San Carlos

San Carlos is a beautiful little beach town just 4 hours south of Nogales, Arizona. The topography of San Carlos has been described as “Sedona on the Beach.” The incredible mountains dive right into the clear blue waters of the Sea of Cortez . San Carlos, Mexico hosts many activities when you’re not relaxing on the sandy beaches; such as an 18-hole championship golf course, diving and snorkeling, kayaking, and offshore fishing tennis courts, a bowling alley, and numerous gift shops and galleries for shopping and browsing. For the boater, two marinas are available with paved launch ramps, Authentic restaurants featuring fresh seafood, Mexican cuisine and American plates are abundant through out San Carlos. For lodging we have many hotels, condominiums and private home rentals to fit every group and budget, in various San Carlos rental areas.

Las Glorias

Wonderful Condos and Villas overlooking Marina San Carlos, also known as Marina Terra.

San Carlos Homes

Find the best home for your group, we have them in all areas of San Carlos. Ocean front, on the beach, gated residential…

Bahia Delfin

These are located on San Francisco beach one of the nicest beaches in San Carlos. Nothing but pure so…

Playa Blanca

These Beautiful Condos are the Newest, Modern and most Luxury Lodging in Sa…

Marina Real

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Located on the central plateau of Mexico, hidden to the naked eye, sits the world’s largest ancient pyramid. The town where this wonder is located is Cholula, a small village just outside Puebla. Upon first glance, one sees only the charming colonial church of La Iglesia de los Remedios, built in the 16th century. Amazingly, this church sits atop the Great Pyramid of Tepanapa, oftentimes referred to as the Cholula Pyramid. Hidden by vegetation, the hill upon which the church was built, actually houses the great pyramid.

The history of the pyramid, coupled with the momentous events which followed, is full of drama and mystery. Approximately one hundred years before Christ, the pyramid’s construction began. Cholula, by this time, was already one of Mexico’s largest cities, having been settled circa 1700 B.C. The pyramid’s construction along with affiliated temples, was carried out by various groups over hundreds of years. Its early period coincided with the great city of Teotihuacan’s development and power.

	Inside Cholula Pyramid

An important ceremonial and political center of the pre-Columbian world, Cholula mirrored Teotihuacan’s glory days of power. As well, its first subsequent demise coincided with that of Teotihuacan. But unlike the great city to the northwest, whose people mysteriously disappeared, some residual people remained in Cholula, not abandoning the city entirely. Expansion of the pyramid continued with the arrival of the Olmec-Xicallancas, who further added to the pyramid’s scale.

The Toltec-Chichimecas occupied Cholula next, circa 1100 A.D. By that time the great pyramid was already largely submerged underneath tree and dirt. The Toltecs chose to focus their activity on building new temples which would surround the area of the great pyramid. The Toltecs also brought with them their intense devotion of Quetzalcoatl. Cholula subsequently became a mecca for pilgrims from all over Mexico, who flocked to the city to pay homage to the feathered serpent God.

Quetzalcoatl, already a long established deity of the Mesoamerican world, undoubtedly helped to inspire the pyramid’s initial construction. However, with the arrival of the Toltecs, the cult of Quetzalcoatl truly flourished. Additionally, under the rule of the Toltecs, Cholula became a major center for trade and commerce. Having established strong ties with all other cities in the region, Cholula maintained its independence for a time from the ever expanding Aztec Empire.

However, the Aztecs eventually took control of Cholula. When Cortes arrived in 1519, the pyramid stood silent hidden under grass and stone. The city’s population at this time was 100,000 inhabitants. Legend advises an ambush was planned by the Cholulans against the Spanish invaders under the direction of Montezuma. No longer swayed by Cortes whom he initially believed to be the reincarnation of Quetzalcoatl, the Aztec ruler made one last attempt to save his empire. Unfortunately, Cortes learned of the plan and what followed next was horrific: the slaughter of 6,000 Cholulan residents took place under the brutal command of Cortes.

	Restored Stairway Cholula Pyramid

Temples were torn down and the ancient city of Cholula was destroyed. Cortes proclaimed that he would build a church in the area for each day of the year to match the number of temples destroyed. Drunk with power and with gold on his mind, Cortes failed to see the great pyramid.

