Cancun and Riviera Maya offer travellers convenient variety
Mexico’s multi-flavoured state of Quintana Roo offers a unique coastal retreat
Mexico Tourism Board press release June 28, 2006
Travellers can choose from various coastal destinations to find sun and surf, but only Mexico’s state of Quintana Roo allows tourists to maximize their vacations by offering culturally-rich attractions that will inject a sense of adventure into the traditional beach getaway.
Many of the state’s destinations, only a short drive from its famed beaches, are all located within a few hours’ drive from the major hub city of Cancun, which has the Yucatan Peninsula’s busiest international airport. Travellers can easily schedule day trips to the region’s many archaeological sites and eco-destinations, which are conveniently interconnected by a sophisticated, modern network of highways and roads.
This Mexican Caribbean destination gives visitors a unique opportunity to combine beach time with cultural excursions. For example, the famed Mayan ruins of Chichen-Itza, located in neighboring Yucatan State, are only a two hours’ drive from Cancun. Named a World Heritage Site in 1998, the ancient city’s main attractions include El Castillo, or the Pyramid of the Serpent God Kukulkan, which is topped by a temple. Thousands of people flock to this magnificent pyramid every spring and fall equinox to witness a shadow depicting the god slither down it. Located near Chichen-Itza are the ruins of Ek-Balam, as well as the colonial cities of Izamal and Valladolid. Additionally, Cozumel’s rich pre-Hispanic past is reflected in its nearly 25 archaeological zones. While the majority of Cozumel’s sites are still in exploration stages, San Gervasio and San Cedral are worth a visit.
Quintana Roo also satisfies the eco-enthusiasts’ craving for adventure. The state houses Sian Kaan, an enormous eco-reserve that was declared a World Heritage Site in 1987. This biosphere contains tropical forests, mangroves and marshes, as well as a large marine section.
Eco-lovers will also enjoy a visit to the island of Holbox, a splendid place for birdwatching. Nature parks such as Xcaret, Garrafon, Xel-ha and Tres Rios also provide up-close experiences with wildlife, orchids, dolphins and mysterious marine life.
Snorkelling and diving enthusiasts can enjoy the crystalline Caribbean waters that cover the world’s second largest barrier reef system as they explore the archipelago composed of Holbox, Contoy, Isla Mujeres, Cozumel and Chinchorro islands. Divers will also enjoy Quintana Roo’s magnificent underground rivers with limestone sinkholes that provide truly unique diving opportunities.
No description of Quintana Roo would be complete without mention of its world-famous beaches along the Mexican Caribbean. Destinations such as Cancun, Cozumel, Puerto Aventura, Isla Mujeres, Akumal and Playa del Carmen attract millions of visitors each year from around the world.
From private beaches and large coral reefs to important archaeological zones and ultimate spa treatments, Quintana Roo State is synonymous with variety and luxury. Bordered by the Bay of Chetumal and Rio Hondo to the south and the Caribbean Sea to the east, the state is one of the most popular destinations in the world. Its superb location and year-round mild climate make it a perfect place for a variety of activities, including snorkelling, scuba diving, surfing, golfing, fishing and horseback riding.
International travellers looking to capitalize on their visit to the Mexican Caribbean will find that flying to the famed region will be easier than ever thanks to a soon-to-be-constructed airport that will be located in Tulum and an extra runway at the Cancun airport.
Disclaimer: The information in this article/release was accurate at
press time; however, we suggest you confirm all details and prices
directly with vendors.
HOME | HOTELS | VILLAS | CRUISES | ACTIVITIES | SHOPPING | RESTAURANTS | MAPS | SPECIALS | YELLOW PAGES | NEWS
