Articles with the theme Cancun
What you (probably) don’t know about Halloween and Day of the Dead Celebrations.
Mexico’s Day of the Dead, Dia de los Muertos, at first glance sounds the same as Halloween or All Hollows’ Eve in the United States, but in fact, they’re quite different – just as the two cultures who celebrate these holidays have fundamentally different views about death.
Day of the Dead in Mexico celebrates the life and death of their deceased loved ones in a spirit of joy, fellowship, and humor (reciting “calaveritas,” or little skulls, which are short, satirical poems about them). Americans view Halloween as a more mischievous celebration about the darker side of death. Both do believe, however, that the boundary between the living and the dead is blurred on these holidays for intercommunication.
Differences and Similarities between Halloween and Dia de los Muertos
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Day of the Dead Celebrations in Mexico
Consider taking part in this delightful Mexico tradition, and celebrate the lives of your dearly departed on a vacation in the Yucatan Peninsula. Celebrations begin the last week in October through the early days of November. The official Day of the Dead holiday for children is recognized on November 1st; for adults, on November 2nd.
Interpretations of Dia de los Muertos vary in different Mexico states. In the state of Yucatan, it’s called Hanal Pix’an, a Mayan version of the Day of the Dead, which means “feast for the souls.” Still, the basic theme throughout Mexico is the same: the dead are welcomed back into their homes via an offering (“ofrenda”) of traditional foods such as bread of the dead (“pan de muerto”), celebratory flowers such as marigolds (“flor de cempasuchitl” also called “flor de muerto”), and ornaments; by visiting and decorating their grave sites; and by dancing, singing, and otherwise enjoying each other’s company.
Where to Celebrate
In Cancun and the Riviera Maya, the Day of the Dead celebrations are visible all over town at restaurants, bars, and hotels, but one very special celebration takes place at Xcaret. Their annual Life and Death Mexican Traditions Festival, features traditional variations in Mexico’s regional Dia de los Muertos celebrations.
On October 30th through November 2nd, from 4:00 p.m. to 11:00 pm., Xcaret shares the culture, history, food, music, dance, and religious ceremony given for the dearly departed.
Enjoy this traditional Mexican holiday at the end of October and early November with a visit to Cancun or the Riviera Maya. Join in the Day of the Dead festivities with colorful decorations, costumes, tasty treats, and music to wake the dead!
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About the Author
Christina Famiglietti is a professional writer and editor with experience in various industries. Her most recent passion is the Mexican Caribbean, where she lives and is inspired to write about her beloved Mexico — its nature, culture, travel, and tourism.
Take a Celebration Vacation
When is the last time you went on vacation? The 90’s? Hopefully not! Maybe you feel you are too busy at work or don’t have enough money, but you probably actually cannot afford to not go on vacation. Vacations reduce stress, promote creativity, stave off burnout and strengthen bonds between you and your family and friends. Cancun, Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya are outstanding destinations where you can find adventure and history, or just sit back and relax. So find something to celebrate and go on vacation!
Birthday
Feliz cumpleaños! A vacation is the perfect way to celebrate a new year of your life! Hotels and restaurants love to help you celebrate, so whisper to your waiter or concierge that it’s your special day (or better yet have your partner or friend tell them) then sit back and wait for the candles, cake and singing.
Anniversary
Maybe you are about to celebrate dating for a year, or being married for twenty. Either way, a getaway is a great way to celebrate your anniversary. Escape your daily tasks and choose a romantic all inclusive beach resort in the Riviera Maya where you will have time to concentrate only on relaxing and having fun with your partner.
Friendship
Going on a vacation with friends is always fun. It’s a great way to celebrate a long time friendship or to get to know a new friend better. You will have a blast planning together and exchanging ideas. Or even better, travel with a large group of friends.
New Job
Congratulations! You are about to start a new job, or maybe even a new career. What better way to recharge than a vacation? Take a little time off between your previous and new job and jump start your work ethic and creativity.
