While I am discussing exploring, I figured I would cover some of my favorite places I have been. I have traveled extensively through out North America and have seen many things the continent has to offer. Here is a list of links that cover my suggestions for you.
I spent 3-4 months exploring Mexico in a van in my mid twenties and returned again a few years later. These were some of my favorite stops.
Playa Del Carmen
Iberostar Quetzal in Playacar
Palenque
Hacienda Las Palmas
I have explored the country playing music on quite a few occasions. I will recreate one of the tours again at some point even if many of the clubs are no longer open. Some of my favorite stops were:
Storyville - New Orleans
The Stone - San Francisco
The Axiom - Houston
The Satyricon - Portland
To be continued