tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-195831592011-11-27T17:38:10.980-06:00Find resorts, hotels, restaurants, beaches, bars, tours, transportation, news, travel tips and more.Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comBlogger3001100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-68978322805910791962011-11-06T15:39:00.003-06:002011-11-06T15:53:31.822-06:00

When traveling to Cancun, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, Tulum or the Riviera Maya, it's always nice to speak a little spanish -- and in particular, the kind of Spanish they speak around these parts. Below are some local references, names and other common phrases you may come across during your travels. If you want to fit in, try to use these words with your waiters, cab drivers and hotel employees.

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-29194427756313520762011-05-22T10:37:00.002-06:002011-05-22T10:45:19.569-06:00

Ajua Maya Restaurant celebrated 10 years in Playa del Carmen with a traditional celebration mixing Mayan, Mestizo and Mexican cuisine and customs on on May 21, 2011.Jorge and Brenda Alfaro acquired Ajua Restaurant (now Ajua Maya) in Playa del Carmen in 2001. The restaurant specializes in Mayan, Mestizo, Mexican and a touch of Virginian cuisine; and now, ten years later, the Alfaros enjoy working

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-38209204240593247522011-03-19T11:43:00.003-06:002011-03-19T11:47:44.761-06:00

The Washington Post is running a great article about the whale sharks new Isla Mujeres. Though the region has long been known for its whale sharks, especially in the waters to the north of the island, this year seems to be different, with many more sharks present in waters much closer to the island. Excerpt from the story:It's like a fishbowl full of whale sharks," said Robert Hueter, director of

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-78267440122232103672011-02-21T21:02:00.005-06:002011-02-21T21:04:45.984-06:00

Playa del Carmen is no longer a sleepy fishing village where everybody knows each other and nobody locks their doors. It is still a happy little town, though, where a lot of people know each other and not everyone locks their doors. Petty theft is the main problem, and tourists are advised to watch their belongings, lock their hotel rooms, and not leave valuables unattended on the beach or

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-42051067995221025422010-10-12T18:54:00.006-06:002010-10-12T19:02:42.337-06:00

Playa del Carmen -- Travel Channel star and food pro Mark DeCarlo will team up with local chefs in the Riviera Maya to present the Taste of Playa food event.DeCarlo, host of "Taste of America with Mark DeCarlo" will conduct a series of food demonstrations with local chefs highlighting the unique recipes of the Mexican Caribbean.The Taste of Playa event is a community-focused culinary celebration

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-73957330192045205572010-08-02T21:22:00.006-06:002010-08-02T21:29:19.433-06:00

This is the namesake hotel for the Barrio Latino neighborhood from Second to Sixth Streets, between the beach and 30th Avenue, in the heart of Playa del Carmen. The area is reminiscent of the way that Playa used to be, with traditional hotels and a slower pace than the rest of town. The 16-room Italian-owned hotel is a popular home base for Europeans, student travelers, and others who may have

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-47156821586686767552010-06-26T12:51:00.003-06:002010-06-26T12:54:56.630-06:00

Tourists and local officials are watching closely as the first named storm of the season, Tropical Storm Alex, forms off the coast of Belize and due south of Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya.The Playa Palms live webcam located in the heart of Playa del Carmen's main beach reveals a rainy sky and blustery winds well ahead of the storm's potential arrival. According to the National Hurricane

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-18382881635624872802010-06-10T17:39:00.012-06:002010-06-10T22:05:51.266-06:00

EcoBeachHotels.com is a partner site to MayanHoliday.com that offers information and reservations at eco-friendly hotels and sustainable beachfront accommodations around the world.Two of their featured properties for this summer are Azulik villas and Cabañas Copal, which are located in Tulum, about an hour south of Playa del Carmen. Both properties have been recognized for their high standards

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-79150549422088055002010-05-12T09:21:00.004-06:002010-05-12T09:25:53.948-06:00

The organizers of the 2010 Riviera Maya Jazz Fest are holding a free kickoff concert on May 29 at Mamita's Beach Club in Playa del Carmen featuring Caro Montes, Phil Perry and Brian McKnight.The concert celebrates the announcement of the headliners for this year's festival, which will include performances by The Manhattan Transfer, George Duke, Eugenia Leon, Armando Manzanero, John McLaughlin,

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-73819295526830687852010-04-06T11:02:00.003-06:002010-04-06T11:09:29.085-06:00

Developers of the Acanto Condominium complex, adjacent to the Acanto Hotel, in the heart of Playa del Carmen have finished construction of a model unit, with completion of the entire project expected in the near future. The complex has one-, two- and three-bedroom condos located a half-block from the beach and one block from 5th Avenue, the resort town's main tourist strip, with a wide range of

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-12207850625868309842010-03-31T09:38:00.003-06:002010-03-31T10:02:47.957-06:00

1. Blue Parrot, Playa del Carmen: With an open-air dance floor and fire dancers at your back door, you can’t go wrong.2. Fairmont Mayakoba, Punta Bete: The huge stone entryway makes you wonder what’s inside; only the privileged few know for sure.3. Live Aqua Cancún: Cancún’s one and only lounge hotel, with 24-hour DJ and luxe beach bar.4. Hotel Básico, Playa del Carmen: The prosperous days of

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-51293110062654136602010-02-08T15:15:00.003-06:002010-02-08T15:29:04.472-06:00

Every year about this time, students from across the country start to plan their Spring Break vacations. This year, there are some great package trips, including airfare and hotel.Many students choose to use a big-name tour company to book their trip, but they don't realize that they are throwing money away, since they end up paying way more than if they just booked the trip themselves. Travelers