Centuries elapsed before the pyramid was again discovered. In 1910, construction began on an insane asylum located at the base of the pyramid. Archaeologists once aware of the site began to survey and excavate. In the 1930′s, tunnels were made in order to better study the pyramid. These tunnels, which amount to an amazing five miles worth of passageways, zigzag in subterranean fashion, creating a labyrinth, not for the timid. These tunnels afford the visitor the opportunity of observing first-hand the various levels of construction. Delineated layers of shell and stone are visible. A total of four stages of construction occurred over hundreds of years. Although lit with lamps, the atmosphere is definitely haunting and you most assuredly want to exit before nightfall.

In addition to the tunnels, outside there are altars, stairways and platforms to explore. One can also see a portion of the pyramid which was reconstructed by archaeologists. Not only does the pyramid of Cholula represent the largest single structure in Mexico, it also bears the distinction of having the largest base of any pyramid in the world, exceeding the bases of the great pyramids in Egypt. The total acreage the pyramid occupies is 25 acres with a height reaching an impressive 181 feet. Each side of the structure’s base is over 1300 feet in length.

When visiting the great Pyramid of Cholula one is also afforded a magnificent view of the majestic snow-capped El Popocatepetl and Iztaccihuatl volcanoes. The pyramid of Cholula is truly a wondrous pre-Columbian gem. The site holds the potential of even greater discoveries and with only a small portion yet excavated, who knows what marvelous secrets the great pyramid has yet to reveal.

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Cancun has the beautiful beaches and crystal clear water that are perfect for some outdoor and ocean fun. For the person looking for things to do in Cancun, there is no shortage of activities or of services to help you make the most of your stay here. Here are some of the most popular activities:

Diving & Fishing
The waters surrounding Cancun are legendary for their clarity and diversity. You can snorkel right off the beach or scuba dive/snorkel over the “Mayan Reef” on Mexico’s Caribbean. Most of the good snorkeling on Cancun can be done off the Punta Cancun, near the convention center and Forum shopping center. The water is calm and there are rental services available.

Famous dive spots like Palancar, El Bajito, Manchones and Chitales are all nearby can be found off of Cozumel, about an hour south of Cancun. There is also the Cave of the Sleeping Sharks, offshore from Isla Mujeres, where divers can sometimes “pet” the sharks. Isla Mujeres is probably the most scenic place in the area for diving & snorkeling though, and the reefs just offshore at 10′ to 40′ deep are perfect for snorkeling or scuba diving.

Deep sea fishing is available throughout Cancun, although it is not well known for that sport. Marlin, sailfish, tuna and dorado are available during their respective seasons.

Golf
Cancun has 4 18-hole golf courses available for the avid golfer. In Cancun you’ll find one at each tip of the island. The other two courses are found to the south on the Mayan Riviera.

Kayaking & Windsurfing
Kayakers & windsurfers will find Cancun’s waters perfect for your enjoyment. For calmer waters, try the protected Nichupté Lagoon or the northern end of Cancun Island. Jet skiing, parasailing and regular sailing are also popular in this water paradise.

Bullfights
Every wednesday, you’ll find the classic struggle of man (bullfighter or torrero) against beast (bull or toro) downtown at the Plaza de Toros Cancun. Dances, cockfights and traditional cuisine can sometimes be experienced here also. A word of caution: bullfighting is a blood sport, so if you are not ready for that kind of visual it might be best to pass on that activity.

Side Trips

Actun Chen
Actun Chen is about an hour from Cancun on the road to Tulum. The name means “cave with an underground river inside,” but the words only hint at the underground grandeur. The main cave of three, over 600 yards long and with a magnificent vault, has been illuminated and supplied with paths for easy walking. There are thousands of intriguing stalactites, stalagmites and natural sculptures, as well as a crystal-clear cenote forty feet deep. Trained guides escort visitors, giving a combination history lesson and geology class.

Around is the jungle, with special trails through the tropical vegetation that may reveal some of the local wildlife: white-tailed deer, a badger, a spider monkey, an iguana or a wild turkey. There is a restaurant, and rest rooms — but otherwise, the 988 acres of Aktun Chen remain as they have been for millennia.