New Family Member
Think you can’t travel with a baby? You might want to wait until they’re 6 months old, but after that, it’s very easy to travel with a little one, and what better way to strengthen family bonds than take a fun vacation together? Plus, the airline will gate check your stroller for you, you won’t have to pay for an extra ticket for your baby because he/she can sit on your lap, and most resorts provide portable cribs.
Photos by: mae.noelle, queenbeeofscrap, Bluebird_Becca, New Inspiration Home Design, mikepirnat
Can you think of any other reasons to take a celebration vacation?
About the Author
Kristin Busse is an American expat who has been living in Cancun, Mexico since 2001. A wife, mother, singer, salsa dancer and now writer, she has worked in many different industries but is currently enjoying exploring the Yucatan Peninsula and sharing her expertise and experience with readers around the world. Follow Kristin on Twitter.
Why I need a vacation
So you want to come to Cancun? Let us all decide that.
You have to name 3 reasons why you think you should come to Cancun.
The one with more “Likes” will be the winner.
As simple as that.
Be creative and good luck!
Restrictions:
- •You have 5 days / 4 nights of hotel accommodation in Cancun (not all inclusive accommodation) for 2 adults and up to two kids (under 12 years old)
- •You can use your e-certificate for 18 months and there are no black out dates.
- •You must be at least 25 years old to claim the prize. If you are not 25 years old, you still can use it, but must travel with someone this age. The certificate is transferable.
- •You’ll ONLY have to pay an activation fee for the e-certificate of $69 USD.
5 Summer Adventures in the Mexican Caribbean
Summer is here in Cancun, Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya, and with it comes the opportunity for visitors to challenge themselves with exciting local activities. The Mexican Caribbean is not only home to white sand beaches and aqua blue water, but it is also quickly becoming known for adventure travel.
1. Bungie Jumping
Bungie Jumping in Cancun is back, recently reopened at Playa Tortugas in the Hotel Zone. Step off the platform and drop into, but not exactly into, the Caribbean. We suggest taking advantage of this activity before you start drinking tequila.
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2. Parasailing
Take a stroll down the beach in front of your hotel, and you will quickly find an opportunity to parasail. Soar over the Caribbean Sea, admire the different shades of blue, and get a bird’s eye view of the Hotel Zone and Nichupte Lagoon. It feels like flying!
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3. Sky Diving
Can you handle it? Jump out of an airplane from 10,000 feet over Playa del Carmen. This is the ultimate adventure challenge. Jump with a guide or take a course and learn to jump solo. We ask again…can you handle it?
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4. Swimming with the Whale Sharks
This experience is an unbelievably rare opportunity to become one with nature. Jump into the crystal clear blue water and swim with the world’s largest fish. These gentle giants of the sea are no danger to humans as they feed on plankton that they strain from the water._
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5. Ziplining
Flying above the jungle canopy your ears will fill with the sounds of rushing wind and the steady hum of the zipline. This exciting activity is for the whole family (normally kids must be at least six years old) and the memories will last a lifetime.
Adventure awaits you in the Mexican Caribbean!
Which of these activities have you done? Will you do any of them on your next visit to Mexico?
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About the Author
Kristin Busse is an American expat who has been living in Cancun, Mexico since 2001. A wife, mother, singer, salsa dancer and now writer, she has worked in many different industries but is currently enjoying exploring the Yucatan Peninsula and sharing her expertise and experience with readers around the world. Follow Kristin on Twitter.
Happy Father’s Day from Mexico!
Father’s Day in Mexico (El Dia de los Padres) is the third Sunday in June, just like it is in the U.S. and various other countries. What will you get Dad this year? Will you be taking a vacation to Mexico this month? How about a Mexican souvenir? Markets and shops in Cancun, Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya offer lovely handicrafts from all over Mexico. Give your father an interesting, special Father’s Day gift this year.
