Mexico Travel

Mexico is a nation that almost everyone should attempt to visit at some point in their life. Full of fun, excitement, beaches, and fiestas, Mexico has become a leading tourist destination.

Just as you should do in traveling to any other country, you would also be wise to learn the ins and outs of traveling to Mexico prior to your departure to enjoy the best experience possible.

A Little Language Goes a Long Way

First, to the degree that is practical, learn some of the basic language for Mexico - at least some short, practical phrases, and typical questions. Spanish is the primary spoken language.

Also, it would be to your benefit to bring along an English/Spanish dictionary just in case. Though the dictionary will identify you as a tourist, it would be better to swallow your pride and use it rather than artificially restrict your ability to communicate.

Getting Your Paperwork in Order

Come prepared with your passport because you may be asked for it frequently. You also need a tourist card, which basically serves as your permission to visit Mexico as well as provides proof of citizenship for your native country. You will have to provide all this when landing or driving through customs.

Carrying Restrictions

When traveling to Mexico, there are certain items that will not be permitted into the country. For example, you cannot carry more than three liters of alcohol and 50 cigars. Cigarettes are also limited to 400 as long as you are over 18 years old. You may only bring one camera as well; if you still use rolls of film rather than a digital camera, you can only bring 12 rolls of film with you.

Money Options

The currency in Mexico is the Peso; most stores and restaurants only accept those. If you do not want to exchange your money upon arrival, you can use your credit cards - but you will need cash in some of the smaller stores and restaurants. Traveler's checks are great to have on hand as well because in many places in Mexico, theft is a significant concern.

Health Considerations

Another important tip to bear in mind when traveling to Mexico is that it is vital that you not drink the water. Either drink bottled water or boil your water if needed. The tap water, even though many claim to have a water purifying system, is full of bacteria that many tourists from other countries can't process internally very well.

Keep your distance from fruits and vegetables as well that have not been washed in a purifying system and cooked thoroughly. You definitely do not want to become sick on vacation simply because of the water you drink or food you eat.

Mexico is a safe destination if you head for the popular spots. Stay away from the outskirts where it can be rather dangerous. If you follow these tips and learn from the locals where to go and avoid, you should have a very enjoyable trip that will elicit happy memories rather than missed opportunities from lack of preparation or foreknowledge.

Cancun, South East Mexico. A tropical place of beauty, history and relaxation. Located on the Yucatan Peninsular in the state of Quintana Roo, Cancun is very different to the rest of Mexico and is split into two main areas - Zona Hotelera (an 18km long island) and Ciudad Cancun (the mainland.) Both of these areas are connected together with a causeway, making access very easy via taxi, bus or even just walking.

Zona Hotelera faces the Carribean on one side and has a lagoon (the Laguna Nichupte) on the other. Most of the people live on the mainland (Ciudad Cancun) which is also where the hotels and resorts are located. This has meant that the Zona Hotelera hotel is quite free from mass commercialization in many respects. Cancun also offers some of the best diving and snorkeling spots in the world, which includes the fifth largest coral reef in the world (The Belize Reef) that has black coral (coral lovers will know that black coral is quite rare.)

There are also plenty of water sports for the person who enjoys a vacation with a bit more action. The selection of excellent resort hotels, classy restaurants, local pubs and bars and a large night-life with clubs makes for a great holiday spot for all kinds of people. Shoppers will enjoy the shopping facilities (five large shopping centers, or street shopping.) For those who want to relax a little more, Cancun's lagoons, sandbars, mangrove swamps, cenotes (waterholes) and beautiful beaches are what you would be looking for.

But you could probably get a lot of the above (besides the coral reefs etc.) at most other places in the world. One of the things that sets Cancun apart are the Maya sites and ruins nearby. These ruins are fascinating in every respect - full of mystery and history. Coba nearby boasts of the largest pyramid in the Yucatan Peninsula, and the ancient sites of Uxmal, Ruta Puuc and Merida are highly recommended. All of the ancient sites are very well kept, and will pique even the interest of those that don't enjoy history.

Cancun is also a great place for a vacation in the sense that it can cater very well for all kinds of budgets. Although the mainland has many top class hotels, there are also smaller resorts or places where you can stay if you are on a cheaper budget. Transport is easy in and around the city as well, and there are many tourism operations offering you transport to the ancient sites or several islands which lie offshore nearby.

The only drawback to Cancun, as with a lot of popular tourist destinations, is that if you're the kind of person who wants serious quiet and relaxation, Cancun can be quite busy with its 'party' sort of atmosphere. But if you're looking for a place where there is lots to do, see and enjoy, Cancun will be a very good choice.

Duende Tours will offers you a tour of the Tulum, Mexico ruins as part of optional package that also includes a trip to Chichen Itza, before or after your Mayan jungle Excursion. Below is synopsis of what the Tulum Ruins are like and what you can expect from the site.

The town of Tulum, Mexico has an aura of tranquility and beauty. The town is situated on the coast of the Riviera Maya South of Cancun and Playa Del Carmen, near the Guatemala-Belize Border. The town's primary industry, like that of its sister cities in the Riviera Maya is tourism. All long the beaches one can find eco-lodges and cabanas spread amongst the pristine fine white sand. Within the quaint town, small international and domestic palapa-style restaurants line the main road. But by far the main attraction to Tulum is its fantastic Ruins.

The Tulum ruins epitomize the town's essence and beauty. Established on a bluff overlooking the Caribbean, these small but magical ruins yield awes and spectacular scenes. Although not it's original name, Tulum means "wall" in Quintana Roo Maya. According to historians the Tulum ruins were formally named, "Zama", which means, "to Dawn". Tulum was the name given to the location upon its rediscovery by Stephens and Catherwood before the Caste War in 1847.

According to regional historians, Tulum was a major port for the Maya's vast extensive trade network. Land and maritime trade routes met in Tulum, Mexico. Artifacts found in the Tulum ruins ranged in origin from central Mexico to Central America, confirming the theory of expansive trade capacity. It is theorized that the city lay in ruins after the decimation of its native population by the diseases brought over from Europe. Visiting the Tulum ruins today, tourists can still find relatively well-preserved structures on the ancient pre-hispanic site. These political and religious structures are those that best survived the elements after their abandonment. Remnants of other minor buildings lay scattered.

Set in the eastern section of the Yucatan Peninsula and bathed on two sides by the crystal clear turquoise water of the Caribbean lies the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico. There situated south of Cancun and stretching down the peninsula coastline is Riviera Maya. Due to its lush jungle, landscape, shoreline and history, Riviera Maya has a variety of attractions to entice travelers. A vacationer in Riviera Maya has a rich selection of either relaxing or stimulating activities to embark on.

Water sports Water activities in Riviera Maya run the spectrum from the quiet tranquility of secluded white sandy beaches to thrilling scuba diving. Those who are into adventure and scuba diving will be amazed exploring the breathtaking Great Maya coral reef. Formed due to the warm transparent water, it is the second largest barrier reef system in the world. The reef is home for varieties of corals. It is teeming with numerous kinds or reef-dwelling fish. Not to mention the colorful marine life that can also be found there, such as, sponges, sea anemones, sea cucumbers, starfish, sea urchins, lobsters and crabs. Divers and those who like to snorkel will also be impressed investigating the subterranean freshwater rivers with exceptional cavern structures. The ardent fisherman will take great pleasure in the sport fishing that is available here.

Golf

The area boasts a choice of professionally designed courses for enjoying a challenging round of golf. Along with the magnificent landscape, there are driving ranges, putting greens and club houses. Quality golf merchandise can be purchased in the pro shops.

Spas

During the day, one can visit a spa for ultimate relaxation. Each spa provides its own forms of service from various types of exercises and massage methods, such as Yoga, Shiatsu, Reflexology, hot stone massage and scalp massage to soothing body scrubs and wrap treatments. In addition, you can awaken your senses with aromatherapy baths or indulge in more traditional therapies, like facials, hair treatments, manicures and pedicures.

Natural Parks and Archaeological Sites

While vacationing in Riviera Maya, one ought to visit at least one ecological reserve in the area. The Sian Ka'an biosphere affords the visitor an astonishing view of nature at her finest. It is here that many diverse species of flora and fauna converge into a nature lover's delight. Xcaret EcoPark is both an ecological and archaeological park. Sightseeing is a wonderful cultural indulgence at the ancient Mayan ruins. While most structures are Mayan in origin, there is a Catholic church erected by the Spaniards. Some of the exhibits that can be seen at Xcaret are the Orchid Greenhouse, Butterfly Pavilion, Manatee Lagoon, the Mushroom Farm and Coral Reef Aquarium. You can even swim with bottle-nose dolphins.

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is the major town in the region and runs along the beach; offering tourists prominent hotels. The pulse of the city is Fifth Avenue (Quinto Avenida) which is the main street and caters to pedestrians as cars are not allowed. While strolling down Fifth Avenue, you are likely to see artists, musical groups and other unusual sights. Playa del Carmen affords the avid shopper a wide-ranging choice from delightful browsing in boutiques for colorful local handicrafts to picking up the latest trends in European fashions. Most Riviera Maya's restaurants are located in Playa del Carmen and of these the greater part is located on or near Fifth Avenue. You are able to dine on authentic Mexican cuisine, American style or International menus like Italian. After a fun-filled day about town, tourists can partake of intense partying and dancing throughout the night in the bars and night clubs.

Glorious Riviera Maya is a vacation destination that appeals to every taste and desire which is sure to produce warm memories that are able to endure a lifetime. For an outstanding tropical getaway, it is hard to find a better resort location for your next vacation.

