The Religious Virgins and Saints of Mexico: las Virgenes y Santos de Mexico

Strolling through street markets, browsing the tourist stalls, visitors to all parts of Mexico see mountains of goods featuring the image of the Virgin of Guadalupe. As tourists observe the impossibly colorful image repeated endlessly on caps, T-shirts, key chains, sequined appliqués, mud flaps, decals, bibs, murals, bumper stickers, tiles, candles, religious art, mirrors and tattoos they judge the situation to be clever marketing providing a popular talisman for the poor and uneducated.

While most understand the vulgarizing of a popular local icon to promote sales, they quickly dismiss La Virgen as an amusing bit of folklore. They view the image of the Virgin decorated with bunting and artificial flowers, hanging in homes, stores, churches and even modern factories at the end of each production line as a quaint bit of foreign custom or superstition.

By brushing aside the Virgin and all she represents as tacky commercialism, guests to Mexico are ignoring an important opportunity to begin to understand what is in the hearts, minds and souls of the Mexican people.

THE VIRGIN IS A COMMON DENOMINATOR

When anthropologists search for a common bond, for the thing that gives Mexicans their national identity, they have to reject the usual concepts. Language did not unite Mexico, as 117 dialects were deciphered by 1575. Ethnic background didn’t provide a bond, not in a country of people who have evolved from raping Spanish fathers, enslaved Indian mothers, with a goodly number of Austrians, French, Germans, Irish, Black, and Chinese added during the ensuing centuries. The geography of this land ranges from tropical seacoasts to grand mountains, huge deserts and mountain mesas. Certainly neither class structure and education, nor occupations nor politics serve to bring the people together as a whole. Even the vast majority of the country served by the Catholic Church find that alone does not make them brothers.

Truly, the Virgin of Guadalupe is the rubber band that binds this disparate nation into a whole. She is the common denominator of this land, it is she giving Mexicans a sense of Nationalism, and Patriotism. Their brotherhood comes from the strength of intense faith rooted in indigenous attributes, images, symbols, magic and myth. The focus of this intense faith revolves around Our Lady, La Virgen Maria de Guadalupe, the mother of God who appeared in Mexico in 1531.

SHE IS THE CRADLE OF MEXICANISM

Beginning to understand the intense relationship between Mexicans and La Virgen is to begin to understand the people of this great and confusing nation of contrasts

In ten years of oppression by the Spaniards, the Indians had been worn down, their spirit was broken, but relatively few had been baptized as Christians. Even those who had been converted to Catholicism missed the closeness of worshipping their own gods. They were separated from the Gods that belonged to them, that looked like them. They felt orphaned by their gods, and then adopted into a religion where they didn’t feel they belonged. When the Virgin Mary of Guadalupe appeared, brown skinned, and speaking a local language, they again had an object of worship that was their very own. She was a shield of the weak, help of the oppressed, the mother of orphans.

The appearance of Guadalupe on Tepeyac, the site of the destroyed Aztec temple of Tonantzin, the Mother Earth Goddess restored the dignity and the spirit of the people. Her arrival is said to mark the birth of a new land and a new people, neither European nor prehispanic, but both, the first product of the New World. Even her physical appearance announced the newness of this world, for her face looked neither like the Spanish nor the Indian. Her lovely features are the pleasant mixture of both – she is a Mestizo, the first Mexican.

Chicana writer Gloria Anzaldua writes, “She is like my race – a synthesis of the old world and the new, of the religion and culture of the two races in our psyche, the conquerors and the conquered.”

THE VIRGIN IS NOT JUST ABOUT THE CHURCH – SHE IS MEXICO

Curiously, the power of belief in the Virgin of Guadalupe has little to do with membership or attendance in the church. In fact, it is said that while 89 of 100 Mexicans are Catholic, it is certain that 100 of 100 Mexicans are Guadalupanas, devotees to the Virgin.

Octavio Paz, Mexican thinker, writer and Nobel prize recipient said, “When Mexicans no longer believe in anything, they will still hold fast to their belief in two things: the National Lottery and the Virgin of Guadalupe. In this I think they will do well. For both have been known to work, even for those of us who believe in nothing.”

The Virgin IS Mexico – fiesta and fervor, food and devoted song, dance and penance. She is the image, the icon that gave birth to a nation and that is the cornerstone of national pride and strength, a symbol of the homeland.