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-52935856485718712792010-01-21T22:55:00.004-06:002010-01-21T23:02:03.483-06:00

The Riviera Maya Events Calendar is the most comprehensive online events calendar for local events in Playa del Carmen, Akumal, Puerto Morelos, Puerto Aventuras and throughout the Riviera Maya. Events include local cultural and arts events, food festivals, wine tastings, restaurant specials, local fairs, environmental events and local get-togethers.Local residents moderate the daily events in

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-86479864022352540992010-01-20T16:57:00.005-06:002010-01-20T17:10:54.801-06:00

Fund-raising events will take place on Sunday, January 24, in Playa del Carmen and Akumal to raise much-needed money for "Hope for Haiti," a local, grassroots campaign that is supporting the relief efforts. "Hope for Haiti" Playa del Carmen will take place on Sunday, January 24, from noon to 6pm on the beach at Wicky's (10th Street), which has volunteered their beach and their culinary skills for

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-39291807881425205402009-12-30T13:40:00.004-06:002009-12-30T13:47:47.455-06:00

As if Mexico's beach resorts needed any more dubious publicity, Summit Entertainment, the Hollywood film studio that created The Twilight Saga, has announced plans to film an adventure movie set in the Cancun.The movie will star teen Twilight heartthrob Taylor Lautner, who will play a Spring Break vacationer whose pleasure trip turns into a nightmare when his girlfriend and her friends run into

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-72945037289716946492009-12-21T22:04:00.001-06:002009-12-21T22:06:31.242-06:00

The Hotel La Tortuga is located at the corner of 10th Avenue and 14th Street, just a block off Playa del Carmen's popular Fifth Avenue. The 45-room boutique hotel offers stylish rooms; a welcoming pool, exclusive social area with pool table and a private and upscale ambience. Rooms have air-conditioning, safes, fans, satellite TV, wireless Internet access and phones. Many also have a minibar,

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-80347798043663943902009-12-14T23:04:00.004-06:002009-12-14T23:14:46.534-06:00

A variety of upscale condos have opened recently in Playa del Carmen, giving visitors to the Riviera Maya new accommodations options without the need for a pricey full-service hotel.Another new property, the El Taj Oceanfront Condo, is scheduled for opening the first week of January, 2010, was designed by Mexican architect Sergio Segura. The condo will feature a smooth Bali-inspired design that

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-26131017544799022662009-08-24T17:12:00.006-06:002009-08-24T17:19:21.997-06:00

Playa Xpu-HA -- Esencia Estate in Mexico's Riviera Maya is offering guests daily account credit equal to the amount paid for their nightly room rate. The credit can be used at the hotel's organic healing spa, at the poolside restaurant or on other expenses, including airport transfers, room service, in-room nannies, or even Coronas and margaritas on the beach.The promotion is part of the hotel's

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-84142467214306054962009-08-22T20:45:00.003-06:002009-08-22T20:49:59.878-06:00

The owners of the popular Ajua Maya Restaurant, a long-time favorite in Playa del Carmen, have opened the first traditional Spanish tapas restaurant in the Riviera Maya.Restaurante Tierra España features the culinary creations of Chef Antoni Pellicer, originally from Barcelona. The kitchen serves up a menu of classic dishes from the Spanish Mediterranean, including hot and cold tapas, rich paella

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-15575684935077477612009-07-31T19:15:00.008-06:002009-07-31T20:11:50.505-06:00

Tourists watched with amusement and a bit of frustration as armed sailors from the Mexico Navy portioned off the beach in front of the Gran Caribe Real hotel following claims that the hotel had illegally pumped sand from the ocean floor.After exceedingly high tides and rough waves caused by Hurricane Wilma eroded the beach in 2005, Mexico spent some $19 million to pump sand back onto the shore,

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-60494265170978974962009-07-08T12:36:00.009-06:002009-07-11T11:23:50.826-06:00

Though the Mayans never used the wheel, they did have the ball, and it is believed that they took great pleasure in playing various games. Their most famous ball game was called pok-ta-pok, and it was serious business. The ball was about the size of a kickball, and the game was played on a large field about the size of a basketball court. Similar to basketball, the game’s object was to shoot the

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-53958438063193732332009-07-06T10:41:00.006-06:002009-07-06T11:15:50.413-06:00

PLAYA DEL CARMEN -- The "Taste of Playa" summer food festival will take place in Playa del Carmen on September 5, 2009. The event, which organizers plan to begin hosting annually, will highlight the diverse global influences of Riviera Maya chefs and their cuisine. Backed by the Riviera Maya Tourism Board and local officials, the event highlights the unique culinary perspectives of local chefs

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-9783657467904274732009-06-15T18:52:00.005-06:002009-06-15T19:03:14.407-06:00

Discovery Channel's popular travel adventure show, "The Amazing Race," will be filming an upcoming season in Latin America. To help pick the exact country, the show's producers are letting the public decide by casting their votes.On the heels of the bad press caused by the Swine Flu and recent media reports of drug violence, tourism to Mexico is down sharply and the positive exposure of a show

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-39512068100730999922009-06-13T17:28:00.006-06:002009-06-13T17:44:09.341-06:00

PLAYA DEL CARMEN, June 13, 2009 -- The heart of the Playa del Carmen tourist zone, Fifth Avenue (Quinta Avenida), was the scene of a major drug bust on Saturday as 40 soldiers from the Mexican Army swarmed a souvenir market and arrested five drug traffickers. The heavily armed military gunmen wore black hoods to disguise their identity and were supported by more than a dozen local police, who

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-41100042982755841522009-06-12T08:11:00.005-06:002009-06-12T08:29:20.013-06:00