Tres Rios                                     
Tres Rios, stretching inland from a pristine mile-long white sand beach just 25 miles from Cancun, encompasses subtropical jungle and mangroves, covers 370 acres and offers a prime selection of cenotes — the pools where the area’s underground rivers break through to the surface. Only in Tres Rios are these cenotes at ground level, found in the shallow rivers that run to the sea.

At Tres Rios visitors can walk or bicycle through the jungle, canoe down the river, kayak in the sea, ride a horse along the beach, snorkel in the river or on the park’s outstanding section of the Great Mayan Reef. For the less adventurous, there are hammocks to swing in, sandcastles to build, delicious ceviches of marinated fish to enjoy and a few simple rules to help ensure that the next generation will find the park as it is today.

Xpu-Ha
Just over 50 miles south of the resort, Xpu-Ha (shpoo-ha) offers close contact with nature, and a chance for visitors to make it part of their lives. Of its 91.5 acres, only 3% has been developed: to build access roads, install bathrooms and showers, and provide two snack bars, as well as a beautiful seaside restaurant, La Palapa. There are sunbathing areas, places for soccer and volleyball, and shops where aquatic equipment for snorkeling or scuba can be rented. There is even a beginner’s dive class.

Ranked among the most diverse environments in North America, Xpu-Ha is a sanctuary for rare birds, some of them endangered, and for protected species such as crocodiles, sea turtles, native deer and snakes. Walks along nature trails are led by expert guides, who explain and interpret, simply and memorably, the many types of vegetation and the geological features, as well as the fauna.

Be it diving, fishing, golfing, Kayaking, Wind Surfing, Golfing or any one of many activities in Cancun, you’ll be sure to enjoy.

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Hello my friends. I found this great article on the Mexican Caribbean and its endless source for ecotourism and I just had to share it with you.

(US NEWS SOURCE) January 4, 2011 - The Mexican Caribbean offers hundreds of miles of white sand beaches, stunning turquoise waters, lowlands along the coast that hide ancient Mayan cities and a limestone plateau that allows underground rivers to emerge through caverns and create distinct formations.
Few places in the world offer beauty and attractions like the Mexican Caribbean. A paradise for lovers of nature and adventure, travelers arrive every year to this multifaceted destination in the state of Quintana Roo in search of ecotourism, a popular type of vacation.

The Mexican Caribbean offers hundreds of miles of white sand beaches, stunning turquoise waters, lowlands along the coast that hide ancient Mayan cities and a limestone plateau that allows underground rivers to emerge through caverns and create distinct formations. It also has the second largest coral reef in the world, protected biosphere areas, natural aquariums, and several archaeological sites that encompass some of the world’s most amazing settings.

Among the areas of outstanding natural beauty with a wide range of eco-tourism activities, are Cancun, Riviera Maya, Cozumel, Grand Costa Maya, Puerto Morelos, Isla Mujeres and Holbox. Ecotourism forces the traveler to constantly engage and connect with nature and enjoy its offerings while keeping a respect for the balance of the environment. All of these elements join together in the Mexican Caribbean, where visitors are surrounded by lush jungle, cenotes and natural reserves. Visitors can enjoy exotic bird watching, observing endangered species in their natural habitat; swim with whale sharks, as well as enjoy the rich fauna and flora.

From Cancun to the Mayan area, there are a wide variety of eco-tourism activities that allow visitors to enjoy a one of a kind experience with nature. Among the most popular spots to visit is Isla Contoy, ideal for bird watching enthusiasts. Another option is Coba, a site that holds an impressive archaeological area immersed in a Mayan community.

Cancun is a gateway to our environmental world. It’s a beautiful, natural place with underground river systems, caves, the world’s largest cenotes (natural sink holes), magnificent waterfalls and spring-fed pools surrounded by a mystic jungle full of ancient Mayan cities. Due to its unique and strategic location in the Yucatan Peninsula, Cancun offers a variety of adventure and eco-tourism activities such as snorkeling in the Great Mesoamerican Reef, swimming with majestic whale sharks and dolphins, diving along the archipelago or visiting eco-archaeological parks.

The region offers exclusive and exciting adventure tourism, such as rappelling in a cenote, as well as the fast and long zip lines in the middle of the forest, combined with expeditions to different lagoons. One of them, Laguna Bacalar, known as ‘lagoon of the seven colors’ for its seven shades of blue, is a perfect place for camping, snorkeling, enjoying the beauty of the tropical fish or simplying relaxing during leisurely stroll in a canoe surrounded by nature.

