If you are still unable to travel right now or just want to see pictures of your beloved Mexican Caribbean, here’s our monthly gallery showcasing some of the region’s many natural and historical attractions. How many have you visited? Which ones would you like to explore on future visits to Cancun and the Riviera Maya?
Contoy
Deserted palm-lined beaches and mangroves full of the sound of bird cries, the tiny island of Contoy is an important nature reserve. Known as the island of birds, it is home to over 150 species, including pelicans, frigate birds, herons, ibis and roseate spoonbills. Eco trips are available.
Izamal
Painted in cheerful yellow with a white trim, the historic town of Izamal is dominated by the huge Franciscan monastery built in the 16th century on top of a Mayan pyramid.
Bacalar Lagoon
In southern Quintana Roo, Bacalar is known as the Lagoon of Seven Colors because of its spectacular shades of blue, turquoise and aqua. We think that the number is actually much higher!
Playa del Carmen
An evening stroll along Playa del Carmen’s “la Quinta” for open-air dining and drinks under trees glittering with lights is always a popular vacation option. Lined with cafes and bars, craft shops and boutiques and alive with the sound of music, Fifth Avenue is undergoing a facelift this summer, focusing on the area around Parque Fundadores. On a return visit expect to see new planters along the street with tropical shrubs and mature trees.
Tulum
In ancient times, lights in the El Castillo temple at Tulum would guide seafarers through the jagged reefs to safe haven in the bay at the foot of the cliff.
Dzitnup Cenote
Deep in a cave and illuminated by a shaft of sunlight, Dzitnup is perhaps the Yucatan’s most photographed cenote. Located just outside the colonial town of Valladolid, it is just one of many sinkholes scattered across the eastern Yucatan.
