Cathedral in Puebla, Mexico

Puebla is both a state of the nation of Mexico and the capital city of that state.  The city has a population of less than one and a half million, but the metropolitan area covers several other municipalities and the total population is over two million.

Puebla was founded 16 April, 1531 and is thus one of the oldest Spanish cities in North American not founded on older native settlements.  “La Puebla de los Ángeles” was in a strategic location between Mexico City and Veracruz, which made it the second most important city in the colonial era.  The city center has a distinctly Spanish/Moorish look and feel because of this.

The city center is a UNESCO World Heritage site due to the old Colonial Era buildings still standing.   Many are still damaged from a 1999 earthquake, with some buildings restored and others net yet starting repairs.  The Puebla Cathedral is the best-known example of the city’s buildings, but it is far from the only famous building found in Puebla.

On 5 May 1862 General Zaragoza defeated the French expeditionary force in the Battle of Puebla, and the name of the city was changed to “Heróica Puebla de Zaragoza.”  This had such an effect on Mexico that the fifth of May is still a primary national holiday.  While the city fell to the French later, the heroic defense of the city is still a national inspiration.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw the arrival of many European immigrants, largely German, Italian and Spanish.  This created neighborhoods with distinct architecture, dialect or language and distinctive and common Mexican styles of dress and pottery were created in Puebla from the fusion of local and European tastes.

The city is located in the Valley of Puebla, also known as the Valley of Cuetlaxcoapan, and is surrounded on four sides by mountains and volcanoes.  This creates a magnificent view of snow-covered peaks and is reportedly especially impressive at sunrise.

Puebla was the first city in what is now Mexico to industrialize, and is still an important textiles center.  Volkswagen operates its only North American factory in Puebla, and several other European companies operate local subsidiaries to support the plant.  This was the last factory building the famous VW Beetle.

Puebla also possesses an automobile museum, Museo Nacional de los Ferrocarriles Mexicanos “National Museum of Mexican Railroads,”  a famous railroad museum, and the Biblioteca Palafoxiana, which is a baroque library of forty-two thousand volumes going back to 1646.  The famous Amparo Museum is in the city, with one of the world’s best collections of Mexican art from pre-Columbian to contemporary.  The city also has the Africam Safari Zoo, intended to create a safari style experience.  The city is known for red double-decker buses.  These run tours around the city.  The Pyramid of Cholula is a small city within Puebla, possessing the largest known Aztec pyramid and enough churches to visit a different one each day of the year.

Puebla has more than twenty universities present, two professional soccer teams, two professional baseball teams and a food culture popular all over Mexico.  There are over 70 churches to go with the cathedral.  The cathedral is more than 207 feet high, the tallest in Mexico.  The Casa de Cultural is next to the cathedral, occupies a whole block and contains the oldest library in the Americas.

Puebla has strong Spanish influences.  To this day architectural characteristics going back to Spain and the Moors can be found all over the city and Puebla has a long relationship with Talavera.  This is a type of strong and hardwearing ceramic that originally came from the Moors.  It is primarily used on walls and floors, and while it isn’t cheap anywhere in Mexico, the prices are probably lowest in Puebla.  It is very normal to see Talavera used in the buildings of the city.

Puebla has an international airport, is a two-hour bus ride from Mexico City and can be easily reached on major roads for those who desire to drive themselves.  Once there, car rentals are available.  Taxis are unmetered, so be certain to agree to price before you get into the vehicle.  Puebla has year round spring type weather.  The rainy season is from April to November, but these tend to be heavy showers in the late afternoons, leaving the evening cool and dry.  Outside of that period, rain isn’t common.  A sweater for the mornings, especially in the winter months, is a wise precaution.

Four different groups first colonized Xalapa in the 14th Century, and around 1313 AD the four combined into a city.  The Aztecs conquered this new city a century later.  The Spaniards passed through on the way to Tenochtitlan in 1519 and in 1555 constructed a Franciscan convent.  In 1772 the Xalapa Cathedral began construction.  In the late 19th century the city went into a period of decline, many of the old cultural events shutting down, but later use as a military base during the Mexican Civil War helped offset this and Xalapa is undergoing a revival of sorts.  Jalapeño chilis are named for an old canned chili pepper factory from Xalapa, “La Jalapeña.”

Xalapa is in coffee growing country and is 4,690 feet above sea level, with an average temperature of 64.4F.  There are many coffeehouses throughout the city, allowing a leisurely walk to see the sights with opportunity to stop and rest or check email.  The city is surrounded by beautiful scenery and possesses an assortment of architectural styles to enjoy.  The Citlatépetl volcano is the tallest in Mexico, third tallest in North America, and can provide an impressive view when weather cooperates.  Xalapa is known as the city of flowers, due to the flora in the many parks and gardens of the city.  The heart of the city even retains the old cobblestone streets.  The climate is cool and humid, with light showers possible at any time.  The rainy season is May through July and heavier showers are possible.