Also, there are a variety of tours that cross the lowland jungle of the Mexican Caribbean and offer a wonderful eco-tourism experience. The adventure begins aboard a jeep and continues by visiting different ranches and small Mayan communities where cenotes and underground rivers can be found. Once there, visitors can snorkel in beautiful and unique rivers. Another impressive ecotourism excursion is a trip to the Rio Secreto, an exciting caves tour between stalagmites and stalactites in a pristine underground river.

On the other hand, some eco-tours offer visitors what is known as Maya flight, a zip line experience in the jungle that also combines a Mayan ceremony in a cenote, where visitors learn how this ancient culture envisioned the world.

The Mexican Caribbean offers one of the most diverse flora and fauna in Mexico and is constantly researching new sustainable practices. The hotel industry and many service providers are also in the process of becoming certified by international environment agencies.

The Mexican Caribbean offers endless activities for ecotourism and direct contact with nature for visitors, as well as unique and memorable experiences.

About Quintana Roo

The Ministry of Tourism is a department of the Executive Power of the Free and Sovereign State of Quintana Roo, whose main aim is to establish, direct and supervise the criteria and policies for tourism promotion and development in the state, as well as act as a liaison for the departments and entities of the Federal Government related to the tourism sector.

Thus we present on this website all the information related to tourism activity in the state that the State Government, through this department, generates to fulfill its function and objectives, which will serve as an instrument for consulting and working among the Tourism Sector in the State. For more information, visit http://www.caribemexicano.gob.mx/

Follow us on Twitter @mexcaribbean or “LIKE” us on Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/mexcaribbean

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A country rich in history, tradition and culture, Mexico is made up of 31 states and one federal district. It is the third largest country in Latin America and has the largest population—more than 100 million—making it the home of more Spanish speakers than any other nation in the world.

Despite the towering reputation of Egypt’s Great Pyramids at Giza, the Americas actually contain more pyramid structures than the rest of the planet combined. Civilizations like the Olmec, Maya, Aztec and Inca all built pyramids to house their deities, as well as to bury their kings. In many of their great city-states, temple-pyramids formed the center of public life and were the site of much holy ritual, including human sacrifice. The best known Latin American pyramids include the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon at Teotihuacán in central Mexico, the Castillo at Chichén Itzá in the Yucatan, the Great Pyramid in the Aztec capital of Tenochtitlan, the Pyramid at Cholula and the Inca’s great temple at Cuzco in Peru.

Amazing. Surely you’ve enjoyed this as much as I have!LOL

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What’s your idea of fun? Volleyball? Water skiing or jet-skiing? Wind surfing? Fishing? San Felipe’s beautiful beaches offer a variety of activities. Or do you like solid ground underfoot? If so, dunes and mountains are ideal for back- and off-road motorcycling, four-wheeling, and horseback riding. Hikers, nature lovers and history buffs will also want to explore.

Bird’s eye view of town from Virgin of Guadalupe shrine

Sportfishing
Just in the last few decades has San Felipe’s main economic source turned to tourism, before this fishing made this town & there is still alot of good fishing available to the visitor. March through October seems to be the high season with catches of white sea bass, corvina, cabrilla, yellow tail & grouper. San Felipe has a few large boats available for the one day or multi-day trips to the local fishing grounds. Also popular if the local fisherman & their pangas for a 1/2 day or 3/4 day of fishing.

Watersports
The Bay of San Felipe provides for endless watersports. It’s calm waters are perfect for water & jet skiing, as well as kayaking. Many kayak adventures start here headed south. Both jet skiis & water skiing are available from local rental agencies. You’ll also find young men trailing “banana boats” from their pangas looking for beachgoers who are eager to jump on the yellow rubber boats and be pulled through the wake.

Catamaran’s on San Felipe’s beach

Catamarans are also available for rent in San Felipe and the winds of the outer bay provide for exhilarating rides. A catamaran regatta is held each year.

Sail boats aren’t as common as points south, but more & more sailors are towing their boats down & putting into the water here, many for the beautiful sail to Bahia de Los Angeles about 200 miles to the south.

