Looking for a special adventure off the tourist trail? Bacalar, located in the south of Quintana Roo, might be the perfect destination. This quaint Caribbean settlement abounds with natural beauty and is steeped in history. The Maya lived here during Pre-Columbian times, naming the area and its beautiful lagoon for the dense reeds that surrounded it. The settlement was later taken by Spanish Conquistadores until pirates invaded and sacked the town in 1642. Bacalar was rebuilt and, in 1792, further protected by the Fortress de San Felipe Bacalar– a magnificent structure that can still be explored today.

In 2006, Mexico’s Secretary of Tourism bestowed a special title on Bacalar in recognition of its historical significance, great traditions and unique attractions. Known as a “Pueblo Magico,” Bacalar promises a magical experience for visitors, especially those who enjoy watersports!

Popular attractions in Bacalar

The star attraction here is the Laguna Bacalar, a massive crystalline lake that dazzles with multiple colors of water. Due to its immense size, visitors might think they’re staring out on the Caribbean Sea! Kayaking across the lake is a popular activity, as is sailing, swimming and even fishing. There are also pontoon boat tours that offer glimpses of the verdant jungles and mangroves that frame the shores. Locals call it the “Lago de los Siete Colores,” the lake of seven colors, because of the vibrant hues rendered by the mix of fresh and salt water.

The Cenote Azul is Bacalar’s second claim to fame. At nearly 300 feet deep and 600 feet wide, this natural sinkhole is one of the largest in the Yucatan. The water is clear and clean and excellent for scuba diving and snorkeling. The cenote is also a favorite swimming spot for locals and visitors. After working up an appetite, you can grab a meal at a restaurant that is perched on the rim of the cenote. Lifejackets are available for rent here.

Brush up on the history of Bacalar with a stop at the San Felipe Fort and museum. Informative exhibits detail what local life was like in the settlement during the Spanish conquest, after the pirate invasions and during the Yucatan’s Caste War.

The state of Quintana Roo is home to several Mayan archeological sites, some of which are convenient to Bacalar. Plan a day trip to the impressive ruins of Dzibanche, where the Maya reined from 300 to 900 A.D. Also close by is Kohunlich, a grandiose complex noted for its temple pool. It is believed that the water’s reflection was used to reflect the stars and make astronomical deductions.

Your Mexico Vacation Rental Experts

No matter where your travels take you in Mexico, Sea Side Reservations can help you find the perfect vacation property. Our inventory of beachfront condos, villas and fully-furnished homes is unparalleled, and you won’t find better customer service anywhere else.

Take advantage of 5-star luxury at an affordable price and check out our amazing rentals in popular destinations like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Riviera Nayarit, Puerto Vallarta and Rocky Point!

Read More about Bacalar Attractions:

1. Fodor’s Travel, Bacalar https://www.fodors.com/world/mexico-and-central-america/mexico/the-riviera-maya/places/bacalar
2. Cancun.com, Multicolored Magical Bacalar https://www.cancun.com/blog/multicolored-magical-bacalar
3. Travel Yucatan, Things to Do in Bacalar https://travelyucatan.com/things-to-do-in-bacalar/

Tourism to Mexico is breaking all records in 2018, with 10.6 million visitors in the first three months of the year alone. The number of people flocking to Mexico is more than 12% above the levels seen in the first three months of last year.

Easter Season Visits Particularly Strong

Robust increases were particularly notable during the Easter season, which fell in March this year.

The Mexico Tourism Board reports that 4 million tourists arrived in Mexico during the single month of March, 14.6% more than the number that arrived in March 2017.

Cancun was one of the most popular sites. Cancun International Airport received more than 2 million arrivals in March alone, more than 14% over March 2017 levels, as reported by Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, the airport’s operator. Of those arrivals, 1.56 million were international tourists coming to Mexico.

As a result, resorts and hotels in the Cancun area enjoyed high levels of tourism and extremely high occupancy during March. Roughly 3,000-5,000 tourists visited the beaches in Cancun every day during March.

Cancun and areas along Riviera Maya saw an occupancy rate average of 90% during the March Easter season. The resort towns and cities surrounding Cancun, such as Holbox, Bacalar, and Mahahual, were fully booked, with a 100% occupancy.

Almost all the hotel rooms in Quintana Roo were fully booked, with tourists coming from Canada, the United States, South America, and Europe.

