The Mexican Caribbean, particularly the state of Quintana Roo, is renowned for its abundant fish and seafood. In Cancun, yacht rental services for deep-sea fishing offer a unique guarantee: "No catch, no pay." This is not a marketing gimmick – it's a testament to the plentiful marine life in the region. Tourists invariably end up paying, as they fish until they are satiated.

One of the local delicacies is snail ceviche, typically prepared during a boat ride. The boatman's assistant, a diver, retrieves a beautiful mollusk, its shell tinged with pink on the inside. The hard meat is softened by striking it with a stone before it's cut into pieces. Lemon, onion, and other ingredients are then added to taste.

The hotels in Cancun are famous for their excellent seafood, prepared in line with international cuisine. However, there are hidden gems that only locals know about. In the heart of Cancun city lies Market 28, home to "El Cejas," an unpretentious yet clean seafood restaurant. It's not the most luxurious or the best decorated, but it's renowned for its delicious, authentic Mexican seafood. Locals of all social classes frequent this restaurant when they crave seafood.

The Caribbean is known for its large snails, which can be ordered in a cocktail, grilled, or with mojo de ajo at Market 28. Other specialties include crab chilpachole, lisa roe, and boquinete, a regional fish. The crab and young shark empanadas are a must-try, as are the various lobster dishes, Sinaloan-style shrimp aguachile, and Tampico-style stuffed crabs.

Another local favorite is "La Floresta" in Playa del Carmen. The menu is limited but enticing, offering seafood cocktails, crab or marlin tacos, and battered shrimp or fish tostadas. This clean, rustic establishment is a hit with locals and the many foreigners living in Playa.

The idyllic island of Holbox, located off the northern coast of Quintana Roo, is home to less than two thousand people. The island's sandy streets are traversed by electric golf carts, which are available for rent. The island is narrow but several kilometers long, with a small town occupying a fraction of the land. The western end of the island features a wide beach frequented by migratory birds, including royal pelicans and flamingos. Boat trips can be arranged to observe the gentle, ten-meter-long whale sharks that inhabit the surrounding waters.

In the town, one of the best restaurants is "Buena Vista," a seafood establishment located on the main street near the beach. The white snail cocktail is a standout dish, offering a taste of the local marine bounty.