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RIVIERA MAYA MUST DO’S – IF YOU DARE

Wednesday, September 28th, 2011

Xaman Ha Aviary is a wonderful natural habitat for some 60 species of tropical birds who populate the jungles of the Yucatan peninsula.

Here you can see roughly 200 individual birds living in harmony with one another, all within an open-air sanctuary that has paths and trails leading to the birds’ preferred nesting areas. These birds live, eat, fly and reproduce within Xamana Ha’s little Mexican jungle, and they intermingle with many of the non-winged species of Quintana Roo; like iguanas, butterflies, squirrels, and the turtles and fish found in the cenotes of the Riviera Maya and Yucatan.

Kids love this place! Xaman Ha is one of the only places where children are certain to see some of the most spectacularly colored birds of the jungle and hopefully develop a sense of repect for them and their natural habitat.

And Xaman Ha is a great find for adults too, and a unique opportunity to practice your photography skills. Both still and video cameras are allowed in Xaman Ha Aviary, and for those bird lovers who like to use a tripod to steady their camera, these are also allowed at no additional fee (unlike many of the Maya ruin sites of the peninsula).

below- A wooden walking bridge over the natural terrain
Stone paths meander through the greenery.

below left- Great Egret (Casmerodius albus) are fish eating migratory birds that populate the saltwater estuaries of the peninsula. This bird is large, white and has a yellow bill and dark legs. Range: US through Central America, West Indies to S. Argentina. Mexico: nearly throughout, mainly lowlands.

below right- Brown pelicans (Pelicanus occidentalis) float in the tannic stained waters of a pond where they hunt for fish. These birds are huge, dark and have a long bill with a pouch. Range: Coasts of Southern US, West Indies, Central American to north and west South American. Mexico: Entire length of Pacific Cost including the Gulf of California breeding locally on offshore islands. Also found on the entire length of the east coast Gulf of Mexico.

Great Egret and Brown Pelicans

below- A Yellow Tailed Oriole (Icterus mesomelas) enjoys a lunch of fruit. Many of the tropical song birds are fruit eaters. Field marks: Adult: A yellow crown with 3 mostly yellow outer tail feathers. Throat, back, wings (except coverts) and central tail feathers black. Immature: similar to adult but largely yellowish olive above, lemon-yellow below; may or may not have a black bib. Similar species: Other yellow or orange-crowned orioles have all black tails. Voice: A loud clear whistle of two phrases, repeated chee-wow, chee-wow, or gee-wow, gee-wow. A loud repetitious chant: wur-chip-chewoo, wur-chip-chewoo, wur-chip-chewoo, repeated. Range: SE Mexico to Western Peru. Mexico: Gulf slope from south Veracruz through N Chiapas, Tabasco and Yucatan. Habitat: Second growth, humid forest borders.

Yellow Tailed Oriole

3 photos below- Polly want a cracker? … There are many species of parrots.

below- White-fronted Parrot (Amazona albifrons) Field marks: A green Amazon parrot with a white fore-crown read wing patch. Distinguished from Yellow-lored Parrot by red lores. Greener. Lacks dark ear patch. Female shows some white on the forehead, red lores. Almost no red in the wing. Similar species: 1. Yellow-lored Parrot, found in the Yucatan and Honduras, and 2. White-crowned Parrot which is dark blue. Voice: A noisy yapping, ak-ak-ak or yap-yap-yap. Range: Mexico to Costa Rica. Mexico: Pacific slope, foothills from South Sonora to Chiapas; Gulf lowlands from SE Veracruz east through lower Yucatan Peninsula. Habitat: Dry country, open woodlands, scrub; also border of humid forests in lower Yucatan.

White-fronted Parrot

below- Another fruit eater, the Keel Billed Toucan (aka the “fruit loops” bird) is one of the most photogenic. Field marks: This, the largest Mexican toucan and can be identified by its bright yellow cheeks and chests and huge brightly colored bill (green, blue, red and orange) which gives it the nickname “banana bill”. Rump white; under tail coverts scarlet. Flight: 2 labored flaps and a glide. Similar species: Collares Aracari is smaller, has a solid black head, red rump, and a smaller, less colorful bill. Voice: A monotonously repeated scratchy krrk or grrik, very frog like. A very often repeated gaab. Range: S Mexico to N Columbia, NW Venezuela. Mexico: from Oaxaca, Publa, Veracruz, south and east. Habitat: Lowland forests and forest borders to 200 ft.

Keel Billed Toucan (aka the “fruit loops” bird)

below- Snowy Egrets get along well with their brightly colored neighbors, the pink flamingos. Snowy Egrets (Egretta thula) range: US through Central America, W Indies to Chile, Argentina. Mexico: Nearly throughout all of the country, mainly in lowlands.