TULUM -- Civil defense personnel and local farmers are working together to fight a forest fire just miles from the famous Mayan ruins of Tulum. The fire has already consumed 20 hectares of forest land.Since the location is fairly remote and fire-fighting resources are scarce, there are not yet enough personnel on the scene to completely contain the fire.The fire is believed to have been started

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-25181223954811186542009-06-10T12:49:00.005-06:002009-06-10T13:08:53.540-06:00

PLAYA DEL CARMEN -- Officials in the Riviera Maya have reported the reinstatement of the 6am ferry run from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel. The service was suspended on May 4, with the decrease in demand caused by concerns over the flu outbreak.Demand had dropped by approximately 70%, from an average of 6000 daily riders down to only 700. That number has increased back to nearly 4000, which makes it

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-33844528708417667802009-06-04T12:29:00.002-06:002009-06-04T12:39:54.703-06:00

The editors of MayanHoliday.com pick the top spots to have sand between your toes and a drink in your hand:Blue Parrot, 12th Street at the beach. Get there early to reserve a coveted waterfront table. If you fall out of your chair, you’ll land on powder-white sand. Dancers spill out from the wooden dance floor all the way to the water line. Fire dancers perform on the beach behind the club most

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-83029815452706365452009-06-01T12:24:00.000-06:002009-06-01T12:25:14.885-06:00

PLAYA DEL CARMEN -- The Riviera Maya will host World Environment Day on June 5, 2009. The location had been in doubt following the recent swine flu outbreak in Mexico and elsewhere. The event will take place at the Xcaret Eco Park, just a few minutes south of the resort town of Playa del Carmen. Attendees will include California governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, World Wildlife Fund president Carter

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-17551691873956833132009-05-24T23:43:00.005-06:002009-05-24T23:58:11.239-06:00

XCARET - Around 300 participants made a pilgrimage to Cozumel like their Mayan ancestors did hundreds of years ago. The group left in traditional canoes from Xcaret to the island of Cozumel, approximately 15 miles away. They later returned to Xaman Ha, just south of the town square in Playa del Carmen. A large crowd was on-hand to greet them when they returned. The local mayor, Román Quiana

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-77806462876548397252009-05-03T09:32:00.003-06:002009-05-03T09:37:45.348-06:00

Civil Defense personnel donning masks distributed information in several languages to sunbathers (primarily topless women) this week to publicize the measures taken to prevent any possible infection by the H1N1 "Swine Flu" influenza virus.Despite the recommendation to stay at home and change travel plans, Playa del Carmen's main strip, Fifth Avenue, and the beaches of the Riviera Maya looked

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-71193223850110415342009-04-29T22:33:00.001-06:002009-04-29T22:33:27.085-06:00

As a preventative measure against an outbreak of the Swine Flu, officials in Playa del Carmen and surrounding areas have ordered the temporary closure of bars and clubs. The Expo Tequila 2009 has also been cancelled, since many of the expected attendees are no longer coming to the area since they have had to cancel their trips. The closure order applies to bars and clubs accommodating up to 80

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-53214137348537571702009-03-28T22:16:00.002-06:002009-03-28T22:24:33.758-06:00

PLAYA DEL CARMEN -- The Seventh Annual Riviera Maya Jazz Festival will take place November 25-28 in Playa del Carmen and will feature such artists as The Royal Band, Colin Hunter, Pat Martino, Al Jarreau, Herbie Hancock, Fernando Toussaint and Aguamala.The 2009 festival is the best cast ever assembled in the event's seven year history. Like other years, though, the concerts will be entirely free

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-69631021624970934002009-03-27T22:06:00.007-06:002009-03-27T22:48:54.758-06:00

The Mandarin Oriental hotels in New York and the Riviera Maya have joined forces to create a Stop, Shop and Beach package that allows guests to leave home for their Mexico vacation without having to pack a suitcase. Through November 30, 2009, guests that book a connecting flight to Cancun/Riviera Maya out of New York City and stay at Mandarin Oriental, New York for two days of shopping for a

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-19201006428353900492009-03-12T21:42:00.006-06:002009-03-12T21:52:19.253-06:00

Mexico Real Estate Magazine has recently reported that the government is considering changing the law to allow foreigners to own beachfront real estate.Excerpts from the article: A new constitutional amendment, proposed by Mexican Senator Mario López Valdez of the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) on March 5, 2009, sets the stage for what could become one of the most dramatic changes in

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-54747304171990571852009-01-30T21:01:00.010-06:002009-02-02T21:40:32.272-06:00

Yoga and Pilates fans are invited to a retreat May 9 to 16 hosted at the casually elegant Maya Tulum resort, located just minutes from the amazing Tulum ruins and about an hour south of Playa del Carmen. Instructor Pamela Hart has visited Tulum nine times in the last years and is joined by instructors Lauren Ferioli and Gina Guarascio for this retreat.Yoga classes are held at the Maya Tulum

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-48600920817162848292009-01-28T22:50:00.001-06:002009-01-28T22:51:44.331-06:00

Introduced to the market at the end of 2007, this cleverly named resort seems to conjure images of the anything-goes “Temptation Island” reality show and the similarity doesn’t necessarily stop there. The 384-room upscale adults-only all-inclusive beachfront hotel is known for its lively atmosphere, topless swimming pool, adult-themed activities program and sexy vibe throughout. It is NOT a “

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-29051175086232267672009-01-28T22:47:00.000-06:002009-01-28T22:48:29.216-06:00

Cancun is reinventing itself into a more upscale vacation destination, thanks in part to a USD $2.5 billion investment into local infrastructure and tourism development. One of the region’s key new attractions is the Mayan wedding ceremony. The area of Cancun and Puerto Morelos is a popular destination for weddings, hosting nearly 5000 weddings each year. There are domestic and international