Tourists from colder climes definitely lead the parade, with Toronto, Chicago, New York, and Montreal being the most frequent home towns of visitors.

The record-breaking tourism numbers in the first quarter led to a 7.2% increase in revenue derived from tourism, which hit $6.2 billion.

Rise in Air and Cruise Travel Year Over Year

The first three months of 2018 saw 2.9 million visitors flying to Mexico from the United States, a 4% from the first three months of 2017.

The rise in cruise tourism was even stronger, climbing 10.4% over last year’s first quarter. In total, 2.6 million tourists entered Mexico as part of a cruise.

More than 5 million tourists entered Mexico via land. Of these, 4.3 million were border visitors. Their nationality is not demarcated, but the Mexico Tourism Board indicated that over 90% came from the United States.

The record-setting pace of tourism will likely have effects during the summer season. A number of airlines, taking note of Cancun’s spring popularity, have increased the number of routes for the summer. Sun Country, for example, is adding more direct flights to Cancun beginning in mid-June.

Move over Millennials, there’s a new group of influencers who are shaking up the travel industry: Generation Z. Most experts agree that Gen Zers were born in the mid-1990’s, making the older echelons of this cohort around 23 years old. That’s old enough to purchase their own flight tickets and travel abroad.

Even if their journeys are financed by mom and dad, this tech-savvy group has major buying power. According to the US Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Generation Z heavily influences their families’ travel choices – which totals some $600 billion each year.

Characteristics of Generation Z

Since Gen Zers make up the largest age cohort in our nation’s history, it’s no surprise that marketers are spending big bucks to win their attention, and business. Research shows that this social media-habituated generation, which are largely offspring of Gen Xers – were raised to be self-sufficient independent thinkers.

Unlike Millennials, who can still remember when smart phones were a novelty, Gen Xers grew up with the iPhone. The Internet, social media and technology are an integral part of this generation, which has been bitten hard by the travel bug. Generation Z not only has discretionary money to spend on travel, they are hard-wired to do online research to find the highest-rated, most unique experiences.

According to a senior director at Expedia Media Solutions, Gen Zers are more likely than their older cohorts to travel internationally. They are also more likely to seek out “homestays,” rural tourism offerings and more authentic travel experiences.

5 Ways Gen Zers are Influencing Travel

1. Take an active role in researching and planning family trips
2. Influence their peers’ travel decisions via online reviews, social media platforms and word of mouth
3. Prefer unusual destinations
4. Are more open to “alternative” accommodations
5. Looking for travel experiences they can share on Instagram and other social outlets

Because Gen Zers are so attuned to sharing videos, pictures and commentary online, their travel destinations and chosen activities tend to be those that are highly Instagramable. Like ziplining over a rainforest canopy at 50 mph or sharing GoPro footage of themselves swimming with dolphins.

This year’s top family destinations

Virtuoso, a luxury travel agency network, conducted a survey on recent travel trends, finding that Gen Zers are playing a big role in how families plan their yearly vacations. Their analysis shows that beach resort stays and eco-adventure destinations remain popular, especially in regards to multi-generational vacations. Warm-weather locales like Mexico, Hawaii and Costa Rica beckon families in search of authentic culture, adventure and a diverse range of outdoor activities.

Gen Zers are also influencing choice of vacation accommodations. Since they tend to crave environments that foster social connection, vacation homes have overtaken traditional hotel stays.

Vacation rentals in coastal Mexico

Reach out to Sea Side Mexico to learn more about our exceptional vacation homes, villas, condos and properties in the country’s most stunning locales. From La Paz and Cancun to the Riviera Nayarit, you won’t find a better selection or price points!

Additional Resources on Generation Z Travel Trends:

1. Travel Agent Central, Virtuoso: Gen Z to Drive Luxury Family Travel This Summer https://www.travelagentcentral.com/running-your-business/virtuoso-gen-z-to-drive-luxury-family-travel-summer
2. Travel Weekly, They’re not millennials: Targeting Generation Z http://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Travel-Agent-Issues/Targeting-Generation-Z

Increasing numbers of celebrities are flocking to the seaside hamlet of Tulum, Mexico. This trendy hotspot, known for its picturesque beaches, Mayan ruins and beautiful natural cenotes, ranks among Mexico’s most visited locales.

