 50% reduction in reported crime, which is a figure for the history books.
Again, this is yet another advantage that can be linked back to the absence of over-tourism and the fact that La Paz doesn’t rely on its nightlife reputation to attract new visitors – the latter, in particular, is inherently linked with the use of alcohol and narcotics, which inevitably leads to higher crime rates.
That’s why families and solo travelers, in particular, are choosing to pass on the opportunity to experience the iconic sights of Cancun or Tulum in exchange for the safe, comforting atmosphere that can be felt through the streets of La Paz.
An Unforgettable Gastronomic Journey
A trip through La Paz won’t only take you through some unbelievable sights but also the gastronomic journey of a lifetime.
The city’s culinary scene is consistently gaining recognition for its flawless blend of traditional Mexican flavors and modern concepts that come to life through an endless array of food carts, cafes, and high-end restaurants, all serving mouth-watering food.
While in La Paz, you won’t want to miss out on beloved delicacies like fish and shrimp tacos, grilled fish fillet, and stuffed clams – yes, the locals do love their seafood, but with the fresh catches that make it to the plate every day, can you really blame them?
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com