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A region whose pre-Hispanic influences include Maya, Toltec, and Olmec, Chiapas is a state rich in natural resources and beauty. It's known for its fine wood, lush jungles, lake and river fishing that yields bass, lobster, and shrimp, as well as production of coffee, corn, cotton, and bananas, to name a few. It's also responsible for one third of the crude oil extracted in Mexico. Indeed, Chiapas has everything nature has to offer—plentiful rivers, hills, volcanoes and impenetrable jungles, as well as hundreds of lakes and waterfalls and impressive flora and fauna. As we visit Chiapas, we'll focus on its epicenter, San Cristóbal de las Casas, a city overflowing with a lively people, colorful arts and crafts, in an ambience unlike any other. We'll also visit Palenque, perhaps the most mystifying ruins in Mexico. Copper
Canyon
Guanajuato The past is reflected in this city through its temples, buildings,
squares, monuments, gardens, theatres and museums. Its unique layout,
with streets that wind around each other, subterranean tunnels,
and buildings that all seem oddly placed, coupled with the young
and lively feel of this city, make it an ideal place to visit. This
month the international Cervantino festival comes to town, bringing
culture from all over the globe to Guanajuato, for two weeks of
unmatched entertainment.
Like most cities, Mexico City is a bustling metropolis full of an energy and life all its own. But with over 25 million inhabitants, it is the most populated city in the world. Indeed, you need only to stand in the center of the Zócalo to understand this city's undeniable significance. Full of urban livelihood, rich culture, fine dining and great shopping, Mexico City is a remarkable city that everyone should visit at least once. And during this month of March, when most residents flee the city for their Semana Santa vacations, it's a great time to visit. As early as 10,000 years ago Lake Texcoco
was attracting people to the area and in the mid-1300s the Aztecs
initiated their city at what is now the main Zócalo. Remants
from this period can be seen at the archeaological site of Templo
Mayor, just off the main zócalo. In 1519 the Spanish arrived,
in awe of the size and population of Valle de México
and proceeded to destroy most of what the Aztecs had built, and
on top of the same site they built what we now recognize as Mexico
City. Morelia, the capital of Michoacán,
is a beautiful, well preserved Colonial city of about 550,000 people.
Officially founded in 1541, it was one of the first Spanish cities
in Nueva España. First named Valladolid, after a Spanish
city of the same name, it was renamed Morelia in 1828 after José
María Morelos y Pavón, a key figure in Mexico's independence
movement who was born in the city. Originally the area was a Purépecha
village, and then in 1530 a Franciscan monastery was built.
Indeed a colonial jewel, the city of Oaxaca is characterized by
its fine pre-Hispanic architecture, beautiful public spaces of courtyards
and plazas, good food, and a passionate and lively people. Whether
you're sitting in the zócalo or making your way through the
public market, you're guaranteed to experience the explosion of
color and lively ambience that makes Oaxaca truly unique. A city nestled in a valley at some 7000
feet above sea level, Puebla is indeed one-of-a-kind. With the largest
colonial center of any city in Mexico, Puebla's ambience harkens
back to long forgotten centuries with its elaborate architectural
emphasis on the use of tiles, gold leafing and molded plaster flourishes.
Also known as the cradle of Mexican cuisine, Puebla invites all
eager palates to feast on its delicacies. Join us this month as
we explore Puebla, and marvel the richness of this unique city.
The mountain geography of this part of the state plays an important
role in its climate. At its high points, the air is fresh and the
terrain is forested. At the lower elevations, the climate is tropical
and hot, and the landscape is comprised of both rocky gorges and
jungle vegetation. The Sierra Gorda also houses one of the country's
most important biosphere reserves that is home to many endangered
species. Overflowing with beauty, mystique, natural wonder, and
tradition, this region offers visitors an unparalleled experience
in the heart of colonial Mexico. Tlaxcala True to its nature, Veracruz is a city that indeed evokes the feel of an old tropical port. This unique ambiance is not only the result of its history as the port of Cortes' arrival to Mexico, but also the 19th century architecture coupled with the warm climate and happy-go-lucky attitude of the locals. The culture, influenced by former African slave residents and long history of foreign influence, is more open than other parts of the country-in fact, it's said that many Mexicans retreat to Veracruz for its freedom from typical social constraints. Veracruz, often referred to as port of
Veracruz, overflows with history, archaeology, natural beauty and
culture. Distinguished by its zest for life that is evident in dancing
couples, abundant music, and ebullient street activity, Veracruz
is especially abuzz during this season of Carnival, when many tourists
and Mexican nationals flock to the city to join the fiesta.
