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2. The Yucatan Holidays Travel Writers’ Quest contest is open to all writers.

3. Submission must be copied into the body of the email.—Single-spaced, Times New Roman 12 point, 200-300 words. NO ATTACHMENTS of the article will be accepted.

4. You can send pictures to make your article more appealing. Three pictures max. per person, per article. The pictures may be edited to fit our requirements. But must be at least 300 x 300.

5. First and last name (as it appears on your Facebook profile) must appear in the SUBJECT LINE of the email and the body of the email. Please also specify your geographical location. (Ex. John Smith – Chicago, IL.)

6. Yucatan Holidays content editors reserve the right to disqualify any submission that does not meet the guidelines and/or is of an offensive nature.

7. The TOP THREE most "Liked" articles are subject to be revised and edited by our content editors to follow our web content guidelines before publication in the Yucatan Holidays Travel Guidebook.

8. All material found on this website or the official Yucatan Holidays web page is property of Yucatan Holidays.

9. Only ONE submission per person will be accepted.

10. The Cancun gift certificate is valid for 5 days / 4 nights (ACCOMMODATION ONLY). It is valid for 2 adults and up to 2 kids under the age of 17 in one of the Yucatan Holidays properties in Cancun. *Additional travel restrictions may apply. Additional taxes may apply.

11. The winners are committed to have a great time and enjoy their stay in Cancun. We are committed to make this happen. 

Now that you have read this boring information, get inspired and start writing or GO to the contest tab. GOOD LUCK!

Last weekend, we visited the beach at the Royal Sunset Hotel where the beach recovery program began less than three months ago. Numerous guests where enjoying the wide beach with soft white sand, a sight that we had not seen since 2005 when Hurricane Wilma eroded the beaches of Cancun.  Here are some comments about the new beach from travelers.

Hammocks Then

Hammocks were initially discovered by Spanish explorers when they arrived in what is now called Cuba. They saw the Taino Indians sleeping and socializing in primitive style hammocks: first woven from Hamack tree bark and later, Sisal plant leaves, which were softer and more durable than the bark.

Trade among the Indians and explorers brought the hammock to Central and South America and modern-day Mexico in the Yucatan Peninsula where the Mayans lived. When the Spaniards introduced the Mayans to cotton, the Mayans recognized its quality and began using it exclusively in their hammock weaving. 
 

Hammocks Now

Since then, hammock popularity has grown. Westerners have discovered that hammocks are a  great ergonomic choice for sleeping, because they distribute weight evenly and reduce stress on the body. The resulting increase in Mayan hammock production supports the development of Mayan rural communities and the families of many talented women who weave these special hammocks while they care for their children at home.

One hundred percent cotton hammocks are still handwoven today by Mayan women living in remote villages of Yucatan and Quintana Roo, Mexico (nylon is sometimes used on the loops for added durability). They weave with old-fashioned vertical looms in traditional patterns uniquely designed by each weaver. As a result, it may take from 2-6 weeks to finish one hammock, depending on its size.

Hammock Design

Mayan hammocks are made with great attention to detail, especially implementing a tight weave with very few visible knots and no loose strings. They are made of thinner, tightly woven, soft cotton string; have extra, tightly bound end-strings (where the hammock “bed” is connected to the loops); tighter loops for maintaining hammock shape and strength; and they don’t use spreader bars on the sides. Instead, by laying across the center of the hammock, against its length, a flatter, wider, more comfortable resting space is created.

Many modern companies market loosely woven hammocks with longer end-strings to save production time and costs, but these hammocks are less supportive, less comfortable; and will snag easier and stretch out faster.

Mayan hammocks, Yucatan hammocks, or Mexican hammocks are the highest quality, most comfortable, artfully handmade hammocks in the world – and they’re only made in the Yucatan Peninsula. The best way to get one is when you visit Cancun or the Riviera Maya with a Yucatan Holidays’ vacation package.