Once a popular destination for bohemian backpackers, Tulum has evolved into one of the country’s most glamorous towns, where Hollywood royalty come to frolic in the sun and surf. 

Tulum: where celebrities relax & adventure

Word has spread of Tulum’s Instagram-worthy white sands, chic shops and ultra-lux lodging, attracting TV personalities, movie moguls, Grammy-winning artists, as well as the NY fashion crowd. So which larger-than-life characters might you rub elbows with in this superstar paradise?

Actresses Heather Graham and Demi Moore (along with daughter Rumer) have been spotted snorkeling in Tulum’s crystal-clear cenotes, while Drew Barrymore has posted several selfies of her forays at a local yoga retreat. The list doesn’t end there! Tulum is a favorite travel destination for model Alessandra Ambrosio, Orlando Bloom, Cameron Diaz, Sting, Reese Witherspoon, Sean Penn, Paris Hilton, Kate Bosworth and Jessica Lange.

Noted shoe designer Brian Atwood has vacationed in Tulum as has Katie Couric and her children. This sun-drenched beach town, just one hour from Cancun, has also lured popstar Justin Bieber, who was actually booted off the Tulum ruins for his bad boy behavior.

Beach lounging, yoga & delicious eats

Tulum also touts itself as an eco-conscious destination, thanks to a commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism. This dedication to environmental preservation appeals to many visitors, including the likes of Leonardo DiCaprio, who makes regular trips to this Mexican Caribbean town.

When not snoozing on the beach, exploring ancient temples, or working on your tan, this is a great spot to practice your downward dog. Tulum is a mecca for yogis, with renowned gurus hosting yoga retreats and workshops throughout the year. Drew Barrymore raves about Amansala’s Bikini Boot Camp, which offers a blend of yoga, indulgent spa services and rigorous cardio workouts.

Dining out in Tulum is a special treat, since the town has been upping its food game. Some of the area’s most-treasured restaurants (where you may bump into a celebrity or two) include:

• The Dining Experience Tulum
• WILD
• Cenzontle
• Habitas
• Mi Amor

Culinary offerings range from innovative Yucatan fare to grilled lobster tacos and Middle Eastern cuisine.

Where to stay in Tulum

When it comes to comfortable accommodations in this celebrity haven, you can’t go wrong with a spacious Tulum villa rental from SeaSide Reservations. Fully-furnished and equipped with all the comforts of home, our luxurious properties – many of which boast spectacular ocean views–can let you vacation like a rockstar, while giving you more bang for your buck.

Read More about Tulum Celebrity Sightings:

1. People, Drew! Reese! Cameron! See Why All The Stars Are Flocking to Tulum, Mexico http://people.com/travel/drew-reese-cameron-see-why-all-the-stars-are-flocking-to-tulum-mexico/amp/
2. NewYorkTrendNYC, New Emerging Caribbean Hotspot: Tulum, Mexico! http://newyorktrendnyc.com/2015/02/10/new-emerging-caribbean-hotspot-tulum-mexico/
3. US Weekly, Plan a Trip to Tulum Like Drew Barrymore, Cara Delevingne, Sienna Miller and More Stars https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/pictures/plan-a-trip-to-tulum-like-drew-barrymore-and-more-stars/

The best times of the year to visit Cabo all depend on what you want out of a vacation. “Los Cabos” is located at the tip of the Baja California Peninsula, stretching from San Jose del Cabo to Cabo San Lucas, with 20 miles of world class resorts and championship golf courses in between. It’s beautiful here year-round with many ways to save a buck and much to do, so there is really no “bad” time to find your own slice of Mexican paradise.

Sea Side Reservations has served travelers with safe, convenient accommodations in Cabo since 2001, with five-star ratings. Here’s our inside scoop on when to book your Cabo vacation. 

When To Visit Cabo For The Best Weather

Cabo, Mexico’s weather fluctuates from daytime lows of 69 in January, to average highs of 85 in July. Even at night, it’s unlikely you’ll see temperatures dipping below 55 degrees. The best times to visit Cabo for warm sun and comfortable temperatures include: June through mid-July, and mid-October through mid-December.