In the small village of Chimayo, New Mexico, there is a small, dark sanctuary that each year draws thousands of visitors. The dirt found there is believed to have special healing powers, and many traverse the country hoping to be cured of whatever disease is plaguing them. After visiting the sanctuary, many head to the Rancho de Chimayo, where some of the best authentic Southwestern food is served. From there, they head to the corner of U.S. 84/285 and Route 503, where the high road begins. This famous roadway runs northeast from Sante Fe, toward Penasco, and then on to Taos. This amazingly beautiful drive is a journey that is hard to describe in words; as you leave behind the tourists that abound in Chimayo, the road lies before you, an open book, ready to be written.

A little ways down the road from Chimayo, signs direct you to the 700 year old Native American village of Nambe Pueblo, and the Nambe Falls. This region is full of functioning Native American villages that take visitors back to a different time, and give them a glimpse into the calm, spiritual, natural way of life the Native Americans enjoy. This farming community has recently seen a comeback in traditional arts, particularly pottery. For those who wish, they may tour the pueblo, which is open daily, or head directly to the Nambe Falls, just 3 miles up the road. The falls are open daily through October.

Leaving the Nambe Pueblo behind, the magic of the High Road begins. This twisting desert-mountain path takes you from one dusty town to the next. The scenery is amazing. Looking out from the side of the mountains, there are overlooks where you can see for miles. As you near towns and villages, many seem to be empty, when in fact they hold hidden gems in the way of fine art. Cordova and Truchas are two such towns that deserve a moment of your time for their galleries and studios. The artists are friendly, and happy to take the time to show you around their studio, and discuss how the natural beauty that surrounds them affects not only their artwork, but their outlook on life.

The High Road from Santa Fe to Taos is the perfect place to rediscover yourself, and rediscover the beauty of the southwest. Whether you are in it for the man made art found along the way, or the natural wonders of the desert-mountain landscape encompassing the roadway, this peaceful drive, spiritual in its own right, is sure to be an unforgettable journey.

In case of emergency:
In Mexico emergency services are reached by 060 instead of 911.  You should either commit this to memory or at least write it in an easy place to find.  In addition, be sure to keep your Mexico Insurance company's phone number in an easily accessible place.

In the event of and accident:
If your are involved in an auto accident always call the police and your Mexico auto insurance company right away.  If you wait until you get back home to call your insurance company, you claim will be denied.

Road side assistance from the Green Angels
The ángeles verdes or Green Angels are a bilingual roadside assistance service available for free to anyone with vehicle trouble. The Green Angels regularly patrol the Mexican roadways for motorists needing help.

A telephone card is required:
Nearly all Mexico pay phones will not accept change, so a prepaid phone card is absolutely mandatory.  In the event you need to call your Mexico insurance company, you will be glad you have it.

Have a full tank of fuel at all times:
If you fuel up at every gas station you won't have to worry about running out of gas if you get lost. The main thing to remember if you do run out of fuel is Don't Panic.  If you do run out of fuel, just ask the locals for help.  Remember to always carry pesos.  Mexico's gasoline monopoly, Pemex, usually only accepts payment in cash.

Be on the lookout for Speed Bumps:
Topes or speed bumps are practically everywhere in Mexico. It's not uncommon to find unmarked speed bumps right on the freeway.  While some of the road indicators are simple vibration pads, others are large speed bumps which will amount a launch pad if taken at full highway speeds.

Avoid driving through town:
When possible take the bypass road around town instead of trying to go directly though it.  Many of the city streets in Mexico were designed for burro traffic not for an SUV or RV!

Limit night driving.
Night time driving in Mexico can be dangerous.  Be on the lookout for slow moving vehicles and vehicles with improperly working tail lights.

Provide your itinerary to the State Department:
In the event of an emergency, the State Department will be able to reach you if you file your itinerary with them.  Though not mandatory, filing your itinerary with the State Department is free and easy. The United States consular office will be able to help you with financial, legal and medical difficulties.

Leave a your itinerary with a friend:
You should leave a copy of your passport, itinerary and Mexico insurance with someone back home.  If you have trouble, at least you will have the benefit of having an advocate back home.

Get an FM-T (tourist card):
When traveling over 30 kilometers into Mexico or for more than 72 hours, you must buy a tourist card for your stay.  Cards may be purchased at a Mexico tourism office, Mexico border or any airport and consulate office.

Purchase Mexico insurance:
It is illegal to drive in Mexico without Mexico insurance.  Since Mexico does not recognize any insurance, your US or Canada insurance is invalid.  If you are unable to prove financial responsibility you may be imprisoned.  Don't wait until you get to the border to buy the insurance you need, you will always find the best deal when you shop online before your trip.

For many, crossing the southern border of the United States heading into Tijuana, Mexico, is only the beginning of their journey through the Baja Peninsula. Traveling from Baja Norte to Baja Sur on Baja Highway 1 is an exciting trip enjoyed by people of all generations. The traditional road trip takes some unconventional turns as drivers set out across the rugged landscape of the Baja coast. The road conditions have improved greatly in recent years, although the highway is still very narrow. The off roads that lead adventurers to the beach and the inland areas are comprised of rock, sand, and gravel, making for a bumpy ride. There is something special about this stretch of highway in Mexico; it is a rite of passage for many young ones and a cherished mark of adolescence for their parents.

Setting out down Baja Highway 1 requires a number of preparations. Drivers are advised to let some air out of their tires, especially if they plan on doing any off road excursions. Sports Utility Vehicles are highly recommended, although regular cars can traverse the highway as well. It is also important for those who are planning on doing adventurous expeditions into uncharted territories that they pack the necessary supplies: water, food, spare tires, extra fuel, rope, tools, a flashlight, jumper cables, and of course, lots of patience and common sense. In this stretch of Mexico there are fewer gas stations than off most highways in the States; therefore, it is important that cars remember to fuel up.

The coastal areas are a popular attraction for many young surfers. The Baja Malibu is one of the most surf-rich stretches of shore in the world. Surfers from all over the world travel here to experience the waves, in addition to the atmosphere that Baja provides. There are several hostels and the populated cities in the Peninsula offer 5 star hotels with the most luxurious of amenities, however, most road trippers prefer to bring their own tents and sleep out on the beach. Diving in the reefs off the Baja coast is also a very popular thing to do, and in most cities you can find the gear to do so.

There is something special about traveling the dramatic and varied coastline of Baja, Mexico. With the right group of friends, a trip like this makes a mark so identifiable on your soul, that it is impossible to forget. Sitting around the campfire on the beach, eating tacos and tamales and drinking cerveza, one has the opportunity to reflect on what has brought them there. Taking in the skyline, the shore, and the sand, it's as if Baja wipes away the outside world, and envelopes you with its rugged charm.

Drug wars?   Insecurity issues?  As I sit on the patio of our ranch in the mountains of Jalisco, Mexico, waving to one of the villagers as he rides slowly by on his donkey, enjoying the view of our sheep grazing peacefully on our pastures,  I ponder what I have just read on internet.  I certainly couldn't deny that these things exist in Mexico, but what surprises me is that it has suddenly become such big news.  

I have lived and worked at Moonbeam Rancho, 2 hours from one of the major drug capitals of the world, Guadalajara for almost 20 years now,. I have also lived in the city of Guadalajara for 3 years and the two locations are worlds apart.  Nonetheless, they are both places I chose to raise my children and where I felt secure living.  I didn't have keys to the house at the ranch since I never locked my doors,  until I began renting it as a rural tourism adventure stay.  The house was robbed about 10 years ago, but it was  an inside job by a disgruntled worker, done while I was away and only the obvious was taken, the TV, etc. while leaving my mysterious computer and FM radio alone.  I called the local police, they hauled him in for an overnight stay at the jail, he paid to get out and thus learned his lesson.  No one has ever harmed me or my two daughters; quite the opposite, the sense of community is very strong around us, and I feel I can rely on people to help me the many times I have needed it and I have gladly reciprocated.  Running a 300 acre livestock ranch on a shoestring often left me running out of gas or my nearly bald tires having repeated flats.  I have never waited long for someone to stop and help me out and to my shame, have never changed my own tire!  

The city of Guadalajara has over 6 million people, yet taxis are plentiful (the taxi drivers to watch out for are in Mexico City NOT Guadalajara) and the worst they might do is try to double your fare if you are a "gringo", but the abundance of this cheap transportation makes travelling around the city easy and economical.  It is a place fueled by drug money, but "don't hang out your dirty laundry" is the modus operandi here and here is where the rich send their kids to the best schools, have their golf courses and every other convenience easily and safely available, including world class restaurants. Mind your own business, as I did while my daughter was attending private school, shoulder to shoulder with kids of these "drug lords' and take everyone's story at face value.  After all, when I first came to Moonbeam Rancho and began investing our once ample, and later meager, savings, local people certainly speculated on where my money was coming from...as it turns out it came from  my husband's salary as a public defender in Wisconsin and my own inheritance. 

I was quite integrated into our  local community about ten years ago which meant gossiping on a street corner with everyone else, when I heard in passing about the 3 "muertos", dead persons.  I said, "what!"  how could someone have died and I didn't know before this?!" Usually a death in our community involves holding all night vigil for the dead, a lengthy funeral and burial service which all attend.  It turned out that it was people from "outside" , not part of the community that had been quietly executed in the house in which they were hiding out.  Enough said, no more comments.  Did I feel threatened or endangered by this?  Not being in the habit of hiding out these types of people in my home, or not having the bad luck to be in that home at the wrong time, I have to say it passed me by.  These incidents have been happening in Mexico for years, as I imagine they do in many places in the world. 

Drug wars?  Maybe at the border, but not where these people have their families.  13,000 dead in three years in a country of 110 million people and 1,972,550 square kilometers, what are your chances of being in the wrong place at the wrong time: more than I can calculate, but you get my drift.  Corrupt cops?  For sure, and in what country are there not, especially in undeveloped countries where wages are too low to compete with bribes.  These economic facts often translate to low cost, great value vacations where the tourist dollar is far too important to have the police hassle the tourists.