THE VIRGIN IS A SYMBOL OF THE HOMELAND, PATRIOTISM, NATIONALISM

It has been said that from the moment of her appearance, Guadalupe was a time bomb moving steadily through three centuries to explode into a call for freedom from the oppression of Spain. It was the image of Guadalupe in 1810 that graced the banners of Padre Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, father of Mexican Independence, as he led the country through 10 years of war for liberty.

The first president of the Republic, Felix Fernandez changed his name to the very symbolic Guadalupe Victoria.

In 1859 when the government of the first Indian president, Benito Juarez divided church and state, the only remaining religious holiday in the country was December 12, the Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe. The fierce Battle of 5th of May against the French was waged and won at the Hill of Guadalupe, site of the Virgin’s Sanctuary.

Is it any wonder, then, that while in other countries, the First Lady of the land is the wife of the President or Ruler, the Virgin of Guadalupe is the First Lady of Mexico, Mother of all Mexicans and Queen of the Americas.

GUADALUPE, QUEEN OF THE AMERICAS

Guadalupe followed the Mexicans north as they settled the northern reaches of their country, areas that later became the United States. She remained at their side after the Mexican American War, when they were strangers in a strange land..

Today, 150 years later, she continues to accompany Mexicans as they cross the border. She remains the most powerful Chicana icon for Mexicans on the other side. Generations after the immigration of a family to the U.S., grandchildren, great-grandchildren treasure the presence of the Virgin, and recognize her as Mother of all Mexicans.

Even on the U.S. side, Guadalupe’s values and strengths continue to inspire her children toward change, fulfillment and honor. In the 1970’s United Farm Workers’ head Cesar Chavez carried the banner of Guadalupe in his relentless struggle for economic justice for migratory workers.

Chavez and the UFW co-founder Dolores Huerta worked under the slogan “ Si se puede” and the patronage of the Virgin, “She is a symbol of faith, hope and leadership,” says Huerta.

“She has been incorporated into everything we do,” Huerta added. “If she’s not there, you notice her absence right away.” Today Mexican American women in Mexico and the United states are seeing Our Lady of Guadalupe in a new light, using her to demand and expect more from themselves, their jobs, their homes and their communities. Guadalupe is certainly up for this new role, as one woman said, “The virgin transcends all things. She is strength, and she is beauty, and she is wisdom and compassion.”

She is the symbol of ethnic identity, uniting people of different races, religions and languages. She manifests, symbolizes and activates the power of the people. She is a cultural symbol of justice, unconditional love, union, belonging, family, home.

GUADALUPE, MOTHER OF MEXICANS

Guadalupe is Mother to ALL Mexicans, not just the struggling, or the poor or the immigrant. She is there for the wealthy as well as the desperate. She is equally important to the new President of the land as the campesino picking chiles. The junior league and the aged widows in striped rebozoscome together on their knees. The gang members and the attorneys find the Virgin their common ground.

Her devotees cross all lines of economics, social standing, and education. Her image hangs around necks on fine gold chains and on rawhide with the same tenderness and depth of emotion and devotion. Her face adorns the silver key chains of high performance vehicles and upscale businesses and homes. With the same pride it is tied on a piece of string to the lead rope of a burro.

Victor Villasenor, grandson of Mexican immigrants to the United States, wrote the story of his family, their life in Mexico, their struggle leaving the country during the revolution and their triumphs in California. In “ Rain of Gold ” he helps outsiders start to understand the one-on-one, member-of-the-family relationship Mexicans have with the Virgin when he tells of his grandmother taking a small glass of whiskey, and her cigarettes to the outhouse each morning, “To have a little talk with the Virgin.”

Huerta, who raised 11 children alone during the very difficult UFW years speaks for millions of Mexicans in many conditions when she says, “I don’t think I could have survived without her.”

Another Mexican said, “Everywhere I go, she is my guide, infusing me with a power that says, “ Si se Puede” (Yes it can be done)”

The always alert and in-charge face of a fiery Mexican woman who spent most of her working years in Hollywood softens, tears fill her eyes, when she speaks of the miracles that have occurred in her family thanks to the Virgin.
Asking most Mexicans what Guadalupe means to them draws incredulous stares and blank looks. They cannot fathom anyone NOT knowing the joy, help and love the Virgin brings to them.

It has never occurred to Guadalupanas that others could see the image as flat, and tacky, a two dimensional piece of religious art. They cannot believe that others are missing out on the unconditional love that makes the Virgin multi-dimensional, alive, and a very real part of the family. She IS, after all, their MOTHER, she is always there, waiting to be consulted, waiting to be consoling, waiting to listen, waiting to speak, to enfold them in her arms, to pull them on to her lap.