• Winter: While much of North America is covered in frosty chill, travelers flock to the beaches of Los Cabos, where it’s 80 degrees and sunny. The temperature fluctuates by less than five degrees, so you’re pretty much guaranteed an ideal holiday. Water temperatures range from 65-70 in the Pacific Ocean to 75 degrees in the Sea of Cortez.
• Spring: March temperatures range from 55 in the evening to 85 during the day, with cooling breezes. Water temperatures can dip as low as 62 degrees, so you may want to bring your wetsuit for snorkeling and diving. During the “dry” period in Cabo, expect about 11 hours of sunshine a day and just 0.2 inches of monthly rainfall.
• Summer: There is a slight chance of hurricanes and rainfall, particularly in August and September. Humidity is lower in Cabo, compared to other parts of Mexico’s west coast. Temperatures can soar into the 90s, but you’ll be treated to pleasant Sea of Cortez and Pacific Ocean breezes.
• Fall: The October water temperature feels like warm bath water, compared to April’s. The air is more humid, as hurricane season concludes, but it’s not overly sticky. You can expect hot days, ranging from 70 to 90, and warm evenings without the breeze that sweeps through in spring and summer.

When To Visit Cabo For The Best Events

By far, the busiest times of year to visit Cabo are during Spring Break and the week of Easter. Cabo festivals are an opportune way to mingle with the crowds, indulge in the best area cuisine, shop handicrafts, and lose yourself in a foreign culture. While Cabo’s calendar is jam-packed with events all year round, the most popular include:

• Spring Break (mid-March to early April)
• Semana Santa / Easter Week (April)
• Whale Watching Season (December to April)
• Cinco de Mayo (May)
• Mexican Independence Day (September)
• Baja Sur Tequila and Mariachi Festival (October)
• Bisbee’s Black and Blue Marlin Tournament (October)
• Dia de los Muertos (November)
• Los Cabo Summer Dive Fiesta (August)

When To Visit Cabo For The Best Deals

May and June are considered “the sweet spot” in Los Cabos tourism, where the weather is pleasant, crowds are low, and prices are surprisingly reasonable. To score the best deals, begin your flight and accommodations search in late winter. As temperatures soar and rainfall increases to 2.5 inches per month, you’ll also find big savings on accommodations and flights in August and September. Even the swankiest places to stay offer discounts this time of year, when crowds are low, but swimming temperatures are ideal.

Contact Sea Side Reservations for more tips on booking a stay at one of Cabo’s best rental properties. Our Cabo vacation rental specialists are happy to assist you in deciding upon the best time to travel to Los Cabos, where to stay, and what to do while you’re here. You won’t find that level of customer service at every travel booking site!

Additional Resources:

• USA Today – Cheapest Time To Visit Los Cabos, http://traveltips.usatoday.com/cheapest-time-los-cabos-110270.html
• US News & World Report – When To Visit Cabo, https://travel.usnews.com/Cabo_San_Lucas_Mexico/When_To_Visit/
• Cabo San Lucas Tours – Cabo Weather, http://www.cabosanlucastours.net/Cabo-Weather.htm

It’s official: the top three international destinations American college students are flocking to for the annual rite of Spring Break are all in Mexico, according to a new survey.

Researchers analyzed U.S. travelers’ Spring Break travel plans in 2018, and their study yielded some great news for vacation home owners south of the border, as they can accommodate large groups of budget-conscious Breakers. Worldwide, the top three destinations are in Mexico, with Cancun leading the pack (14.2 percent), then San Jose Del Cabo (6.3 percent), and Puerto Vallarta (5.1 percent).

Rounding out the list of leading international destinations are Higuey, Dominican Republic (4.9 percent); Montego Bay, Jamaica (4.8 percent); Aruba, Aruba (4.5 percent); Nassau, Bahamas (4.3 percent); Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands (3.4 percent); and Cayman, Cayman (3.3 percent). The only European location that made the Top 10 list is London, United Kingdom (2.8 percent).

Researchers reviewed trips planned for the Spring Break season (February 23, 2018 through April 16, 2018) for travel between five and eight days in length. The results revealed that Orlando (9.5 percent) was the number one domestic destination for Spring Breakers. Following in popularity are Phoenix (5.2 percent), Honolulu (4.7 percent), Fort Lauderdale (4.4 percent), Las Vegas (4.2 percent), Fort Myers (4.1 percent), New York (3.8 percent), Los Angeles (3.4 percent), Miami (3.3 percent) and Maui (3.2 percent).