Kidnappings?  Don't be too shocked, but I know a number of people who have been kidnapped.  They have always been either people involved in some way with drugs (in one case, just being the fiance of a drug lord's daughter who inadvertently heard too much)  or surprisingly not such rich folks, but the small town moneychangers (changing dollars is a big business in Mexico with all the US money orders and Social Security checks that are sent down) or gas station owners that have a lot of cash on hand for quick transactions.  No foreigners are  involved, we use our ATM cards too much and that's just too much work to plan out when you have your local factory owner easily available and know his habits and when he makes payroll.  I don't mean to make light of a disturbing and serious crime, but the idea that it would be danger to travel in Mexico because of the possibility of being kidnapped is quite remote.  

Our ranch is the most peaceful and wonderful place I have ever been in my travels of over 55 countries of the world.  Think about Mexico, the wonderful climate, amazing food, warm and friendly people, rich culture, and weigh this against some remote threat fueled by the latest press reports.  Mi casa es tu casa (my home is yours) as we say here,  I can't guarantee your security, but I can guarantee a wonderful vacation.

Moonbeam Rancho offers a unique ranch house rental with horseback riding and lots of peaceful cultural interaction with the local villages.  More information can be seen at http://moonbeamrancho.com

You may have heard about the Riviera Maya, about 30 minutes from the center of Cancun, close enough to the city- but away from it all! A personal favorite for me, there are secret, private beaches everywhere! Once you are in the all inclusive, there is not much reason to leave. Iberostar Paraiso Maya is running a great deal tight now. It is a spectacularly designed resort on one of the most beautiful beaches on the Riviera Maya. The service is top notch and friendly- rooms are very large and elegantly appointed. The pool complex has its own wave pool-a hit for the kids-a lazy river and many interconnected gigantic pools- Highly recommended for families and couples alike. Iberostar Paraiso Maya features five pools , lake-style pool, lazy river, wave pool, children pool and activities pool, five bars and lounges, five air conditioned specialty restaurants, one buffet restaurant for breakfast and lunch only, a pool-side snack restaurant and dine around with access to all bars and restaurants at the sister hotels Iberostar Paraiso Beach, Iberostar Paraiso del Mar and Iberostar Paraíso Lindo. Starting prices are $835pp for Air & 4nt All-Inclusive Resort.

There are great deals in Cozumel, known for snorkeling and scuba, this little island is off of Cancun. I found out that Apple Vacations charters their own planes and has very good relationships with the hotels, getting you the best prices, rooms and airfares possible. There is a big "SummerSun Fare" deal going on right now. Read the details on each hotel and understand just because the deal is advertised for 3 nights, you may be able to stay longer and still pay a low amount. A starting cost is $749+: w/Air & 3nts All-Inclusive In Cozumel (it will depend on what airport you are coming from).The Occidental Grand Cozumel is a luxury resort situated on the southwest end of Cozumel island on San Francisco Beach, across from Playa del Carmen on the mainland. Enjoy a variety of land and water sport activities daily. The all inclusive part means you can enjoy La Posada international buffet restaurant, open in morning, noon and night or guest may also choose to dine in the a la carte restaurants (Mexican, Steak and Mediterranean) If you are not interested in that particular location or hotel, scan the page or the website, there are tons of choices catering to family, partying friends and couples.

If you want to be in the heart of Cancun, check out Grand Oasis Viva Beach - All Inclusive Brand NEW, only $99pp! Grand Opening is now! This resort is located in the center of the Hotel Zone, within easy walking distance of the Convention Center, shopping, bars and restaurants. If you book this hotel as an airfare package (which is usually the best way to go), there is a company that will take off $200 from your airfare.

If you want even more variety to choose from go to: http://vacations.dunhillvacations.com/mexico-latin-america-vacation-deals/

Source: www.DunhillVacations.com

If you love nature and want to know more about Mexican history, visit XCaret, an hour south of Cancun.

Having lived in the nearby city of Playa del Carmen and worked as the illustrator for this company years ago, I spent a large amount of time there, and it is stunning.

What exactly is this place? It's a combination of zoo, aviary, butterfly garden, amusement park (without rides) and outdoor natural history museum and more. Situated within the Mexican jungle, you board a bus at the main Cancun-Tulum corridor road, and it takes you down a lush jungle road to the park. It is a large complex, so expect to spend the whole day there, and use vast quantities of sunscreen to avoid getting sunburned while there.

Walking into XCaret's main building, holding the gift shop and dioramas of major Mayan ruin sites, you will see a snack area. Sometimes there are events that happen in this building, which is the gateway to the park. Make sure to go to the gift shop, there are many lovely nature-related items for sale. You may even find something with my artwork on it, as many of my designs were used for novelty items. There are posters (which I did not do) that were there before me, and are still being sold, that are incredibly original and beautiful work. This isn't your average tacky gift shop, it's impressive.

When you walk into the park itself, you are walking into a maze of exhibits and attractions, woven by paths throughout a huge section of the Mexican jungle. There is an underground river cave, where you can go snorkeling. If you get to the park early, you'll be able to do this without being in too big a crowd. It's surreal to be carried by the water through a real underground cave, that winds around the park. Very relaxing. This is a great way to cool off, as the hot sun can get to you, even in the jungle.

There is a horseback riding stable. The horses are gorgeous Spanish-descent creatures, with long manes and elegant stature. But, when I was there, they were slow and just did what the horse in front of them did. If you want to gallop independently on the beach, forget it. They follow eachother in a line day in and day out, so they are trained to be trail horses only. It's fine if you are afraid of riding and want to try it, there's a high probability that none of them will buck you off. The ones I saw were mellow, not hyper.

Both the zoo and aviary have lovely animals that are indigenous to the Yucatan peninsula, such as jaguars, flamingos, parrots of many sizes and colors, a harpy eagle, spider monkeys, and more. All animals at the park are well taken care of. Many live in very elaborate, natural environments. The jaguars are kept on an island, separated from the tourists by a deep gorge. You can see them wiithout fear of them escaping, as they live their lives free from bars. It is a beautiful, large setup.

The lagoon is a scenic area that feeds into the Caribbean Sea, where you can go snorkeling or swim with dolphins. There are hammocks to rest in, for those who don't care to swim. This area is so colorful, with the deep turquoise water of the sea, the flowers, and palm trees all around. It is truly the full tropical experience. Stop and take a rest there.

At the amphitheatre, there are various shows worth seeing. These actors, dancers and musicians put their whole hearts and souls into their performances. For example, when I was there, they had a showcase of the different regional dances of Mexico, along with each area's characteristic costumes. It was spectacular. They have evening performances on different themes, expertly lit for the full night effect. It is all educational and great family fun.

When at the park, don't forget to stop by the numerous restaurants and snack areas. In Mexico, the wait staff will go out of their way in grand style to take excellent care of you, so tip them well. These jobs are in high demand, so they are taken very seriously. If you want top quality service, try the restaurant near the ocean, for scenery and great food.

Since my time at XCaret years ago, it has surely grown even more since then. Whatever has been added is surely innovative and educational. This establishment is pure class, they know how to take care of their customers and treat them right. Make sure to see all the sights and exhibits. You will walk away with a better understanding and appreciation for the Yucatan peninsula, its history and nature.

When it comes to having fun, few people will deny almost all of us excel. Whether snowboarding neighborhood slopes or sky diving over gorgeous mountain ranges, there is something for everyone just by stepping out your own back door. However, sometimes something different is wanting; something more exciting and more exhilarating. That is why it may be time to explore the memories you can make while visiting Cancun, Mexico.

Cancun, Mexico is often best known for its fun in the sun. Relaxing on the virgin beaches where crystal clear waters lap at your feet. Soaking up rays and improving that tan can be another favorite activity. Of course, the waters offer so much more!

Scuba diving will bring you face to face with exotic tropical fish. This Caribbean paradise offers warm waters and scuba diving experiences that are unique and will last you a lifetime. Suitable for the whole family, scuba diving can be for the novice or the old pro. Whichever level of experience you possess, Cancun offer you the chance to explore at your own pace.

Surfing is always popular among men and women of all ages. While the gentle waters may seem too mellow for serious surfers, there are locations nearby where the perfect wave is waiting for you. The warm Caribbean waters make Cancun a surfer's paradise. Whether surfing in the morning or in the evening, there are waves enough for all!

Memories start small, but Mexico offers a jump start for memories embedded in your mind for year to come. Imagine showing your grandchildren images of you visiting a local cantina where flamingo dancers strut their traditional dance; imagine showing your great grandchildren pictures of the scuba diving experience that you cherished as a child. Here in Cancun, all of your experiences are the stuff dreams are made of.

Delicious cuisines made of authentic recipes will illicit responses of awe. Enjoy authentic Mexican food while visiting Mexico, or simply sit back and appreciate good, old-fashioned American cheese burgers with a twist. Of course, you do not just dine on delicious enchiladas or chimichangas, you experience your food with all of your senses.

Memories abound here in this gorgeous locale where swimming is more than it ever was before. Either swimming at your lodging or hopping down to the beach, safety and security are paramount to your enjoyment. This makes swimming suitable for the whole family. Enjoy the warm, crystal blue waters as they lap at your toes. Appreciate the experience of a lifetime where you are the key to a much greater picture.

When you explore your own possibilities, Cancun just makes good commonsense. You will have the tools necessary to make this an experience of a lifetime. Enjoy the cuisine, enjoy the waters, and enjoy every aspect of your stay because here, you are treated like family. Appreciate the activities and amenities of your own choosing without the pressure to be more. Relax while sipping on a margarita or enjoy a perfect sunset for your personal balcony. You are the key to your own time in this little slice of heaven just south of the border.