Snowy Egrets

below- Long, lean and colorful, pink flamingos otherwise known as Caribbean Flamingos (Phoenicopterus ruber ruber) have no problem falling asleep while balanced on one skinny leg. These extremely slender, gregarious pink wading birds fly with their necks extended. The bill is sharply bent and flamingos feed with their heads in an inverted position. They eat algae, diatome, mollucks, crusteanceans, etc. Range: Caribbean, South America, Galapagos Island and Africa. There are six species of flamingos in the world and this one species is in Mexico; located mainly on the coast of the Yucatan. They may wander west to Southern Veracruz and east to the Caribbean coast.

Pink Caribbean Flamingos

The pirates’ companion, scarlet macaws have a dazzling combination of colors and love to squawk! Scarlet Macaws (Ara macao) Field marks: Unmistakeable; very large long tailed scarlet parrot exhibiting a wing pattern of red, yellow and blue. Voice: Harsh calls – rrraaaa. Range: East Mexico to Bolivia, Brazil. Mexico: Tropical lowlands of South Veracruz, Oaxaca, Chiapas, rare local. Recorded also in South Tamaulipas, South Campeche. Habitat: Tall deciduous trees of lowland forests, savannas and watercourses.

Finding Xaman Ha Aviary

Xaman Ha Aviary is located in the heart of the Riviera Maya in Playa del Carmen, midway between Cancun and Tulum. Their address is: Paseo Xaman Ha S/N Fraccionamiento Playacar, Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, Mexico. To get there drive highway 307 south past Playa del Carmen and Playacar. Then take the left “retorno” lane (U turn lane) to head north on highway 307 staying in the extreme right lane. Pass the first Playacar entrance, go up the hill and then make a right turn into the next Playacar entrance. Go past the guard gate and continue straight to a traffic circle and bear right taking the first off-shoot lane to the right. Xaman Ha Aviary will be a short distance on your right. If you reach the golf course or Plaza Playacar you’ve gone too far. Entry fee: $150.00 pesos per adult, one child under 12 free with a paying adult. Hours: daily 9am-5pm.

Article by http://www.locogringo.com/past_spotlights/june2004.cfm

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Riviera Maya Must Do’s – If you dare

Thursday, July 7th, 2011

In 1984, architect Miguel Quintana Pali purchased 12 acres in the Mayan Riviera, in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo where he was going to build his house. However, when he started to clean the land he discovered natural sinkholes known as cenotes and beautiful underground rivers. He then decided to create a park where everybody could access the natural wonders of the region. Along with Oscar, Marcos and Carlos Constandse, Miguel Quintana Pali brought to life Xcaret Park. 

Xcaret was opened in December 1990 as an eco-archeological park where visitors from all over the world can enjoy the splendor of Mexico’s biodiversity and cultural heritage. Due to its great success the park has been preserved with an environmental management system.

Today the use of sun tan lotions is controlled by offering visitors over 250 samples of eco-friendly sun block lotion every day. More than 108 gallons of water are daily reused for irrigation throughout the park and each month Xcaret produces 160 tons of compost which is used to fertilize green areas and the plant nursery.

Xcaret is also dedicated to promote marine turtle conservation of two species that arrives every year to Quintana Roo’s coastline to nest: loggerhead and green sea turtle. To know more about their migratory routes turtles travel through their life cycle, Xcaret uses an auto grafting technique in some hatchlings so they can be identified when they return to nest. 

During the months of May and November Xcaret carries out two grand events to strengthen the cultural identity of Quintana Roo’s communities: The Sacred Mayan Journey and The Death and Life Traditions Festival. For consecutive years, Xcaret has been named a Socially Responsible Company by the Mexican Center for Philanthropy. 

“Xcaret is a corner in Mexico that touches the soul of thousands of people. This inspires us to work day by day with passion, pride and responsibility. The strategic priorities of the park will continue to be based upon issues related to our country’s natural resources, people and culture. And it will go on this way.” Arq. Miguel Quintana Pali (Social, Cultural and Environmental Balance, 2008).

Snorkel in Xcaret Park’s Underground Rivers

The underground rivers that run through this amazing theme park in Mexico are breathtaking natural wonders where you can swim and snorkel in Xcaret during your Riviera Maya vacation. Normally you need to be an expert diver to undergo these cave challenges, although at Xcaret ecological park you only need a life vest to experience this mysterious underwater world.