In times of joy, Mexicans turn first to light a candle of thanksgiving in front of her image, in the church or in their home. In the darkest despair, her candles light their way. Whether hoping to win a soccer game, a huge contract or the hand of their intended, their petitions and thoughts are always to the Virgin, who has helped so many times before.

World famous singer/song writer Juan Gabriel said, “I saw the Virgin of Guadalupe in Extramadura, Spain, and our Mexican one is better looking. I think I am in love with the image of the Virgin of Guadalupe.”

Recently when a Mexican businessman was asked about his feelings for Our Lady, he paused, took a deep breath, and with a voice deep with emotion, stated, “I love her.” No actor in any love scene ever stated those three words with more meaning.

On her special day, December 12, all of Mexico, and all Mexican sons and daughters on the other side gather for the celebration of the Virgin. An endless parade of pilgrims from the country’s four points appear at her Basilica with their flowers, songs, chants and prayers. They stream in processions led by indigenous dancers, to every church named for her. Wreaths of flowers adorn the signs of streets, neighborhoods, and towns bearing her name. Religious orders, churches and the millions of men, women, boys and girls named for her are especially joyous, as they share her special day.

The nation releases an immense sign of tenderness and experiences a profound expression of Mexican roots and essence and love for Our Lady, Virgen Maria de Guadalupe.

(Typical of the contrasts found in Mexico, devotees can now email petitions to Our Lady of Guadalupe at: hillescas@infosel.net.mx. The prayers of thanksgiving and petitions for assistance are printed out by a devoted researcher of the history of the Virgin and the miracles of her image. He then takes the emails to lay at her feet, free and confidentially. Once a month, also freely, a mass will be celebrated asking for all who have sent her their prayers, on the very spot when she appeared 530 years ago.)

Resources: Mexconnect.com  By: Judy King

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What Mexico Has Given to The World
Mexico has given the world so much. Certain contributions that Mexico has bestowed upon us may surprise you. Read on to catch a small glimpse of Mexico’s many gifts.

The Poinsettia
Each year, just before Christmas, poinsettia plants start to make their annual appearance in grocery and retail chains nationwide. The poinsettia has become synonymous with the Christmas holiday season and many bring this plant as a gift when visiting friends and family. Indeed, the plant’s bright red flowers lend a joyous presence to any environment and holiday decorations don’t seem complete without them. This plant is native to Mexico and originally came from a particular region near present-day Taxco. The Aztecs, whose name for the plant was ‘cuetlaxochitl’ used the poinsettia medicinally and also as a dye.

	Joel Roberts Poinsett

The plant adopted its current name after the first U.S. ambassador to Mexico, Joel Poinsett (1825-1829). This dignitary was so impressed with the plant that he had it shipped to his plantation in South Carolina.

Some decades later, in California, Albert Ecke, started to sell the flowers from his florist stand near Hollywood, California. It is believed he found the plant growing wild, in the foothills of present day Los Angeles. Ecke noticed that the plant’s flowers would bloom in a profusion of bright red around the Christmas holiday season. The plant proved enormously popular as a holiday decoration and a multi-million dollar business was born. Today, the base of operations is located in Encinitas, California, where the poinsettia is grown in greenhouses and shipped world-wide.

Chocolate
Chocolate is one of life’s true pleasures. When Cortes met with Montezuma, the Emperor of the Aztec Empire in 1519, he was presented with a frothy drink, presented in a golden goblet that was accompanied by a tortoise-shell spoon. This drink, a spicy blend of chiles, vanilla and ground cacao beans, was called ‘xocoatl’ which translated, means bitter water. Of course, Cortes’ eyes were riveted by the golden vessel that the exotic drink was served in. However, after tasting the golden cup’s contents, his taste buds were captivated by the exotic and invigorating taste of this native drink. Cortes soon learned that the cocoa bean was a valued means of currency, its pods utilized to purchase a variety of goods. When Cortes returned to Spain, his ships were heavily laden with gold and silver but also, amongst the cargo was the cocoa bean. Once this magical bean made its way to Europe, its evolution included the addition of sugar which led, ultimately to the creation of, what we now call today, chocolate.