San Felipe can become windy in the late fall & early spring. The storms which cause these winds are called chubascos. The winds shoot down the coast from the north and can last 3 or 4 days at a time. Depending on the strength of the storm, sailing may be hazardous except for the expert.

Adventure Tours
San Felipe is a border between the desert & the sea, so naturally off road enthusiasts and nature lovers make up a significant number of visitors here. You’ll see & hear dirt bikes, ATV’s and dune buggies pass through town headed for the desert or the nearby sand dunes at the southern edge of town. This is the transport of choice for many people staying on the outskirts of town. Rentals are available in town. We recommend enjoying the surrounding area, but please show a healthy respect for the fragile desert environment.

The Baja 1000, 500 & 250 also pass through or nearby San Felipe. Sponsored by Score International Racing, these racing bring a festive attitude to town.

Side Trips

San Felipe is an isolated desert beach town located on the warm waters of the Sea of Cortez which one of the reasons this small fishing and retirement village attracts so many outdoor enthusiasts.

In order to get a proper feel for the town, visitors are recommended to hike the short distance up a small hill to the Shrine of the Virgin Guadalupe. Here you’ll command a near panoramic view of the town and bay which makes up San Felipe.

South of Town

The Valley of the Giants

You’ll find miles of sandy beaches, some with collections of vacation and retirement homes and others completely isolated. A somewhat maintained paved road leads past these beaches and camps to Puertecitos (Little Port) 80 kilometers away. On the way you’ll notice giant Cardon Cactus, among other species, in an area called the “Valley of the Giants”. In fact Mexico donated a 60 ft.+ tall Cardon from this area to the World Fair in Spain a couple of years ago.

Puertecitos can barely be considered a town, more like an American retirement colony. Houses surround the small cove. A small airstrip, one or two tiendas, a cantina serving beer & tequila plus a gas station which is rarely opened make up this settlement. There is a reason to visit and it’s the hot springs in the rocks on the seaside of the small point. One of the best times to visit is after high tide when the sea water has cooled the scolding mineral water enough to relax in the pools.

After Puertecitos, the road is dirt track and only 4wd or other sturdy vehicles should venture further. Make sure you have supplies including water and gas if you plan on heading south. You’ll come along various fish camps and small settlements such as El Huerfanito and Punta Bufeo plus a retirement home or two. You won’t find any hotels, but you may be able to rent a cabin. Be prepared to camp.

The largest settlement you’ll reach is the scenic bay of Bahia San Luis Gonzaga, 75 kilometers (5-6 hours) after Puertecitos. Here a cluster of fisherman and their families scratch out a living off the sea. You’ll also find American vacation homes and Papa Hernandez’ and Alfonsina’s Camps where you can buy supplies, find meals, go fishing or just set up camp. You’ll also come upon the airstrip as many Americans fly their planes down. From here you can drive another 65 kilometers on a graded dirt road to Highway 1 coming out 30 kilometers north of the Bahia de los Angeles turnoff.

West of Town
If you head towards the Sierra de San Pedro Martir, you’ll cross a dry lake bed to reachCañon Diablo (Devil’s Canyon) near the base of Baja California’s highest peak, Picacho del Diablo. In the spring the Canyon is known to have waterfalls and pools of cool Sierra runoff from the winter storms. You’ll also find Indian caves and fossils if you know where to look. If you adventure to the Canyon, please make sure you are well supplied and be prepared to camp as you won’t find any supplies or settlements here. Also, make sure you have a sturdy vehicle to make the trip, this is Baja 1000 country!

To Ensenada
If you prefer something a bit more tame, try the beautiful drive across the peninsula to Ensenada on Highway 3. To get there, head north out of town on Highway 5 towards Mexicali, then, after about 50 kilometers, take the turnoff at Crucero La Trinidad east on Highway 3. This 145 km drive takes you out of the desert and into the higher elevations with various farmlands and chaparral. You also pass the dirt road exit (sturdy vehicles only) to pristine Parque Nacional Constitución de 1857 and Laguna Hanson (please see the Ensenada Directory  for more information). Other highlights of the trip include the turnoff for Mike’s Sky Ranch, a famous guest ranch high in the rugged Sierras.

As you drive on you’ll pass the towns of La Trinidad and Ojos Negros where you’ll be able to find fuel, meals and supplies before arriving in Ensenada.

