The Yucatan Is On This Side Of Paradise

This entry was posted on Sunday, September 12th, 2010 at 10:41 am and is filed under Discount Packages.

While the eastern shore of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is celebrated for its several varying types of saltwater fishing owning an incredible range of edible species to go after, it is in fact only a minor element of what the Mayan Riviera has to present. In fact, the major attraction of Mexico’s Caribbean coast is the miles and miles of white, sandy beaches, with world class swimming and snorkeling effortlessly accessible. There is a reason why this is one of the most popular regions of Mexico. Beach vacation rentals in the area offer ideal bases of operations when discovering this fascinating part of the country.

Chances are you will arrive at the Cancun International Airport, which is where the Mayan Riviera starts. Rent an car and head south on Highway 307, which the Mexican government has recently repaved and maintains in excellent condition for locals and guests. This drive alone is worth the trip, since the highway hardly ever strays more than half a mile or so from the coast. Along the way, you will notice an abundance of beach vacation rentals ranging from grand to rustic.

One of the most popular destinations along la Riviera Maya is Playa del Carmen which translates as “Carmen’s Beach” after the patron saint of Cancun, about an hour south of the airport. Capital of the Mexican State of Quintana Roo, this district is home to exceptional, sensibly priced beach vacation rentals and a few of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. It is also the western terminal for the Cozumel Ferry. Cozumel is just a few miles off the shore and is where excellent snorkeling is to be enjoyed. This is also home to several retailers giving a wide variety of goods and souvenirs. If you are visiting from one of the cruise ships that ply the waters of the western Caribbean, you will not have to pay duty on these items.

Back in the town of Playa del Carmen itself, the kids will be interested to visit an authentic petting zoo where they can actually touch a lion and a boa constrictor. And when it is hora de comer (time to eat), there are plentiful dining establishments and cafes at which you and the family can try the regional cuisine while listening to traditional live mariachi music.

This part of Mexico is an outstanding place to learn more about the amazing Mayan civilization, which gave this branch of the Yucatan its name. The ruins of several cities are within a few hours drive or bus ride, including Chichen Itza, one of the best preserved of the ancient Mayan cities, and Palenque, which has been essentially restored and contains examples of the 3000 year old Mayan ball game of ulama, which is still played by a number of the regional indigenous peoples.

While you are there, do not miss a round of golf at nearby Playacar as well as the Xaman-Ha Aviary and Cavernas Sache, a dynamic underground cave with wondrous formations.