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-1144950340981571332009-01-04T11:43:00.000-06:002009-01-04T11:43:00.545-06:00

Though it’s not always easy to make the transition from tourist to local, it can be possible. With a bit of determination and luck, you can find a job and live in paradise. The Mexican government requires that all foreign workers have a FM3 visa, which your employer must obtain for you. Fluency in Spanish is required, though exceptions are sometimes made. And don’t expect to make anything near

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-3177863055317852702008-12-29T06:39:00.001-06:002008-12-29T06:39:01.123-06:00

Ecotourism website EcoTrotters.com is having an ecotourism photo contest from now through February 28, 2009. In keeping with its goal of promoting personal growth and ecological awareness through ecotourism, the EcoTrotters community is using the contest to help travelers share and learn about eco-travel destinations and green wonders throughout the globe.To participate and be eligible for one of

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-26124984805542726162008-12-26T19:16:00.000-06:002008-12-25T18:48:05.625-06:00

The editors of MayanHoliday.com pick the top spots to have sand between your toes and a drink in your hand as you celebrate New Years Eve in Playa del Carmen:Blue Parrot, 12th Street at the beach. Get there early to reserve a coveted waterfront table. If you fall out of your chair, you’ll land on powder-white sand. Dancers spill out from the wooden dance floor all the way to the water line. Fire

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-87083735085195978172008-12-24T14:20:00.004-06:002008-12-25T10:32:15.287-06:00

PLAYA DEL CARMEN -- The world-famous Coco Bongo, known for its all-night parties and amazing stage shows in Cancun, has opened a new location in Playa del Carmen. Located at the corner of 10th Avenue and 12th Street, the Playa location is a massive nightclub with non-stop entertainment on an elevated stage.Regular rates are $50 US for open bar or $20 for cover charge only. Special offers can

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-12866503090895762272008-11-10T08:56:00.002-06:002008-11-10T09:01:08.404-06:00

The World Art Vision contemporary art fair 2008 will take place from December 5 to 14, 2008 at the Cancun Center in Cancun, Mexico.More than 100 artists from 5 continents will participate in World Art Vision, which will feature painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, prints, installation art, video and digital art. Arturo Garcia Bustos and Rina Lazo, who were, respectively, pupils of and

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-58976013127488755932008-10-29T18:09:00.004-06:002008-11-01T16:50:13.820-06:00

Cancun -- Since Prehispanic times, each November, Mexicans celebrate and remember those who have passed away and come back to share and celebrate with living family members.Moved by reverence and nostalgia, each region has a different way of praising their ancestors through rituals and ceremonies such as the picturesque and peculiar Mayan tradition of Hanal Pixan or supper of the souls. Combining

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-63511071739010071812008-10-19T20:40:00.001-06:002008-10-19T20:40:51.493-06:00

PLAYA DEL CARMEN, JUNE 2007 -- A group of volunteer animal lovers called International Veterinarians Dedicated to Animal Health (VIDAS) travels each year to the Riviera Maya, providing education and free veterinary care in an effort to fight pet overpopulation, which can cause starvation, disease, and other health problems. They work with the local communities to improve the lives of pets and the

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-37255115961021754052008-09-23T17:07:00.000-06:002008-09-23T17:09:08.260-06:00

Cancun Center wins the “World Travel Awards North & Central America” as the best convention center of Mexico and Central America.In the fall of 2008, the World Travel Awards North & Central America awarded a prize to the Cancun Center, Conventions & Exhibitions, as the best convention center of Mexico and Central America, as a result of the direct vote of thousands of travel professionals and

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-86981074678740472182008-08-22T10:44:00.004-06:002008-08-22T10:53:04.321-06:00

Cancun -- The Yucatan's Cancun and Riviera Maya regions make up one of the few places on earth where travelers can find nature’s richness and diversity at its best. Through its reefs, mangroves and jungles, taking some time off the beach to explore wildlife is an essential part of every trip to the region, which offers a unique glimpse at fabulous sceneries under the waters and above where you

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-43712816852693001562008-08-20T11:21:00.007-06:002008-08-20T11:37:21.201-06:00

The turnoff for Paraiso de la Bonita is a few miles north of the town of Puerto Morelos; there is a gated entry marked BAHIA PETEMPICH. The road to the resort is not paved, but it is fairly smooth, with no major potholes, though there are large speed bumps every quarter mile or so. When the road reaches the beachfront, turn left and head north a short spell, and you’ll arrive at the entrance to

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-39665979581228575302008-07-21T08:58:00.004-06:002008-07-21T09:11:07.351-06:00

Swimming with whale sharks, the largest fish in the world, is a dream that can only become a reality in few places throughout the world, such as Australia and Belize -- and now Cancun. The best time to go is during the summer months of July and August. The whale shark's mouth extends to almost five feet when opened. Those who study the migration of whale sharks are still uncertain where

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-79605956563529167492008-07-20T19:58:00.010-06:002008-07-20T20:18:04.119-06:00

Construction has begun on the Acanto Hotel and Condominiums on the site of the original Acanto Suites Hotel just blocks from the Playa del Carmen town square. The hotel, which has been opened for 15 years, is officially closed and will open in its new form in the summer of 2009.The development already has six pre-sales and several potential other purchases are pending. Pricing is available online

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-56671955408115354462008-07-13T10:57:00.005-06:002008-07-13T11:04:28.239-06:00

From the Associated Press, July 2008The soldiers seemed out of place in paradise.They stood guard at the sandy entrances to the exclusive, beachside hotels, holding their guns while inspectors took careful measurements and studied documents.Tourists from around the world sauntered by on their way to spa treatments or sunned themselves on private decks overlooking the Mexican Caribbean's