Spring Breakers Choose 8-Day Vacations

The findings also uncovered the most popular days to fly for Spring Break travel in 2018. The busiest travel day anticipated for domestic (4.1 percent) and international flights (5.69 percent) is March 10, 2018. Also, the study found most Spring Breakers are taking a five-day trip for domestic destinations (31 percent) and an eight-day vacation for international destinations (52 percent).

Mexico’s plentiful sand and surf were major factors in its stellar ranking. The survey also indicates a renewed confidence on the part of Americans traveling to the country, despite recent safety concerns.

“Americans are opting for sun and fun this Spring Break, with a majority of travelers planning domestic and international beach getaways, whereas last year many travelers opted for a ski destination,” one researcher concluded.

Bring on the Breakers!

Sea Side Reservations caters to Spring Breakers and travelers of all ages, offering incredible deals on vacation rentals at all the hottest destinations in Mexico, including Puerta Vallarta, Cancun, and La Paz, just to name a few. Since 1996, we’ve been bringing property owners and guests together, offering affordable rentals in beautiful villas, furnished condos, and beachfront homes, steps away from all the attractions visitors want to experience.

 

More Information on Spring Break in Mexico:

1. Coastal Living, “Top 10 Spring Break Destinations in Mexico,” https://www.coastalliving.com/travel/top-10/best-spring-break-destinations-mexico
2. Chicago Tribune, Spring Break Beyond the Beach: Why more travelers opt for active trips, http://www.chicagotribune.com/lifestyles/travel/ct-active-spring-break-20180208-story.html

The recent discovery of the world’s largest flooded cave has put the spotlight on Mexico’s many amazing caverns, many of which can be explored by travelers. Underwater archeologists spent years exploring the caves of Sac Actun and Dos Ojos in Tulum in the Yucatan Peninsula before connecting the two caverns earlier this year.

The find revealed an amazing web of underwater grottoes; now the explorers’ mission is to link Sac Actun with three other underwater cave systems. The discovery of the submerged labyrinth identifies a significant archaeological site spanning 216 miles (347 km) that illustrates the stories and customs of the Mayan civilization.

“This immense cave represents the most important submerged archaeological site in the world,” says Guillermo de Anda, a researcher at the National Institute of Anthropology and History, in a statement issued in January of this year.

The Maya believed their caves served as conduits to communicate with their gods, so it is possible many historical artifacts will come to light in the depths of the waters.

Amazing Find Sparks New Interest in “Spelunking”

Whether you are new to caving or are an experienced spelunker (cave explorer), Mexico has many options from which to choose. Here is a rundown of five top caves and caverns to check out during your next trip south of the border.

1. Dos Ojos (Tulum)

Traditionally ranked #1 of the 30 nature areas and parks in Tulum, this spot is a magnet for divers and snorkelers. The crystal-clear water, about 77 degrees Fahrenheit (24°C) year round, is perfect for cooling off. Marvel at stalactites formed by centuries of flowing water. Guided tours are available through accessible parts of the cave, which stretches 38 miles (61 km) through the rock. 

2. Sac Actun (Tulum)

Another underground water paradise in the Riviera Maya. Your visit will certainly be a unique experience like no other, mystical and intriguing. You can snorkel or dive in this cavern, which is chock-full of formations. The cenote, or sinkhole, is set deep in the jungle and is surrounded by beautiful flora and fauna.

3. Rio Secreto (Playa del Carmen)

Mexico’s newly-discovered underground river, near Playa del Carmen, Rio Secreto offers a fantastic journey into a unique system of underground rivers and ancient caverns that reveals both the passage of time and our planet’s innermost mysteries. Many tours here offer walking sticks, water shoes, and headlamps – take advantage of them for the best experience!

4. Santa Cruz (Akumal)

Its warm, crystal-blue waters offer a great place to relax and are very romantic, according to many reviewers. Originally a spa for Mayan royalty, the caves’ stalactites and stalagmites are awesome, and the underwater life is plentiful. Some tours provide you with a torch to light the way, adding to the unique atmosphere.

5. Grutas de Garcia (Monterrey)

These stunning and dramatic caves date back to more than 50 million years ago. About an hour’s drive from Monterrey, the caves are quite a distance from the parking area, and they offer a cable car ride to get there for a small fee. The natural formations in the caves resemble animals like a gorilla, a donkey, and even a dinosaur. 