Modern Xalapa has 3 universities and a variety of cultural events.  The city believes the large student population is instrumental in providing the support needed for the weekly musical shows and other cultural entertainments.

Government, education and tourism dominate Xalapa’s economy, but there are still traditional open markets and it isn’t unusual to hear a milkman clattering through the streets.  There are three lakes in the city and these are suitable for boating or mainly shaded walks along the lakeside.

Must-see tourist destinations include the Museum of Anthropology, the Symphony Orchestra and the Diego Rivera Center for arts.  The Anthropology museum focuses on the archeology of the state of Veracruz.  The Orquesta Sinfonica de Xalapa is considered one of the finest orchestras in Mexico, and there are both very reasonable prices with normal $20 tickets and a large variety of other musical opportunities in the city.  The art gallery has the largest collection of Diego Rivera’s paintings in Mexico.  There are three nearby rivers, and Xalapa has day trips available to raft on those rivers, no experience necessary.

Veracruz is a two-hour drive away and is the closest major airport.  The city is a five-hour bus ride from Mexico City.  The city is oddly laid out as a result of the natural growth of the city and is thus a little awkward to navigate.  One thing to keep in mind is that taxis are not allowed to stop anywhere they wish and thus it is important to locate the nearest spot with a TAXI sign in case of need.  Bus and taxi fees are very reasonable, and bus tickets cost $2.  Busses run to Veracruz 2-3 times an hour.  There is an American Express office, a State Tourism Office and a tourist information booth at the city hall, or Ayuntamiento, across from the Plaza Juárez.   This is reportedly very helpful, but does occasionally close for a week.

Though a quick web search might only show two hotels, the city actually has more like thirty, four of which have over a hundred rooms each.  There are several restaurants, a regional airport and at least one tourist agency in the city.

Hotel in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta has over a hundred hotels available.  There is a wide variety to meet almost every need.  From world class hotel complexes catering to every whim down to affordable and friendly places, Puerto Vallarta appreciates tourists.

The Playa Fiesta Beachclub & Hotel is a well-reviewed hotel with reasonable rates and only twenty rooms.  This creates a very personalized atmosphere, with two restaurants, an exclusive beach and an amazing Pacific Ocean view.  There is a pool available, and both doctors and laundry services can be obtained at the Playa Fiesta.  The reviews are excellent, but this is not the best choice for a longer stay and care must be taken around the pool.

The Villa Premiere Hotel & Spa is an all-inclusive hotel catering to adults (16 and up only).  It is mainly aimed at honeymoon traffic, and while it is well regarded, the reviews break down as extremely enthusiastic honeymooners and underwhelmed singles or business travelers.  Also, staying more than a week appears to be a source of discontent.  There are two partner hotels in the city and guests in the all-inclusive plan are allowed to use those restaurants and facilities as well.  The fitness center, sauna, spa and steam rooms are complementary, but the internet access room has a fee.  There are shows, massages, parties, classes, butler and concierge services available.  There are 83 rooms and a variety of pricing schemes available.

The Verana is another well-rated hotel, again one that optimizes for honeymoons.  This hotel tries for a less formal feel, the staff call guests by their first names rather than a salutation, and this is not a place that encourages or rewards formal dress.  Indeed, the usually uncomfortable shoes of such clothing are a disadvantage and guests are encouraged to wear shoes that can get wet or deal with rocky ground.  The unusual service philosophy can be endearing or off-putting to the customer, with many loving it but some not happy at all.  There are only 8 rooms and the food is also reported to be of excellent quality.

The CasaMagna Marriott is a well-rounded hotel, capable of dealing efficiently with any type of traveler, rather than specializing in honeymoon service.  The hotel has 433 rooms, koi ponds, gardens, a child’s club and pool, a complementary fitness area, though access to steam rooms and sauna costs extra.  There are complementary family activities and the children’s club has additional activities for the 4-12 set.  There are six restaurants, a pool, a water sports desk with gear to rent, tennis courts and across the street is a championship golf course.  Rates are very reasonable, though there are a number of additional fees that can surprise someone who fails to do research.

Dreams Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa is a 337-room hotel, well reviewed and capable of dealing with the whole range of typical travelers.  There is an all-inclusive payment plan available.  The hotel has a private beach, amenities ranging from a rock-climbing wall to tennis courts, pool and spa.  From early autumn to early winter, endangered sea turtles lay eggs on the beach.  The eggs are dug up and placed in a nursery, and when the baby turtles hatch, guests can carry them to the water’s edge for release.  There is a 3-12 Children’s club available, fitness center, spa, sauna, massage treatment, a business center, shops, a doctor and purified water.  There are four restaurants available.