Xcaret’s underground rivers are part of a large cave system that forms deep under the surface of the Yucatan peninsula. Snorkel in caves and swim along unique rock formations and marine fossils at Xcaret Park Mexico. The underground rivers at Xcaret are 5 feet deep and they feature exits where you can stop and relax with the warm sun rays. This is one of the top things to do in Cancun during your family vacation in Riviera Maya. 

Both Xcaret tickets and Xcaret tours include access to the underground rivers, and you will be provided with a life vest and the use of personal bags for the transportation of your belongings to the river exit. It’s important to know how to swim to enjoy Xcaret’s underground rivers.

Paradise River

Paradise River has become a favorite option for those who want to experience the underground rivers at Xcaret eco theme park without getting wet. The abundant flora and fauna of the Yucatan Peninsula will amaze you while you cruise down the river waters on one of our special rafts.

Xcaret Coral Reef Aquarium, be amazed under the sea

Explore the fascinating coral reef surrounded by a rainbow of tropical fish, hard and soft coral, anemones, sponges, star fish and crustaceans, among many other marine creatures that inhabit the Coral Reef Aquarium in Xcaret. 

The Coral Reef Aquarium at Xcaret, the only one of its kind will transport you to the depths of the Caribbean Sea. It exhibits the biodiversity of the ocean’s underwater gardens, with different ecosystems thriving at distinct depths. 

Very few aquariums in the world have been able to exhibit long-term healthy samples of these delicate and complex ecosystems. More than 500 corals have been planted successfully at Xcaret’s Coral Reef Aquarium on the artificial reef structures, thanks, in part, to the unfiltered sea water continuous pumping system that allows free flow of plankton directly into the exhibit tanks, along with sponge larvae, corals and mollusks that start natural colonization processes. 

Interactive exhibits will allow you to touch some of these wonderful species that inhabit the coral reef in Riviera Maya. The marine exhibit at the Coral Reef Aquarium at Xcaret includes more than 5,000 living organisms including tropical fish such as surgeons, butterfly and angel fish, as well as sea horses, urchins, anemones, crabs, lobsters, nursery sharks and rays.

Archaelogical sites and Mayan culture in Xcaret

Xcaret which means in Maya language “little inlet”, used to be an ancient port that functioned as a very important trade route. Xcaret port city was initially called by the Mayan civilization as Ppole. 

Xcaret rose to the height of its power in the late Post Classic Period (1400-1517 AD) of the Mayan culture. Archaeologists tell us that Xcaret was also a major ceremonial center, where Maya from all over the Yucatan peninsula would go to purify both body and soul in the baths located in the city’s sacred wells before sailing for Cozumel Island, a sanctuary for the Moon goddess, Ixchel. 

Ppole was strategically situated in one of the main maritime routes of the Maya which extended from the Yucatan Peninsula coastline south Belize and Honduras, and featured temples and monumental structures which can be admired today at Xcaret’s archaeological sites. The inlet was a natural safe harbor for large canoes sailed by brave oarsmen who transported over 40 passengers and heavy loads. Xcaret was also a very important site where feathers, gold, jade, honey and cotton cloth were traded. 

Ppole was also the first place where the Itzaes landed to invade the rest of the Mayan world, finally settling at Chichen Itza in 918 AD. Some of the ancient Mayan vestiges of Xcaret feature 500 residential structures and over 60 temples which are scattered throughout the surrounding jungle, which remain as living testimonies in stone of Ppole’s past glory. Learn more about Mayan culture at Xcaret’s archaeological sites.

Vino de México Wine Cellar, house of Mexican wine

Discover the culture and history of Mexican wine framed by a unique and extraordinary place: our spectacular underground Vino de México Wine Cellar at Xcaret. 

Learn about artisanal wines and even about the most traditional wine-producing companies in Mexico, through a unique and incomparable exhibition that brings together passion and senses. 

The Vino de México Wine Cellar was firmly created to promote the culture and history of Mexican wine. Here, more than 413 years of history – from the first wine-producing company in Mexico to the oldest in America – are collected. 

In this majestic site you’ll find over 157 Mexican wine labels, with unique and peculiar characteristics according to their place of origin, and you’ll also admire our great production and tasting items collection at our Vino de México Wine Cellar at Xcaret. 

In this Mexican wine embassy, our expert Sommelier takes you to a wonderful trip and provides you with the best tips to have these delicious wines tickling your senses. 

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience our unique Cava: Mexican Wine Tasting at Xcaret (enjoy activity for additional cost).

Marine Turtles Area in Xcaret, a cycle of life

As contemporaries of dinosaurs, turtles have a long and exciting story to tell. A story that mostly takes place in Mexico where six out of seven marine turtles that exist in the world visit the Mexican coastline during nesting season and four of them visit Quintana Roo. 

