Named one of the world’s top vacation destinations for 2012 by Frommer’s, Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is known around the world for having its own unique vibe. Each year, Frommer’s gathers the opinions of editors, readers, authors and travel experts to compile a list of the world’s top vacation destinations, which are graded for their offerings, luxury and affordability, so it’s no surprise that the Yucatan made the cut for next year.

Today, the Yucatan Peninsula is still home to the indigenous Maya, who can be traced back to the ancient Mayan civilization. These descendents still live in the area and add significantly to the local flavor and strong cultural vibe of the region, which has almost entirely escaped the drug violence that has affected certain northern border towns. In fact, the Yucatan is known to be one of the safest regions in Mexico and typically experiences much less crime than visitors could encounter while living at home.

Frommer’s picked this area because of all that it offers, including gorgeous beaches, fabulous cuisine, cultural festivities and access to many different kinds of exotic wildlife. Here, from Cancun to Playa del Carmen, to the Riviera Maya, visitors will thrill to the many resorts, tiny fishing villages and ancient ruins. Here, visitors can enjoy the best of modern conveniences while also thrilling to the experience of climbing a 1,500 year old pyramid or swimming in the crystal clear waters of a cenote.

From brand new, all-inclusive resorts to restored 19^th century haciendas; the accommodations found throughout the Yucatan peninsula are also second to none. From inexpensive guesthouses to jungle villages still inhabited by Maya living in thatched-roof homes, the Yucatan is sure to delight travelers of all ages from around the world, earning its place on Frommer’s 2012 list of the best places to visit.