Tequila
What is more Mexican than tequila? Wikipedia reports that “Mexico has claimed the exclusive international right to the word “tequila”, threatening legal actions against manufacturers in other countries.” Tequila comes in various colors and grades including “ultra-premium” and “super-premium”. This traditional Mexican spirit can be used in recipes and cocktails, but maybe Dad will just want to sit back, relax, and sip it slowly, straight up!
A Guayabera
A guayabera is a traditional Mexican wedding shirt. The origins of the guayabera are a mystery but many people think the shirt is from Cuba. It is also worn in Jamaica and the Dominican Republic, among other places. Although formerly associated with older men in the U.S., the guayabera is now popular with all ages due to the resurgence of retro styles. Dad will look great in one!
A Panama Hat
The Panama hat is of Ecuadorian origin. It is also known as a Jipijapa, after a town in Ecuador. The hat became associated with the tropics, like the Caribbean, in the beginning of the 20th century. Recently the hat has become very fashionable again and singers, models, teenagers, men and women sport them. Maybe Dad can wear his new hat to his Father’s Day celebration in Cancun or Playa del Carmen!
Silver Trinkets
He might not want a silver bracelet or earrings, but what about a money clip or a lighter? Silver has a rich history in Mexico. Taxco is Mexico’s most well known “silver city”, but intricate silver goods can be bought all over Mexico, including in Cancun, Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya. Just be sure to look for the “925” stamp which indicates that the item is made from genuine silver.
Cigars
We’re not suggesting this become a regular habit, but why not let your normally health conscious dad off the hook this Father’s Day and get him a box of Mexican cigars. Mild, flavorful and relatively inexpensive, Mexican cigars date back to the mid 19th century. Many speculate that the practice of rolling smoking tobacco began with the ancient Mayan civilization. Explain the history of Mexican cigars to Dad when he opens his gift!
Come to think of it, maybe you should get Dad one of each of these Mexican souvenirs. The photograph you take of him drinking, wearing, using and smoking his gifts all at the same time will be a priceless Father’s Day memory.
What´s the best gift you´ve given your dad?
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About the Author
Kristin Busse is an American expat who has been living in Cancun, Mexico since 2001. A wife, mother, singer, salsa dancer and now writer, she has worked in many different industries but is currently enjoying exploring the Yucatan Peninsula and sharing her expertise and experience with readers around the world. Follow Kristin on Twitter.
Hurricane Season in Cancun: What You Should Know
It’s that time again folks. Hurricane season in the Caribbean will begin in less than a month on June 1, 2011, and will continue through November 30, 2011. It is possible for Tropical cyclones to form before or after the official season, depending on ocean temperatures. The water must be at least 80 degrees Fahrenheit for a hurricane to form, so if this happens before June or after November a hurricane could occur outside of the season.
For the people living in Cancun, Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya, tropical cyclones are a fact of life, just like tornados or earthquakes are for people living in other places. However, they may seem frightening and daunting if you are planning a vacation, but if you are well informed about hurricane season you will be able to make good decisions about your trip.
August, September and October are considered to be the peak months for hurricanes, which coincides with low tourism season, when airfare and hotel prices are lower, so it’s actually a great time to visit the area. Generally if you visit during tropical cyclone season everything will go smoothly. The weather will be fine, albeit maybe a bit hotter than in let’s say, January. It may rain a little more often, but this generally means that there is a quick downpour once or twice a day and the rest of the time the sun is shining.
The Yucatan Peninsula, which is home to Cancun, Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya, has experienced many tropical storms/depressions and hurricane watches/warnings, but Cancun was “born” in 1970, and only 4 hurricanes have made landfall in 41 years. That is pretty encouraging news. If you visit from June through November, chances are you probably won’t run into any hurricanes.
These are the 4 hurricanes which have actually made landfall in Cancun:
Inez (October, 1968) – Category 4
Gilbert (September, 1988) - Category 5
Roxanne (October, 1995) – Category 3
Wilma (October, 2005) – Category 5
If you would like to monitor the weather in the weeks leading up to you vacation, here are 3 helpful websites: National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Weather.Com & Weather Underground.