Sea Side Reservations offers great deals on vacation rentals all over Mexico, including condos, resorts, and homes. Contact us today and let us help you book your visit to paradise.

When it comes to vacationing in Cabo, Mexico, CasaGo would like to let you in on a few secrets. For over 2 decades, travelers have been taking advantage of our local expertise to find out where to go and what to do in many of Mexico’s hot spot destinations. Are you excited about visiting Cabo, but want to create a few unique experiences apart from the usual tourist spots? Here are 4 of Cabo’s best kept secrets.

Santiago Oasis

It is no surprise that the area surrounding Cabo–the Baja California Sur–is comprised heavily of desert. However, if you know the right routes you can find a beautiful natural oasis and waterfall. The Santiago oasis sits in the Sierra Laguna in the small town of Santiago, which is located near Los Barriles, between La Paz and the airport at San Jose del Cabo.

This spectacular natural oasis is great for anyone seeking a one-of-a-kind natural wonder. The sights and sounds of the waterfall will lull you into peaceful communion with nature, and make for stunning photos. The Santiago oasis is situated on private property, but can be accessed by the public by first contacting the Rancho Ecologico.

Flora Farms

Flora Farms is THE spot for fresh and made-with-love food in Cabo. This restaurant embodies the farm-to-table philosophy; Flora Farms’ ingredients come directly from their garden and local farms, offering patrons a dining experience with ingredients that are handpicked that very day. Flora Farms is a top destination for in-the-know celebrities visiting Cabo, but is fairly unknown to the general public.

Desert Spa at Villa Arco

Indulge yourself to the max at Cabo’s most luxurious and pampering spa. The Desert Spa at Villa Arco is an award-winning, 31,000 square-foot facility featuring massage rooms, private Jacuzzis, full beauty salon, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. The spa menu includes body wraps, hydrotherapy, and couples’ experiences. Highlights of their signature treatments include the Blissful Body Cocoon, Coconut Milk Immersion, and the Desert Rose Replenishing Facial.

El Pollo de Oro

El Pollo de Oro, which translates to “the chicken of gold,” is well known amongst Cabo locals for their delicious, succulent chicken. For years this restaurant has been a go-to spot for anyone looking for a tasty, expertly seasoned rotisserie chicken. Entering the restaurant, you will be hit with the mouth-watering aromas of the rotisserie chickens on display, and in no time you will be ready to order. You can order a quarter chicken, a half chicken, or a full chicken at unbeatable prices here. El Pollo de Oro has begun to gain more traction amongst tourists, however it is still a fairly unknown gem of Cabo!

Get your trip to Cabo started with CasaGo

Make your trip to Cabo happen with the help of CasaGo. We specialize in dream trips to Mexico at unbeatable prices. For more information on the best-kept secrets of Cabo, contact a CasaGo representative today.

More information on Cabo’s hidden gems:

1. Desert Spa, https://www.villagroupresorts.com/spa-collection/desert-spa/
2. Flora Farms, http://www.flora-farms.com/

When vacationing in Mexico, there is an eclectic range of unique activities to choose from — there really is something for even the most discriminating traveler. Nature lovers can indulge in whale-watching and coral reefs; night owls can opt for the beach parties in Cancun. Archaeological enthusiasts can explore the remains of ancient civilizations. For those who just want to relax on the beach, there are thousands of miles of beautiful coastline to enjoy!

Whether you plan to go to Rocky Point, Cancun, Los Cabos, or Puerta Vallarte, Mexico is larger than life, with the contemporary and the traditional existing side-by-side. A favorite destination, the country has a booming tourist industry. The three blogs highlighted below will help you to fully appreciate the invigorating vibe of Mexico.

Latin Journeys

Penned by Michael and Jennifer Lewis, this intriguing blog about Mexican cuisine and travel is jam-packed with advice for traveling south of the border. The writers are extremely knowledgeable and have traveled to more than 45 countries.  Sample excerpt: “On Cozumel, there are several spots on the west and south side of the island for good snorkeling, boat dives, shore dives and just plain swimming. Check out this video recently shot during a shore dive from one of the best dive resorts on the island, Blue Angel. We didn’t travel much more than 100 yards from the resort, we were diving in less than 30 feet of water and saw spotted eagle rays, tons of lobster, eels, and more.”