Vanilla
Vanilla has enchanted people with its sublime taste for hundreds of years. The first people to cultivate it were the Totonacs, an indigenous people who resided near the Gulf of Mexico in present day Veracruz. Native to Mexico, the vanilla bean is derived from the world’s only known edible orchid. Vanilla is used as a flavoring agent in many desserts as well as exotic perfumes. Vanilla is the world’s second most expensive spice after saffron and delights connoisseurs the world over with its fabulous taste and unique attributes. Today, much of vanilla’s production occurs in Madagascar in the Tropics, however, its birthplace will always be Mexico.

The Avocado
The ancient Aztecs held the avocado in high esteem. Today, this wondrous fruit is enjoyed daily the world over, frequently eaten as guacamole. The avocado is native to Mexico, Central America and South America. The Spanish conquistadors, upon discovering this fruit, applauded its attributes in letters written to the crown. They even discovered that the seed, when crushed, releases a red dye that works extremely well for inking documents. Some of these documents survive today. Another name for the avocado is ‘alligator pear’ due to the rough green texture of its skin and shape. The avocado is a nutrient-rich super food, containing more beta carotene than any other fruit and surprisingly, exceeding the banana in potassium content. As well, the avocado contains many other important vitamins and minerals. The Aztecs definitely knew a good thing when they tasted it!

Tequila
The history of tequila is an interesting one. For thousands of years in Mexico, a sacred drink called pulque was enjoyed, a fermented beverage. Pulque is made from a type of agave, the maguey, which is native to Mexico. Due to the plants appearance, oftentimes it is mistaken for a cacti. The agave was used historically by the indigenous peoples of Mexico for a wide variety of uses. The leaves produce fibers that can be made into rope, clothing and paper. Its flowers and stalks are edible and the sap of the plant produces a sweet liquid called ‘aguamiel’ (honey water).

The Spanish conquistadors, upon their arrival in Mexico, were keenly interested in the Aztec’s drink of choice, pulque. Curious and motivated, with their supplies of brandy running low, the Spaniards set out to make their own beverage from the agave. Promptly, they had distilling pots sent over from Spain and as a result, North America’s first indigenous distilled alcohol was born. Some decades later, a Spanish aristocrat discovered the blue agave plant which grows in a specific region of Mexico, in Jalisco state. It is the blue agave that Tequila is derived from. The rest is history, as they say. Today tequila is considered Mexico’s national drink and even has a city named in its honor, aptly named Tequila.

The Jumping Bean
Mexican jumping beans have delighted children for ages and definitely have a bit of magic about them. Placed in the hand, the little beans begin to ‘jump’, seemingly on their own accord. Many adults have fond childhood memories of being mesmerized by the jumping beans’ antics. Not quite a toy but definitely a curiosity, the jumping bean needs to be credited for untold hours of amusement. Interestingly, however, jumping beans are not beans at all. Deep in the deserts of mainland Mexico as well as in certain parts of Baja California, a native plant grows that gives ‘birth’, so to speak, to the jumping bean. This plant bears flowers that moths find particularly attractive. These moths lay their eggs on the plant, inside a seed capsule. As the egg begins to grow, it starts to move around as the moth larvae inside develops. This is the famous Mexican jumping bean. Should conditions be ripe, some months later, a moth will emerge from the ‘bean’ and the cycle carries on.

Chewing Gum
Deep in the heart of the Yucatan Peninsula grows the tropical sapodilla tree, whose trunk, when cut, oozes a milky white substance called chicle. This ingredient, in combination with flavorings and sugar, created the basis of our modern day chewing gum. Since time immemorial people have chewed on a variety of substances, ranging from sweet grass to wax to tobacco.

However, it is chicle that deserves credit for the gum industry as we know it today. And, curiously enough, it is General and Mexican President Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna who helped bring this event to fruition. While in exile in the U.S., Santa Anna thought he had a great business idea. He imported chicle from Mexico in hopes it could be used as a rubber substitute in carriage tires. Alas, the chicle proved not suitable for this purpose. However, a business acquaintance named Thomas Adams, who had purchased the chicle from Santa Anna, discovered another use for the product, namely chewing gum. A whole industry was born and ‘chiclets’ became available in every corner drug store, to the joy of children everywhere. Today, the vast majority of chewing gum is produced with a less expensive substitute than natural chicle. However, the ‘real thing’ can still be found in certain specialty shops nationwide.

Resources: Mexonline.com

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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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CABO SAN LUCAS, Mexico, Jan. 31, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Diamante Cabo San Lucas, a private oceanfront community on the Pacific Coast, announced today that the Diamante Dunes Course was named the #1 New International Golf Course in 2010 byGolf Magazine.