Unfortunately, human activity is linked to the drastic reduction in the population of marine turtles in Mexico and worldwide. Sea turtles have complex life cycles and they have come so far throughout history by evolving, that they have also become an extremely fragile species. 

Xcaret carries out a Marine Turtle Conservation Program in Riviera Maya that includes rescue, rehabilitation, marking and release operations. Sea turtles in Xcaret that are protected under this program arrive from Xcacel beach, one of the most important nesting areas for green turtles (Chelonia mydas) and loggerheads (Caretta caretta). 

Come and visit our unique exhibition of Sea Turtles at Xcaret that allows you to get close to these fabulous creatures of the sea and learn more about the major problem that is affecting sea turtle populations. 

Xcaret promotes environmentally friendly practices that are making a difference in the world. Visit Xcaret’s Marine Turtles Area located just steps away from the Coral Reef Aquarium and join us in our efforts for sea turtle conservation in Riviera Maya, Mexico and worldwide.

Flamingos in Xcaret, conservation program

At Xcaret Park we have a special program to protect flamingos in Mexico (Phoenicopterus ruber) which is renowned for its extraordinary breeding success in the park’s facilities. 

Flamingos in Mexico are very social birds that live in large communities, allowing them to take care of each other and protect themselves from the dangers of the environment. 

Inside the reproduction area at Xcaret eco theme park, flamingos engage in loud mating rituals and build their nests within a natural environment provided for their comfort. Since the beginning of the breeding program we have had 72 births out of a population of approximately 118 adult flamingos. 

Their gleaming pink bodies, long and curved beaks, small heads, long legs and pronounced necks make them one of the most interesting and amazing creatures in Xcaret Park Cancun. Come and enjoy the impressive ritualized flamingo displays of Caribbean flamingos in Xcaret. 

Flamingos are migratory birds and a vulnerable species in Quintana Roo. Each year they travel long distances to make their nests and have their babies in one of the most important nesting zones of flamingos in Mexico located at Río Lagartos in the Yucatan peninsula. 

Admire the bright color, amazing postures and the loud noises of the flamingos at Xcaret.

For more information or to book a visit contact your hotel Concierge or visit www.Xcaret.com

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Riviera Maya Must Do’s – If you dare

Friday, April 29th, 2011

Only 3 hours from Cancun and 24 kms from Chetumal (Quintana Roo’s capital) Bacalar is Mexico’s second largest fresh water lake and still one of its best kept secrets. I first went to Bacalar about 12 years ago and I try to go at least once a year.

Bacalar boasts beautiful lush scenery and of course its main attraction is its lagoon of seven colours..and there really are seven colours I counted Of course a trip to Bacalar is not complete without visiting the Cenote Azul which is a large sinkhole of about 182 meters deep—a favourite among scuba divers. You can find a small restaurant there to enjoy a leisurely breakfast or dinner and perhaps an afternoon swim.

For several years now my husband and I always stay at a family run hotel on the edge of the lagoon with breathtaking views called Hotel Laguna Bacalar http://www.hotellagunabacalar.com/home.php The accommodations are clean and simple that can accommodate from 1-10 guests and they have a nice restaurant with both outdoor and indoor seating. Make sure you try the conch steak—YUMMY!

We love to spend at least two days at Bacalar as we generally arrive in the afternoon after the drive from Cancun. After settling into our room we take our beach chairs out onto the dock and soak up the warm Caribbean sun and swim in the refreshing lagoon until the sun sets and then we enjoy a simple meal and play some cards until bedtime. The following day we often take a drive along the scenic coastline and then have lunch at the Cenote Azul and swim. http://www.cenoteazul.com/ On our last day we like to go to the “Balneario” which basically translates to public bathing area. It is located just below the San Felipe Fort that was built in 1733. There you can relax on the lagoon’s sandy beachside, eat in their restaurant, rent kayaks/canoes or take a small tour by speedboat. It is a very popular place and it can get quite crowded if you are there on the weekends. At the end of the day we pack up our stuff and bid farewell once again to Bacalar knowing that we will be there again soon.

Recently there has been quite a bit of talk that Bacalar will be the next “big thing” in the Riviera Maya. There are plans to build a Safari Park and several new hotels and condos. I can only hope that this doesn’t change Bacalar from the place that I have enjoyed visiting for so long into another typical tourist destination but I guess you can’t keep a beautiful place like that a secret forever.