Wondering where to go? In the Caribbean travel and life, that is no big problem. Just scroll down below to find whatever it is you are looking for balmy weather, clear blue skies, glorious seas, luxurious lodgings, fine food, sports, sights, entertainment, and even lazy days for lovers, all under the warmth of the sun.

Textual Map

Well, it is a bit difficult to describe the place in geographic terms. Just know that the region is actually a group of islands, territories, and countries located just south and east of the Gulf of Mexico and right in the middle of the Caribbean Sea. The following are the islands that are favorite travel and life destinations since time immemorial. Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Arubam, The Bahamas, Belize, Barbados, Bermuda, Bonaire, British Virgin Islands, Cancun, Cayman Islands, Cozumel, Cuba, Curacao, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Guyana, Guadeloupe, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Martinique, Montserrat, Puerto Rico, Saba and St. Eustatius, St. Barthelemy, St. Kitts Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Maarten and St. Martin, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, Turks and Caicos Island, and U.S. Virgin Islands

Activities

There are many exciting activities available to you throughout the Caribbean. In fact, this is one of the reasons why this travel and life is so popular among visiting tourists. Because when you are on the islands, it does not matter who or what you are the islands always have something to offer for everyone.

This travel and life offer all inclusive resorts where you can enjoy everything for a single price. One of the popular places that offer all inclusive travel and life is Sandals, located in the Castries area of the Caribbean Island of St. Lucia.

The resort offers two properties St. Lucia Regency Golf Resort and Spa, a couples only resort of over 200 acres of rolling hills and a beautiful half mile beach, and the Sandals Halcyon, another couples only resort. This travel and life all inclusive packages are geared towards awesome beaches, a great scuba diving program, water sports, and fitness centers.

If you like casino gaming, Caribbean travel and life offers you that as well. Head on over to Belize, Puerto Rico, Jamaica where the groovy beats of the island makes for excellent island flavored nightlife. Play a game of chance and feel like you are re in Las Vegas as you pit fortunes with the house and maybe win a few chips here and there over a round of roulette. Then quench your thirst with a few glasses of sparkles as you laugh and talk and socialize to your hearts content.

Besides fun and socializing, this travel and life also offers you a chance to get closer to nature. The offers several ecotourism where a guide takes you into the deepest rainforest reservoir where you can experience first hand some of the rarest and oldest species of flora and fauna found on earth.

Other activities you can enjoy in a Caribbean travel and life include, Children programs, Cuisine, Golf, Health and fitness spas, Meeting and conventions, Participation sports, Sailing and charter boats, Scuba diving, Spectator sports, Water sports and Weddings and honeymoons.

If you are interested in adding new intriguing and exciting destinations to your travel itinerary, don't miss the opportunity to spend your holiday in South America. By choosing to travel to this magnificent continent, you will have the chance to discover remarkable cultures and civilizations with a great history behind them, driven by the temperamental but also very welcoming Latin spirit. Some of the most prominent and important countries in South America, representing true symbols for the South American continent, Argentina, Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil and Panama have a very well-developed potential for tourism, attracting overwhelmingly large numbers of tourists each year.

These magnificent countries have known great progress and development in the last few decades, despite their struggled historical past, dominated by political conflicts and interests. Nowadays, these splendid countries on the South American continent are among the most requested holiday destinations, enchanting visitors with a wide variety of tourist sites and resorts, both old and modern remarkable architectonic structures, large and imposing metropolitan areas, all revealing the ingenious, innovative and hard-working character of their inhabitants.

The remarkable economic achievements of these major countries in South America are direct proportional with their high potential for tourism. Thanks to their great history, culture, music, as well as the amazing beauty of their urban and rural establishments, and not to mention their accomplishments regarding the much-treasured Latin passion - football, Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Venezuela and Panama have become extremely popular worldwide. Their continuously increasing popularity has determined a pronounced development of their tourism, drawing millions of tourists towards their borders.

If you decide to travel to Brazil, you will be amazed by the staggering beauty of this great South American country. Among the most requested Brazil travel destinations are its capital, Brasilia, and major cities such as Sao Paulo, Salvador and Rio de Janeiro. Famous for its majestic carnivals, magnificent natural resorts, tropical climate and the exuberance of its inhabitants, Brazil is a highly requested holiday destination. Renowned as an important center for tourism of the South American continent, Brazil attracts overwhelmingly large numbers of visitors each year. Brazil has a well-developed and extended network of airports, air travel facilitating the visiting tourists' access to major cities and various other locations between or beyond the borders of the country. Thanks to modern infrastructure and the variety of airports present here, flights to Brazil are the quick and comfortable way of traveling to this intriguing region of South America.

Similar to Brazil, Argentina is also a major center for tourism in South America. The most popular Argentina travel destinations are its capital - Buenos Aires, Mar del Plata - the main tourist resort situated on the Atlantic Coast, La Plata, Santa Fe, Santa Cruz, Cordoba, Mendoza and San Juan. Combining the Latin mentality with European cultural influences, Argentina is a welcoming country for anyone who wishes to discover new interesting locations. Thanks to the well developed network of airports present here, the best way to travel around the country is by air. Apart from being very comfortable, Argentina flights have the benefit of being inexpensive as well. Travel to Argentina and you are guaranteed to have the time of your life!

Although they are much smaller in size than Brazil and Argentina, Colombia, Venezuela and Panama are also important tourist centers of the South American continent. Vacations in Colombia, Venezuela and Panama are exciting and intriguing experiences for both regular travelers and occasional visitors. The most requested Colombia travel destinations are Bogotá, Cartagena, Cali, Villa de Leiva, San Augustin and San Andres. Among the most desired Venezuela travel destinations are Caracas, Puerto la Cruz, Isla Margarita, Isla El Grand Roque, Isla La Tortuga, Merida and Puerto Ayacucho. Popular Panama travel destinations are Panama City, Bocas del Toro, Boquete, Isla Contadora, Guadalupe, Isla Bastimentos, Isla Taboga and Almirante.

Whether you decide to visit these countries for the beauty of their tropical landscapes, shores and beaches, for their ancient cultural resorts and the variety of historical tourist sites or simply to interact with the exuberating, welcoming locals, spending your vacations on the Latin American continent is definitely a remarkable and unforgettable experience!

So, if you want to find out more information about colombia flights or about colombia vacation you can click these links. Also you'll find valuable advices about venezuela travel.

A lot of people have heard that people from the U.S. can't buy property in Mexico. This isn't entirely true. In fact the only real regulations are on the near the border and coast. These areas are called the "restricted zone". The "restricted zone" is the area within 100 kilometers of any Mexican border and within 50 miles of any Mexican coastline.

Originally the "restricted zone" was created to protect Mexico from foreign attack. The goal was to keep any foreigner from owning land that could be used to bring in an army and launch an attack on Mexico. This was written into the Mexican Constitution in article 27. The constitution was signed in 1917 and made a lot of changes to who could own property.

From briefly look at this section of the Mexican constitution from 1917, it looks like it took a lot of land away from people. It changed the concept of land ownership to one where the government actually owns all the land and even though they sell it to individuals for use, the government can get it back if they want it. From what I've seen this doesn't happen very often and when it does it is similar to what happens in the U.S. when they put in a highway through an area that used to be private property-the government has to pay a reasonable price for the land.

Other than the "restricted zone" foreigners can own land subject to Mexican law. Just because you are a U.S. citizen doesn't mean the land becomes U.S. property. It is treated just like a Mexican citizen owned it.

If you are looking to buy property in Mexico keep in mind that there is no type of real estate license required. Anyone can sell real estate and there isn't any type of code of ethics that they all agree with. You will want to work with someone trust worthy.

If you want to purchase property in the "restricted zone" there are ways to do it. The Mexican government knows that selling land on the coast is a great way to bring in money not just for the sale of the property but for the local economy. U.S. citizens coming to Mexico and spending lots money are a great way for the country to profit financially. However since the law about the "restricted zone" is written into the constitution it would take a lot of political work to change.

The Mexican government came up with a way to work around the constitution. You can create a legal entity in Mexico and use it to buy the land. Since the land is owned by a Mexican entity, this fulfills the constitutional requirements. If this entity is a trust, a foreigner can be named as the beneficiary. The trust is administered by a Mexican bank which is obligated to act on the behalf of the beneficiary of the trust.

A Mexican corporation can own land and Mexican corporation can be 100% owned by a foreign investments. This should allow a corporation to buy land in the "restricted zone". However the corporation can only by land that is not for residential use and there are other restrictions on what the land can be used for. It appears that if you created a corporation and bought a shop that had living quarters above it, you might be able to live in above your shop, but I'm not sure.

If you are looking to buy land in Mexico make sure you find someone who you can trust who can help you through the process. Law change and just because something is legal to do doesn't mean it is the easiest way to go about purchasing property.

This morning another wonderful Mexican breakfast was in store: Vanessa had made "tlacoyos con nopales" (fried dough covered with fruits of the prickly pear cactus and melted cheese on top) which I really enjoyed. Around 9:30 we got going and Vanessa's sister dropped us off, right in front of the Angel de la Independencia, a monument erected in 1910 to commemorate independence from Spain, on the Paseo de la Reforma.

The Paseo de la Reforma is an almost 4 km long tree-lined boulevard, connecting the center of the city with the Bosque de Chapúltepec. Various monuments adorn its glorietas, or traffic circles, and we had already seen one of the monuments, the Caballito, yesterday.

Right next to the Angel de la Independencia, an officer of the tourist police stopped us and asked us where we were going and if he could be of help. He was a very charming young man and pulled a laminated map out of his security jacket and pointed out all the major sights in Mexico City. We had seen quite a bit, but inevitably we were going to miss quite a lot as well since there was so much to see and there just was not enough time.