The Las Caras de Mexico Golf Course
An 18-hole championship golf course on the Sea of Cortez
Named the “Faces of Mexico” to give it an archaeological,
historical and social Mexican character.
San Felipe * US Tel: 800-404-2599 + 9 + 4417  From Mexico 686-576-0517

Enjoy!                                                                                              

Resource: Mexonline.com

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Cozumel is Mexico’s largest inhabited island, is also one of the country’s biggest paradoxes. Serene, laid-back and somewhat undiscovered by Mexico’s 20 million annual visitors, Cozumel rivals many Caribbean island destinations when it comes to visitor facilities, activities, and stunning beauty.

Cozumel has a “laid-back” Caribbean feel

Cozumel’s appeal lies with its combination of the best of Mexico with the allure of vacationing on a Caribbean island. This mix makes Cozumel one of Mexico’s most unique destinations, offering a hard-to-find vacation duality.

The jewel shaped island lies just 19 kms. off of the Yucatan coast and measures 29 miles ( 47 kilometers) long and 10 miles (15 kilometers) wide. Its jungle-clad interior and ivory white beaches are girdled by one of the most spectacular ensembles of coral reefs in this hemisphere. The island’s limestone shore is surrounded by temperate, crystal clear waters which range from stunning turquoise to deep indigo.

The climate on the island is warm year around with an average temperature of 81 F (27 C). Heavy rains start in June and go on through October. It is a possibility that rain can fall everyday, but the usual duration of a shower is brief. Expect high humidity during the rainy season. The humidity levels are lower November through May, with an occasional cool evening. However, because it a tropical climate, the weather can change from one day to the next.

The westward side of the island is calm, and is ideal for swimming, diving or just relaxing in the sun. This part of the island is also the most developed with banks, markets, shops, restaurants and hotels. The eastern side of the island is more secluded, with very few people living there and little activity. There are some calm beaches with clear emerald green water. There are at least 20 live reefs so close to the shore, it makes snorkeling and diving a must. The island also has it’s share of Mayan ruins hidden in the jungles that can be explored by car, bike or foot.

The area’s diving and snorkeling are legendary. Following a 1961 documentary by Jacques Cousteau, Cozumel earned a world-wide following of divers who ranked it one of the top five scuba diving and snorkeling sites on the planet. The island’s surrounding sea is teeming with undersea life, colorful reefs, and the slumbering hulls of Spanish galleons.

World class SCUBA diving on Cozumel

For non-divers, the island has something for everyone. Sightseeing includes over 35 archaeological sites (only a few of which are accessible and worth seeing), and the charming village of San Miguel de Cozumel. The town is a collection of cafes, restaurants, and attractive boutiques. It encircles the main plaza, and extends several blocks along the city’s breezy seaside promenade.

Nature lovers come to Cozumel to see giant see turtles laying their eggs (May to September) and to observe the island’s variety of exotic migratory bird life. Visitors are only a 40 minute ferry ride from the incredible Tulum Corridor region of the Yucatan Peninsula, brimming with hidden beaches, secluded resorts and archaeological treasures. Large numbers of day trippers from Cancun and cruise ship passengers sometimes overtake the city proper, only to retreat a couple of hours later. This is when Cozumel really shines, as the island’s bountiful man-made and natural attractions can be leisurely explored.

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(US NEWS SOURCE) January 4, 2011 - The Mexican Caribbean offers hundreds of miles of white sand beaches, stunning turquoise waters, lowlands along the coast that hide ancient Mayan cities and a limestone plateau that allows underground rivers to emerge through caverns and create distinct formations.
Few places in the world offer beauty and attractions like the Mexican Caribbean. A paradise for lovers of nature and adventure, travelers arrive every year to this multifaceted destination in the state of Quintana Roo in search of ecotourism, a popular type of vacation.

The Mexican Caribbean offers hundreds of miles of white sand beaches, stunning turquoise waters, lowlands along the coast that hide ancient Mayan cities and a limestone plateau that allows underground rivers to emerge through caverns and create distinct formations. It also has the second largest coral reef in the world, protected biosphere areas, natural aquariums, and several archaeological sites that encompass some of the world’s most amazing settings.