Article by Ashlie http://ashlied.wordpress.com/2010/03/01/discover-bacalar…-lagoon-of-seven-colours/

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RIVIERA MAYA MUST DO’S – IF YOU DARE

Saturday, February 26th, 2011

Holbox Island, a small and authentic paradise, is located on the Nortern tip of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. A place of rest and wonder since ancient Maya times waits for you to discover it.

Holbox Island one of the natural beauties of the State of Quintana Roo in México, is part of the protected area called “Yum Balam”, an ecological reserve. On the east side of the Holbox island is Cabo Catoche, and a lagoon separates the Holbox island from the main land: Laguna Yalahau. Holbox is 43 Km long and its white sand beaches are decorated with countless shells the sea washes to shore.

Holbox Island, one of the world’s natural beauties, is located on the northern tip of the Yucatán Peninsula, in the state of Quintana Roo, México and is part of an ecological reserve – the fauna and flora protection area “Yum Balam.” To the east lies Cabo Catoche, separated from the island by the beautiful Laguna Yalahau. Holbox island is 43 Km long and its white sand beaches are decorated with countless shells washed to the shore from the sea.

Holbox Island is the home of the whale sharks in Mexico.  The Laguna Yalahau near Holbox Island Mexico (part of the Yum Balam reserve) is surrounded by mangroves, once a valuable material to make ink sticks that were sent to Europe. At the mouth of the lagoon sits the famous “ojo de agua” which has provided fresh drinking water through the centuries. It is in this lagoon where the pink flamingoes, typical in the summer season, feed. Often, one may see dolphins and many fish species, as well as whale sharks and other marine life.

Isla de Pájaros (Bird Island) is located in the Laguna Yalahau. Over 140 bird species living in the Yucatán visit Holbox Island and the Yum Balam reserve throughout the year, and many of them become permanent inhabitants. This Island is a protected natural area which can be reached only by boat and it is forbidden to set foot on it. These precautions now allow humans to visit the island and get close by without frightening its population.

Holbox Island is a nature- sanctuary which appeals to lovers of the serene natural life and offers an unforgettable holiday. The excursions and activities prepared by Holbox Travel are designed for your comfort and enjoyment and will enable you to really live the authentic Holbox Island experience.

Holbox Island, has just one village, the tiny town of Holbox, where less than 1500 people live. It is a typical coastal village with sandy streets and wooden houses. Most of the people make their living from the sea. Fishing in Holbox Island is excellent and it is very common to catch grouper, bonitos and pargos of great size in its abundant waters. The island fishermen also dive to get lobsters and conch – island specialties

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RIVIERA MAYA MUST DO’S – IF YOU DARE

Thursday, November 25th, 2010
Dolphin Encounter®

A program for all ages: Learn and have fun!

Imagine an exchange of looks; a gaze full of liberty and love. That is the beginning of an unforgettable experience in Puerto Aventuras beside marine friends, the dolphins. During theDolphin Encounter ® program, you and your family will have the opportunity to receive all the affection of these tender and playful animals that always seem to smile. In this swim with dolphins program your kids will be able to enjoy safe and funactivities that Dolphin Discovery Puerto Aventuras has specially designed for all ages. Doesn’t matter if you are 1 or 80 years, you will be able to enjoy from a platform that will cover half of your body and swimming is optional. Your new friend will give you unlimited love, he will give you a Handshake, he will Sing and Hug, you will be able to pet him and swim in a place that he and his other dolphin friendscall “home”: the Mexican Caribbean.

Our dolphins will always welcome you in our location highlighted by its beautiful environment next to the Caribbean Sea. Return home with this memory that will last forever!

Dolphin Royal Swim®


Pure excitement: action and speed!

Have you ever dreamed about swimming with dolphins in the beautiful waters of the Caribbean Sea? Today you can make your dreams come true! The Dolphin Royal Swim® program, is best defined with the words action and speed. It is the most dynamic of all the swim with dolphins programs, and this time. Dolphin Discovery Puerto Aventuras, will give you an experience to talk about for the rest of your life with family and friends. On the beautiful complex of Puerto Aventuras, Riviera Maya, a few minutes from Playa del Carmen, one of our incredible dolphinariums is located in a totally natural environment.  You will find interesting aquatic activities with these tender animals that seem to know you already. While you walk by the pier, you will notice them following you, waiting for their playtime. They will conquer your heart before you even get into the water. They will give you a handshake, kisses and will pull you with their dorsal tows to give you a speed ride! After that, the dolphins will push your feet to raise you up the water surface, you will feel like you are flying!

Today you are alive, feel the freedom and magic of dolphins!

Dolphin Swim Adventure®


Perfect entertainment: Up-close and underwater!