Hotelito Desconocido is a thirty-room hotel aimed at the honeymoon market.  This is intended to allow couples to gafiate, or get away from it all.  The hotel depends greatly on solar power, so few electrical appliances are available.  Non-motorized sporting gear is available.  There is a mandatory meal plan, and all guests will be charged for this meal service.  There are no electrical outlets, phones or televisions, and the ceiling fans are solar powered, and so might not last all night if needed during the hotter periods of the year.  Candles are used for light after nightfall.  There are two restaurants, and pets are considered.

The Velas Vallarta Suite Resort is a 450-room hotel with ratings about the same for all types of travelers, making this an unusually well balanced hotel.  There are complaints that prices were not adequately explained or specials discontinued without notice, so ensure all payment is documented.  There is a large pool complex, two restaurants, two bars, a small grocery store and shops.  There is nightly live entertainment and a kid’s club for 4-12 year olds.  There are five meeting rooms and a full array of water sports available.

A resort in Cancun

Cancun sits on white beaches between green jungles in Yucatan and blue seas on the Gulf side.  The region is caught between two eras, with Mayan ruins and modern, internationally renowned tourist resorts.  In 1967 the Mexican government selected Cancun for development, at which time it was a sleepy little fishing village.  Now Cancun gets 20% of Mexico’s tourism.

Cancun has around twenty all-inclusive resorts.  Most all-inclusive resorts provide transport from the airport or other transportation used to arrive, all meals and snacks, alcoholic beverages, taxes and tips, water sports, resort entertainment and offer packages intended for families, honeymoons, adult only, adult oriented, couples and even scuba diving.  Cancun tourism is more interested in adult clientele, though it is still family friendly and isn’t adult oriented as in rated for adult themes, but instead is simply adult oriented in terms of being more interested in catering to people of the age of majority.  Parents may need to deal with less extensive facilities for small children or facilities to entertain teenagers across the street from the hotel.

The Club Med Cancun Yucatan is an all-inclusive resort from a worldwide chain.  This organization stresses social interaction between guests and workers, and there are special efforts to entertain children with activities, rather than video games.  There are classes for windsurfing, diving and sailing, basic and advanced lessons on water skiing, wakeboarding, tennis and the trapeze, with other subjects and activities available, some for an extra charge such as scuba diving or horseback riding.  Group lessons for families can be arranged.  There are children’s programs to aid parents dealing with infants on up to teens and tweens.  These range from baby-sitting or high chairs on up to little theaters and jewelry making lessons.  This is a “discovery resort” and encourages residents to explore the area.  The resort’s Discovery Center offers excursions to many attractions in the area.  This resort is open in Fall and Winter, and the rooms are designed for two adults, a child and an infant.  Larger families may need to book more than one room.

The Grand Oasis Cancun is an all-inclusive resort.  This is a large, pyramid tower with 288 rooms and 32 acres of gardens, a kilometer of beach and a quarter mile of interlocking pools.  There are nine restaurants.  There are daily activities, weekly shows, a golf course, watersports, miniature golf and other children’s activities and a children’s program for those aged 4-12.

The Riu Cancun is an all-inclusive resort belonging to a company with three properties in Cancun, and allows guests to visit the other facilities.  The Riu Cancun has 569 rooms and includes a variety of daily events, excursions about the area, three swimming pools and a children’s pool, non-motorized sports, a kids program for 4-12, and classes ranging from Spanish to air rifle marksmanship.

The Avalon Grand Cancun is an all-inclusive resort with 116 guestrooms.  There are swimming pools, a spa, fitness center and three restaurants.  There are volleyball, aerobics, bingo, Spanish lessons, dance lessons, beach parties and excursions about the area.  The Children’s club has activities aimed at the 4-10 age group.  There are area excursions and residents can use facilities in other Avalon properties in the area.

The Blue Bay Resort and Spa is an all-inclusive resort with 160 rooms.  These are divided into senior rooms and junior rooms, the latter being single rooms with divided areas.  There is an 800ft beachfront, excursions about the area and a large swimming pool.  There are non-motorized sports, daily activities, nightly entertainment and weekly live shows, sports fields, buffet meals and two specialty restaurants.  Guests can upgrade to include room service, a premier menu at the restaurants, discounts for the spa and tours.  The Kids club provides supervised activities for ages 5-12, and the first two children under six are free.  Any others must pay the normal children’s fee.  There have been complaints that the cribs available are not suitable for infants small enough to require them, but old enough to begin efforts to escape.

The Crown Paradise Club is an all-inclusive resort with 364 rooms.  There is a water-park, 4 pools, miniature golf, sports, and up to three children under 12 can share their parent’s room.  The Children’s programs are intended to provide for children 18 months of age up to 12, and the resort does not allow spring break style guests.