Whether or not you have a professional camera, it’s important to take care of some details if you expect to return from your trip with a bunch of interesting or even fascinating pictures. Some basic but essential items are lens cleaner, batteries, and a tripod, but more importantly, we’ll give you some advice about how to take a great travel photo (probably not a National Geographic one, but a picture you’ll like to share)! Here are just a few ideas for taking pictures overseas.

What to photograph

This is entirely your decision. You are probably the type of person who enjoys taking pictures of people, trying to capture their culture and traditions. Remember, in this case, always be respectful when you ask your “models” to get ready. If you are planning to take a portrait without asking, try to be discrete, or they may be offended.

Around the Yucatan Peninsula and the Riviera Maya, there are hundreds of perfect landscapes to capture by photograph. Whether it is a shot of one of the amazing beaches along the Riviera Maya, a nature-surrounded cenote, or one of the breathtaking Mayan archaeological sites, the region is ideal for professional and amateur photographers.

If you are an animal lover, you should consider visiting one of the eco parks or nature reserves in the Yucatan Peninsula. Tres Ríos, Xcaret, Xel-Ha, Celestún or Ría Lagartos are definitely the best places to take some awesome animals pictures!

What to consider

Once you have decided what to photograph, you’ll have to consider some aspects to include in your picture to make it really special. Action for example is the key to a great photo. “Capturing action in your photographs adds atmosphere that an otherwise straight-on shot cannot,” says Lola Akinmade, travel photography expert. It’s common to see boring or lifeless pictures from trips. Try to experiment. Look for a nice landscape, and add a special touch of action. You won’t regret it.

Other “musts” in photography (not only while traveling) are composition and balance. Composition is the visual process of organizing the elements of a scene into a balanced and pleasing arrangement. And balance is considered a compositional rule for finding symmetry between the interesting points of a picture. Although composition is largely a matter of personal taste, applying the “rule of thirds” may be pretty helpful for your masterpiece. (Draw imaginary lines through your picture, separating it into 3 rows and 3 columns, and the important compositional elements should be placed along these lines or their intersections.)

Take advantage of these other ways to take a great photo! Framing is using an object (branches, windows, tunnels, etc.) to act as a frame for your subject or your point of interest, so it directs the viewer’s attention directly to what you want to show. This is great way to get superb pictures. You can play with the color too: take black & white (AKA Monochrome) photos to give a “classic” touch or to evoke a feeling. Consider telling a story or using vivid colors too.

Some Additional tips:

• · Always bring enough (meaning extra) batteries and film!
• · If you’re using a reflex camera, bring all the cleaning and maintenance stuff; usually, digital cameras require less attention.
• · Try to learn some basic words in the language of the place you’re visiting. This can be very helpful.
• · If you are taking night shots, use a tripod.
• · For most pictures, the best is in the natural light of the morning and evening.
• · Consider using 2 or 3 memory cards, instead of one with high capacity; this is to prevent losing all your pictures if something happens with that big card.
• · Let yourself go and experiment with your camera. You’ll probably be surprised in a good way.

How about an amazing shot of an iguana posing over a pyramid in Tulum, or perhaps a group of Mayan women knitting huipiles? The options are endless in this paradise! Visit the Yucatan Holidays website, book your next unforgettable vacation, and remember to bring your camera to free the photographer inside of you.

We may think of tequila as a great party drink, but it’s also considered an art, like wine tasting. There are so many types and flavors of tequila available; it’s like a flavor fiesta. Some places also offer tequila tasting, like Hacienda Tres Rios in the Riviera Maya, Mexico. There’s even a World Tequila Conference. Tequila is a big deal and worth exploring.

Tequila Legend

Let’s touch on its origins. Legend has it that the very first tequila was born by an act of nature during Aztec times. Lightning struck an agave plant (the source of that wonderful tequila nectar). It burst into flames, creating a fermented liquid from the core of the agave plant. When the Aztecs tasted it, they enjoyed its flavor and effects, believing that it was a drink of the gods and so named it: pulque ("pool-kay")

Tequila Production

That’s an apropos name for such an exotic, intoxicating drink. When the Spanish arrived, favoring the Aztec beverage, they distilled it and called it tequila. The name comes from the town of Tequila, in the state of Jalisco, Mexico, where it was first produced over 200 years ago.