If swimming with dolphins is one of your greatest dreams, now is the time to make it real! In the crystal clear waters of the Caribbea Sea you will be able to live an adventure that you will remember forever. The Dolphin Swim Adventure® in Puerto Aventuras—a beautiful residential complex located in the Riviera Maya – will bring you as close to the dolphins as you ever imagined.  You will discover yourself in their world through a snorkeling mask and you will understand the greatness of the special bond between you and them. They will tenderly say hello with their fins, they will kiss you, sing for you, take you for a ride on their belly and you will be able to swim in Caribbean waters while they jump or play with you. The dolphins will be your pals for the rest of your life.

For full information about prices, schedules and reservations contact your hotel concierge of go to http://www.dolphindiscovery.com/

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Riviera Maya Must Do’s – IF YOU DARE

Friday, October 22nd, 2010

XICHEN

Tour Xichen is an exclusive guided tour to the archaeological site of Chichen Itza that includes an unforgettable tour to Valladolid, a colonial Mexican town surrounded by picturesque, beautiful and captivating corners worth visiting, such as a Mayan Cenote and the ex-Monastery of Saint Bernardino of Siena.

Enjoy a delicious All Inclusive buffet lunch in a typical Mexican restaurant in Valladolid. An exquisite variety of Yucatan’ specialties, as well as the best Mexican and international cuisine.

Tour Xichen All Inclusive to Chichen Itza-Valladolid includes:

  • Roundtrip transportation in a deluxe bus with air conditioning (includes pick-up service from your hotel).
  • Light gourmet breakfast (baguette, fruit, sweet bun and dessert) during the trip on bus.
  • Guided tour at Chichen Itza with certified bilingual guide.
  • Visit to the city of Valladolid where you can take a walk to the Calzada de los Frailes street and the San Bernardino ex Convent.
  • All Inclusive lunch in Valladolid with an exquisite selection of Yucatecan cuisine, Mexican and international buffets.
  • Visit to the Mayan cenote Zaci (the visit will be brief after lunch so swimming is not recommended).
  • Unlimited drinks on bus (soft drinks, juices, coffee, bottled water and beer) and refreshing facial towels during tour.

Chichen Itza in Mexico which means “at the mouth of the well of the Itza” in Maya, is the most important archaeological site of the Mayan culture in the Yucatan Peninsula.

Chichen Itza was a city founded in the year 525 AD and experienced several stages in its development, as result of cultural fusion with other Mexican groups that conquered the city during its existence. Although its architecture presents variations, its style is unique and impressive. The archaeological site of Chichen Itza features many stone buildings which exhibit very fine architectural styles and some brightly colored interior frescoes.

At the end of the late classic period between the year 600 and 900 AD, Chichen Itza became one of the major political centers of the Mayab region and rose to regional prominence as one of the most powerful Mayan kingdoms of the Yucatan Peninsula. The Maya extended their domain through a unified culture and made Chichen Itza their capital. However, by the year 1,250 AD the city was mysteriously abandoned for reasons yet unknown.

In 1988, the archaeological site of Chichen Itza was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. After a worldwide vote in 2007, it was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Valladolid is one of the main tourist attractions of the region due to its cultural and historical heritage, natural cenotes and traditional gastronomy, its colonial style and key location to the most famousarchaeological sites of the Yucatan Peninsula. The city of Valladolid in Mexico was founded in 1543 by the Spanish conqueror Francisco de Montejo, “The Nephew”, on the ancient Mayan city Zaci. Francisco de Montejo carried out the conquest and pacification of the indigenous people of the east and baptized this beautiful town after the city with the same name in Spain.

Valladolid city in Yucatan is renowned by its abundant tropical vegetation and stunning natural sinkholes (also known as cenotes). During the Colonial period, Valladolid became the main trade center of the Yucatan Peninsula and was called by the local population the “Sultana of the East”. Valladolid city has over 65,000 inhabitants and is the third most populated city in the Mexican state of Yucatan, after Merida and Tizimin.

For more information visit http://en.xichen.com.mx/

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RIVIERA MAYA MUST DO’S – IF YOU DARE

Tuesday, September 21st, 2010

SKY DIVE IN PARADISE

For the adrenaline lovers!

There is World famous Underwater Diving in Playa Del Carmen and then there is Sky Diving.

The parachutes used at Skydive Playa are ram-air canopies and are rectangular in shape. They actually glide through the air like an airplane wing, allowing even the novice jumper to make a soft, stand-up landing. But don’t think you’ll be flying alone. The staff at Skydive Playa is fully trained and licensed by the United States Parachute Association (USPA). Each of your jumpmasters has years of experience and is dedicated not only to training but also to skydiving demonstration and competition. The staff at Skydive Playa holds a National Championship Recognition. They’ll train you for the jump and then accompany you on a flight over Playa del Carmen.