Palenque

Palenque is a medium sized Mayan archeological site in the foothills of the Tumbalá mountains of Chiapas.  At its height, it probably held around 6,000 people, though it was long abandoned by the time the Spanish arrived.  It contains some of the finest Mayan architecture, sculpture and bas-relief carvings to survive.

When Father Lorenzo de la Nada discovered the site in 1567, the locals called it “Otolum” which means “Land with strong houses.”  Palenque is essentially just the Spanish translation of that name, and means “fortification.”  The high average rainfall would have allowed an abundant harvest, with flat plains to the north, misty green mountains to the south and swampy plains stretching to the coast.  The city is about nine thousand feed of elevation, stays about 79 degrees year round, and gets about 85 inches of rain a year.

There is also a modern city of Santo Domingo de Palenque, with a half dozen hotels and a variety of restaurants.  The city supports the archeological expeditions to the old city, and provides a convenient jumping off point for the tourists who desire to view the site.

The city was initially emplaced around 100 BC, though the site was used as far back as 300 BC, became important perhaps around 600 AD, and by 800 AD no new important buildings were constructed.  After this the population declined and the city was overgrown by the forest.  Even the Mayan name of the city was lost, Palenque coming from the modern city.  For centuries the site was in the hands of the howler monkeys.  Nobody knows what happened to destroy the Mayan civilization.  There are many theories, though the most recent scholarship suggests a plague, perhaps dengue fever, is increasingly likely as the culprit.

The city builders were able to improve the corbel arch and greatly reduce its weight, allowing buildings to be constructed with multiple piers and doorways, allowing light and air into the buildings.  Mansard roofs with stucco carvings and horizontal moldings allow a linear appearance.  This is the more impressive when you realize there were no metal tools or wheels used in the construction of the city, only manual labor and cunning.  In many ways the site is a tribute to the abilities of humans, even without most of the tools and devices we consider vital to construction.  The blood, sweat and tears required to build the city without those labor saving devices are awe-inspiring.

Palenque was largely ignored until 1773, when a series of missions were conducted to map and categorize the site.  These were initially quite amateurish, with walls knocked down to see what might be on the other side, buildings used as campsites with open fires inside and the eternal search for wealth, but increasingly professional archeologists were involved and finally the Mexican government decided the site needed oversight.  Currently Palenque is one of the more commonly visited Mayan sites and is arguably the most beloved to visitors.  Currently it is estimated that only 5% of the city has been uncovered.  There is a standing archeological mission to Palenque and work is ongoing.  More than one team has a website, allowing anyone with internet access to track the current status of the work.

In 1994 a secret door was discovered in Temple XIII, with a hidden internal temple.  Inside this a coffin containing a woman presumed to be royalty was found.  She is known as the “Red Queen” because of a coating of cinnabar.  Tests to determine who she might actually be have been conducted, but results have not been released.  It is a virtual certainty that many more such discoveries await with so little of the city explored.

There is a ball court to the north, but this is one of the many parts of the city not yet excavated.  Only thirty-four of the estimated five hundred buildings have been opened.  The hills scattered through the area are mainly Mayan buildings.

The Temple of Inscriptions is haloed by a copse of trees growing from the hill immediately behind the building.  The temple was covered in white plaster and painted in a rainbow of colors.  Most of that has washed off due to centuries of wear, but the weathered stones have a beauty of their own.  This is a stunningly gorgeous site, looking as if it were designed for Technicolor.  This is not a site to visit for those who think all good things come in limousines, but for those willing to go outside and look around, this is one of the most interesting and attractive sites to visit in the hemisphere.

Yucatan Eco Lodging

Situated in the Gulf of Mexico, the Yucatan presents a whirlwind of remarkable natural scenery and excitement that embraces tourists with an enlightening first impression. This enchanting area serves as the perfect place to plan a vacation centered on eco tourism, where a full range of impressive services are offered, such as delicious food, comfortable eco lodging, and helpful guides. Many visitors to the Yucatan appreciate an experience as such, which allows one to deeply explore the biological and cultural aspects of such a diverse environment.

While staying at one of the Yucatan eco lodging options, a wealth of natural and cultural wonders come to life – all while still protecting the biological resources of the vicinity. The significance of enjoying the beauty of eco lodging and an eco-friendly adventures is the active participation and hands-on approach towards learning new surroundings. It is through these experiences that a true recognition and respect for flora, fauna, and Mother Nature is established.

The typical activities that accompany eco lodging usually include bird watching, wildlife exploration, hiking, backpacking, biking, boating, picnicking, and camping.

