Exploring Chichén Itzá and Valladolid

The archaeological site Chichén Itzá in the Yucatan Peninsula is one of the most visited locations in Mexico, so of course we climbed aboard a bus during our Cancún visit and headed there for a day. 

Rich in history and the center of pilgrimage for the ancient Maya civilization for over 1,000 years, this pyramid must be seen to be believed. Chichen Itza was classified as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and in 1988 was enlisted as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Lisa actually climbed up the steep steps to the top when she visited in the late 80s, but tourists are no longer allowed to get that close. Good thing, too. It’s steep!

On the way back to Cancun, we enjoyed a short visit to the magical city of Valladolid (pronounced Vah-YAH-Doh-Leed), which had a lively town plaza featuring Mayan dance, sport, and music, as well as a beautiful cathedral, and earsplitting birds!

LINKS:

Chichen Itza Tourism 
New 7 Wonders
UNESCO World Heritage 
Valladolid
Map

A Day on Isla Mujeres

No trip to Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula is complete without a boat ride over to Isla Mujeres, aka the Isle of Women (pronounced ISS-lah Moo-HAIR-es).

Just a seven-mile boat ride east of the mainland across breathtaking turquoise sea, Isla Mujeres is known for its lovely beaches, world-class fishing, and spectacular coral reefs. There is also a lighthouse, the remains of a Mayan temple, and a sanctuary for sea turtles. We spent a day exploring the funky little village, and encountered a parade, snorkeled through schools of colorful fish on a tour with the marvelous Squalo Adventures, and discovered the MUSA, a fascinating underwater art museum.

We also had the worst pina coladas ever. (But everything else, we can recommend!)

LINKS:

Isla Mujeres Tourism 
Squalo Adventures 
MUSA (Underwater Museum of Art) 

Cancun: An Overview

Cancun: An Overview

We had a last-minute opportunity to visit Cancun, Mexico. Join us for a quick overview of this popular tourist zone! And watch for future videos of the adventures we had there.

https://youtu.be/ytUYa8dpbNU