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-34299606892329469422008-06-19T17:54:00.004-06:002008-06-19T20:17:57.400-06:00

Cancun is reinventing itself into a more upscale vacation destination, thanks in part to a USD $2.5 billion investment into local infrastructure and tourism development. One of the region’s key new attractions is the Mayan wedding ceremony. The area of Cancun and Puerto Morelos is a popular destination for weddings, hosting nearly 5000 weddings each year. There are domestic and international

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-33655540690560193242008-06-15T12:35:00.000-06:002008-06-15T12:36:46.151-06:00

From the LA Times -- June, 2008Cancún: In terms of sheer beauty, Mexico's best beaches are in Cancún and along the Yucatán's Quintana Roo coast, extending south almost all the way to the Belizean border. The powdery, white-sand beaches boast water the color of a Technicolor dream; it's so clear you can see through to the coral reefs below. Cancún offers the widest assortment of luxury beachfront

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-73357953748742761692008-06-10T08:34:00.001-06:002008-06-10T08:37:06.636-06:00

From Irene Butler at "The Province"The narrow road through the tangle of jungle was lit only by our van headlights. I, along with six other Mayan-culture enthusiasts and our guide Claudia, were on our way to the Mayan village of Dos Palmas to take part in a sacred Temazcal (sweat-lodge) ceremony -- to be reborn as warriors.Dos Palmas is located in the Riviera Maya area (south of Cancun). Maya is

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-32431810829153023602008-05-24T12:47:00.007-06:002008-05-24T13:04:42.505-06:00

Reprinted With Permission From "Caribbean Property and Lifestyles":Mexican Riviera Luxury Hotel Condos at 90% Occupancy What happens when a successful boutique five star Hotel running at 90% occupancy since 2004 decides to go 'luxury condo?' Well, it means that each private owner of one of these luxury condos also receives revenues at 90% occupancy. Year in, year out. And 100% occupancy if the

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-19212055230136956032008-04-27T19:15:00.007-06:002008-04-27T19:36:13.199-06:00

Introduced to the market at the end of 2007, this cleverly named resort seems to conjure images of the anything-goes “Temptation Island” reality show and the similarity doesn’t necessarily stop there. The 384-room upscale adults-only all-inclusive beachfront hotel is known for its lively atmosphere, topless swimming pool, adult-themed activities program and sexy vibe throughout. It is NOT a “

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-42449886173437700332008-04-20T13:53:00.004-06:002008-04-20T13:59:39.363-06:00

Playa del Carmen -- News of even more flights scheduled to arrive at the Cancun International Airport starting this summer indicates that tourism to Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya will increase between 10% and 12%, according to local officials. Even with the slowing economy in the U.S., 2008 is expected to be a record year, in terms of total arrivals, occupancy levels and revenue. The new

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-89830850080998477562008-04-14T22:26:00.010-06:002008-04-14T22:53:04.093-06:00

Cancun -- On April 20, the resort town of Cancun will turn only 38 years since established, but is currently the most important tourist destination in Mexico and one of the most important in the world. It is a successful reality that no one would have ever imagined when the island of Cancun – Kaank’uun in the Mayan language – was inhabited by only a small group of Mayan fisherman. Back then, no

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-22965772751638324632008-03-28T08:08:00.006-06:002009-08-25T10:58:47.835-06:00

Located across from the Cancun Convention Center, in the heart of the city's party zone, Coco Bongo is Cancun's premier party spot. But to call Coco Bongo a bar would be woefully inadequate; to even call it a nightclub is somewhat of a joke. It's more like an entertainment center, where travelers from around the world congregate to celebrate life and pretend it's Spring Break all year long.

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-7526494289179187062008-03-17T13:38:00.001-06:002008-03-17T13:38:55.762-06:00

PLAYA DEL CARMEN -- Cave divers near Playa del Carmen have discovered what may be the world's longest underground river, connecting two cave systems with a waterway at least 95 miles long.A group of foreign divers exploring the area have yet to name the stretch, but believe it could be connected to two other major systems, adding more than 125 miles to its length."It's a bit of the Star Trek

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-59429714740753715442008-03-04T12:07:00.006-06:002008-03-04T12:32:35.898-06:00

Margarita Mind is a dangerous disease and it afflicts American, Canadians and European real estate buyers equally and without mercy.How do you catch it?It happens when you arrive in Mexico, checkbook in hand, with the hungry look of the besotted tourist that envisions a life hanging in a hammock on a white sand beach in front of your little dream cottage.How do you know you have it?When you start

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-60096433548393894392008-02-21T22:36:00.001-06:002008-02-21T22:36:52.834-06:00

TULUM, July 2007 -- With pristine white sand beaches, overgrown jungle cloaking mysterious ancient ruins, and a special, laidback uniqueness all its own, it's no surprise that Tulum has tipped the radar of trend-watchers on the lookout for the next "tropical hot spot." But with this fame came a disintegration of what has made this magical place a jewel in the crown of Caribbean destinations. As

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-69469604402217089212008-01-28T22:04:00.000-06:002008-01-28T22:09:42.804-06:00

Built above a restaurant in Playa's happening international district at Quinta Avenida and 30th Street, this upscale Argentinean-owned executive-style hotel is great for guests that prefer the urban loft-like lifestyle over the scrubby beach ambiance that pervades many of the town's lodging options. The Quinta Palmera has only six rooms, three with balconies and Jacuzzies and three with indoor

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-7574667939889712702008-01-26T15:29:00.000-06:002008-01-26T15:40:53.156-06:00

