Mexico offers travellers a tantalising smorgasbord of nature, history, cuisine and culture. Aztec and Mayan archaeological treasures, tequila, charming colonial cities, Mexican food and beach culture, all these features and more make up this tourist and historical hub. The culturally curious will be bowled over by the impressive sites of ancient civilisations that moulded Mexico’s great pre-colonial history. Nature lovers will be in their element on the pristine beaches that stretch along its 10 000 kilometre coastline or exploring the country’s rainforests, mountain peaks and mangrove lagoons. Gourmands gorge on the distinctive and flavourful cuisine that has become famous worldwide.
Situated to the east of the bustling city of Merida on the beautiful Yucatan Peninsula in southeast Mexico, Tixkokob is one of the little Mayan villages dotting this scenic peninsula. Deep in Mayan country, the village is encircled by butterfly-filled tropical jungle and offers visitors a glimpse into authentic Mexico. Visitors can experience a luxury stay at a private hacienda, enjoy cultural day trips, sample delicious traditional cuisine, discover the surrounding colonial villages as well as visit several nature reserves to view an array of indigenous wildlife inhabiting the peninsula.
Often overlooked by travellers to the Yucatan peninsula, quiet Campeche offers a plethora of hidden treasures. Pristine, deserted beaches stretch across the coastline; the Tereminos Lagoon offers protection to an abundance of bird and sea life and a day can be spent cruising its mangrove inlets; and the capital of the state is an elegant colonial city. The fortified old town, now a World Heritage Site, was founded in 1540 by Spanish conquistadores. Bright traditional homes of Andalucían and Caribbean influence line narrow cobbled lanes. Just outside town you’ll find Edzna, an ancient Mayan city, and further afield, the Mayan settlements of Calakmul, Uxul and Xicalango.
Merida, the capital of Mexico's Yucatan Province, is situated near the Gulf of Mexico and the captivating Pueblos Mágicos (magic towns). Due to its isolated geographic location, the capital of Yucatan has fostered a unique cultural and political identity. Merida was built on the site of the ancient Maya city T’ho, but many of the existing Mayan pyramids were knocked down by the Spanish to build the large colonial buildings you see today. The city is the second-largest historic centre in Mexico, after Mexico City itself, and has a host of trendy museums, art galleries, restaurants and boutiques. Don’t miss a visit to the famous avenue Paseo de Montejo to view the beautiful sculptures which line the road. The sculpture installation changes every year.
Located in the state of Quintana Roo in southeast Mexico, Xpu Ha (pronounced ‘Ish-poo-ha’) is one of the best-kept secrets of the ‘Mayan Riviera’ on the Yucatan Peninsula. Located between the major hubs of Tulum and Playa del Carmen, Xpu Ha is home to the same gorgeous white sands and deep turquoise waters, but with a more relaxed atmosphere and far fewer crowds. The feeling of isolation offered by the main beach (simply called Le Playa) is interrupted by the resort of Royal Catalonia Tulum and some laid-back bars and restaurants, but there is always ample space to find your own piece of sand and indulge in some snorkelling beneath the crystal-clear waters of Xpu Ha Bay. Swimming in Cenote Manati, a large natural sinkhole, should also be at the top of your itinerary - it is truly captivating.
