Set to the south of the Mexican Republic on the Mayan Coast, Cancun reveals itself a green emerald set in the bright blue sea drape. But nothing can beat the true jewel experience of swimming with the whale sharks, wondering at the wisdom of the Mayan civilisation or finding breathable bubbles in underwater caves. Cancun is divided into three areas: Ciudad de Cancun, with a population of around 3,00,000 and a planned, simple infrastructure; the ecological reserve, with its lakes, forests, and mangrove marshlands and the Zona Hotelera, an island where most of the hotels and shopping malls are found. The isle of Cancun thrives off tourism. The mall or the strip runs through the isle's Zona Hotelera and has hotels, public beaches and shopping arcades. The Bel Air Collection Resort & Spa, right at the beginning of the strip, is a lovely quaint all white property with an infinity pool and a private beach. Cancun is more than anyone can hope for: a little something for party lovers, ancient cultures and Mayan ruins for historians and a host of adrenaline thumpers for the adventurous kind. And if you are the kind of traveller who believes in making history lesson an adventure, here are a few must-not-miss for your list.
WONDERS OF THE SEA
Xel-Ha, one of the star attractions in Cancun, Riviera Maya, is a natural aquarium park, considered the largest in the world. It is the perfect place to enjoy the sun, sea and sand. If you are a water baby , there is no better place than Xelha for Snorkelling, swimming and dolfins, snuba(a combination of snorkelling and diving) or sea trekking (walking under water). Having opted for an all inclusive pre-paid day tour, the bus wil pick you up 6 am for a one hour drive.
When travelling around Cancun, be sure to carry all swimming gear and a change of clothes. A strong sunscreen is recommended, while everything else is available right there. Xelha is a heaven flourishing with wonders of the sea and nature walks. The small cafes and coves around the island are very photogenic as well.
SWIMMING WITH THE GIANTS
Every year from the month of may, the waters surrounding Isla Mujeres and Cancun allow the lovers of the marine world to relish an unforgettable experience. A chance to swim with the visiting whale sharks along Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second largest of its kind in the world.
This one is a winner from the start. Set sail on a small powerboat with six other enthusiasts on the choppy waters of a bright sunny morning. Heavy is not recommended with before you start on this trip as there are chances that the ride could make you feel seasick.
The whale sharks are elusive creatures. The whale shark is not inclined to kill large mammals (human included) or fish for that matter, a wee flick of its 20 tonne tail can cause some serious damage and it's best not to get to their was they play around in the sea.
STEP INTO HISTORY
The Mayan Ruins of Chichen Itza (meaning "Mouth of the Wall") cover about 3 miles and was built in the late classic period (800-1000AD). It is a magical place, with the massive Pyramid of Kukulcan as an elegant centrepiece. Chichen Itza is a world heritage site and amongst the seven wonders of the world now. The Mayans were accomplished traders and great astrologers who could even predict solar eclipses. A complex city of giant structures and beautiful stadiums, it is a 2 hours drive on the out skirts of Cancun. The culture survived a 1000 years and the civilisation ended some time in the 16th century AD.
The hidden paradise of Rio Secreto could very well be one of the great wonders of the world. A unique system of limestone caves created by an underground river bears the aura of mystery and are truly spectacular to behold.
THINGS TO DO
- Sample some amazing seafood. The fish is fresh and the lobster and the squid are all too appealing to be missed.
- Witness the Day of the Deed. Dia De Los Muertos is a Mexican holiday and a part of the country's culture of honouring the dead.
- Feed the iguanas. Native to the Mayan ruins, the Iguanas are quite the five-star attractions of the historic place.
- Dive into an open cenote. Yet another queer wonder of nature, a cenote is a sinkhole of crystal - clear water that you can actually see the bottom of.
- The CrooCun is an interactive zoo where you can have a hands on introduction to flora and fauna. Watch out for the crocodile, it bites!