Of course, there is always the possibility that a tropical cyclone could occur before or during your vacation so it is a good idea to buy trip insurance. If a hurricane should threaten the area during your vacation, rest assured that your hotel or resort has an emergency plan for its guests and employees. The good thing about hurricanes is they don’t just pop up, they need time to organize so there is always plenty of warning. So by all means, go ahead and plan your vacation!
Have you ever experienced a hurricane while on vacation?
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Kristin Busse is an American expat who has been living in Cancun, Mexico since 2001. A wife, mother, singer, salsa dancer and now writer, she has worked in many different industries but is currently enjoying exploring the Yucatan Peninsula and sharing her expertise and experience with readers around the world. Follow Kristin on Twitter.
The Islands of Quintana Roo, Mexico
When you think of vacationing in Mexico, you probably think of Cancun, the Riviera Maya, and Playa del Carmen. You may not be aware of the fact that the state of Quintana Roo is home to four islands as well. The sun shines brightly on these island paradises and reflects off of their white sand beaches, so island life tends to move slowly, as do its habitants. These islands range in size and population but are all rich with natural beauty, Mayan history and/or Mexican culture. Next time you are in the area, take a day (at least) to explore one or more of these laid back, relaxing island retreats.
Cozumel
The largest and most populated of the four islands, Cozumel is located approximately 11 miles off the coastal town of Playa del Carmen. It is about 30 miles long and 10 miles wide. It is Mexico’s third largest island. Cozumel is home to the second largest coral barrier reef in the world, and is a snorkel and dive mecca. The largest concentration of restaurants, bars and shopping is located in the downtown area of the city of San Miguel. Mayan people have inhabited Cozumel since 300 AD. The island has a rich history that includes Mayan worship of the goddess of fertility, a smallpox epidemic and pirates.
Major airlines fly to Cozumel, cruises dock there, or you can take a ferry or air taxi.
Isla Mujeres
“The Island of the Women” is named for the many cult images of goddesses that the Spanish found when they discovered the island, a sanctuary dedicated to the Mayan goddess Ixchel, in the 16th century. Isla, as it is lovingly called by locals, is located 8 miles off the coast of Cancun and is only about 4 miles long and half a mile wide at its widest point. There are many charming hotels and restaurants that welcome visitors from all over the globe. You won’t find a lot of cars on Isla, but you will find scooters, bicycles and golf cars galore. Rent one and be your own tour guide. Then park at North Beach and have a cold one while you take a dip in the crystal blue water.
You can take an air taxi or a ferry from the Cancun Hotel Zone or Puerto Juarez to get to Isla Mujeres.
Holbox
As we go down the list, these islands become less inhabited. Holbox is a true island refuge, where you won’t find ATMs or even cars! Most of the locals are fishermen, so imagine the fresh seafood that is available. There are many charming boutique hotels on the island. Tourism still hasn’t taken over Holbox, which means “Black Hole” in Maya, but it is quickly becoming a popular destination due to the hundreds of whale sharks that gather in the area each May-September. Visitors come from all over the globe to swim with these gentle giants. Visitors also love to kite boarding off the beaches of Holbox.
You can get to Holbox by traveling by bus to the port of Chiquila and then taking a private boat or ferry, or by taking an air taxi.
Isla Contoy
Nobody lives on Isla Contoy! Well, except for many birds and sea turtles. This island is located approximately 18 miles north of Isla Mujeres, where the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea meet. It is only about 5 miles long and only about a tenth of a mile wide. It is considered the most important nesting place of sea birds in the entire Mexican Caribbean. Isla Contoy is a Mexican national park and is protected. There are only a few tour providers who are allowed to bring visitors to the island and only 200 people may visit per day. There are no hotels on the island. There is only a visitor center.
You can visit Isla Contoy by taking a tour or if you would like to visit in your own boat you must apply for permission at the park offices in Cancun or on Isla Mujeres.