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Last
month we took you to the southern shore of the earthly paradise
of Baja California Sur to the more popular resorts of La Paz and
Cabo San Lucas. Join us this month as we venture upward toward the
interior and central coasts of this versatile state. It is here
that we discover the delightful towns in Central Baja Sur like Loreto,
Mulegé, and Santa Rosalía, which offer a rich cultural
heritage as well as astounding natural beauty. Framed by the high
red mountains, this region's history is evidenced by ancient petroglyphs
on the walls of canyons, whose origins trace back to before the
first known inhabitants of the area. The area was also the center
of the 18th-century Jesuit Mission movement. But history is not
all that central Baja Sur offers. Like the southern coastal cities
of Baja California Sur, there are plenty of beaches, overwhelming
natural beauty, and activities like whale watching, sea kayaking,
sportfishing, and hiking—plus, there is the inherent calm that
comes with visiting a place that's not surging in popularity like
some of the cities further south.
Baja
California Norte is a unique place known primarily as the border
state that connects Mexico with Southern California. Boasting a
breathtaking landscape that is comprised of four major mountain
ranges and lovely coastal towns, Northern Baja is most commonly
known for its municipality of Tijuana, the most visited town in
all of Mexico. But it's the uniqueness of this border city alongside
the beauty of the port town of Ensenada, the tranquility of Rosarito
beach, and the charm of places like San Felipe that make Baja California
Norte such a beautifully versatile state. The increasing popularity
of this area for its wine production has added to the cultural offerings,
with various vineyards scattered around the state that complement
an already robust amount of sporting attractions. 
As
one of the most historic places in Mexico, Chiapas is a state with
a rich cultural heritage, an indigenous past and present, and a
true enchantment that is the result of its people maintaining their
past while making way for the future. Named for the Nahuatl words
"Chia" (a seed used to create a regional drink) and "apan,"
or river, the city's name literally means "In the river of
chia." 
A
favorite getaway for many a city dweller, Cuernavaca, the city of
eternal spring, is well-known for its flowers that seem to bloom
and grow spontaneously year round, creating a beautiful backdrop
for this historic place. Indeed, as a haven for people fleeing the
capital, the great weather, flowers, plants and nurseries abound
and there are many beautiful and wealthy estates sprawled across
the city. Boasting good restaurants, pleasant sidewalk cafés,
and a beautiful zócalo, it's no wonder that the Mexico affluent
have chosen Cuernavaca as the perfect escape, a home away from home.
One
of the more unique cities in Mexico, Guanajuato is thought by many
to be enchanted. With its labyrinth-like streets and tunnels, it's
indeed a place where any visitor can lose themselves among the tiny
streets, alleys and hidden away plazas. It's a lovely colonial city
that's been designed around its landscape, alongside a narrow ravine
and nestled within the sloping hills that surround it. 
A
state renown for the beauty of its arts and crafts, Oaxaca is a
place of inherent natural beauty and diversity. Boasting one of
the largest indigenous Indian populations in Mexico, Oaxaca has
more than three million inhabitants who speak over 16 different
dialects. This great mix of culture has made the Oaxacan region
an area unlike any other, evident in its timeless traditions, ancient
flavor, and hospitable atmosphere that has developed for over three
centuries. 
Located
on the coast of Jalisco among lush, jungle-covered mountains and
golden beaches, Puerto Vallarta is one of Mexico's most visited
resorts, second only to Cancún. An extremely versatile city,
Puerto Vallarta features both the simple pleasures of a small town
and the sophisticated charm of a cosmopolitan city. Indeed, its
unparalleled combination of colonial Mexican culture and modern
luxury lend Puerto Vallarta its unique and attractive atmosphere.
Despite its wealth of hotels, shops, restaurants, galleries and
nightlife, Puerto Vallarta offers incredible natural beauty, and
now features activities such as mountain biking, whale watching,
ocean kayaking and scuba diving. The city's population is about
300,000, many of whom are American and Canadian expatriates who
have made Puerta Vallarta their permanent home. Gladly, the city
has recovered from Hurricane Kenna which blew through the city in
late October, and is once again opening its arms to tourists eager
to delight in all this wonderful resort city has to offer. 