Today, more than 100 distilleries exist in Mexico, producing more than 600 different tequilas, made from the blue agave plant. Distilleries must follow a strict set of processing standards dictated by the government (Mexicans take their tequila very seriously). Mexican law requires that all tequila contain at least 51% agave. Genuine tequila containing 100% agave can only be produced, bottled, and inspected in Mexico.

Note: Agave liquor is not tequila. When buying tequila, make sure it’s labeled as “tequila.”

Tequila Types

Oro or Joven (gold or young): Young tequila, not aged, gold-ish color; additives are used to resemble aged tequila. This type includes added flavoring to mellow its crisp, harsher flavor. Commonly used for mixed drinks and shooters.

Blanco or Plata (white or silver): Young tequila, not aged, white color. This type typically has a harsher, robust, and tastier flavor than the aged types. Also commonly used for mixed drinks and shooters.

The three aged types of tequila below are richer, smoother, and more complex, containing flavors that are spicy, woody, citrusy, floral, herbal, sweet, and sometimes with a hint of vanilla or chocolate. These types are best consumed neat, chilled, and sipped like brandy.

Reposado (rested): Aged between two months and one year, golden color.

Añejo (aged or vintage): Aged between one and three years, amber color.

Extra Añejo (ultra aged or maduro): Aged a minimum of three years, darker amber color.

Popular Tequila Brands

Jose Cuervo (try their tropical flavored tequilas)

1800

Don Julio

Herradura

Cazadores

Sauza 100 Años

Jalapeno Tequila by Tanteo (a milder, well-balanced pepper and agave flavor in a slightly sweet Blanco base). Sounds delicious! What’s your favorite tequila?

A nice place to learn more about tequila is at La Destileria in the Hotel Zone, Boulevard Kukulcan, Km. 12.65, Cancun. Consider learning the fun and finer side of tequila while on your next Cancun vacation. These days, there are some great travel deals!

Linda Barnard, The Star’s online newspaper movie editor, had the opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable purification experience. This “lover of saunas” with nine other people from different countries were indulged at Hacienda Tres Ríos Resort with the temazcal, a steam bath “combining the relaxing heat with an Aztec-Mayan ritual.” Being guided by a local shaman ─ “a healer, mystic and guide and a respected position among cultures around the world” ─ Linda and her companions spent a purifying evening with the “chance to become one with the universe inside.” After the temazcal session, they dipped into the chilly water of a cenote to finish with some tea and platters of fresh fruit. Don’t you wish to pamper yourself this way? Read the complete story of Linda Barnard in The Toronto Star’s website.

The shaman ouside of the temazcal at the eco friendly, endless luxury Hacienda Tres Ríos Resort

An aerial view of Cancun from 1970 and how it looks today.

Punta Cancun more than 30 years ago was just sand, few homes and the unequaled turquoise sea.

The Calinda Bridge once was an simple, yet functional construction made up of wood. Things have changed, don’t you think?

The Cancun International Airport, started as a model and today is the second most important in Mexico.

If you want to become part of the lucky visitors that enjoy this Mexican paradise and dream with the vacation of a lifetime, don’t hesitate. You are just one click away from your Yucatan Holidays.

Pictures: Cancun: A banker’s fantasy (Fernando Martí)

With the increasing trend towards protecting the environment, many people and businesses are taking measures to be “green” and eco friendly. In the tourism industry, the Riviera Maya has made a commitment to implement sustainable tourism in its efforts to protect the environment.

The Riviera Maya is one of the most desired travel places in the world. Stretching across miles of virgin, white sand Caribbean beaches, it is truly a paradise on earth. This area is one of the most appealing vacation spots, more than any other tropical place in the world.

Here are some of our favorite eco friendly places to visit in the Riviera Maya:

Cenotes near Puerto Morelos

Of the most impressive natural wonders in the Yucatan Peninsula are the cenotes, cave-like sinkholes with natural wells fed by underground rivers.  You simply must try swimming in the crystal-clear blue water of one of these renowned cenotes. Some of the most popular ones in the area are Verde Lucero, Boca del Puma, 7 Bocas, and Las Mojarras.

