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wE MLITE exicoexperiences
THE MAGIC OF MUNDO MAYAAmidst top resort regions like Cancùn and Campeche—
where five-star properties offer world-class spas, golfing and
fine dining—you’ll also find extraordinary archaeological sites,
lush jungles and fascinating pockets of local culture in Mexico’s
Mundo Maya states, all modern day reminders of the country’s
rich and exciting history.
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E MLITE exicoexperiences
THE MAGIC OF MUNDO MAYA
Indulge your sense of adventure with a trip to one of Mexico’s most
beautiful areas: Blessed with an idyllic geographic location that includes
both flourishing jungles and near-perfect white sand beaches, the
nation’s southeastern states offer the best of the past (from ancient
architecture to charming colonial towns) and the present (think top-rated
resorts with ultra-modern amenities). Well-known around the globe for
its precise mathematical calculations, impressive engineering and an
advanced calendar system, Ancient Maya civilization is still celebrated
today. December 21, 2012 marks the all-important date of the “Maya
Long Calendar,” indicating the end of a 5,125-year temporal cycle and
the beginning of a new one—meaning there’s never been a better time
to celebrate growth, renewal, and most importantly, the magic of Mexico.
The southeast states of Yucatan, Quintana Roo, Campeche, Chiapas
and Tabasco were the cradle of Ancient Maya civilization, and provide a
wealth of cultural and historical treasures for visitors. From palaces to
pyramids, a world of wonders awaits.
THE WONDERS OF TULUM / QUINTANA ROO
HACIENDA TEMOZON / YUCATAN
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THE MAGIC OF MUNDO MAYA
CHICHEN ITZA/YUCATAN
YUCATAN
Awaken your inner Indiana Jones with a journey to Chichen Itza, which was
named one of the “7 new wonders of the world” in a recent global vote.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s one of the most oft-cited examples of
ancient Mexican architecture. From 750 to 1200, this staggering city was
one of the Mayans’ most important capitals—and today, you can explore
some of the pre-Hispanic era’s iconic structures here. Climb El Castillo’s
365 steps or pause at Juego de Pelota, Mesoamerica’s largest ball court,
for a glimpse into the day-to-day life of Mayan civilizations.
For a taste of authentic Mexican culture, Merida, the Yucatan’s state
capital, can’t be beat. Considered the peninsula’s cultural hub, it boasts
restaurants, shops and museums all bursting with old world charm—
and provides a pleasant reprieve after all that archaeological adventure.
A tour of the city’s ornately appointed mansions recalls its origins as the
chief stronghold of Spanish colonialism for the region (and one of the
wealthiest capitals in Mexico). Plan your visit around a weekend, when the
city’s bustling downtown streets are closed to cars, and spend your days
meandering the city square and taking in free shows. Pop in to one of the
city’s 50-plus restaurants to feast on Mayan-originated fare like pollo pibíl
(chicken baked in banana leaves).
COLONIAL CHARM/MERIDA
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THE MAGIC OF MUNDO MAYA
CHIC BOUTIQUES / CANCÙN
QUINTANA ROO
Though today it’s best known among the jet set for its stellar resort and
spa scene, which includes perennial party destination Cancùn and the
breathtaking Maya Riviera, the region of Quintana Roo was once little
more than acres of lush jungle set on Caribbean shores.
While the city itself is only about 30 years old, Cancùn is actually an
ideal destination for history buffs, thanks to its proximity to a series of
ancient ruins. While you’d never know it from the Hotel Zone’s white
sandy beaches teeming with beautiful oceanfront high-rises, there are
archaeological sites as close as four miles away. The closest of these
is El Meco, which first opened to the public in 2001 and features a well-
preserved pyramid.
CALAKMUL / CANCÙN
EDZNA / CANCÙN
WILDLIFE / CANCÙN
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THE MAGIC OF MUNDO MAYA
Just south of Cancùn, Playa del Carmen is similar in size, yet it
provides a greater sense of Mexican history and culture—the community
has taken careful measures to preserve and honor its roots as a small
fishing village and artists’ colony. Explore the main strip, Fifth Avenue,
where high-end restaurants (in addition to traditional Mexican options,
you’ll find an abundance of excellent Italian eateries), shopping and
hotels—not to mention thriving nightlife—provide plenty of modern-day
delights and ultra-luxurious ways to unwind.
Catch a ferry from the scenic island of Cozumel and embark on an
unforgettable day trip to one of the Mayans’ most amazing oceanfront
cities. Set on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, what Tulum lacks in
size, it more than makes up for in remarkable history. The grounds of this
NIGHTLIFE / PLAYA DEL CARMEN
MAYAN RUINS / TULUM
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THE MAGIC OF MUNDO MAYA
national park house temple remains, a historic castle and the home of the
settlement’s one-time ruler, Halach Uinic (“True Man”). Three defensive
walls and two watchtowers still stand today, providing a glimpse into the
culture of this lost city, which is the only walled settlement in the vicinity.