What to Expect From Eco Lodging

While an array of eco lodging opportunities is not the same, a few similarities still exist. Often, the lodging has utilized native or recycled materials to construct their buildings. The preservation of the natural setting of the eco lodging site is one of the most important motivations, where indigenous landscaping is left unchanged. When it comes to the systems that allow residents and guests to survive, they are chosen with regard to their eco-friendly properties. This includes renewable energy, as well as sufficient water and waste disposal arrangements.

The technology associated with the eco lodging is also kept at its lowest impact level. When staying at eco lodging, you will also encounter many chances to interact with the locals, staff, and friendly guides. To get an idea of what Yucatan eco lodging consists of, the details regarding the Eco Paraiso Hotel Xixim in Celestun can be found below:

Eco Paraiso Hotel Xixim in Celestun

As you venture towards the western part of the Yucatan Peninsula, you will encounter the Eco Paraiso Hotel Xixim in Celestun, which offers endless acres for eco-tourism enthusiasts.

The town of Celestun offers a satisfying spread of land and surroundings that support a port situated on the coast. A charming lighthouse standing 12 meters high is just one of the traditions that the residents uphold. While day tourism and eco tourism is one of the top contributors to the economy, the residents survive from their fishing, agriculture, and salt extraction. When choosing the Yucatan eco lodging situated in Celestun visitors are allowed to take in a wealth of exhilarating ecosystems and habitats.

When settling into the eco lodging of Celestun, the habitats featured on the grounds range from tropical savanna; low tropical subdeciduous forest; to the ultra-productive mangrove swamps. Exotic species flourish throughout the area, such as beautiful orchids, swaying palm trees, and prickly cactuses.

An array of curious creatures wanders about the land, including interesting mammals and birds. Greater flamingos, sea turtles, migrant waterbirds, crocodile, shorebirds, and songbords call Celestun their home.  Multi-colored fish swam under the waters. Additional natural features of the Yucatan eco lodging experience include the exploration of valuable hardwood, fresh spring water, and the thrill of coming face-to-face with an array of endangered species.

While enjoying the eco lodging of Yucatan, there are plenty of activities available to keep a visitor busy. Boat rides during the day and night allow tourists to catch sight of the impressive array of birds and other animals in the area. Creating an unimaginable photo opportunity, as many as 18,000 flamingo may gather in one spot at the same time. As much as 320 species of winged creatures soar through the air, which makes for a great tour of both land and water.

The Gulf of Mexico also provides refreshing emerald green waters to enjoy on the beaches situated in Celestun. Some of the sea front attractions include restaurants that specialize in delicious local seafood delights. Fishing is also a popular activity that visitors may participate in.

This is not the only opportunity offered in Mexico to explore the great outdoors, the country is home to 44 national parks, 13 special biosphere reserves (such as the Celestun site), 16 biosphere reserves, 8 protected areas, 3 natural monuments, and 2 marine parks. Besides Celestun, the region is filled with such intriguing opportunities, including the Sian Ka’an Biosphere, and Genesis Eco-Oasis. Overall, Yucatan eco lodging provides a wondrous learning experience where nature, education, and fun combine to present a memory one will never forget.

Spanish Schools in Mexico

While Mexico is filled with a deep history, interesting traditions, and a satisfying spread of entertaining beaches, many travelers come to the country to learn or perfect their Spanish-speaking skills. Mexico serves as one of the most popular destinations that allow foreigners to test their knowledge and aptitude for the language. Anyone from the college student majoring in Spanish history to the company employee venturing into international business opportunities may come to the country in order to experience the ins and outs of the language. Some visitors may also attend additional classes at one of the Spanish schools situated in Mexico that explores science, math, or literature.

The beauty of learning a foreign language or studying abroad in the native country is found in the extracurricular and outside adventures awaiting the student when classes end. School lessons do not end in the classroom, but spill out into the beach resort down the street, the peaceful colonial town located on the outskirts, or the interactions experienced at the market. The never-ending opportunities to mingle with locals or gain a better understanding of the language and the people who speak it seem to linger around every twist and turn of the country. Before, during, and after your classes in a Mexican school, you will have many different places to visit and activities to take pleasure in that enriches the learning process.

Another great experience that accompanies learning at one of the Spanish schools in Mexico is living with a Mexican family who can demonstrate and share the depth of their culture through language, food, and home life. The schools in Mexico are scattered about a variety of cities and towns that allow visitors to explore the ins and outs of Guagalajara, Queretaro, and Oaxaca. Below you will find details on a few schools that offer an array of educational opportunities available within Mexico.