On your trip to visit the cenotes, you will also find a nature park worth seeing called the Selvatica.

Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve

Just south of Cancun is the Sian Ka’an nature reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, whose mission is to safeguard endangered species of animals and to make sustainable use of natural resources. Home to crystal-clear lagoons, mangroves, and lush jungles, Sian Ka’an has many native animals, such as pumas, spider monkeys, ocelots, jaguars, and others. With only a handful of fishing lodges on site, you’ll be enchanted by the quiet serenity nature offers here.

Akumal (Home of the Turtles)

Akumal is a fairly unknown area, home to pristine lagoons with water in nearly every shade of blue and one of the most beautiful Caribbean beaches.  With its many colorful fish, sea turtles, and marine life, Akumal is one of the best places for scuba diving and snorkeling. The coastal caves and caverns also provide a fantastic cave diving experience for skilled divers seeking underwater adventures.

Tulum

Tulum is the perfect blend of Caribbean beach, small town, and Mayan ruins. You can spend anywhere from a few hours to the whole day there. Tour the Mayan ruins’ archaeology site or relax at some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. You can go sunbathing at the beach near the ruins, or swim north to the Boca Paila peninsula near the Sian Ka’an nature reserve.  No matter how long you visit Tulum, try to see it at night.  You’ll be inspired by how nothing but the moon lights up the town.

Hacienda Tres Rios Resort, Spa & Nature Park

If you want a vacation that doesn’t include the hassles of driving from place to place, your vacation spot is Hacienda Tres Rios, the first Endless Luxury, all inclusive, eco friendly resort in the heart of the Riviera Maya. Everything you may want or need is at the hotel or on the hotel grounds of Tres Rios Nature Park, including many things to do.

Originally a nature park alone, the vision behind building a hotel in the nature park was to create a travel place where people could not only spend the day but also spend the night.  Hacienda Tres Rios is the only hotel in the Yucatan Peninsula where three rivers merge into one and connect to the Caribbean Sea – a beautiful sight.

Tres Rios Nature Park covers 326 acres of tropical forests with over a hundred native plant and animal species.  It will undoubtedly keep adventure-savvy travelers busy, offering a wide range of vacation activities, including snorkeling in one of the ten cenotes, scuba diving along the second largest coral reef in the world (the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef), kayaking on the three rivers, “zip-lining” over mangroves, bird watching, bicycling, and much more.

Great Mayan Pyramid. Coba

Immerse yourself in the best discoveries of ancient Mayan civilizations. The archaeology sites of ancient Mayan ruins are some of the “must-sees” and “must-dos” on your vacation in the Yucatan Peninsula.

Chichen Itza, recently named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, is an archaeology site with exceptional pre-Hispanic Mayan ruins. Tour its sacred grounds, and see the astounding Kukulkan Pyramid. Then be awed by the shadowy image of a Kukulkan (snake) slithering down the pyramid stairs during the spring and fall equinox. Or experience the natural glow of the Sacred Cenote (a cave-like sinkhole with natural wells). Discover some of the most spectacular Mayan architecture at this impressive site.

Another “must-see” archaeology site of Mayan ruins is Tulum, where the Caribbean Sea meets the Mayan empire. Tulum is known as one of the most exquisite cities built by ancient Mayan architects. Once a Mayan fortress to the east of the Mayan region, Tulum was built on the edge of a cliff overlooking the ocean, surrounded by rainforests. Experience the spiritual and cultural history of this distinctive site.

The Yucatan Peninsula is home to many important archaeology sites of Mayan ruins. Coba, another “must-see” site, is distinguished by its unparalleled natural beauty. Surrounded by a majestic rainforest, unique cenotes, and various native plants and animals, including exotic birds and other wildlife, Coba offers both man-made architectural wonders and natural wonders of the Yucatan.

Discover the treasures yourself, you have been invited.