The Dunes Course at Diamante is a brand-new 18 hole golf course designed by professional golfer and current U.S. Ryder Cup Captain Davis Love III. The private golf facility also includes a state-of-the-art practice facility with private hitting caves and slider bar, along with a cantina, pro shop and locker rooms.

The Dunes Course has opened to acclaim from the golf press, including appearances on the front covers of Links Magazine, Golf Life & Travel, Golf Destinations and Best Golf Guide to Mexico. The Dunes Course is also currently under consideration forGolf Magazine’s “Top 100 in the World,” which will be announced in September 2011.

“This recognition from Golf Magazine is a testament to the hard work Davis and our development team has put in over the last four years,” said Diamante Cabo San Lucas founder and developer Ken Jowdy.

“Ken Jowdy and I have been friends for a long time, and I’m very thankful to Ken and his team for letting us build this course,” said Davis Love III. ”We wanted this to be our finest golf course design and not just something that we put our names on, and I think we accomplished that here at Diamante Dunes.”

Golf Magazine reaches more than 6 million readers every month and is considered the industry’s leading golf publication.

ABOUT DIAMANTE CABO SAN LUCAS

Diamante Cabo San Lucas is a private oceanfront community located on the Pacific Coast within the city limits of Cabo San Lucas. Diamante spans approximately 1,500 acres of pristine land with 1.5 miles of stunning Pacific coastline featuring large natural coast dunes. The Diamante site is located approximately four miles, and a 10 minute drive from downtown Cabo San Lucas.

SOURCE Diamante Cabo San Lucas,Mexonline.com

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Patzcuaro (PAHTZ-kwah-roh) is a small colonial gem in the state of Michoacan, a land of immense natural beauty. Michoacan’s countryside is a vast expanse of rolling hills, deep lakes, winding rivers and green valleys. Patzcuaro is found on hills above one of the lakes; Lake Patzcuaro. Volcanic activity and the state’s latitude position helps create a setting not unlike Hawaii. Rich soil supports lush jungle-like vegetation, with spectacular mountain landscapes, and velveteen pasturelands. The state has few large cities, but rather is a quilt of small villages and towns that have changed little since the early 1800′s . Its pace is leisurely, its people friendly, and its Spanish colonial and indigenous heritage rich.

Janitzio Island in the middle of Lake Patzcuaro

Patzcuaro and the state of Michoacan has a fascinating yet tragic past. The region has been inhabited for hundreds of years by the indigenous Purepecha Indians or Tarascansas the early Spaniards referred to them. The Purepecha developed the most advanced pre-Columbian society in western Mexico. They resisted Aztec domination for decades, only to be brutally defeated by the Spanish in the early 16th century. Somewhat fortunately, the early Spanish development of this area was guided by the gentle and kind stewardship of Vasco de Quiroga, a bishop who made great strides to restore the land and its people. Today Purepecha descendants number over 120,000.

Patzcuaro’s traditional architecture

Patzcuaro rests 5 kms. south of the shore of tranquil Lake Patzcuaro. It is 58 kms. southwest of Morelia, and midpoint between Morelia and Uruapan. It is a beautiful town (population 45,000) with graceful colonial architecture, vibrant native markets, and a strong Indian village atmosphere.Bishop Vasco de Quiroga did his most important work here and led a building boom in the 16th century that left several splendid colonial buildings. The city has two central plazas and several smaller squares. A jumbled series of narrow cobbled lanes wind past former colonial era mansions.

Sightseeing includes the Museo Regional de Artes Populares, an excellent overview of Michoacan handicrafts housed in the site where Bishop Quiroga founded the first university on the American continent in 1540. The Plaza Principal is bordered by arched 17th century mansions overlooking a central fountain and statue of Quiroga.

The city’s second main plaza, the Plaza Gertrudis Bocanegra, is the site of the village’s colorful Mercado de Artesanias and the theater, Teatro Emperador Caltzontzin. Other colonial gems include the Casa de los 11 Patios, Templo y Ex-convento Jesuita, and the lovely Basilica Virgen de la Salud.

You can take a short boat ride to the island of Janitzio, an interesting native crafts and fishing village in the middle of Lake Patzcuaro. An enormous statue of revolutionary heroJose Maria Morelos crowns the island. Fisherman with butterfly nets fish the lake’s shallow waters. It is also the site of one of Mexico’s better Day of the Dead celebrations.