Located in the newly bustling northern part of Fifth Avenue (Quinta between 38th and 40th Streets) this independently owned adults-only boutique hotel opened in early 2008. It is named after an old Yucatan city 60 miles south of Merida known for its clay pottery and leather shoes, but the environs here are decidedly more contemporary. The cozy lobby feels like a stylish home in 1940s Europe and

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-65887370955561104572007-12-28T19:09:00.000-06:002007-12-28T19:36:28.946-06:00

Operated by the same team that runs the uber-popular Om Hotel & Lounge in Playa del Carmen, the newly opened Om Tulum promises the same trendy casual attitude, plus a picturesque beachfront location that makes it even better. The hotel is about five miles south of the Tulum crossroads and seven miles from the ruins. It includes nine cabanas with an ocean or garden view, a restaurant, lounge and

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-17391947389532274852007-12-05T18:38:00.000-06:002007-12-05T18:43:00.813-06:00

This month, the number of rooms in the Riviera Maya has topped 32,000. Significant recent openings include the 408-room first hotel of the Spanish chain Valentin and the 401-room Fairmont Mayakoba. Though this represents impressive growth for the year, it's actually less than was forecast, due to the delay of some projects for financial and environmental assessment delays.Major openings for early

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-45373812241260626062007-11-29T09:46:00.000-06:002007-11-29T09:56:40.264-06:00

This year's Riviera Maya Jazz Fest takes place November 29 to December 1. The event takes place at Mamita's Beach Club, which is just a mile and a half north of the Playa del Carmen town square. The shows take place on the beach and are free to the public. Schedule:November 29Marcus MillerAguamalaNovember 30Tower of PowerLos DoradosDecember 1George BensonSacbe and Luis ConteMore:Riviera Maya

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-11637222021845512802007-11-14T13:14:00.000-06:002007-11-14T13:27:49.490-06:00

Where peace and tranquility dress up with veils, mirrors, incense, and a sparkle of Hindu mystiqueAcanto is a native plant of Asia and Africa, adapted to the Mediterranean region for its utilization in gardens. The plant is used to represent arts, and Acanto Hotel is considered by some to be a unique piece of art among the hotels in the Riviera Maya. That’s why owners and employees of this hotel

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-80455256854730218962007-11-14T08:19:00.001-06:002007-11-14T08:19:44.210-06:00

The editors of MayanHoliday.com pick the top spots to have sand between your toes and a drink in your hand:Blue Parrot, 12th Street at the beach. Get there early to reserve a coveted waterfront table. If you fall out of your chair, you’ll land on powder-white sand. Dancers spill out from the wooden dance floor all the way to the water line. Fire dancers perform on the beach behind the club most

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-88339199419910813942007-10-30T13:09:00.000-06:002007-10-30T13:23:46.526-06:00

PLAYACAR -- Viva Wyndham Resorts is offering a special all-inclusive package at the Viva Wyndham Maya in Playacar to make it easy for families to enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday at the beach instead of at grandma's house. The resort will offer a traditional Thanksgiving dinner buffet with turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes and everything you'd expect to fine -- and all without the hassle. The

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-48938153517972676362007-10-21T23:41:00.001-06:002007-10-21T23:41:51.081-06:00

There are many different ways to make calls home from vacation in the Riviera Maya. You can use the hotel phone, which will set you back about $5/minute. You can purchase pre-paid calling cards at a local convenience store and place calls from a payphone, though you won't be able to receive calls and you'll have to deal with street noise and other issues associated with using a public phone. The

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-79384857796177143902007-10-17T08:18:00.001-06:002007-10-17T08:22:05.665-06:00

Waiter at Sr. Frog's filling a glass with beer from a converted gas pump:More:Riviera Maya Hotels Airport TransportationTours & ActivitiesRiviera Maya Guidebook

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-9579882008573870062007-10-07T17:49:00.000-06:002007-10-07T17:58:40.799-06:00

By Greg BenchwickSpecial to the Mercury NewsMAHAHUAL, Mexico - In the tiny beachside community of Mahahual, about 180 miles south of Cancún in what real estate developers are calling the Costa Maya, people are beginning to rebuild their lives.Hurricane Dean bashed and slashed its way into town Aug. 21, taking with it the town's port - its largest source of revenue, which brought in up to three

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-3977383060644821002007-09-29T16:04:00.000-06:002007-09-29T16:14:15.417-06:00

PLAYA DEL CARMEN -- The Second Annual Riviera Maya Underground Film Festival will be held from October 3 to 7, 2007 at selected cinemas around Playa del Carmen, including the Ayuntamiento de Solidaridaridad, Plaza Pelicanos' Hollywood Cinema and Plaza 28 de Julio.The film festival a celebration of short films and filmmaking and showcases the talents of renowned and promising filmmakers from

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-74322157886597718792007-09-22T08:03:00.000-06:002007-09-22T08:18:26.362-06:00

According to the September 2007 release of the 15th Annual Global Retirement Index, Mexico tops the list as the world's top retirement paradise. Paradise for retirees can be defined by real estate costs, special benefits for seniors, culture, safety, stability, availability of health care, climate, infrastructure and cost of living.According to the Managing Editor of International Living,

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-26528331258629346152007-09-19T12:24:00.000-06:002007-09-19T13:06:08.916-06:00

Playa del Carmen's Bali Club has invited readers of MayanHoliday.com to celebrate the club's one-year anniversary. DJs from across Mexico will be there, along with live performances and a video retrospective of the club's first year. Cover charge is $35 and includes open bar.The event takes place September 20-22. Bali is located on 12 Street between Quinta and 10th Avenue.General description:You