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Kristin Busse is an American expat who has been living in Cancun, Mexico since 2001. A wife, mother, singer, salsa dancer and now writer, she has worked in many different industries but is currently enjoying exploring the Yucatan Peninsula and sharing her expertise and experience with readers around the world. Follow Kristin on Twitter.
An Afternoon in Akumal, the Tranquil Turtle Town
Akumal is a small beachfront tourist resort located in the Mexican Caribbean 62 miles south of Cancun between Playa del Carmen and Tulum. It is the perfect place to visit for the day and experience a different side of the Riviera Maya. It was officially founded in 1958 as a community for scuba divers. It doesn’t seem to have changed much since then. Akumal means “place of the turtles” in the Mayan language. This name suits this tranquil town perfectly.
Akumal Beach
If you snorkel out off of Akumal Beach about 200 yards into Akumal Bay, you can watch sea turtles snacking on sea grass. If you visit during nesting season, late April to October, you will find the turtles laying eggs on the beaches at night. From June to November, hatching season, you may spot baby turtles instinctively make their way back to the sea.
Yal-Ku Lagoon
Yal-Ku, a natural lagoon located about 10 minutes from downtown is a must-see. There is a cover charge of 110 pesos (less than 10 U.S. Dollars) and the lagoon is worth every penny. Go snorkeling (they have equipment for rent) or just swim in the cool waters of the natural limestone lagoon. The waters are calm even when the sea is rough. The lagoon is spring fed by underground rivers and this fresh water mixes with salt water from the ocean. After you’ve cooled off in the lagoon, there are showers and restrooms close to the entrance. There is also a rustic snack stand. Don’t miss the paths that wind around the edge of the lagoon where traditional and contemporary sculptures rest in the lush green jungle vegetation. The setting is peaceful, picturesque and relaxed.
Downtown Akumal
Before you head back to your hotel or resort, take a stroll around downtown. Be careful though, you might miss it or wonder if you actually are downtown, as it consists only of a supermarket, a few restaurants, and a couple of shops that sell Mexican handicrafts. Look for the small stand that sells homemade ice cream.
An afternoon in Akumal will leave you feeling relaxed yet exhilarated about all the little discoveries you made on this unforgettable day.
Check out some other pictures of Akumal:
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About the Author
Kristin Busse is currently a travel writer but has worked in many different industries. She lives in Cancun, Mexico and plans to use her diverse experiences to write about the Yucatan Peninsula from her unique perspective. Follow Kristin on Twitter.
Punta Sur: Where Mexico Awakens | A Historical Overview
Punta Sur. It is the southern-most point on Isla Mujeres and the eastern-most point in the entire country of Mexico. It is where tourists today go to climb the lighthouse for a view of Cancun’s hotel zone or simply relax on the warm rocks by the water. But what most don’t realize is that Punta Sur and Isla Mujeres in themselves have long, extensive and fascinating histories.
Way before Mexico’s fight for independence began; Isla Mujeres was an island of transition. It began when the Spanish arrived and the Maya inhabitants of the island fled the to seek refuge deeper in the mainland. But the Spanish didn’t stay for too long. They had bigger conquests to carry out therefore, allowing the island to become a resting port for ships travelling to Cuba and the Gulf of Mexico from the region that we know today as Honduras. Post Spanish inquisition, the island became a safe haven for the suppressed indigenous that fled the enslavement of Spanish haciendas. With its constant evolution, Isla Mujeres grew to be an island inhabited by an extraordinarily-eclectic group of people, a group that consisted of the indigenous, foreign-ship captains and sometimes pirates.
Lawless pirates, ship captains and indigenous refugees sound like a mismatched group of people and it probably was but overtime, the island eventually settled into tranquility with a population that lived peacefully amongst each other and thrived off the island’s fishing and forestry industry. It was this population that began the Isla Mujeres New Years tradition on Punta Sur. Because Punta Sur is literally where Mexico awakens (i.e. the portion of Mexico that receives the first rays of sun light), the people of Isla Mujeres would celebrate by gathering on the island’s southern-most point to await the sunrise, bringing in the New Year and ridding themselves of the past. Some say this tradition began well before the 1800s when reaming awake all night was necessary to keep watch of the horizon for any incoming invasions.