Festivals in Patzcuaro

Festivals abound here. Día de los Muertos (day of the dead) activities are especially prominent here. Between the last few days of October and the first two days of November, you will see some of the finer traditions of the Mexican/Indigenous culture. Traditional activities include celebrating the return of dead friends and family at the cemetery with meals, drinks and music. Family members and friends also clean and decorate the grave sites. Other festivities include in-town dances and shows, arts & crafts markets, regional and seasonal foods and candies, strolling musicians and lively plazas.    Resources: Mexonline.com

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Many visit Mexico specifically to enjoy their favorite sport or activity. Whether it’s kiteboarding, surfing, sailing, fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling, hiking, rock climbing, mountain climbing, camping, bird-watching, kayaking, hunting or river-rafting, Mexico has it all.

CANCUN

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 Cancún on the road to Tulúm. 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.

Aquatours – Jungle Tour
Presented by Dolphin Discovery
Jungle Tour – Navigate your Own Boat in Nichupte Lagoon
Sailing Quest – Sail aboard a Catamaran, Lobster Dinner Cruise – Dine while Cruising on a Spanish Galleon
Cancun * Tel: Call toll free: 1-800-417-17-36

Cancun Mermaid
Activities & Tours in the Cancun Area
Diving & Snorkeling, Fishing
Jungle Tours, Horseback Riding, ATV’s
Cancun

Delphinus
Swim with Dolphins in Delphinus’ Five Locations
Locations: Dreams Cancun, Riviera Maya, Xel-Há, Xcaret & Costa Maya
First Rate Facilities * Parking Lot * Luxury Boutique * Restrooms * Showers * Lockers
Enjoy True Dolphin Encounters in a Dolphin Friendly Environment

Cancun Youth Festivals
International Sports Tournaments
Side Trips to Mayan Ruins
International Music Festivals
Enjoy the World’s Finest Beaches
Cancun * Tel: (998) 206-2145

Dolphin Discovery Isla Mujeres
Presented by Dolphin Discovery
Located on Isla Mujeres, just a 25 minute boat ride away
Swim and Interact with Dolphins
Isla Mujeres

EcoColors
1 to 15 day Tours in Cancun & the Yucatan Peninsula
Birdwatching , Maya Ruins, Ecological Sites
Scuba Diving & Snorkeling
Swimming with Dolphins
Cancun * Tel/Fax: (998) 884-9580

Ecoturismo Yucatan
Archaeology & Wildlife of the Yucatan Tours
Enriching & Educational Adventures
Our Tours begin in Cancun
Merida * Tel: (999) 920-2772 * Fax: (999) 925-9047

Entertainment Plus
Huge Discounts on Tours to Xcaret, Chichen-Itza, Xel-Ha & more
Cancun

Garrafon Natural Reef Park
Presented by Dolphin Discovery
Located on Isla Mujeres, just a 25 minute boat ride away
Dolphin Swim, Kayaking, Scuba, Snorkeling, Snuba, Sea Trek, Zip Line, Bungee
All-Inclusive Packages include Sea Transfer, Breakfast, Open Bar, Buffet Lunch & more
Isla Mujeres * Tel: 1-800-417-1736

Issey Rent A Car
Car Rentals in Cancun & the Yucatan
Low & High Season Rates, Free Mileage
Cancun * Tel: (998) 884-3078 * Fax: (998) 884-3389

MayaLand Tours
Visit the Archaeological Zones of Chichen Itza & Uxmal
Deluxe Accommodations, Luxury Motor Coaches
Guided Tours & Driving Adventures
Robalo 30, SM3 * US Tel: (800) 235-4079 * Fax: (998) 884-2201

TuritransMerida
Package Tours, Tour Buses, Vans & Cars
Bilingual Tour Guides
Individual & Group Excursions
Calle 55 #495, A & 58 * Tel: (999) 924-1199

Resources: Mexonline.com

Re-Published or Posted by AetnaJo Buitron on May 9, 2011

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Resource: Mexonline.com

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Have you been thinking about getting married in Mexico? Many couples see Mexico as a wonderful and exciting place to get married and it’s both affordable and convenient. Wedding planners can take almost all of the hassle out of the process and make life easier for the bride and groom. Be sure to check our resources first to help you in your plans, in our Getting Married in Mexico section. Mexonline.com.

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 what needs to be done to be able 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 ( ranging from $100 to $250 in resort areas). Every city and small town has an office. Most people in this office do not 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.

If you are ivorced 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.

Resources: Mexonline.com

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