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-57634445534701264602007-09-09T20:25:00.000-06:002007-09-09T20:41:42.442-06:00

The 2007 Healer's Forum will take place at the EcoTulum Resorts from October 26-31. The conference features free lectures with internationally recognized healers and native shaman, free daily yoga and sunrise Tai Chi as well as a full moon ceremony, a Temascal Mayan sweat lodge, fire dancing, drumming and performance art. Private sessions can be booked with visiting healers. The location is a

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-67724322769936727522007-08-30T08:32:00.000-06:002007-08-30T08:41:01.399-06:00

TULUM BEACH, Reuters - Hurricane Dean's rampage over Mexico's Caribbean coast last week unearthed three rusted 18th century cannons that had lain buried under a sandy beach for decades.The cannons, around two yards long, were spotted poking through the sand on a beach near the arty resort of Tulum after Dean hit on August 21, Mexico's National Institute of Anthropology and History said on

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-16259092766660697552007-08-29T20:20:00.001-06:002007-08-29T20:20:48.074-06:00

The Elan Resort & Spa opened in May 2007 after a $15 million renovation of the former Club Las Velas. The hotel is located on a private beach facing the Nichupte Lagoon on the Cancun mainland, just a few miles from the resort town’s main commercial and entertainment district. The hotel was designed by Mexican architect Tomas Aunon to resemble a 17th Century Mexican village and the staff works

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-57805535469439763022007-08-21T14:31:00.000-06:002007-08-21T14:42:12.729-06:00

Playa del Carmen -- This beachfront tourist town has suffered only minor damages from the massive storm Hurricane Dean, which came ashore in the early morning hours about 100 miles south of town. Electricity has already been restored and many shops are opening back up for business. Even the ban on alcohol sales has been lifted -- a sure sign that things are slowly returning to normal. The beaches

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-67133922116508729042007-08-21T07:51:00.000-06:002007-08-21T08:02:24.350-06:00

TULUM -- Hurricane Dean plowed into the Caribbean coast of Mexico Tuesday night as a Category 5 storm, with sustained winds of 160mph, making it the most intense Atlantic storm to make landfall in two decades, and the 9th strongest Atlantic storm in history. At post time, the storm had weakened to a Category 3 and is moving across the western side of the Yucatan. The eye of the storm came ashore

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-62289949069215818962007-08-20T08:31:00.000-06:002007-08-20T08:37:17.546-06:00

Good news for the Riviera Maya this morning as the NOAA in the USA is forecasting Hurricane Dean to continue moving to the west and the west-northwest, sparing Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya from the brunt of the storm. CNN is reporting hurricane-strength winds extending some 60 miles from the center of the storm and tropical storm-strength winds more than 150 miles from the center, so

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-59767995951749988532007-08-18T14:55:00.000-06:002007-08-18T15:08:27.773-06:00

Local officials in Playa del Carmen and Cancun are urging tourists to leave the Yucatan Peninsula as quickly as possible to avoid the dangerous situations likely to come about with the passing of Hurricane Dean. The storm, currently a Category 4 but expected to grow into a 5, is forecast to strike the region by Tuesday. The Cancun and Cozumel airports are still open, but could close as soon as

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-22432716159878257502007-08-13T09:03:00.000-06:002007-08-13T09:41:34.651-06:00

Built above the ultra-hip red-and-black OM Lounge, this 17-room hotel is great for travelers primarily concerned with proximity to the Playa del Carmen party scene and the beach. The rooms have simple furnishings, walk-in shower stalls, TVs, exotic candles, powerful window-unit air conditioning, mini-fridges and refillable pitchers for purified water. Given their unbeatable access to the 12th

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-10432850838052680902007-08-08T18:12:00.000-06:002007-08-08T18:25:09.658-06:00

The Grand Oasis Cancun is a luxury all-inclusive resort in the heart of the Cancun hotel zone. The main attraction is the picture-perfect beach, ideal for sunbathing, strolling, site-seeing, building sandcastles and playing in the water. The hotel is less than 30 minutes from the Cancun International airport and half that from the main nightlife, shopping and entertainment district of the city. A

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-86825773878564323042007-07-25T17:43:00.000-06:002007-07-25T17:55:12.004-06:00

Básico is a concept hotel owned by the same company that runs Deseo, just down the road. It has 14 rooms, including three suites, housed on three floors and built above Quinta with an entrance on 10th Street.The beige facade owes its unusual color to the Caribbean sand that was mixed with concrete to form its solid walls. The design was conceptualized by a well-known avant garde design firm in

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-72046976189935100822007-07-21T12:52:00.000-06:002007-07-21T13:11:53.897-06:00

The new Acanto Condominiums are located one block from the beach and Fifth Avenue, walking distance to Playa del Carmen's top restaurants, nightlife and shopping.The project will feature 20 spacious villas, ranging from one to three bedrooms and starting at $275,000. The property offers roof-top terraces, swimming pool, jetted tubs, underground parking and on-site restaurant. Owners receive full

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-53291281867285469372007-07-13T14:23:00.000-06:002007-07-13T14:34:44.439-06:00

TULUM, July 2007 -- With pristine white sand beaches, overgrown jungle cloaking mysterious ancient ruins, and a special, laidback uniqueness all its own, it's no surprise that Tulum has tipped the radar of trend-watchers on the lookout for the next "tropical hot spot." But with this fame came a disintegration of what has made this magical place a jewel in the crown of Caribbean destinations. As

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-80511622922360695722007-07-07T10:29:00.000-06:002007-07-07T10:45:31.201-06:00

Cancun, July 2007 -- Bulldog Cafe, one of Cancun's most popular nightclubs, now offers a weekly "Lucha Libre" theme night, offering patrons the chance to watch live Mexican-style wrestling on the main stage. Located on Punta Cancun and close to Coco Bongo, Daddy O's, Sr. Frog's and other bars, Bulldog is known for its live rock music, stage-side Jacuzzi and lively scene of vacationing revelers.