TO REMEMBER: Your first jump and to show your friends, we can provide video and still photography from training to freefall to landing.

Skydive Playa del Carmen
Has been enjoying human flight for more than 20 years. During that time, advances in equipment and training have made it safer and easier for more people to enjoy the world’s most exciting sport.

TANDEM JUMP

This is one of the most popular skydiving programs. This jump includes a 45 second freefall, and an 8 minute canopy ride while you’re actually attached to your jumpmaster. This is a unique way to experience your first skydive.

TRAINING: For a  Tandem jump is only about 20 minutes.

JUMPING: While attached to your jumpmaster, you will exit the plane from 10,000 feet. After a 45 second freefall, you and your instructor will be suspended in a dual harness below an oversized ram-air canopy.

While under canopy, the instructor will assist you in guiding the canopy to a soft, on-target landing.

For more information visit http://www.skydive.com.mx

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RIVIERA MAYA MUST DO’S – IF YOU DARE

Thursday, August 19th, 2010

XEL-HA NATURAL WATERPARK

Xel-Há is the Eden of the ancient Mayan deities, destined to be a heaven on Earth from the moment it was conceived. The gods combined all that was best of themselves…their dreams and wisdom, that which was most perfect and pure, and brought it into existence inthe place where the waters are born. After delegating guardianship of the heavens, seas, and land to three animal-deities, this pristine natural jewel was presented to mankind.

Huh, the iguana is the guardian of the land, Mo the macaw is the guardian of the sky, and Kay-Op, the parrotfish, is the guardian of the waters.

Up until today, Xel-Há continues to obey the wishes of the gods –that this paradise be shared in all its dazzling natural beauty, its pure, cristaline waters, its luscious rainforest, the rich beating of its heart of Life.

The Xel-Há Inlet is an aquarium free of walls and glass panes, without man-made lights or feeding mechanisms, which every visitor should be allowed to explore with equal freedom. And so Xel-Há has been designed to accommodate everyone, from first time swimmers to expert snorkelers.

With over 70 species that have chosen this earthly paradise as their ideal habitat, plunging into the dizzying myriad of colorful fish is the experience of a lifetime. All dreams of meeting fascinating creatures in the flesh –dolphins, stingrays, turtles, all in their genuine niche –are about to come true at our Natural Aquarium.

Of the 200 acres of nature that make up Xel-Há, almost 150 of these are lush tropical forest. The rich vegetation (over 220 recorded species of plants, many in constant cultivation at the Plant Nursery as part of Xel-Há’s reforestation program) holds as marvelous an abundance of life as the waters do below.

Through the fragrant trails on foot, bicycles, or motor vehicles, one will discover amazing biological luxury, scenery stunning to all the senses, mammals, reptiles, birds, and plenty of places to stop along the way and surrender to the beauty of Nature.

Entering Xel-Há is an invitation to live life at its very fullest. Adventure is unsurpassable here; the color of everyday existence will pale at the comparison. Nature thrills the senses with sensations, rushes, and awe –this is the place to dive deeper, to jump higher, to run faster…to breathe freely at last.

Whether feeling the wind on one’s face on the Floating Bridge, painstakingly balancing the length of Trepachanga, or crashing into the waters below from the Cliff of Courage, Xel-Há will leave the nerves tingling and the soul aching for more.

At last…the dreams of stepping through the aquarium glass, of drifting into an astonishing world of underwater magic are about to come true.

Xel-Ha is nature as no one has ever felt it before, a place to share in celebrating the biological parade of the Riviera Maya.

Our Natural Wonder and its open-sea aquarium offer a myriad of land and water activities, ecological attractions, world-class restaurants, and countless more unimaginable experiences.

Dazzle your senses. Feel the thrills of adventure and caresses of paradise. Xel-Ha…the Natural Wonder awaits.

Extracted from Xelha.com

For Tours and more info contact your Hotel Concierge or visit http://www.xelha.com/

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RIVIERA MAYA MUST DO’S – IF YOU DARE

Thursday, July 8th, 2010

SIAN KAAN

Sian Ka’an, the largest marine natural protected area in Mexico, is a United Nations World Heritage site, designated to be protected for its rich biodiversity and unique Mayan cultures which have inhabited the peninsula for ages. It is also the most beautiful natural treasure of the Yucatan peninsula that is accessible to tourists. Community Tours Sian Ka’an, a local tourism alliance between four Mayan cooperatives, presents to you the Mayan Riviera as it once was and as it should be experienced: untouched by urbanization, undisturbed by mass tourism, and guided by local Mayan community members who know the reserve best.