After a photo op with the tourist policeman we headed on and kept exploring the Paseo de la Reforma. From the Angel de la Independencia we continued on to the Diana Cazadora (Diana the Huntress) statue, which caused quite a stir when it was originally unveiled since it is a statue of a naked woman. The city authorities decided to cover up the statue for a while, but sanity prevailed and the shameful covers were removed after some time.

We continued our mid-morning stroll towards the Bosque de Chapúltepec, a former sacred ground for the Pre-Colombian cultures and now Mexico City's biggest park. Walking up to the castle, you first encounter a big monument called the Monumento a los Niños Héroes, commemorating the army cadets (the "boy heroes") who died defending the castle from an American attack in 1847.

From there we explored the Castillo de Chapúltepec, which was originally built in the 1760s, but is most well-known for having being the residence of the unfortunate Austrian-born emperor Maximillian, and his wife Princess Charlotte, who only governed Mexico for a few short years until 1866 when he found an unfortunate end by firing squad.

We slowly strolled up the castle hill, paid our entrance fee and started exploring the castle. In true Habsburg tradition, it is furnished with ornate, baroque style furniture, and the first thing you see are the royal "carrozas" (carriages) when you come into the first hall of the exhibition. From that point onwards you see a variety of rooms as they were used by the Habsburg monarchs - dining rooms, living rooms, a bedroom as well as a meeting room, that illustrate the extreme opulence that these royals enjoyed. No wonder the population, who was merely scraping by, got upset with the dominance and privilege of the aristocrats.

We then walked to the top level garden which is enclosed by glass windows. Right next to one of these glass walls on the ground we noticed a tiny "colibri" (hummingbird) that had flown against the glass enclosure and knocked itself out. Vanessa rescued it by taking it gently in her hand, we then walked downstairs and Vanessa set the tiny bird free on the grass. When she opened her hand, the bird had regained its wits enough to fly away back into freedom.

Then we explored the Museo del Caracol (the "Snail Museum", due to its shape), which also holds a museum on the history of Mexico (Galeria de Historia), featuring a series of dioramas depicting scenes from the fight for independence to the Mexican Revolution.

The view over the city from the castle hill is astounding and you literally enjoy a 360 degree panorama. Then we walked down the hill, past a whole series of street vendors, selling everything from Mexican snacks, to sun hats and visors, to disposable cameras, much of which is announced by promotionally shouting out the assortment of merchandise to the parade of visitors.

The Lago Chapúltepec is a popular weekend destination for Mexican families and features rowboats, swans, stages for theatre and ballet presentations and many beautiful spots to relax. We explored the Casa del Lago, an art centre run by Mexico's largest university, the UNAM. Right in front of the Casa del Lago people of all ages were painting, drawing, reading newspapers, and this location offers many free artistic and cultural activities to the local population.

Just after our visit we continued walking on the walkway with all the street vendors and saw a local artist who was producing miniature paintings, using his fingers, his fingertips, and the occasional brush stroke. He produced a variety of landscapes, including one with the well-known Mexican volcano Popocatépetl. I had a chance to take a video of his artistic endeavours and ended up buying 3 very colourful miniature paintings depicting typical Mexican scenes. While he was painting he was telling stories about the themes he was painting, and he cracked the occasional joke, which made the entire crowd of onlookers laugh.

Then we headed back onto the Paseo de la Reforma towards the Auditorio, Mexico City's famous outdoor concert facility. On the sidewalk beside the busy 6-lane road, there was a public art project: a whole series of life-sized cows that had been painted and decorated in very unique ways and provided great photo opportunities for the enthusiastic visitors. This public art campaign reminded me of Toronto's moose exhibits from a few years ago. I believe Chicago had a similar campaign with cows as well.

Once arrived at the Auditorio we purchased a refreshing "nieve" (crushed ice, in this case flavoured with lime) and walked back on the Paseo de la Reforma towards the famous Museo de la Antropología. We explored the outside and the lobby, unfortunately we did not have enough time to explore the inside. The Museo de la Antropologia is one of the most famous and most extensive museums in Mexico. It was opened in 1964 and has various collections of artifacts from Mexico's various pre-Columbian cultures. Right outside the museum is a huge stone statue of the rain god Tlaloc.

Then we took a bus (a "pesera") to the another part of the Bosque de Chapúltepec, close to the Lago Mayor, where we exited near the Children's Museum and started exploring this portion of this huge park. We were in search of the restaurant overlooking Lago Mayor and had a bit of a hard time finding it first, since there is a Restaurante del Lago and a Café del Lago. Finally after Vanessa had asked several passers-by, we figured out we had to go to the Café del Lago and sure enough we found our lunch destination. The Café is an attractive looking structure overlooking the lake, and it features a buffet lunch every day. Fortunately we negotiated our way into just ordering a soup since we had already snacked on "chicharrones" (usually puffed and fried pork rinds, but these ones were made of wheat flour) and there was no way we could handle a full meal. I simply had a delicious chile poblano, a green soup made of chili peppers that was very tasty and creamy.

Then we made our way back onto the road where we hopped onto another "pesera" that would take us to the subway station at Los Constituyentes, where we descended about 3 or 4 major staircases downwards (we must have been about 40 or 50 meters below the surface) and caught three subway trains back into Vanessa's neighbourhood. After a quick and inexpensive stint (5 pesos, 70 cents) in an Internet café, Vanessa's parents and her sister picked us up to take us to San Angel, another beautiful neighbourhood in Mexico City with colonial buildings and cobble-stoned streets.

We started by exploring the Iglesia de San Jacinto, which features an inner courtyard with a rain chute to capture rain water, and a beautiful enclosed private garden in the back of the church. Inside a big festivity was taking place: a "quinceñera" - a ritual celebrating a 15-year-old girl's entry into adulthood. Then we explored the Plaza San Jacinto which had hundreds of street vendors, selling different types of artwork. San Angel is known as a city district that is home to many artists. It features numerous permanent galleries as well as the weekend "tianguis" or "mercado ambulante" ("walking market") with vendors that set up shop only on the weekend.

For dinner we picked one of the restaurants overlooking the square and had some traditional Mexican dishes. I had a "sopa de la fonda" (chicken soup with pico de gallo and avocado) followed by an "ensalada de berros" (watercress salad with diced tomatoes, onions and bacon). Vanessa's family had a variety of seafood dishes and "chile relleno" (chili peppers stuffed with minced meat, covered with a sauce made of cream, nuts and cinnamon).

At about 8 pm we had finished our dinner and since we had had a pretty exhausting day we headed back to catch up on some sleep and rest up for our departure day.

For the entire article including photos please visit
http://www.travelandtransitions.com/stories_photos/mexico_city_5.htm

According to Jeni de Bernal, editor of InsidePV, (www.insidepv.com) the next generation of travel guides has arrived and it's in the form of a CD-Rom- the first to be released is none other than Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

Aqua Odysseas (www.aquaodysseas.com) announces their latest project, a line of highly interactive CD's covering popular destinations across the world. The first to be released include California and Mexico destinations such as Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas, and Catalina Island, with plans to release Caribbean hotspots shortly after.

The CD's provide a number of enhanced features, including a realistic 3D satellite map with geographic detail and GPS capabilities. With one click, users are virtually transported to their locale of interest where they can select flagged venues for travel information, colorful photos, even video footage and immediate access to web links to help build the perfect travel itinerary. Photos and information on popular attractions, lodging possibilities, dining, shopping, services and activities; everything is available at the click of a mouse.

Traveling to Puerto Vallarta and looking for a beach front dining experience? A single map click along Los Muertos Beach brings up information on La Palapa Restaurant and The Lazy Lizard Restaurant and Beach Bar, including entertainment features, menu, drink specialties and even beachside sunset photos taken tableside so users know exactly what to expect during their visit.

Buy it once, and never have to buy it again! The information provided is fully internet updated, guaranteeing the latest and most specific details possible, regardless of the point of purchase. What makes 3D Travel Guides even more valuable is that all the information is provided directly by local businesses, ensuring both popular attractions and off the beaten path hot spots. Whether you're planning a family vacation, romantic getaway, destination wedding, or even a great escape, Aqua Odysseas has developed the ultimate opportunity to plan the perfect retreat.

Aqua Odysseas 3D Interactive Travel Guides is available for purchase through retail outlets such as Barnes and Noble, Target, Costco, CompUSA, Amazon.com, and Borders Bookstores to name a few. At an affordable $19.99, these guides promise to change the way travelers plan and the way destinations are seen.

The last time I was in Mexico, so was everyone else, or so it seemed. But it is possible to travel to Mexico and enjoy a white sandy beach and some peace and quiet at the same time. All you need to know is where (and, in some cases, when) to go.

When to Go

November to April is widely regarded as the best time to visit. The summer months can get pretty hot. September and October is the peak of hurricane season, which actually stretches from November to June.

Keep in mind that the month of March tends to be very busy on the Mexico beaches with high school and college students on Spring Break. If it is a quiet vacation you want, you will also want to avoid the time around Christmas and Easter, as well as July and August.

Where to Go

There is a lot more to Mexico, and the Yucatan peninsula, than the city of Cancun.

Here are five favorite destinations that offer memorable Mexico vacations. Each of these spots can be reached by flying into Cancun. So if you would like to get a taste of the big city resort and then set out on the less traveled path, you will have the best of both worlds.

1. Isla Mujeres. Just 8 miles across the bay from Cancun, Isla Mujeres is a peaceful fishing village with restaurants, shops, and small, charming hotels. In fact, the whole island is cozy: The island itself is less than one mile wide and about five miles long. Downtown Isla Mujeres stretches only about six blocks. The signature turquoise waters and white sandy beaches make for great snorkeling and scuba diving. You can rent kayaks, snorkeling equipment and other gear right on the beach. Other activities to enjoy during your stay at Isla Mujeres include fishing, sailing, and swimming with the dolphins.