In Oaxaca, there is a wide range of Spanish schools to explore. Academia Vinigúlaza provides a school setting that features English instruction, where the classes are quite small. One could very well find themselves learning in groups of two to six. The cultural experiences gained at this school are quite beneficial as home stays are a common mode of learning. When attending the Amigos del Sol Spanish Language School, a wealth of indigenous culture greets visitors. When looking for a flexible schedule to fit your lifestyle, the Bacari Language School is also found in Oaxaca, where students are given the choice between one-on-one instruction and absorbing information within a small-class atmosphere.

When planning a stay in Cuernavaca, Mexico, the surroundings of the area present a colonial atmosphere, where students embrace the tropical scenery while learning and studying. This is where Aventuras can be found, a school that explores the Spanish language with intensity, as well as displays the deepness of culture. Spanish programs at the Centro Bilingüe may also offer classes in the social sciences and humanities. Experiencia is a historically significant learning institution as it stands as one of the first language schools to open in Cuernavaca. Since 1977, this school offers the choice to enjoy classes within a classroom setting or from the unique interaction of one-on-one instruction. A variety of learning levels are offered at the Cuauhnáhuac Intensive Spanish Language School, where intriguing cultural excursions and other activities are offered.

Guanajuato also offers an assortment of study options, as the Instituto Miguel de Cervantes provides basic instruction in Spanish, as well as specialty courses that focus on professions in the teaching and healthcare field. At the Academia Falcón, students are exposed to more than Spanish classes, they may also choose to spend their time taking in courses dealing with literature, history, folklore, and dancing. English-speaking children may take summer classes or experience home stays when exploring the courses offered at Escuela Mexicana.

At the Cancún Spanish Language Institute, group or individual learning is offered within one of the most famous of resort towns. You will also get to know the downtown area a bit more as classes are held in this section of town, where convenient housing situates students close to the beaches.  You may also decide to stay on the Atlantic coast when choosing to study at the American Bilingual Academy, which can be found in Veracruz. Exploring the second largest city of Guadalajara in Mexico is easy when taking classes at the Instituto Mexico Americano de Cultura (also referred to as IMAC).

Spanish schools in Mexico are situated all through the country. Regardless if one chooses to take classes in San Miguel Allende, Colima, Querétaro, or San Cristobal de las Casas – the richness of learning within a spectacular, enriching creates grand memories that only intensify the experience.

Snorkeling in Mexico

Mexico is full of exciting activities and sights to take pleasure in, but is also one of the premier locations in the world to enjoy a wealth of fascinating underwater adventures – namely snorkeling. Depending on what part of the country they are visiting, tourists will encounter either the Pacific Ocean or the Caribbean Sea, but anywhere in between, there are plenty of opportunities to explore snorkeling. It is also quite common to come across an array of major tourist locations that offer snorkeling as one of their specialties.

As you scan the possibilities for some of the best places to enjoy snorkeling, a matter of preference is involved, but many are attracted to the second longest reed in the world – the Mayan Coral Reef, which is situated off the Caribbean Sea coast. Planning a trip to this section of the country will bring you in the vicinity of the resort destination of Cozumel, which provides an assortment of marine pursuits and easier snorkeling opportunities, especially for beginners. About the Caribbean Sea coast, visitors often flock to Xel-Ha and X-Caret to experience an entertaining underwater experience.

When it comes to the Pacific Ocean coast, there are even more snorkeling locations to explore, especially when it comes to Puerto Vallarta and Banderas Bay, which has a reputation for providing some of the best environmental details associated with Mexico. This is also where many memorable events may occur, as some of the less familiar kinds of marine critters, such as manta rays and sailfish choose this location as their seasonal hangout. Filled with exotic fish, Playa del Carmen allows tourists to take pleasure in a holiday town with nearby village scenery. Additional Mexican snorkeling spots include Puerto Morelos and Isla Mujeres.

Snorkeling Safety Tips

While Mexico provides great instruction for those interested in snorkeling during their vacation, it never hurts to familiarize yourself with a few common safety tips before entering this exciting adventure. Despite the beautiful surroundings of Mexico, one of the most important things to remember is not to snorkel alone. Across the country, a high number of accidents have been known to occur as inexperienced divers attempt to explore the enchanting waters on their own. A buddy system should be used at all times, even if you are well versed with the ins and outs of this exciting activity.

You never know when you will run out of energy or misjudge how long it will take to swim back to your starting point. This is why staying close to shore is highly recommended for beginner snorkelers, who may not have enough endurance to tackle their goals. A trick to regaining energy is to move onto your back and tread water for a couple of minutes, which will definitely come in handy when swimming back through rough surf or sturdy currents.

Rocky shores or tough surf should be noted when entering a snorkeling adventure. The power possessed in these entities is enough to pick up individuals and hurl them to random locations depending on the direction of currents. Some people have been known to meet untimely circumstances when a strong current leaves them into a pile of jagged rocks.