Today, travelers that visit Isla Mujeres can stand in the same point that thousands did before them at ‘Punta de Amancer’, or in English, ‘The point of sunrise.’ and imagine what life was like on the island over 2,000 years ago when the Mayas roamed the island or 200 years ago when the New Years tradition began. If only the island could speak… Oh, the stories it could tell.
Isla Mujeres Facts:
1) The original Mayan ruin that was lost at sea contained engraved messages in its walls from pirates and ship captains to make their presence and domination known during the island’s earliest of days.
2) The Spanish and subsequent cultures used Punta Sur as an observation point and the Mayas used it to study the cosmos.
3) Jose Martí, a Cuban figure and an important figure in Latin American literature, visited the island during his country’s bid for independence from the Spanish.
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About the Author
Kristin McCollum is a travel writer and photographer that has spent the past year traveling and working throughout Europe and Mexico. After living in the Yucatan Peninsula, she found inspiration in every person she met and in the natural beauty which surrounded her.
10 tips for a Romantic Valentine’s Day in the Riviera Maya
Couples have been trying to create romance in their relationships since the beginning of time, yet every Valentine’s Day many frantically search for a way to make the day memorable for their special someone. There are many ways to celebrate this special day, but for the truly romantic, spend this February 14th doing something unique and special with the one you love.
Here are 10 great ways to spend Valentine’s Day in the Riviera Maya:
- Relax and Recharge: Leave behind the stress of daily life and surprise your special someone with a soothing moonlight couples massage on the beach.
- For Music Lovers: There are many restaurants and bars in Cancun and Playa del Carmen that feature live music. Cozy up with a cocktail (and your honey of course) and groove to their smooth sounds.
- A Day in the Sun: Pack a picnic basket and your swimsuit for a romantic day on the white sand beaches of the Mexican Caribbean. Swim in the crystal clear, turquoise blue Caribbean Sea, and then watch the sun set and that lovely afternoon light wash over your loved one’s face.
- For Night Owls: If you prefer moonlight over sunlight, plan a nighttime beach champagne picnic under the stars, and begin an endless night on the Riviera Maya’s magical beaches.
- The Adventurous Couple: If you are one of those couples who connect during the adrenaline rush of a great adventure, Cancun and the Riviera Maya offer some great options for you this Valentine’s Day. Fly over the jungle canopy on a zip line or discover nature’s wonders in underground caves and cenotes.
- Cooking for the Heart: If the expression “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach” is true, then reach his (or her) heart by learning to create some special recipes in the Riviera Maya. If you prefer someone else doing the cooking, enjoy a delicious meal at one of our restaurants that range from Mexican to international cuisine.
- The Language of Love: Since Spanish is such a romantic language, romance your partner and tell him or her how much you love them, in Spanish. “Te amo” = “I love you”.
- Give a Little: While reconnecting with your special someone on a romantic getaway, consider including a tour from Kanché, a non-profit civil association that uses the proceeds from its tours to generate socially oriented projects that help the environment and the community.
- Reconnect with Nature: With its lush green jungles and soft white sand beaches, the beautiful Yucatan Peninsula offers you many wonderful ways to reconnect not only with your partner, but also with nature. Visit a preserved nature park and enjoy a day of hiking through the jungle or snorkeling or scuba diving in the clear blue waters of the Caribbean Sea.
- Do Not Disturb: Spend the entire day with the “do not disturb” sign on your door at one of our all inclusive, luxury resorts. Enjoy the company of your partner in private while relaxing in a soothing bath or bubbling hot tub.
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About the Author
Kristin Busse is currently a travel writer but has worked in many different industries. She lives in Cancun, Mexico and plans to use her diverse experiences to write about the Yucatan Peninsula from her unique perspective.
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