View 1+ Photos
Mexico with Eliza Ivanova
Dates
Feb 20–24, 2025
Group Size
10–24 Travelers
Duration
5 days, 4 nights
Activity Level
Exploration
About This Trip
Meet Your Host
View Full ProfileEliza Ivanova
Hi there! I am an award-winning Bulgarian artist, animator, and filmmaker currently living and working in San Francisco. My industry experience began working at Pixar for nearly a decade, and now I am pursuing my life-long passion for fine arts. Having the opportunity to travel and create is an absolute dream, so join me on this journey!
Trip Activities
Catamaran Cruise and Snorkeling Tour
Mexican Cooking Class
Hydrotherapy Spa Session
Optional Activities*
3-Day/2-Night Playa Del Carmen Trip Extension
*Add-ons available at checkout for an additional fee.
Included in Your Trip
Double occupancy in 4-star hotels (limited single rooms available)
Local guide throughout trip
All city transfers
Not Included
International flights
Food and alcohol (except as noted)
Visas and travel insurance
Airport transfers
Tips for Guides
What's included by Your Host
Explore and sketch together (optional)
Sketching on the go (optional, recommended)
More art and trip recap (optional)
Itinerary
*All durations are approximate
Info
dinner
Welcome dinner at a local restaurant is included. Your meal will typically be a set menu with one non-alcoholic beverage included, subject to change.
Fiesta Inn (or similar)
Overnight in Playa del Carmen
Info
breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.
Catamaran Cruise and Snorkeling Tour
After a 30 minute transfer to the pier, you will set sail on a public catamaran cruise to one of the Caribbean’s most breathtaking reefs. After about 45 minutes of sailing you'll reach the reef where you'll begin an unforgettable snorkeling tour. See marine wildlife in their natural habitat and if you're lucky you may even see some sea turtles. Then relax in the sun with some drinks and food. A box lunch will be provided with an open bar. Life jackets, mask and snorkel, and paddle boards are also supplied. The catamaran fit approximately 30 people.
lunch
Box lunch included on the Catamaran Cruise and Snorkeling Tour. The type of box lunch you receive will vary but typically includes a protein, bread/pasta, and a couple of sides such as a salad and/or chips.
Explore and sketch together (optional)
You will have the opportunity to venture off on your own or tag along and do some art together for a few hours. Totally optional but definitely worth it considering where we will be! From sketching nature to drawing crowds to finding wildlife and sketching that - add on to your already amazingly curated experience.
Fiesta Inn (or similar)
Overnight in Playa del Carmen
Info
breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.
Mexican Cooking Class
You will take a 40 minute transfer to Puerto Morelos. Then, enjoy an amazing day in a traditional kitchen and cook alongside a professional chef and enjoy a gourmet Mexican feast. Our chef will show you how to cook 6 delicious dishes such as stuffed poblano peppers, cactus salad, sweet tamales, pozole, salsas and your own tortillas! After the cooking lesson, enjoy lunch with all the creations you’ve prepared along with your choice of a selection of tequila and mezcal cocktails, as well as Mexican beers and soft drinks (no limit, please drink responsibly). The dishes and menu that you will prepare will vary depending on the chef's recommendation for the day.
lunch
Lunch included as part of the Mexican Flavors Cooking Class. You will enjoy the 6 dishes that you've made along with your own tortillas.
Sketching on the go (optional, recommended)
Bring your art supplies as we are exploring the culinary landscape of Playa Del Carmen! I always take a sketchbook to document experiences on the spot, which is such a rare occasion nowadays, so I highly recommend it.
Fiesta Inn (or similar)
Overnight in Playa del Carmen
Info
breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.
Hydrotherapy Spa Session
After a couple days of activity, pamper yourself with a hydrotherapy circuit! Take a 20 minute walk from your hotel and you'll arrive at the spa. The hydrotherapy circuit includes a sauna, steam room, frigidarium, cube shower, sensations shower, rest area, and more. The circuit lasts 90 minutes. A dressing room is available at the spa and you will be provided with a towel and have access to lockers and changing rooms. *Depending on your group size you may be split into smaller groups and attend the spa at different times throughout the day.
dinner
Farewell dinner at a local restaurant is included. Your meal will typically be a set menu with one non-alcoholic beverage included, subject to change.