Usually, when swimming under the water, most creatures will make it a habit to avoid bumping into humans, but when backed into a corner, many critters also resort to defense mechanisms for protection. This is why it is suggested to refrain from touching underwater animals and to keep a reasonable distance without making any sudden actions.

When venturing into shallow waters, it is important to make note of the seabed, which is comprised of coral and other rough material that can cause serious injury.

As you plan a snorkeling adventure, it helps immensely to know a bit of first aid, as well as mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. This comes in handy when an individual takes water into their lungs and stops breathing. The basic steps to artificial respiration can be used both on land and in the water, so having a first aid course is a good thing to have under your belt.

Don’t panic if the inside of your snorkeling mask begins to fog. While snorkeling, allowing a bit of water to flow into the mask will help solve the problem. Looking downward can wash the condensation, which will help clear the water from the mask.

A street in Oaxaca, Mexico

Surrounded by rocky mountain terrain and a centralized valley, the natural scenery associated with the Eastern Sierra Madre and the Southern Sierra Madre ranges offers the magical backdrop for Oaxaca, one of numerous cities scattered about Mexico. Situated in the southern part of the country, Oaxaca also presents easy access to neighboring states, such as Guerrero (home of “Triangle of the Sun”), Puebla (possesses a deep history), Veracruz (land of exotic fruits and many outdoor pursuits), and Chiapas (home to the Lacandon rainforest and Mayan ruins). The Pacific Ocean is also in the vicinity.

There are many different aspects of Oaxaca that makes it an intriguing destination to visit. Throughout history, the state has served as a home to a wide range of inhabitants, significant archeological sites, and a wealth of culture. The state is also unique from other Mexican locations because it holds more speakers of indigenous languages than any other state, attractively blending the past with the present. This distinction is also seen through the history of the Zapotec and Mixtec peoples who once roamed the land.

Exploring Oaxaca Tourism

Serving as the fifth largest state in the Republic, Oaxaca, the main industry of the area relies on the tourism that comes to the state. Thousands of tourists flock to the area to enjoy more than 250 kilometers of beaches, an array of colonial architecture, and a wide range of treasured archeological wonders. Some of the regional treats that tourists often head for include the Santo Domingo Temple, the Government Palace, the Macedonio Alcala Theater, the House of Cortes, as well as the Rufino Tamayo Museum of Prehispanic Art.

For those interested in archeology, Monte Alban is quite the location to seek out. The site once served as the capital of the ancient empire of Mixtec-Zapotec culture. Taking along a camera is suggested so you may capture some of the detail associated with the distinctive tile work hailing from ancient times.

Some tourists also plan their visit to Oaxaca by scheduling their vacation around major holidays and festivals held in the area. Some of the most important celebrations to take place about the city include Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) and Noche de los Rabanso (Night of the Radishes). Depending on their patron saints’ day, various villages arranged local dances, feasts, and celebrations in their honor.

The culture of the state also shows through in some of the art works that visitors often encounter. Local vendors may display an array of alluring native crafts, such as alebrijes, which consist of wood and are shaped into mythical creatures or familiar animals that are generally painted with brilliant shades of color. Weaving and black clay creations are also a popular draw in the state.

Dining in Oaxaca

Once you have worked up an appetite after sightseeing throughout the state, there are plenty of local dishes to sample. The regional cuisine of the area is said to be just as diverse as the people connected to Oaxaca. The central valley provides the perfect place for a kaleidoscope of fruits and vegetables to find the ideal location to flourish. In the north, a satisfying variety of tropical fruits can be found, while the south presents an array of tasty fish and shellfish. The state is also known for a cheese by the same name, which is a popularly exported to the rest of the world.

For breakfast, eggs poached in chili-tomato soap is a local favorite, while the residents also dine on barbecued grasshoppers (known as chapulines). To wash down your meal, Ozxaca also offers an alcoholic beverage called mescal, which is quite similar to tequila. Additional popular meals include corn, corn dough, tamales, tortilla, ground cacao beans, almonds, cinnamon, and black beans.

Tourist Attractions

A wealth of tourist attractions is scattered across Oaxaca. These span across exciting glimpses into the past at Lambityeco or Dainzú (archaeological sites); inviting churches, temples, and ex monasteries, such as Santo Domingo de Guzmán, Tlacochahuaya, Coixtlahuaca, or Cuilapan; and interesting museums like the Rufino Tamayo Museum or Casa de Juárez. Natural sights of the state also draw attention from visitors as tourists parade about the beaches of Puerto Escondido, Puerto Angel, and Huatulco; gasp at the beauty of waterfalls such as Hierve el Agua and La Guacamaya; and explore caves and caverns at Sótano de San Agustín or San Sebastián. Additional points of interest include breathtaking lagoons, intriguing flora and fauna, as well as relaxing natural spas, such as El Tzul-Zul or Atonaltzin.