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-24503647772719756822007-07-01T16:21:00.000-06:002007-07-01T16:43:42.305-06:00

CANCUN, July 2007 -- The Cancun International Film Festival has announced plans for the inaugural event, to take place November 14-18. The festival will feature approximately 50 feature length films, presented in both competitive and non-competitive programs over the five days of the festival. Awards will be presented at the Awards Gala on Sunday, November 18, 2007, following the Closing Night

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-18721792055396121812007-06-28T14:11:00.000-06:002007-06-28T14:22:07.487-06:00

The editors of MayanHoliday.com pick the top spots to have sand between your toes and a drink in your hand:Blue Parrot, 12th Street at the beach. Get there early to reserve a coveted waterfront table. If you fall out of your chair, you’ll land on powder-white sand. Dancers spill out from the wooden dance floor all the way to the water line. Fire dancers perform on the beach behind the club most

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-33024909885003160862007-06-12T09:58:00.000-06:002007-06-12T10:06:57.818-06:00

PLAYA DEL CARMEN, JUNE 2007 -- A group of volunteer animal lovers called International Veterinarians Dedicated to Animal Health (VIDAS) travels each year to the Riviera Maya, providing education and free veterinary care in an effort to fight pet overpopulation, which can cause starvation, disease, and other health problems. They work with the local communities to improve the lives of pets and the

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-66827442894467037632007-06-08T10:37:00.000-06:002007-06-08T10:44:01.959-06:00

The U.S. Departments of State and Homeland Security have announced that U.S. citizens traveling to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda who have applied for but not yet received passports can nevertheless temporarily enter and depart from the United States by air with a government issued photo identification and Department of State official proof of application for a passport through

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-80888396309103568582007-06-03T13:46:00.000-06:002007-06-03T13:53:05.630-06:00

This week's photo is an evening shot of Playa del Carmen's bustling tourist strip called Quinta Avenida, or "Fifth Avenue." Photo courtesy of Joshua Hinsdale, author of "Great Destinations: Playa del Carmen, Tulum & The Riviera Maya."Submit your photos here to see them on this site.More:Riviera Maya Hotels Airport TransportationTours & ActivitiesRiviera Maya Guidebook

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-47943432177203444072007-05-24T14:48:00.000-06:002007-05-24T14:56:00.087-06:00

PLAYA DEL CARMEN, MAY 2007 -- The latest news from The Riviera Maya seems to indicate that a new airport is not necessarily in the immediate future. In fact, the operator of the existing Cancun Airport, which visitors currently use to access Playa del Carmen and surrounding cities, is proposing a new rail line to serve the region. The company, Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste (ASUR), recently

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-26822837868069832082007-05-03T14:37:00.000-06:002007-05-03T19:50:13.133-06:00

You don't have to go to Fifth Avenue to find good food in Playa del Carmen. Eating where the locals eat can be a great way to stretch your budget while experiencing some local charm.Some places to try:BambuEighth Street between Quinta and 10th AvenuesGreat for inexpensive Mongolian stir-fry. Pork, beef, shrimp, and vegetarian options are available.Coctelería el Paisano VeracruzAvenue Juárez, just

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-797786020964602262007-04-24T22:56:00.000-06:002007-04-24T23:01:29.252-06:00

Though the Mayans never used the wheel, they did have the ball, and it is believed that they took great pleasure in playing various games. Their most famous ball game was called pok-ta-pok, and it was serious business. The ball was about the size of a kickball and the game was played on a large field about the size of a soccer pitch. Similar to basketball, the game's object was to shoot the ball

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-30228456905921929642007-04-22T09:58:00.000-06:002007-04-22T10:11:42.324-06:00

PLAYA DEL CARMEN, April 2007 -- The local operator used by MayanHoliday.com to provide airport transportation in Cancun, Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya has been named one of the "The 100 Great Places to Work® in Mexico." The company, Best Day Travel, has been MayanHoliday.com's ground transportation provider of choice for more than two years. The ranking is a result of a process of

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-89967655626581106932007-04-17T21:05:00.000-06:002007-04-17T21:12:54.625-06:00

April 20, 2007 -- This weekend, the ancient Mayan city at the southern end of the Riviera Maya plays host to the The Tulum Sports Festival. More than 50 world-class athletes will participate in a variety of competitions, including freestyle kite-boarding, sky diving and beach volleyball. The event features music by a host of international and local DJs plus a live reggae band. More:Riviera Maya

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-41053993784186079372007-03-30T11:53:00.000-06:002007-03-30T11:54:45.898-06:00

Located across from the Cancun Convention Center, in the heart of the city's party zone, Coco Bongo is Cancun's premier party spot. But to call Coco Bongo a bar would be woefully inadequate; to even call it a nightclub is somewhat of a joke. It's more like an entertainment center, where travelers from around the world congregate to celebrate life and pretend it's Spring Break all year long.

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19583159.post-5295791728318073362007-03-23T09:02:00.000-06:002007-03-23T09:13:09.793-06:00

Spencer Tunick, the photographer famous for shooting mass scenes of naked bodies posed in historic and prominent locations, is coming to Mexico at the end of April, 2007. The exact locations have not been selected, but it is said that he is considering various locations in and around Mexico City, including the archaeological zone of Teotihuacán, Reforma Avenue, the Monument to the Revolution and

Tour Guidenoreply@blogger.com