Located in a verdant jungle, Coba was one of the Mayan era’s most
heavily populated cities—and it’s a must-see for elite adventurers. Modern
visitors can still witness evidence of its former splendor, with an 82-foot-
high temple greeting guests to the site’s collection of urban structures,
dubbed the Coba Group. One of the highest structures in Mayan history,
the 140-foot-tall Nohoch Mul pyramid is another major draw.
CHIAPAS
From Cancùn, you can easily travel to Mexico’s southernmost state:
Located within close proximity to a circuit of ruins called the Ruta Puuc,
Chiapas is a must-stop for archaeology buffs. Pre-Hispanic history lives
on in the local people, inviting colonial towns and wide range of exotic
flora and fauna (eco-tourism is another one of the region’s draws).
Set in a lush rainforest, Palenque offers some of the state’s most
amazing structures. An impressive 500-plus constructions cover an area
of just 10 square miles in the ancient city, though the excavated sites
are within a contained area to make for easier touring. After you explore
the ancients, stay nearby and enjoy the local family-run restaurants and
hotels for a true taste of Mexican hospitality.
MAYAN RUINS / COBA
RITZ-CARLTON / CANCÙN
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TABASCO
Moving from one lush jungle to another, head on to Tabasco, where
even the cities are verdant. During the Classic period, ancient Maya
civilization established its roots here—and today, a number of
preserved archaeological settlements show evidence of the region’s
fascinating history.
One of Tabasco’s great archaelogical sites, Comalcalco, is home to an
enormous pyramid known as Temple I. Constructed around 700 AD, it was
the epicenter of Maya culture in the settlement. What sets Comalcalco
apart from other archaeological zones in the region is the construction of
its structures—while typically they were made of stone, here they are built
from clay bricks. Take time to stroll through the Grand Acropolis, once a
ceremonial and funerary center, as well as the temples, palace and other
buildings that make up this extraordinary complex.
Situated along the banks of the Grijalva river, Tabasco’s capital city,
Villahermosa, transports visitors to another world. A vibrant culinary
scene (don’t miss local delights like alligator gar with squash and epazote
sauce) is complemented by beautiful architecture, important museums
and the dramatic Mirador de las Águilas overlook, which provides a
panorama of Laguna de las Ilusiones.
CAMPECHE
Continuing on further south and west, you’ll find the lively gulfside locale
of Campeche City, which boasts colorful buildings and a charming historic
colonial district that was made for afternoon strolls. Some of the Maya’s
most beautiful sights, from ruins to cenotes, can be found in this region.
Dating from the Middle pre-Classic period, today the people of Campeche
carry on the rich Spanish and indigenous traditions of their ancestors and
extend warm Mexican hospitality to visitors.
To plan your elite Mayan escape, head to www.visitmexico.com.
ESENCIA / QUINTANA ROO
VICEROY RIVIERA MAYA / QUINTANA ROO
HACIENDA PUERTA CAMPECHE / CAMPECHE
MAROMA RESORT AND SPA / QUINTANA ROO
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A ROYAL TOUR
Mexican President Felipe Calderón joined American travel expert Peter
Greenberg on an extraordinary non-stop journey across the nation,
traveling by plane, helicopter, boat and even horseback to cover as much
as possible of Mexico’s 760,000 square miles. Documenting their travels,
a special entitled “Mexico: Royal Tour” aired on PBS last September. Elite
Traveler editor-in-chief Doug Gollan spoke with Greenberg about why he
loves Mexico and scored his tips for traveling the Mundo Maya in style.
ET: Which Mayan archaeological sites did you visit with the President?
PG: We visited Chichen Itza, Palenque and Calakmul. Each is amazing.
Each is different. And of course I had the best tour guide. What people don’t
know is that it is easily accessible, particularly if you have a private jet.
ET: What would you say to elite travelers interested in visiting Mexico and
Mundo Maya?
PG: If you are staying in a resort, that’s fine. But bookend the trip—one day
at the start and one day at the end—and visit the Mayan ruins. Mexico is
a great destination for luxury resorts, and Mexican gastronomy is world-
class. But it is also high-end, experiential adventure travel. Mexico offers
unique experiences you can’t find anywhere else. People don’t understand
how big Mexico is. From Tijuana to Cozumel is the same distance as Los
Angeles to Washington D.C. [For private jet travelers], Mexico is very
accessible. Your readers can do everything I did with the President. There
is a lot to see. There is a lot to do. There are always new adventures in
Mexico and it is easy to get to, particularly if you have a private jet.
ET: Do you have any tips for visiting the Mayan ruins?
PG: Go early or go late. It is all about the light. Don’t go in the middle
of the day.
A LESSON IN ARCHITECTURE / ROYAL TOUR
MAYAN RUINS / ROYAL TOUR
SURVEYING A PYRAMID / ROYAL TOUR
PETER GREENBERG WITH PRESIDENT CALDERÓN