Mexico’s Mayan Temple of Ixchel

June 26, 2009 ·  

When Spanish explorers first sailed ashore Isla Mujeres in 1517, they discovered an island where the Mayans had already lived out part of their existence.  Built hundreds of years earlier, at its southern end stood the temple to the goddess Ix-Chel as well as several stone structures in the shape of women.  To honor Isla Mujeres’ female slant, it was given its current name - Spanish for “the island of women.”    

Positioned on a cliff overlooking the Carribean Sea, the winds and the waters... [Read more]

Mexico’s Sculpture by the Caribbean Sea

June 24, 2009 ·  

An outdoor modern art exhibit stands at the southern tip of Isla Mujeres, Mexico, a colorful tribute to the area’s indigenous Mayan civilization. Situated about five miles away from the island’s little downtown area, Punta Sur Sculpture Garden was created in 2001  - the work of almost two dozen Mexican artists as well as sculptors from around the world.  Travelers wanting to mix a little culture into their beach vacation can get to the exhibit by renting a golf cart or by walking your way there early in... [Read more]

Chichen Itza, A Must-See in Mexico

June 16, 2009 ·  

Chichen Itza, the greatest of the Yucatan Peninsula’s Mayan ruins, was a mandatory stop for me when I was in the area - and not because it’s made one of the Seven Wonders of the World lists.  Rather, I had explored Tulum just a year earlier, Chichen Itza’s little sister several hours away on the Riviera Maya.  Although Tulum is spectacular in itself, I had felt I was missing the big time.

Now, how to go about seeing these most ancient of ruins?  Take a tour bus and follow a guide around for... [Read more]