Among the areas of outstanding natural beauty with a wide range of eco-tourism activities, are Cancun, Riviera Maya, Cozumel, Grand Costa Maya, Puerto Morelos, Isla Mujeres and Holbox. Ecotourism forces the traveler to constantly engage and connect with nature and enjoy its offerings while keeping a respect for the balance of the environment. All of these elements join together in the Mexican Caribbean, where visitors are surrounded by lush jungle, cenotes and natural reserves. Visitors can enjoy exotic bird watching, observing endangered species in their natural habitat; swim with whale sharks, as well as enjoy the rich fauna and flora.

From Cancun to the Mayan area, there are a wide variety of eco-tourism activities that allow visitors to enjoy a one of a kind experience with nature. Among the most popular spots to visit is Isla Contoy, ideal for bird watching enthusiasts. Another option is Coba, a site that holds an impressive archaeological area immersed in a Mayan community.

Cancun is a gateway to our environmental world. It’s a beautiful, natural place with underground river systems, caves, the world’s largest cenotes (natural sink holes), magnificent waterfalls and spring-fed pools surrounded by a mystic jungle full of ancient Mayan cities. Due to its unique and strategic location in the Yucatan Peninsula, Cancun offers a variety of adventure and eco-tourism activities such as snorkeling in the Great Mesoamerican Reef, swimming with majestic whale sharks and dolphins, diving along the archipelago or visiting eco-archaeological parks.

The region offers exclusive and exciting adventure tourism, such as rappelling in a cenote, as well as the fast and long zip lines in the middle of the forest, combined with expeditions to different lagoons. One of them, Laguna Bacalar, known as ‘lagoon of the seven colors’ for its seven shades of blue, is a perfect place for camping, snorkeling, enjoying the beauty of the tropical fish or simplying relaxing during leisurely stroll in a canoe surrounded by nature.

Also, there are a variety of tours that cross the lowland jungle of the Mexican Caribbean and offer a wonderful eco-tourism experience. The adventure begins aboard a jeep and continues by visiting different ranches and small Mayan communities where cenotes and underground rivers can be found. Once there, visitors can snorkel in beautiful and unique rivers. Another impressive ecotourism excursion is a trip to the Rio Secreto, an exciting caves tour between stalagmites and stalactites in a pristine underground river.

On the other hand, some eco-tours offer visitors what is known as Maya flight, a zip line experience in the jungle that also combines a Mayan ceremony in a cenote, where visitors learn how this ancient culture envisioned the world.

The Mexican Caribbean offers one of the most diverse flora and fauna in Mexico and is constantly researching new sustainable practices. The hotel industry and many service providers are also in the process of becoming certified by international environment agencies.

The Mexican Caribbean offers endless activities for ecotourism and direct contact with nature for visitors, as well as unique and memorable experiences.

About Quintana Roo

The Ministry of Tourism is a department of the Executive Power of the Free and Sovereign State of Quintana Roo, whose main aim is to establish, direct and supervise the criteria and policies for tourism promotion and development in the state, as well as act as a liaison for the departments and entities of the Federal Government related to the tourism sector.

Thus we present on this website all the information related to tourism activity in the state that the State Government, through this department, generates to fulfill its function and objectives, which will serve as an instrument for consulting and working among the Tourism Sector in the State. For more information, visit http://www.caribemexicano.gob.mx/

Follow us on Twitter @mexcaribbean or “LIKE” us on Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/mexcaribbean

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Having you been thinking about getting married in Mexico? Many couples now see Mexico as a wonderful and exciting place to get married that is both affordable and convenient. Wedding planners can take almost all of the hassle out of the process and make life easier for bride and groom.

Getting married in Mexico has become an extremely popular option for people from all over the world, who often combine their wedding ceremony with their honeymoon vacation. Below, you’ll find a general list of information on how to get married in Mexico. Please remember that this information is general, and can vary from state to state. Please check with the proper authorities, or you may choose a wedding coordinator (both are listed below).

Civil ceremonies are the only ones recognized in Mexico. A religious ceremony can be had, but it isn’t considered official.

