According to latest tourism statistics, Mexico is attracting more overseas tourists every year. In 2014, nearly 12 million people flocked to the country – an increase of 20% in 2013. The reason? Mexico offers every kind of experience for every type of tourist. Pristine white Pacific or Caribbean beaches; lush tropical landscapes; vast canyons; ancient Mayan ruins and cities; astounding underwater reefs – it’s all in one country. Not to mention the array of rich food and tastebud-tingling tequila.
But how do you get the most out of your Mexican summer holiday? With a myriad of choices, you might want to ‘mix things up’ (like the perfect Margarita) and go for a hotlist that looks something like this…
History Time
Mexico is well-known for its Mayan archaeological sites. Dating from 250-1200AD, these sites – found across the Yucatan Peninsula and southern regions of the country – provide a terrific insight into how early Mayan urban communities were formed and how the Maya people lived.
Visit Chichen Itza (translation: “at the mouth of the well of Itza”), site of the temple-pyramid of El Castillo, an impressively-preserved structure built around 750AD.
Modern Adventure
If you’re looking for a more modern or family experience, Cancun is the best bet. The area offers a huge range of cultural experiences, jungle exploration and eco-park attractions. The adventurer in you might enjoy X Carat park – a vast, natural adventure park with every imaginable terrain and type of wildlife.
Xel-Ha Park, a natural aquarium and ecotourism development, is a hive for scuba-divers. If you’re a real water baby, visit Cozumel island (adjacent to Playa del Carmen), which is very popular with scuba divers and swimmers thanks to its stunning Mesoamerican Reef which stretches for 13 miles, underwater caves and the many dolphins and other sea creatures that can be spotted nearby.
Take it down a gear
Sightseeing, exploring and diving should be mixed with a bit of relaxing and sunbathing – and Mexico offers some of the most unspoiled stretches of white sandy beaches in the world. Tulum beach, 80 miles southeast of Cancun, is renowned for its beautiful sand, warm turquoise waters and you can even spot the occasional sea turtle.
Reward yourself
Once you’ve explored and relaxed, you’ll have worked up an appetite. Nothing beats authentic Mexican enchiladas and ‘Enchiladas Rojas’ is a brunch favourite of locals. Cooked with different peppers for a spicy kick, look out for dishes with Ancho or Guijillo peppers and a tangy top sprinkling of Queso Fresco (‘fresh soft cheese’).
Freshest refreshments
There’s so much to do in Mexico, from relaxing to sightseeing and adventuring, why not mix things up and try a bit of everything on your Mexican vacation? It could be the best decision you make this year.
I’ve never been to Mexico, but it does look beautiful. I’d love to see the ancient temples & the beaches!