Mexico Retold

Susannah Rigg is a British expat currently living in Mexico. She fell in love Mexico even before she set foot there, captivated by the powerful stories of the ancient civilizations from a very young age. Her goal is to showcase Mexico’s true colors and celebrate the stories we don’t hear about in the news. She writes about the local cuisine, artists, attractions, and much more. Sample excerpt:  “When I first got to Oaxaca I was a bit unsure about grasshoppers or chapulines as they are called here. I tried them here and there but was never that into them. Nowadays, however, I love them and see them as a great source of protein. My favourite way to eat them is sprinkled on guacamole. They add a crunchy saltiness, which offsets the limey avocado flavour nicely…”

Roaming Around the World

Authors Heather and John are self-described travel addicts, and they’ve been on a grand adventure traveling the globe for the past four years, across 60+ countries including Mexico. They say they’ve been to Mexico more than any other destination. Sample excerpt: “…be sure to wander into Guanajuato’s elaborate network of tunnels. These subterranean streets were initially built as a means to divert flooding, but today they are instead used to divert traffic out of the historic city center. These tunnels all have sidewalks but we’d only suggest poking into the shorter ones. Leave the longer tunnels for the cars!”

Once you’ve narrowed down your choices of Mexican destinations, contact Sea Side Reservations and let us help you find the perfect vacation rental property close to all the attractions you want to visit.

From the sunny beaches of Cancun to the enchanting ruins of Teotihuacán, Mexico has plenty to offer visitors. But what if you’d rather head off the beaten path? There’s certainly plenty of options to choose from. Mexico is an incredibly beautiful country, filled with diverse attractions that are sure to please any nature lover, history buff, and thrill seeker. Start your trip planning by learning a bit about Palenque.

Ancient city of Palenque

Palenque is in the Mexican state of Chiapas. According to CNN Travel, it takes its modern name from a nearby 16th century Spanish town. Its Mayan name is thought to be Lakamah, which means “big water.” Palenque was excavated during the 20th century, and today visitors can marvel at the beauty of this once-busy political center. Archaeologists have dated the peak period for the city at 226 to 799 Common Era (CE). It’s thought that the city was abandoned by 900 CE.

It was in the back of the Temple of the Inscriptions that an archaeologist detected a hidden passageway, which led down to the tomb of Emperor Pakal. Scholars have used the rich treasure trove of hieroglyphs found at Palenque to uncover hundreds of years of Mayan history. And in fact, the ornately carved lid of the emperor’s tomb made a significant contribution to the conspiracy theories about the Mayan calendar and its predictions about the end of the world.

One particular group was so convinced that the world would end in December 2012 that they traveled to Palenque, some with one-way tickets. Undoubtedly, confusion reigned supreme the following day!

Cave of the Swallows

If you’re an adventurous type of traveler, consider heading to San Luis Potosi to visit the largest known cave shaft in the world. The Cave of the Swallows is so enormous that the Chrysler Building could fit inside it. The tallest side is an astounding 1,092-foot drop. The beauty of the rock formations inside the cave shaft isn’t the only reason why it’s enchanted visitors for years. Visit it at dawn or dusk, and you’ll see thousands of birds dive-bomb into it.

Yaxchilan

Also in the Mexican state of Chiapas lies the ancient ruins of Yaxchilan. It’s an impressive collection of structures located within the Lacandon Rainforest on the banks of the Usumacinta River. More than 100 monuments stand guard in this ancient city. You can thank Lord Shield Jaguar II, whose 60-year rule began in 681 CE, for some of the most impressive sculptures and buildings found here. Take note of the many carved lintels, some of which depict the sacred ritual of bloodletting. The elites of Mayan civilization regularly engaged in bloodletting ceremonies, as they were thought to maintain order.

Book luxurious, safe accommodations anywhere in Mexico

With Sea Side Reservations, you’ll have easy access to affordable accommodations wherever your travels south of the border take you. We’ve got it all—from major resorts to luxury condos. Once you’ve chosen your check in and check out dates, get in touch and our travel experts will sweat the details for you.

Additional resources:

1. CNN, Mexico’s Palenque is the best historical site you don’t know about, http://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/palenque-mexico/index.html
2. Khan Academy, Yaxchilán—Lintels 24 and 25 from Structure 23 and structures 33 and 40, https://www.khanacademy.org/humanities/ap-art-history/indigenous-americas/a/yaxchilan-lintels