2. Riviera Maya stretches down the peninsula from Cancun to Tulum. Here, you will find white sandy beaches and water sports of all kinds, including scuba diving along the Great Maya coral reef, the second largest barrier reef system on the globe. Divers, and snorkelers may be rewarded with the sight of water life ranging from sea anemones, sponges and sea cucumbers to starfish and sea urchins, as well as underwater caverns. Sport fishing is a big business in Riviera Maya, as well. Other activities include golfing, spa going, and eco touring at the various ecological reserves in the region. Two highlights: the Xcaret EcoPark and the Sian Kaan bioshphere.

3. Playa del Carmen. About 40 minutes by car down the coast from Cancun, Playa del Carmen is growing into a bustling resort along Riviera Maya. If you like to shop, you will love Playa del Carmen. Boutiques in the town offer everything from cutting edge European fashions to crafts from local artisans.

During your stay, do not miss Quinto Avenida (Fifth Avenue). It is the heart of Playa. There are no cars, you can stroll the Avenue and be entertained by street performers, including artists and musicians. Playa del Carmen also features premiere dining, as the majority of the restaurants in the Riviera Maya are here, and quite a few of them are on Fifth Avenue itself. The bars and nightclubs are hopping on into the evening, so bring your dancing shoes.

4. XelHa. XelHa is an archeological site and eco park, located between Playa Del Carmen and Tulum. This destination offers adventures for all ages and mesmerizing ecological sights, as well as water sports, such as diving and snorkeling. You can swim with the dolphins here, as well. XelHa is particularly friendly for families and is bound to be an education in both Mayan history and ecology for the entire family.

5. Tulum. Drive a bit further south down the Mayan coast and you will find the small town of Tulum. Tulum is perhaps best known for its Mayan ruins, high on the limestone cliffs. These cliffs offer scenery you will not soon forget of the Caribbean alongside a picture perfect coastline. Tulum is the starting place for eco tourism and adventure travel, so make sure to look into nearby day trips and local attractions.

For an ideal and well rounded vacation, try a few days exploring the gradeur of Riviera Maya, then take some time to shop and play in the bustling Playa Del Carmen and another day or two visiting the Mayan ruins, and taking in the sites, of Tulum.

The word is out about these magnificent resorts, so you will not be able to avoid the crowds completely, but by striking out and having fun off the beaten path, you will find a good balance, and learn a lot about ecology and ancient Mayan culture.

If you are willing to learn Spanish abroad and meet a new culture but do not know where to go; probably this will help you to decide and head overseas to learn Spanish in Mexico.

As an intercultural country, Mexico has become a prime destination to learn Spanish, not only for the beauty of its landscapes but also for the quality of the educational service provided. With the current trend of young students that come to learn Spanish in Mexico, the country has flourished with modern and comfortable Spanish schools for all likes. They have achieved high standards of education and are recognized by many international organizations of the field. Learn Spanish in Mexico and enjoy professional Spanish courses that will enable you to speak the language as a native.

Most Spanish schools are easy to get to and convenient to reach from every part of the country. Come to learn Spanish in Mexico and enjoy the most tourist cities of the country and also quiet paradisiacal spots. Playa del Carmen and Puerto Vallarta are excellent options for those who come to learn Spanish in Mexico and want to go around exclusive resorts, golden beaches of international flavour and receive deluxe services all day long. On the other hand, Oaxaca and Merida are the best choices for those students who come to learn Spanish in Mexico and want to stay in more relaxed places, have more interaction with locals and enjoy the quietness of unique coastlines. Guanajuato for example, is one of the most traditional cities of the country. A beautiful location for those who come to learn Spanish in Mexico and want to get to know the typical aspects of the culture.

Learn Spanish in Mexico and enjoy adventurous trips while you take your Spanish course. Most Spanish schools in Mexico provide extracurricular activities and excursions for you to get immersed into the local culture and visit outstanding settings while you learn Spanish in Mexico. These excursions are reliable and organized to get the most of the country as you learn Spanish in Mexico.

Besides, all Spanish courses are taught by native teachers and there is a great variety of courses available. Learn Spanish in Mexico and choose the option that best suits your needs and expectations. For those that already handle the languages, there are plenty of special Spanish courses that focus on other subject areas. As you learn Spanish in Mexico you will be surprised by the great deal if opportunities to study Spanish. In most of the local Spanish school you can start your lessons every Monday of the year. So if you come to learn Spanish in Mexico dates are not an issue, you will always have a course waiting for you as soon as you arrive.

Learn Spanish in Mexico and enjoy one of the most important countries in Latin America while you get the bets of the local culture and travel around impressive tourist resorts.

For visiting Mexico the last thing you will need is a reason. Mexico as a tourist palce gives you many possibilities which you won't find anywhere else. On the business point of view it's a hot commerce destination with many activities taking place in this region.

It is located in the northern region of the American continent between the Gulf of Mexico on the east and the Pacific Ocean on the west. It is enclosed by the United States on the north and by Guatemala and Belize on the south. Mexico's land area is 1,964,375 sq km, which can be divided into six tourist regions.

Northern Mexico is known for its extreme weather conditions and characterized by its deserts, nature reserves and rugged mountain ranges. Some cities in the region are key industrial and business centers. Central region is the Mexican heartland. Here you'll find plenty of natural surroundings, picturesque towns full of life and color, and beautiful colonial cities, some of which have been acknowledged as World Heritage sites.

Southern region and the Gulf are lined with the shores of the Gulf of Mexico and the Pacific Ocean, this region offers an profusion of marshes, mangrove swamps and forests, all of which are ideal for ecotourism outings and exciting outdoor adventures.

The Yucatan Peninsula is a gateway to the Mayan world. Here you can enjoy the white-sand beach resorts and the blue waters of the Caribbean Sea, where you can scuba dive along the world's second largest coral reef. You can also swim in fresh water pools in submerged caverns, known as Cenotes.

In the Pacific Coast, you'll find cities and towns with rich cultural and culinary traditions, as well as some of the best beaches for water sports like surfing and fishing. The Baja California Peninsula Territory has been inhabited from time immemorial, in this region you can play golf on world-class courses, discover the underwater treasures of the Sea of Cortez, and witness the amazing migration of the Gray Whale.

There are number of airlines commuting to this region so getting there won't be a problem for you. With the increase in the traffic every year this place has come up with a magnitude of hotels which are known for the heartwarming welcome and a pleasant staying experience.

The facilities provided by the hotels include shuttle service, cab service or car rental, restaurants, air conditioned rooms, swimming pools, spas, guides for travel destinations, etc. What you need to do is to go to the website of the hotel or call the helpline to reserve the rooms for you.

Many tour planners offer the services to you in this region. While making reservations in the hotel make sure it is convenient in making the trip and close to the destinations you want t visit. Also confirm for the services provided by the hotel on the website carefully before making your decision.

Some of the recommended hotels in this region are ABASTOS DE OCCIDENTE, ACA Bay, ACAPULCO PARK, Acuario Bungalows, Alameda, Hotel Finnestra, Mariana Sol resort, Hacienda beach resort, Dreams Cancun resorts & spa, Ritz Carlton, Riu Cancun, Grand oasis, Barcelo Las Perlas, Hotel Posada de Las Flores, Akumal Beach Resort, Las Villas Akumal, Fairmont Mayakoba, Costa del Mar, Al Quijote Inn etc.

One of Mexico's main attractions is probably the extensive and varied traditional recipes it boasts. Learn Spanish in Mexico and discover exquisite and unusual dishes of international relevance.

The local cuisine has been greatly influenced by European countries from the invasion period. Learn Spanish in Mexico and find out how France, North America and Spain have left their traces in the country's cooking tradition.

Learn Spanish in Mexico and discover that typical food varies form region to region so do not get impressed if you travel around the country and find incredibly diverse dishes as you learn Spanish in Mexico.

Food is one of the most important features of Mexico; it plays a major role in celebrations, festivities, and in daily life and you will find this out while you learn Spanish in Mexico. As you learn Spanish in Mexico you will see how important is to respect meal times and include local ingredients. Food is sold everywhere; not only in supermarkets and restaurants, but also in vending carts on every street. If you travel to learn Spanish in Mexico you will be astonished by the different offers at hand.

Learn Spanish in Mexico and discover that the main meal in the country is lunch, generally called "comida". As you learn Spanish in Mexico make sure to take your time to enjoy lunchtime, since it is a custom to dedicate some of your time to thank for the time spent on making it. The Comida usually starts with soup course of various ingredients. Learn Spanish in Mexico and enjoy the most diverse kind of soups, the most common is called "sopa aguada". After soup it follows what Mexicans call "sopa seca", this is an intermediate dish made of rice or pasta. While you learn Spanish in Mexico you will try all kinds of beans, since they are the most important ingredients in a main dish. Main dishes after soup courses are made up of chicken, pork and beef accompanied with beans or vegetables. Learn Spanish in Mexico and enjoy discovering the curious translations of the local dishes into other languages.

Learn Spanish in Mexico and find out which are the most common ingredients present at every meal. Tomatoes, beans, corn, papaya, guava and chilli pepper are some items you can't stop trying as you learns Spanish in Mexico. Mexican sauces are also a distinguishing feature of the local cuisine. The most common dips you will enjoy as you learn Spanish in Mexico are made of tomatoes onions and chile called "salsa". Guacamole is another dip made of smashed avocado and spices; while Mole is a dark sauce served with hot meat. They are a must during your stay and as you learn Spanish in Mexico.