You must have tourist cards and/or a visa plus passports. No Mexican residential requirements are applicable. Marriages are performed at the “Oficina del Registro Civil” (Civil Registers Office) for a fee (can range from $100 to $250 in resort areas). Every city and small town has an office. Most people in this office don’t speak English. This is where a wedding coordinator comes in handy if you don’t speak Spanish. The marriage ceremony can be performed elsewhere, but please check with the office for information and extra fees.

Divorced people cannot marry in Mexico until one year after their finalized divorce (this may vary in different areas and proof of divorce may be enough). Minors under 18 can not marry without written & notarized permission from a parent or legal guardian. Some states may require a waiting period of a few days.

You’ll need to present the following;

• A current passport with tourist card or visa (make copies of each)
• Certified copies of your birth certificate
• An application stating whether that you wish to marry (available at the Civil Registers Office)
• If divorced in Mexico, a certificated decree from the Mexican Consular Office
• A blood test done in Mexico (the CRO will recommend a doctor/clinic) – There is a fee (as high as $60 in some resorts)
• Two legally qualified witnesses (over 18) who must be present for each person

You’ll receive your copy of the marriage certificate at the CRO. Make sure you get certified copies now, so you don’t have to go through the trouble at a later date.

NOTE: Foreigners wishing to marry Mexican citizens must obtain authorization from the National Institute of Migration (Instituto Nacional de Migracion). This will take a bit longer and there will be more paper work to process.

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Heroic Puebla de Zaragoza, or Puebla de los Angeles, is one of the cultural gems of Mexico. Located about 70 miles from Mexico City, Puebla contains more works of art than any other place in Mexico and the Americas and has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Puebla’s Historic Center of the city, which was founded in the 16th century, reflects its rich and turbulent history. Although the downtown area showcases centuries of history, Puebla today is one of the Mexico‘s largest cities, (population almost 2 million) and a first-class industrial, commercial and tourism center. This rapidly growing, contemporary city, with its many big, modern buildings, as well as centuries-old haciendas, extends in all directions from the Historic Center. Surrounding it are numerous interesting attractions that make this destination one of the most fascinating in all of Mexico.

There are numerous plazas, small parks, colonial homes, churches and small streets that make this a pedestrian friendly destination, with numerous cafes, restaurants and shops to found all around the main square. Despite the immense size of the city itself, in the historic center the traveler will find so much to enlighten and entertain within walking distance of the main square. . One important distinction that makes Puebla so unique are the many buildings and churches whose facades are completely or partially covered in the famous Spanish talavera tiles.

The zocalo, in the heart of the Centro Historico, is a pleasant place to pass an afternoon. Huge laurel and jacaranda trees shade the iron benches and frame the playful fountain. Many shops, hotels and restaurants surround the zocalo as well as the main cathedral of Puebla, the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. The church takes up one whole side of the zocalo. One of Mexico’s largest churches, completed in 1649, the interior features 14 chapels, an onyx main altar, a beautiful wood inlay choir loft, and colonial religious art. Outside, the fence that surrounds the cathedral has angels all around, guarding the church.

The State of Puebla, of which the city Puebla is capital, is located in the south central portion of the Mexican Republic, and has population of more than 4 million people. Because of its mountainous terrain, and high altitude (higher than 2000 meters (7,800 feet) above sea level) it is hot during the day and very cool, and sometimes very cold at night. Yearly temperatures averages are 70 degrees Fahrenheit for daytime and 51 degrees Farenheit at night.

Puebla occupies an important position in Mexico‘s history, as the location for the Battle of Puebla where the local militia was able to defeat the French Army on May the 5th, 1862. This victory is the cause for today’s Cinco de Mayo holiday, which is most enthusiastically celebrated in Puebla and the massive, stone forts that protected the city can still be seen and visited. Of other historic interest is the legend of the “China Poblana”, who is memorialized all over the city and has a large monument dedicated to her, close to the center of town.

18th century chronicler Miguel de Alcal y Mendiola, inspired by the greatness of Puebla de los Angeles, wrote these lines in honor of the China Poblana:

If the city of angels
Measures you from the heavens,
It will turn you into heaven.
For greater dignity
Your sovereign principles,
Admired for their civility,
have never been equaled.
When the sky is depopulated,
The angels end up in Puebla
Whereas courtiers end up in Heaven.

A truly beautiful and quaint city, specially when looking to going back in time for a taste of old Mexico. Enjoy!

Resources: Mexonline.com

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