Villahermosa- Villahermosa always wakes up to the scent of blossom and the murmur of rivers. This modern city, where holywood flowers provide splashes of color, and the skyline is punctuated by slender palm trees, reflects the liveliness of its inhabitants and the unforgettable atmosphere of the tropics in the midst of a comfortable, hospitable urban nucleus. Palenque- Palenque, a very important Mayan city, reached its peak of development between 300 to 900 AD. Various constructions stand out in its archeological zone, such as the Templo de las Inscripciones (Temple of Inscriptions), the Gran Palacio(Great Palace) and the Observatorio (Observatory). Your exploration of this picturesque city, along with the lush jungle that surrounds it, will be a highlight of your trip. Campeche- Campeche is a beautiful UNESCO Cultural Heritage of Humanity city that has a continuous history dating back to the epoch of the pirates. Ramparts were built as a defense against the marauding intruders. A perfect example is Fuerte San Miguel (San Miguel Fort) with its canons aiming towards the sea. At night you will be able to enjoy the light and sound spectacle that re-enacts the victorious battles of that time. Meander along the beautiful, tranquil streets, the main plaza or the beachfront walk where you will be able to enjoy a delicious plate of fish or seafood on the waterfront. Uxmal- Uxmal (“thrice built”), linked to the early period of the Maya culture, possesses a great significance due to the economic and administrative power that was wielded at the end of the year 700 AD. This city is distinguished by its ruins that are in a perfect state of conservation. The outstanding structures are the 35 -meters high piramide del Adivino (Pyramid of the Fortune Teller), el cuadrángulo de las monjas (The Courtyard of the Nuns), el palacio del Gobernador (The Govenor's Palace,) and the Juego de Pelota (a Ball Court.) Mérida- Merida, known as the “White City,” for its typical custom of dressing in white and for its colonial buildings painted white, was designated during the year 2000 an American Cultural Capital. This honor was made with the support and collaboration of the OEA. Merida is an ideal family destination with many interesting attractions. The famous Paseo de Montejo is an avenue where one can see ancient restored buildings that have preserved their original beauty. One of these restorations is an old building called Palacio G. Canton that houses the Museum of Anthropology and History. Another such early 16th century restoration in the central part of the city is the Catedral de San Ildefonso (the San Ildefonso Cathedral). Near the Cathedral one can find the principal residence of the son of Francisco de Montejo, Merida's founder. This home has been preserved in its original 16th century Plateresque-style façade . Merida is known for its typical dishes such as Poc-Chuc, cochina pibil, and lima bean soup. Do not deprive yourself of the unique culinary experience found in this capital. Treat yourself to supper in one of many sidewalk cafés. Ice cream is the perfect complement as you enjoy an evening stroll or a horse and buggy ride around town. If you desire to swim and eat delicious fish and seafood, the port of Progreso is only a half hour away. Izamal- Izamal, considered one of the oldest cities of the Mayan culture, is characterized by its splendid colonial structures. A good example of colonial buildings is the Convento San Antonio de Padua (San Antionis de Padua Convent) built in the 16th Century. Its construction was initiated by Fray Diego de Landa. It looks like a fortress with its high ramparts and its courtyard is considered the largest in America. The Virgin of the Immaculate Conception, the patron saint of Yucatan, is worshipped here. On August 11, 1993, mass was celebrated commemorating the 5th centennial of the evangelization and holiness of el Pope John Paul II. Thousands of people were present in the courtyard for the celebration. Chichén Itzá- Chichen-Itzá, (“mouth of the wells of the water demons”), is considered one of the most important Mayas cities of its time. A lot of mystery surrounds the purpose of the site and the lives of the workers that built it. This city was constructed in two stages at the time. Its earliest well-preserved stages were a series of buildings measuring over 5 meters in height. El Castillo (The Castle) in the northern zone was built during the classical period and it is the highest structure at 55 meters tall. It was built for religious purposes and for the cultural development of the people, with the intent to always to reflect peace and the symbols of the deities of nature. Cancun- Cancún is one of the most important tourist complexes in Mexico and the world. Its superb location, shaped like an island, its year-round mild climate, and its gorgeous, warm, sandy white beaches washed by the Caribbean sea are ideal for water sports.
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