Each month we feature an incredible destination with expert travel tips, suggested itineraries, must see attractions, and exclusive travel offers to inspire your next vacation.
September Spotlight
Mexico & Central America, A Region Worth Celebrating
Every September 15th, Mexico and five Central American nations, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica, celebrate their independence on the very same day. It is one of the few times a whole region lights up together, with flags waving, marimba music in the plazas, and centuries of history and pride on full display.
Why September Is the Perfect Time to Visit
Independence Day is more than a date on the calendar in this part of the world. Streets fill with parades, marimba bands, food stalls, and fireworks. Traveling during this season means experiencing local culture and pride in its most authentic form, not a version staged for tourists.
Shared History, Six Celebrations
Mexico and five Central American countries all mark independence around September 15th, creating a wave of festivals across the region.
Shoulder Season Value
September falls in the shoulder season for much of the region, which often means fewer crowds and better rates on flights and hotels.
Authentic Cultural Immersion
From parades in Antigua to mariachi in Mexico City, this is the month to see these countries celebrating themselves.
Coming Home to Guatemala
I just got back from nine unforgettable days in Guatemala this summer, splitting time between the cobblestone streets of Antigua and the vibrant energy of Guatemala City. Coffee and bike tours through colonial streets, a hands on chocolate making class, sky biking above Altamira, and reconnecting with family who feel like home. Guatemala has always held a piece of my heart, and I loved sharing it with the people I love most.
Read the full story, complete with photos from the trip, and see why this country is so special to me.
Seven Destinations, One Celebration
From colonial cities to coral reefs, each destination in this region offers something different. Let Saunders Travel help you find the right fit, or plan a multi country adventure across several at once.
🇲🇽 Mexico
Culture, Coast & Colonial Charm
From the beaches of Cancun and Riviera Maya to the culture of Mexico City and Oaxaca, Mexico offers something for every kind of traveler: honeymooners, families, and groups alike. Independence Day here is celebrated with El Grito, fireworks, and festivities the night of September 15th into the 16th.
🇬🇹 Guatemala
Colonial Cities & Highland Beauty
Cobblestone streets, volcano views, and some of the warmest people you will ever meet. Antigua's colonial architecture and Guatemala City's energy make this a destination that stays with you long after you leave. This is the country I know best, and I would love to help you experience it too.
🇧🇿 Belize
Reefs, Rainforest & Relaxation
Home to the second largest barrier reef in the world, Belize is a dream for snorkeling, diving, and jungle adventures, all with English as the official language, making it an easy first trip to the region for many travelers.
🇭🇳 Honduras
Caribbean Islands & Maya Ruins
The Bay Islands, especially Roatan, offer some of the best diving in the Caribbean, while the mainland is home to the ancient Maya ruins of Copan. A destination that pairs beach relaxation with rich history.
🇸🇻 El Salvador
Volcanoes, Surf & Surprising Charm
Central America's smallest country is quickly becoming known for world class surf breaks along the Pacific coast and a growing food and coffee scene. A great pick for adventurous travelers looking for something off the beaten path.
🇨🇷 Costa Rica
Rainforests, Wildlife & Wellness
Pura vida is more than a phrase here, it is a way of life. Costa Rica is ideal for eco adventures, wellness retreats, and families looking for zip lining, wildlife, and volcano views in one trip.
🇵🇦 Panama
Canal Marvels, City Skylines & Rainforests
Where cosmopolitan city sophistication meets the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal, lush tropical rainforests, and rich indigenous culture like the Embera village. Perfect for a vibrant city break or tropical getaway.
Foods to Try Across Mexico & Central America
A taste of what awaits at the table
Tacos al Pastor (Mexico)
Marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, served with fresh pineapple and cilantro.
Pepian (Guatemala)
A rich, roasted spice stew, often considered Guatemala's national dish.
Rice & Beans with Coconut Milk (Belize)
A Caribbean staple, often paired with stewed chicken or fish.
Baleadas (Honduras)
A folded flour tortilla filled with beans, cheese, and cream.
Pupusas (El Salvador)
Thick corn tortillas stuffed with cheese, beans, or pork, El Salvador's most beloved dish.
Gallo Pinto (Costa Rica)
A breakfast staple of rice and beans, often served with eggs and fried plantain.
Sancocho (Panama)
A hearty chicken soup with root vegetables and cilantro, considered Panama's national comfort food.
Bucket List Experiences Across the Region
Make your getaway truly unforgettable with these iconic experiences across Mexico and Central America.
El Grito & Independence Celebrations
Experience the parades, fireworks, and festivities of Independence Day, September 15th into the 16th, in the country of your choice.
