Cancun or Rio?

colly10

Started looking at places for a 10 day holiday for around 5 lads (late 20's) in Feb. I've been looking at Cancun and Rio. We'd be looking for good weather, busy at night and something to do during the day if we could.
Just wondering if anyone has been to both or if anyone would recommend one over the other or if anyone has any other recommendations?
Thanks

Pisco Sour

One is a party town full of 18 year old Americans just out of high school.

The other is one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

Sort of a no-brainer I would have thought.

colly10

Thought cancun would have been the more beautiful of the 2 areas but with less to see. Thanks, puts it into perspective

Doirtybirdy

hmmm cancun...think town in a desert by the beach.
The beaches are like brittas bay except 30c.

No scenery though just dried out desert with some lush near the beach.
Some mayan ruins within driving distance and thats about it.
Cancun itself is just an ordinary city with a lot of hotels.
Playa del carmen an hour south of it is a better party spot.

I'd go to Rio between the two to be honest,it has a lot more going for it.

conor052001

cancun, in my opinion is a dump. a **** load of hotels on a strip with some american restaurant chains and nightclubs that have sawdust on the floor. the beach looks great in photos but it smells like you wouldnt believe.. have never been to rio but would love to hear your feedback if you end up going!

bamboozle

Cancun is ok but Isla Majures which is about 20 mins in a ferry from cancun is beautiful, great beaches, diving and nightlife.
Been to Rio, beautiful city, beautiful people but very dangerous, group of irish lads on the p1ss would want to be very careful around the streets of rio while drunk.

Handy11

Have a look at Buenos Aires. Great city, fantastic nightlife, Lots to see and do, and there's always La Bombonera!!!

Other than that, if you had to pick between the 2, Rio. But do your research before you go. Just be careful when out on the lash in Rio if you're not with a local. All the hostels will have organised nights out that are safe enough. Get a good hostel from Hostelworld and just wing it from there.

If you're going to BA and want nightlife, just book the Millhouse hostel. Or Hostel clan. Either will have big nights out every night.

finbarrk

I got mugged in Rio in 1995.But it wouldn't put me off going back there. Which I will do in 2014 for the football.
Suppose the Carnival would be the time to go, if you could afford it.
Looking forward to revisiting!

johnwatt

I've been to both, Rio without a doubt.