While you learn Spanish in Mexico also keep in mind that there are plenty of drinks and traditional beverages to enjoy during meal time or in night outings. Learn Spanish and taste the incredible fruit shakes and natural juices that are sold everywhere in Mexico. They are fresh and nutritious and are made up of typical fruits from the region. Flavoured water is other common drink sold on the streets. As you learn Spanish in Mexico try tamarind, pitahaya and tascalate with chocolate waters. If you learn Spanish in Mexico and want to try delicious alcoholic drinks, then you can not miss the so called "Margarita", the Mescal and the Tequila.  Margarita is served with squeezed lime juice, another typical fruit you will find everywhere around Mexico. Learn Spanish in Mexico and visit Oaxaca, the capital of Mescal. Mescal is renowned all over the planet for having a warm inside each bottle. Learn Spanish in Mexico and enjoy all the country has to offer.

Mexico is distinguished as a country of parallel realities, countless contradictions and staggering disparities. It is a country where ancient cultural tradition meets spring break debauchery and mass consumer industry collides with indigenous craft. Mexico's extraordinarily long and tumultuous history can account for such modern juxtapositions, as highly developed civilizations have inhabited the region for nearly 3,000 years. The rise and fall of great societies, particularly before Spanish arrival, has enriched the country with fantastic legends and lore that infiltrate every aspect of Mexico's art, design and architecture. Hernán Cortés' Spanish conquest of the Aztec (Mexica) capital in the 16th century resulted in a unique superimposition of Spanish culture over indigenous heritage and beliefs that can be identified everywhere in Mexico today.

Mexico's Advanced Ancient Age

The Yucatán Peninsula is an archeological goldmine. Situated on the Gulf of Mexico's southern shore, the region was the center of Mayan civilization throughout their rule. The extensive ruins at Calakmul ("The City of Two Adjacent Pyramids") are some of the most spectacular, embedded in the thick tropical forest of the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve and best viewed from atop one of the ancient city's pyramids. Just east of the peninsula, Teotihuacán is the archeological site of ancient Mexico's largest city and most unifying empire. By 200 A.D. this metropolis was home to the third largest pyramid in the world, the Pyramid of the Sun, with a total of 248 steps. The remains of the Olmec, Teotihuacan, Mayan and Aztec Empires, along with their surviving descendents, expose an intriguing ancient history of advanced mathematics, astronomy, farming and technology unknown to the rest of the world and largely obliterated by European conquest and disease in the 16th century.

Solace in the Sand and Sun

Travel to Mexico to experience one of North America's most popular vacation destinations, particularly during the winter. A majority of Mexico is situated in the tropics, making weather somewhat reliable and the months of July and August necessarily avoidable, when temperatures may not drop below 90F at night. Visit the year-round resort towns of Acapulco and Puerto Vallarta along Mexico's Pacific coast and Cancun and Veracruz along the warmer waters of the Gulf coast. The island of Cozumel, just off the coast of Cancun, boasts some of the world's best scuba diving and the surrounding sea is completely protected as an underwater national park. Baja California, which borders the Sea of Cortes and the Pacific, is an extremely popular destination for surfers, sea kayakers and loungers alike. Great waves, sea caves and the proximity of many interesting locales intensifies the lure of this western peninsula.

Time-Out Tijuana

Mexico's majesty lies south of the border. Move past the mental images of Tijuana stereotypes and explore Mexico's grand urban centers like Mexico City and Guadalajara. Put on a sombrero, dance to a Mariachi band and sip the finest tequila on Earth while exploring nearly 20,000 years of human history!

Where can we expect to get the most for our money?

Ann Lile: All-inclusive resorts will give you the most for your money since most packages will include all meals, drinks, and non-motorized activities available at the resort.

The Colonial Cities of Mexico (including Aguascalientes, Guanajuato, Guadalajara, San Miguel de Allende, Zacatecas and Merida) are also good value, giving the traveler a cultural/historical experience similar to Europe, only at a much better price.

When is the best time of the year to go to Mexico?

Ann: The peak season for traveling to Mexico is December through April,while the low season is from May through November.

The official hurricane season is June to October, which affects primarily the Yucatan Peninsula and Southern Coast. If you're going to be honeymooning during hurricane season, and can't take the chance of being visited by a hurricane on your vacation, you might be wise to avoid these regions of the country to be absolutely safe.

Rainy season is May through mid-October. The rainy season is of little consequence in the Northern region of the country while the Southern region typically receives tropical showers in the late afternoon on a daily basis.

Do you have any "hidden gems" of Mexico?

Ann: My personal favorites are the colonial cities of Mexico. These cities offer a tremendous amount of history, culture, architecture, a great climate, and a taste of the real Mexico. Built back in the 1500's near the silver mines, these cities offer many small, intimate properties for vacationers of all kinds.

Highly recommended places to stay are the Quinta Real properties in Huatulco or Aguascalientes, which will give the traveler an intimate experience that combines the true flavor of Old Mexico with a historical feel.

Compared to Tahiti or Hawaii, what makes Mexico a special destination?

Ann: In addition to having beautiful beaches and various water activities to enjoy like Hawaii and Tahiti, Mexico affords the traveler the opportunity to experience wonderful archaeological sites such as Teotihuacán, Monte Alban, and Palenque. In addition, travelers can explore the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza, Uxmal, and Tulum.

Mexico is also home to many all-inclusive resorts, which provide wonderful value for travelers.

Where do celebrities like to stay?

Ann: As expected, celebrities flock to resorts that offer the ultimate in luxury, comfort, and privacy.
Here is a short list of my personal favorites:
Cancun - Fiesta Americana Grand
Ixtapa - Villa del Sol
Riviera Maya - Paraiso de la Bonita and Maroma
Los Cabos - One and Only Palmilla, Marquis Los Cabos, Hotel Twin Dolphin
Costa Alegre - El Careyes, El Tamarindo, Hotelito Desconocido
Puerto Vallarta - Four Seasons Punta Mita, Grand Velas, or Kevin Costner's house!

Each year, a large number of individuals, couples, and families make the decision to travel to Mexico. Most have visited Mexico before. If you are planning a Mexico vacation, and you have never been there before, you may have some concerns. You may be wondering what places are safe for you to visit.

Mexico is like all other countries. There are areas that are known as tourists attractions and then there are other areas that tourists are advised to stay away from. You can easily learn about these areas online. Researching every city and town in Mexico is a long and daunting process. To save time and a costly vacation mistake, you are encouraged to examine the benefits of taking a guided Mexico tour.

Perhaps the greatest benefit of booking a guided tour in Mexico is that you will be with a local who is familiar with the area. Guided tours are held in areas that are considered safe. In addition to showing you around certain areas of Mexico, your tour guide may be able to offer you additional travel tips and suggestions. These suggestions may help you with your vacation after your guide has ended.

If you are interested in taking a guided Mexican tour, you will have to find the tour company which you wish to do business with. There are a large nubmer of guided tour companies in the area. If you do not have a preference as to which company you'd like to tour with, you may want to first search for a destination. The destination you select will be important in determining what you will learn and see while on a guided tour.

Many guided tours take place in Cooper Canyon, the Oaxaca Mountains, the Yucatan Peninsula and Baja. In Mexico, Baja is most known for its water activities. Many popular guided tours include whale watching and kayaking. Whether you set out to watch the whales or you select a kayaking tour, you are sure to see Gray whales. Many times, they will come right up to your boat, making for great pictures or video footage.

Cooper Canyon and the Oaxaca Mountains are guided tours that are ideal for those that love to hike. To participate in these tours, it is advised that you receive the proper health clearance. You tour will likely follow trails, but much of the terrain can be rough. The Yucatan Peninsula is ideal for travelers who wish to learn more about the ancient history of Mexico.

The above mentioned destinations in Mexico are just a few of the many. Guided tours are found all across Mexico. If there is particular topic or activity that interests you, you are sure to find a guided tour that will offer you excitement. Hikers often select a hiking tour, boats often opt for boat tours, and history lovers often select tours that focus on the history of Mexico.

In addition to selecting where you'd like to go on a guided tour, you will also need to determine how long you'd like that tour to be. In Mexico, guided tours can last as long as one day or over one week. You should easily be able to determine how long a guided tour is by looking at the price. Weeklong guided tours can cost thousands of dollars, but most of your accommodations are taken care of. Some guided tours can be considered all-inclusive vacations.

Journey Mexico, Siesta Tours, and Ufly Mexico are three of the most well-known guided tour companies in Mexico. You can examine the tours found by these three companies by visiting their online websites or by requesting free travel brochures. If you are interested in finding additional tours, your local travel agent may be able to offer you assistance.

By selecting a guided tour of Mexico, you do not always have to be looking over your shoulder. Vacationing in a safe area with an experienced tour guide is about as carefree as your Mexico vacation can get.

Are you interested in vacationing in Mexico? If you are, have you already made your vacation plans? If not, you will have to start making those plans soon. When it comes to scheduling a Mexico vacation, you have a nubmer of different ways to make your reservations. You may be wondering which method is the best.

Booking a Mexico vacation is similar to booking a vacation anywhere else in the world. Before making reservations, you will have to select a vacation destination. Mexico is a large area that has a number of popular tourist attractions. If you are interested in vacationing at a well-known resort, booking your vacation may be easy. The most well-known vacation destinations in Mexico include beach resorts and golf resorts.

If you are interested in staying a resort, it is likely that the resort will have an online website. Many popular resorts in Mexico allow you to make and pay for your reservations online. If you are pressed for time or are looking for a simple way to book your Mexico vacation reservations, you may find this method of booking the best. While beach and golf resorts are popular in Mexico, they are not the only place that you can stay while on vacation. Many individuals prefer to stay at a traditional hotel. Staying at on offshore hotel or dinning at an offshore restaurant is a cheaper alternative to vacationing at a resort. To book online reservations at these locations, you will have to find a well-known restaurant or a well-known hotel. The more popular a facility is, the more likely they will be to allow the online booking of reservations.