Antigua Coffee & Bike Tour
Ride through colonial streets to a working coffee plantation, one of the highlights of my own Guatemala trip.
Belize Barrier Reef Snorkeling
Swim alongside sea turtles and tropical fish in the second largest reef system in the world.
Copan Maya Ruins
Explore one of the most impressive ancient Maya sites in Honduras.
Arenal Volcano & Hot Springs
Soak in natural hot springs beneath one of Costa Rica's most iconic volcanoes.
Weddings, Honeymoons & Family Trips Across the Region
Whether you are saying "I do," celebrating a honeymoon, or gathering the whole family, this region offers a stress free backdrop for every kind of trip.
Destination Weddings
Beachfront ceremonies in Mexico or the Bay Islands, or a colonial courtyard wedding in Antigua. I help coordinate venue contracts, guest room blocks, and group logistics so your day comes together without the stress.
Honeymoons
Private beach dinners, boutique colonial hotels, and jungle eco lodges set the scene for a honeymoon that feels made for just the two of you.
Family & Group Travel
Multi generational trips are easy across this region, with everything from all inclusive beach resorts to cultural city stays that keep everyone entertained.
September Travel Tips
- Shoulder season savings: September often means lower rates on flights and hotels across the region compared to peak winter months.
- Book Independence week early: Hotels in city centers fill up fast around September 15th, so plan ahead if you want to be near the celebrations.
- Multi country trips: Several of these destinations can be combined into one itinerary, ask me about custom multi stop planning.
- Travel documents: Requirements vary by country, I will walk you through exactly what you need before you book.
🌎 September Destination of the Month Packages
Colonial Charms of the Central Highlands
Discover the heart of Mexico on this escorted journey through the colonial Central Highlands. Wander cobblestone streets, admire centuries old architecture, and soak in the rich culture and gastronomy of Mexico's most historic cities. Book through my advisor link for personalized support every step of the way.
Spend Christmas in Guanajuato
Trade the ordinary for the unforgettable this holiday season. Guanajuato's colonial streets come alive at Christmas with twinkling lights, posadas, lively plazas, and centuries of tradition. Stay in a handpicked Remarkable Stays property and let me handle every detail so you can simply soak in the magic of a Mexican Christmas.
Tropical Breeze All-Inclusive in Jaco
Enjoy an unforgettable all-inclusive escape to Jaco, Costa Rica. Beachfront relaxation, lush rainforest adventures, and the pura vida lifestyle, all bundled into one seamless package through Exoticca. Book through my advisor link for personalized support every step of the way.
Maya Triangle Odyssey & Ancient Wonders
Journey through the heart of the ancient Maya world on this unforgettable escorted tour across Mexico, Guatemala, and Belize. Explore towering pyramids, sacred ruins, and living indigenous cultures as you trace the footsteps of one of history's greatest civilizations. Book through my advisor link for personalized support every step of the way.
From Tikal to the Real Isla Bonita
Stand in the shadow of Tikal's towering Maya temples in Guatemala, then unwind on the pristine shores of the real Isla Bonita in Belize. This escorted tour blends ancient wonder with Caribbean relaxation, the perfect balance of culture and coast. Book through my advisor link for personalized support every step of the way.
City Break In Panama Trip
Experience the best of Panama with 5 nights at the luxurious Hotel Riu Plaza Panama! Package includes daily breakfast, private airport transfers, a half-day City & Panama Canal tour, and a full-day excursion to the Embera indigenous village and waterfall in Chagres National Park with lunch included.
- 5 Nights accommodation at Hotel Riu Plaza Panama + Daily Breakfast
- Private Airport-to-Hotel Transfers
- Half-Day City & Panama Canal Tour with English-speaking guide
- Day trip to Embera village & Waterfall in Chagres National Park with Lunch
- Deposit: US $200.00 (non-refundable) per person required to book
More Packages Coming Soon
I am currently curating custom vacation packages for Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, and El Salvador. Each package will include flights, hotel stays, exclusive perks, and special pricing. In the meantime, I would love to design a personalized quote for your trip to any of these incredible destinations.
Ready to Celebrate Independence Somewhere New?
Whether you are drawn to the colonial charm of Guatemala, the beaches of Mexico, or anywhere else across this incredible region, I would love to help you plan a stress free trip that feels like coming home.
Need help? Call or text me at (972) 836-6252
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The material displayed on this website is provided without any guarantees, conditions, or warranties as to its accuracy. I do not collect, share, or provide any data to anyone. All recommendations are based on personal experience and are offered for informational purposes only. Saunders Travel Company LLC assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from the use of this website or its linked content.