Weather

Unlike other destinations around the world, Oaxaca does not display extreme weather characteristics, as the spring season brings temperatures in the high 70s, while the summer and autumn months brings temperatures in the low 70s. As for the winter, an average temperature of 61 degrees greets visitors. Overall, the weather of Oaxaca is quite mild.

Internet Access When Traveling in Mexico

In this day and age, some travelers cannot pay a visit to a destination without leaving their trusty laptop behind. Others need constant contact with the World Wide Web to communicate with business clients, family, and friends. When planning a trip to Mexico, you should know that access to the Internet is not hard to come by. Depending on where you are staying, a wealth of Internet cafes is stretched across the land, as well as connections available at even the smallest of hotels. Below you will find information regarding some of the main sites to seek out when you need to reach the Net.

Keeping connected while traveling is an important aspect in today’s society and throughout Acapulco, you will find that the trend is well respected as an increasing amount of Internet facilities are now situated throughout the area. If you are in the Costera strip area, Smart PCs can be found in a shopping arcade that is next to the Carlos ‘n’ Charlie’s restaurant. Close to the Marbella Hotel, the Internet Cyber Café (Calle Horacio Nelson 40-7A; Costera; 744-484-8254) can be located. Vid@Net (Calle Hidalgo) has set up shop in Old Acapulco, which is ½ block from the zocálo. Here, eight computers allow guests to use the Internet for less than 80 ¢ per hour from 8 am to midnight.

Depending on where you are staying, Internet service could be so inflated that you wind up paying the outrageous price of $25 per hour. This is the case in many locations scattered about Cancun, where Internet cafes in the Zone Hotelera charges their rates by the minute where some computers actually take at least ten minutes to start. For $2 per hour, you may visit Compu Copy (Plaza Kukulcán, Blvd. Kukulcán, Km 13, Zona Hotelera; open daily 9am-9pm); the Internet Café (Av. Tulum 10, behind Comercial Mexicana; open Monday to Saturday from 11am to 10pm), and Infonet (Plaza las Americas, Av. Tulum, Sm 4 and Sm 9; open daily from 10 am to 11pm. For tourists in need to send more than just a simple email, El Centro is the location to seek out.

When visiting Cozumel, you will find that laptop connections and computers designated for Internet access can be found CreWorld Internet (987-872-6509), which is situated at Av. Rafael E. Melgar and Calle 11 Sur. Additional Internet cafes include Calling Station (Av. Rafael E. Melgar 27, at Calle 3 Sur; 987-872-1417) and The Crew Office (Av. 5, No. 201, between Calle 3 Sur and Av. Rosada Salas; 987-869-1485).
Using the Internet in Guadalajara brings you to a few decent Internet cafes situated in the center of the Centro Histórico. Often, tourists face prices of $1.20 to $1.50 per hour, where other locations charge their rate based upon 15-minute increments. Many visitors head for Compu-Flash, which can be found at Calle Priciliano Sánchez 402.

When in the Ixtapa and Zihua area, numerous hotels offer Internet service through the business centers available on the premises, where cybercafes allow on-the-go tourists to send an email or two. One of the conveniences of the World Wide Web in this part of the country is that it is quite inexpensive to enjoy. Most places charge around $1 per hour, but keep in mind that finding suitable locations can sometimes be quite difficult. For starters, you may seek out El Navigante Internet (Calle N. Bravo 41, between Calles V. Guerreo and Galeana; Zihuatanejo; 755-554-0544), Ixtapa Conexión (Plaza Ixtapa, Paseo del Palmar s/n; Ixtapa; 755-553-2253), and Net World 2000 (Calle Juan N. Alvarez No. 34; 755-554-2956).

As a guest of a hotel located in Mexico City, you will find that most establishments offer complimentary Internet access, but as you venture beyond the comforts of your choice of lodging, an array of Internet cafes will satisfy your need for the World Wide Web. La Condesa, Coyoacán, and Zona Rosa are just some of the sections of the city that you may come across that provides connections for as little as $1.50 per hour. Some Internet locations to consider include Coffe Mail (Amberes 61, Zona Rosa; 55-5207-4537) and the Java Chat Café (Génova 44-K, near Hamburgo, Zona Rosa; 55-5525-6853).

Additional Internet access can be found in Playa del Carmen at the Atomic Internet Café (Av. 5 and Calle 8), Cyberia Internet Café (Calle 4 and Av. 15), and El Point (Av. 5 between 24 and 26 Norte), as well as in Tulum, where the Internet Club (Av. Oriente 89) is situated. Overall, finding an Internet café or utilizing complimentary Net access from your hotel is not a hard task to accomplish. Tourists are not at a loss when it comes to sending an email or checking the headlines hitting their hometown.