In addition to making your reservations online directly with a hotel, restaurant, or resort, you can use the services of an online travel website. Many online travel websites are also known as discount travel websites. This is because many of the sites offer valuable savings and discounts to internet users. Popular travel websites include Obtitz, Expedia, and Travelocity. With a discount travel website, it may be possible for you to book your travel accommodations and overnight accommodations all at once. Many individuals enjoy booking their own vacations because it gives them the ability to have some freedom. While there are a nubmer of benefits to planning and scheduling your own vacation, it is often a time consuming process. If you are interested in seeking assistance, you may want to obtain the services of a travel agent. Travel agents can not only offer you Mexico vacation suggestions, but they can also make all of your reservations for you.

If your vacation destination is centered in an area that is not known as a tourist attraction, you may have a more difficult time making your reservations. This is because many unknown hotels, restaurants, golf courses, and resorts do not allow the online booking of reservations. To make a reservation you will most likely have to contact the golf course, restaurant, or hotel directly. If you are unable to find the information, you may want to obtain the services of a professional travel agent.

Whether you book your own reservations or you use the assistance of a travel agent, your vacation can be scheduled with ease. Once you make the appropriate reservations, you can begin preparing for your Mexico adventure.

Each year, a large number of individuals, couples, and families make the decision to travel to Mexico. Most have visited Mexico before. If you are planning a Mexico vacation, and you have never been there before, you may have some concerns. You may be wondering what places are safe for you to visit.

Mexico is like all other countries. There are areas that are known as tourists attractions and then there are other areas that tourists are advised to stay away from. You can easily learn about these areas online. Researching every city and town in Mexico is a long and daunting process. To save time and a costly vacation mistake, you are encouraged to examine the benefits of taking a guided Mexico tour.

Perhaps the greatest benefit of booking a guided tour in Mexico is that you will be with a local who is familiar with the area. Guided tours are held in areas that are considered safe. In addition to showing you around certain areas of Mexico, your tour guide may be able to offer you additional travel tips and suggestions. These suggestions may help you with your vacation after your guide has ended.

If you are interested in taking a guided Mexican tour, you will have to find the tour company which you wish to do business with. There are a large nubmer of guided tour companies in the area. If you do not have a preference as to which company you like to tour with, you may want to first search for a destination. The destination you select will be important in determining what you will learn and see while on a guided tour.

Many guided tours take place in Cooper Canyon, the Oaxaca Mountains, the Yucatan Peninsula and Baja. In Mexico, Baja is most known for its water activities. Many popular guided tours include whale watching and kayaking. Whether you set out to watch the whales or you select a kayaking tour, you are sure to see Gray whales. Many times, they will come right up to your boat, making for great pictures or video footage.

Cooper Canyon and the Oaxaca Mountains are guided tours that are ideal for those that love to hike. To participate in these tours, it is advised that you receive the proper health clearance. You tour will likely follow trails, but much of the terrain can be rough. The Yucatan Peninsula is ideal for travelers who wish to learn more about the ancient history of Mexico.

The above mentioned destinations in Mexico are just a few of the many. Guided tours are found all across Mexico. If there is particular topic or activity that interests you, you are sure to find a guided tour that will offer you excitement. Hikers often select a hiking tour, boats often opt for boat tours, and history lovers often select tours that focus on the history of Mexico.

In addition to selecting where you would like to go on a guided tour, you will also need to determine how long you like that tour to be. In Mexico, guided tours can last as long as one day or over one week. You should easily be able to determine how long a guided tour is by looking at the price. Weeklong guided tours can cost thousands of dollars, but most of your accommodations are taken care of. Some guided tours can be considered all-inclusive vacations.

Journey Mexico, Siesta Tours, and Ufly Mexico are three of the most well-known guided tour companies in Mexico. You can examine the tours found by these three companies by visiting their online websites or by requesting free travel brochures. If you are interested in finding additional tours, your local travel agent may be able to offer you assistance.

By selecting a guided tour of Mexico, you do not always have to be looking over your shoulder. Vacationing in a safe area with an experienced tour guide is about as carefree as your Mexico vacation can get.

Mexico is a hub of different interests and cultures. People who travel to Mexico will witness many rich and diverse cultures and entertainment. From museums and opera houses to idyllic beach resorts, travelers in Mexico will definitely not ask for anything more.

Probably one of the places that people who travel to Mexico will surely enjoy are the beach resorts outside the capital city. At the top of the list is Acapulco, which is sometimes referred to as the Riviera of Mexico for its hotels, casinos and beach resorts. The Acapulco is a very popular tourist destination where one can also do deep-sea fishing as well as other water sports. Another haven for people who travel to Mexico is the Mazatlan, which frequently holds the international fishing tournaments as well as pre-Lenten carnivals. Hunting and fishing are also things that will interest people who travel to Mexico. One can also find in Mazatlan an observatory and one of the tallest lighthouses in the world. Other beaches that travelers in Mexico should not miss are the Cancun Island, the Puerto Vallarta and the Los Cabos.

Traveling to Mexico also opens the door to a world of arts and drama. With its many museums, Mexico is one of the most important museum destinations in the world. The Chapultepec Park houses several of these celebrated museums; the most important of which is the National Museum of Anthropology. Other museums that travelers in Mexico should also visit are the Museum of National History, Snail Museum, Technology Museum, and the Museum of Modern Art, which boasts of the finest collection of Mexican painting including those of masters such as Diego Rivera, José Clemente Orozco, David Alfaro Siqueiros, and Rufino Tamayo. Children will also enjoy the Mexico City Zoo and the Papalote, a children's interactive museum.

Traveling to Mexico will not be complete without visiting the Basilica de Guadalupe, which marks the site of the Virgin Mother's appearance in 1531. The Metropolitan Cathedral is another travel destination within Mexico. With its baroque and neoclassical façade, the church is a great example of architectural art forms.

Another Mexican architectural masterpiece is the Chapultepec Castle, which once served as presidential residence. The castle also features the murals of Mexican painter Juan O' Gorman as well as the Memorial to Infant Heroes. Los Pinos, which is the official residence of the Mexican President, is also on the grounds of the Castle.

Monuments abound in the Paseo de la Reforma, a tree-line boulevard that houses Mexico's landmarks. Travelers will surely love the monuments such as the Angel of the Independence, the symbol of the country's national identity, Cuauhtemoc Memorial and the Diana Cazadora, the statue of Diana the Huntress.

What is traveling to Mexico without shopping for souvenirs? The Zona Rosa or the Pink Zone is an ideal shopping paradise. Within the area are restaurants, boutique squares, shops and hotels. Another shopping district is the Alameda Park, which borders the Palace of Fine Arts.

History fanatics will also love traveling to Mexico's famed religious city of Teotihuacan, the capital of pre-Aztec civilization. In Teotihuacan, travelers to Mexico will find the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon, two pyramids that face each other, providing a great view of the surrounding regions from the top.

Now is the perfect time to start planning your exotic vacation to the enchanting land of the Mayan Riviera . Discover why the Mayan Riviera is the most popular destination among Mexico travelers. At your Maya Riviera hotel, enjoy days filled with sunshine and nights of endless strolling, shopping, and dining.

Stretching from Punta Brava, just south of Cancún International Airport, to Punta Allen, just south of Tulum, the Mayan Riviera is one of the most alluring vacation destinations on earth. Crystal blue waters and virgin white sand can be found along the coastline, along with fascinating ancient ruins, abundant wildlife and tropical rainforests. Besides the beautiful Caribbean beaches, Chichen Itza, an ancient Mayan city which pays tribute to a powerful ancient civilization, is the most visited attraction in the Mayan Riviera. Take time to visit eco parks in the Mayan Riviera, which are great places to play in gorgeous rainforests and waters of Mexico. The Great Maya Reef is one of the largest reefs in the world, second only to the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.

The main attribute of the Mayan Riviera is its diversity. If you are on Mayan Riviera vacations, you can choose from skydiving to golf and tennis tournaments, jungle tours by foot or on horse, a great variety of water sports, the astonishing Mayan culture through the many indigenous communities and the archaeological treasures of the Mayan world.

Diving
The Mexican Caribbean is one of the best diving spots in the world. The Great Maya Reef offers year-round diving as well as a visibility of up to 165 ft and a great diversity in plant and animal species. There are also daytime and nighttime diving tours in the ocean.

Shopping
The regional and local handcrafts are famous for its appealing colors and imaginative shapes. There are many Mayan Riviera shops and galleries showing with pride the best handicrafts selection. Visit them, you will surely find that piece that you're looking for as a gift or a memento. For example, Yucatan Peninsula's semiprecious stones are famous: amethyst, onyx, opal, turquoise and lapislazuli incrusted on silver or pewter become unique jewels. At Mayan Riviera shops, you will also find sombreros, serapes, hammocks, beach wraps, clothes and other objects full of creativity. All products sold in the hotels' stores come from all regions of México. Some are inspired in nature, some others in the people's costumes, but all of them have the distinctive seal of its skilled Mexican handcrafter. Mayan Riviera shopping is something you can not miss!!

Nightlife
Mayan Riviera nights can be peaceful, quiet, romantic evenings or wild and exciting parties. It all depends on your personal preference. For a night out, Playa del Carmen is the place to go. Almost all activity take place around Playa's 5th Avenue a pedestrian walk way filled with restaurants, sidewalk cafes, bars, handicraft stores where people from all over world get together giving this town it's cosmopolitan atmosphere. The options are exceptional from bars with lounge music, soft music, classic jazz, Mexican music, or discotheques with salsa and merengue rhythm.