Sian Ka’an Facts

  • Largest protected area in the Mexican Caribbean (approximately 1.3 million acres)
  • Established January 20th 1986 as part of UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Program
  • UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Unique for its geography and wetlands
  • 23 known archeological sites (with relics dating up to 2,300 years old)
  • 103 known mammal species
  • 336 known bird species
  • Nesting ground for many species of wading birds
  • Annual rainfall between 44 and 48 inches
  • Important nesting site for two endangered sea turtle species
  • Believed to be inhabited in the Pre-Classic and Classic Periods in the chieftanships of Cohuah and Uaymil
  • Currently home to over 2,000 inhabitants

Canal Tour

This tour is an educational, sight-seeing boat tour through the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. Highlights of the Tour include:

  • Following the Mayan trade route used 1200 years ago
  • Seeing abundant flora and fauna unique to Sian Ka’an
  • Visiting unexcavated Mayan ruins hidden within the Reserve
  • Floating down a freshwater river
  • Learning the natural and Mayan history of the Reserve with experienced guides

Tour Summary

The tour begins at the CESiaK ecological center where we have an introductory discussion and view the coastal flora and fauna. The tour continues by boat traversing the two northernmost, brackish lagoons. In this area, we pass a small Mayan ruin and view up-close the mangrove islands which are nesting areas for many of the birds found within Sian Ka’an.

The tour continues south along the peninsula to the lagoon of Boca Paila where we turn inland and enter the narrow 11 km natural canal which traverses the expansive mangrove swamp and savanna grassland which comprise much of the center of Sian Ka’an. Along the journey we are surrounded by birds, tall mangrove trees, orchids, bromeliads, termite mounds, fish and much more.

The canal ends at a Post Classic Mayan Temple hidden in the mangrove swamp with beautiful frescos and a well-preserved inner sanctum. After visiting the temple we continue by boat to the freshwater Lagoon of Chunyaxche where we see some examples of the thousands of small sink holes (cenotes) from which the lagoon is filled.

After a snack and refreshments we enter the canal once again to commence a half-hour relaxing float wearing lifejackets and being carried by the water’s current. After getting back in the boat we travel to the ocean edge passing wide sandy flats where rays, predatory birds, and many fish are found. Continuing under an antique wooden bridge we follow a waterway which allows us passage to the ocean to view the seemingly endless expanse of tree-lined, sandy beach. We end the tour following the peninsula back to CESiaK for a sit-down lunch (included in the price) in the center’s restaurant and for some relaxation on the beach.

For more information and tour bookings visit http://cesiak.org/

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RIVIERA MAYA MUST DO’S – IF YOU DARE

Tuesday, June 8th, 2010

Whale Shark Swimming

Think of how exhilarating it will be to snorkel with the largest fish in the sea – The Whale Shark! The whale sharks come to Holbox Island and Isla Mujeres off the Yucatan coast near Cancun where the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea merge. An upwelling current brings plankton laden nutrient rich waters. It is in these waters where Whale Sharks come to feed in the months of June, July and August. This “plankton bloom” provides the environment for this area to have the highest concentration of Whale Sharks in the world.

We take you in a 35 foot boat with two 200 horsepower engines directly from Cancun. No long travel time from Cancun to Holbox and then out to see the Whale Sharks! You and your guides will be searching for these gentle giants within 40 minutes of leaving the Cancun dock.

You might want to know that the water visibility is normally 20 to 30 feet for snorkeling with the Whale Sharks. I wonder whether you are aware of the fact that the reason that water is not clearer is because of all the microscopic plankton in the water. There is so much plankton in the water is like swimming in a milk shake. The plankton is the reason why the Whale Sharks gather here.

Weather permitting and if sea conditions are good you will get to snorkel with the Whale Sharks. We allow two people in the water at a time with life jackets and a guide. All people on the boat (10 people max) will be given the opportunity to snorkel. One of the things you’re going to love about your Whale Shark Adventure is that you can go back in the water again if you like – in fact you can go back in the water as many times as you like once everyone has snorkeled once! We want you to have a fantastic experience!

Experience shows that this is truly an event you will never forget – a lifelong memorable experience! Test your courage to see if you will get in the water and snorkel with these magnificent docile animals – or just view and photograph them from the boat – also impressive. You might want to bring a video camera as this IS the adventure of a lifetime.

WhaleSharks article courtesy of Cancunvista.com

For more information about trips contact your local hotel concierge or click here

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