4 Top Experiences to Have in Mexico

4 Top Experiences to Have in Mexico

By Susan Gerle

Whether it’s discovering the ruins, diving and snorkeling, visiting major cities, or studying cultural differences, Mexico has it all!  Whatever the tourist is looking for, they can find it in this country.

1. Go Diving Or Snorkeling

The best scuba diving in Mexico is located around the Island of Cozumel and off Puerto Morelos on the Mayan Riviera.  The warm, clear, calm turquoise waters make it a diver’s paradise.  The coral in the area is protected and therefore supports many fish varieties.

Cozumel was recognized as one of the top 10 diving sites in the world by Jacques Cousteau a half a century ago.  There are many reefs off the island that can be discovered through local tours.

Puerto Morelos has a protective reef 600 meters offshore and is great for scuba diving and snorkeling.  Locals offer diving lessons and beginners can get their PADI Certification, which is recognized worldwide.

There is also another type of diving that is very popular on the Yucatan.  Cenotes, or underwater caves, are located throughout the Yucatan.  They are part of the Mayan underground river system.  Even though scuba diving is the only way to experience some of the cenotes, a few are good for snorkeling. 

7 Places to See in Valladolid, Yucatan

7 Places to See in Valladolid, Yucatan

by Susan Gerle 

 

There are so many amazing cultural centers to see in Mexico.  Valladolid, (pronounced via dough lead) is a wonderful colonial town to visit.  The city has a population of under 50,000 and is easy to get around in.

To reach the city, take a 2-hour bus ride from the ADO (pronounced adio) bus terminal in Cancun. The terminal in Valladolid is located only 2 blocks from the main square and it is an easy walk.  Don’t expect to find too many people who speak English.  Mayan is the first language for many in the area and Spanish the second language.

On August 30, 2012, Valladolid became part of the Pueblo Mágico El Programa Pueblos Mágicos ("Magical Villages Program") which is an initiative led by the Mexican tourism department to display influential towns in Mexico based on their natural beauty, cultural riches, or historical relevance to the country.