More art and trip recap (optional)
We will have some time together to chat about life, work, and art as we are getting close to the end of our trip. We can work together or simply reminisce - the intention of this trip is relaxation paired with inspiration!
Fiesta Inn (or similar)
Overnight in Playa del Carmen
Info
breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.
3-Day/2-Night Playa Del Carmen Trip Extension (optional)
Before heading home, take advantage of this trip extension to check out some more Riviera Maya gems such as an amazing bay for snorkeling as well as a hidden freshwater cenote! The first day of your extension is open for you to relax and enjoy the charming town of Playa del Carmen. On the second day you’ll be picked up early in the morning (between 6am and 9am, final time to be determined later) to take a 45 minute transfer to the Akumal Inlet. Explore the fascinating underwater world of Turtle Bay on a leisurely snorkel tour in search of three of the world’s seven sea turtle species. Brightly colored tropical fish, spectacular coral, amazing rock formations, rays and unbelievable visibility makes this an unforgettable experience. Mask and snorkel and life jackets are provided. You’ll spend roughly 45 minutes snorkeling, then you’ll continue on a 15 minute transfer into the rainforest of the Yucatan where you’ll have the opportunity to swim in an underground fresh water cenote surrounded by ancient stalactites and stalagmites. Swim and explore this amazing natural swimming hole for around 45 minutes, then you’ll take a transfer back to your hotel. Wetsuits and lifejackets are included and available if needed. Expect to arrive back to your hotel around the early afternoon, and then you’ll have the afternoon at your leisure. In the evening, you’ll enjoy an included dinner (with a la carte options) at a local restaurant. Finally, say goodbye to Mexico on your third day as you make your way back to the airport for your flight home. Please note all activities and transfers are shared and activities are guided. This trip extension includes two nights at Hotel H52 (or similar), all public tours and meals as mentioned, and an English speaking guide where mentioned. Tips, flights, additional meals, and drinks or tours are not included. A 300 Pesos ($15 USD) Reef and Dock Tax is also not included as part of your Akumal Inlet and Cenote Tour and must be paid in cash (pesos preferred) upon arrival.
Physical Activity Level:Exploration
These trips require some movement, but slow and steady is the name of the game. Maybe a mid-length walking tour or at-your-pace sightseeing. No rush.
Cancellation Policy
We get it—life happens. Here's how cancellations work depending on where you're at in the process:
Spot Pending
Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip
Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind
After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.
Join 30,000 Travelers Who've Booked With TrovaTrip
Explore the world with confidence. You're in great company!
Flexible Payment Options
Reserve your spot with just 25% down, pay in full, or apply for a payment plan at booking. Your dream trip, your way.
Trusted Local Experiences
We partner with 50 handpicked Trip Operators worldwide to give you authentic, unforgettable adventures.
Thousands of Reviews
Don't just take our word for it, read what real Travelers are saying on Trova, Trustpilot, and Google.
Here When You Need Us
Questions? We're just a tap away. Get support via Chat or our Help Center.
FAQ
Traveling with TrovaTrip
What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?
Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.
What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?
Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your experience to life:
- The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
- The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
- TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.
In short: The Host brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.
I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?
First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:
- Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
- Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
- Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
- Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
- We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.
We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!”
Can I book solo?
Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.
What if I need to cancel?
We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:
- Spot pending – 100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
- Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your trip – Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.
- Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your trip – Non-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.
After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.
What's included in the trip cost?
Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.
Will I have free time?
Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.
What do the activity levels mean?
Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:
- Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
- Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
- Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
- Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
- Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)
You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.
Who can I contact with more questions?
Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!
Accommodations
What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?
When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.
Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?
Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.
Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.
Trip Operations & Compliance
Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?
Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.
Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?
If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.
General Travel Questions
Do I need any documentation to travel?
It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise.
Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.
Do I need any vaccines?
It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!
Are flights included in the trip cost?
Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.
Can you accommodate my dietary needs?
We’ll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.