In
the heart of Mexico just under an hour from San Miguel de Allende
lies Querétaro, a treasure chest that beckons discovery and
amazement. With over 460 years of history and tradition, Querétaro
offers visitors a cultural experience that is complemented by its
friendly ambience, beautiful architecture and cosmopolitan feel.
The historic center of the city, declared a site of Cultural Heritage
of Humanity, is shaped by its historical landmarks—the aqueduct,
churches, palaces and royal mansions, all of which make this city
one of the most beautiful colonial places in the world. To truly
enjoy the city of Querétaro, visitors will want to take a
walk through the historic center or take the famed trolley ride
so as to appreciate each of the city's corners, and dine in one
of the historic center's outdoor patios or sit beside a fountain
in the afternoon sunshine to watch the passersby. For the active
traveler, there are a host of activities, from golf, tennis, horseback
riding, or swimming, all in a pleasant climate. Perhaps one of the
best things about Querétaro is that you can travel very little
distance outside of the capital and find delightful cities and towns
nestled in among the mountains. If you missed last month's trip
to the 
Last
month we took you to the islands of Quintana Roo, those somewhat
undiscovered spots that are a favorite among people who know the
region. This month, we explore the coast of Quintana Roo south of
Cancún, commonly referred to as the Riviera Maya and the
Costa Maya. Here you will not only encounter almost pristine beaches
in a familiar ambience, but also ancient ruins, jungles, pyramids,
nature reserves, coral reefs and cenotes, or sinkholes, the newest
trend in diving. And of course, above all you will find a distinct
local color and a perfect place to find history, relaxation and
adventure. Whether it's visiting the coves and lagoons along the
coast or exploring the Tulum archeological site, visitors are sure
to delight in all that the Quintana Roo coast has to offer. 
Located
along the rugged, northern edge of the state of Querétaro,
the awe-inspiring Sierra Gorda unfolds. A culmination of canyons,
rivers, jungles, mountains and desert, it is indeed an area blessed
by the forces of nature that occupies over 383,000 acres. Over the
course of centuries, the natural and historical richness of the
Sierra Gorda has matured and offers visitors a unique, sensory experience.
Stretching across a vast expanse of terrain of the state of Querétaro,
the Sierra Gorda rolls through the various towns that each boasts
cultural and historical wealth, as well as the famous missions established
in the 1750s by Fray Junípero Serra: Jalpan, Landa, Tilaco,
Tancoyol and Concá.
Nestled
in the hills of Guerrero lies the picturesque city of Taxco, a colonial
city whose name has almost become synonymous with silver. Located
between Acapulco and about 100 miles southwest of Mexico City, Taxco
is another one of Mexico's gems, with winding cobblestone streets,
gorgeous landscape, and a great view from virtually any spot in
the city. The architecture is inherently colonial, and most houses
are identical in that they're painted white with the traditional
red 'teja' roof, and the balconies are bedecked with flowers. Officially
called Taxco del Alarcón, Taxco's name comes from the Nahuatl
"Tlachco," meaning "place where ball is played."
The original site of Tlachco is now called Taxco Viejo, and is south
of the city. With a bustling community, an abundance of silver shops,
a rich history and an overwhelming natural beauty, Taxco is a legendary
city that visitors are guaranteed to enjoy.
While
the smallest state in Mexico in terms of territory, Tlaxcala is
abundant in cultural heritage, historic importance, and colonial
ambience. Its great number of attractions in a clean, friendly environment
have made it an increasingly popular place among travelers or people
simply looking for a weekend escape. The mostly year-round mild
climate complements sparkling streets and monuments, kept clean
by both the authorities and the inhabitants themselves, which give
this city a unique charm and make strolls through the city streets
truly enjoyable. A colonial era city whose name means "Place
of Corn Bread," Tlaxcala has various claims to fame—Tlaxcalan
warriors, who allied with Cortez, were key in Cortez's defeat of
the Aztecs, and Tlaxcalan chiefs were the first indigenous people
to be baptized by the Spaniards. Cacaxtla, the main archaeological
site excavated in the 1970's, is located within 20 kilometers of
Tlaxcala city and is world famous for its murals that date back
to 600 A.D. It is part of a remarkable group of cities that include
Xochitécatl and augment the area's historical relevance.
Located
on the southern Pacific coast of Mexico, Zihuatanejo, (or "Zihua"
in local parlance), is the quintessential beach village where fishing
is both pastime and industry, people are friendly, and rustic is
undeniably charming. Unlike its sister beach Ixtapa, Zihuatanejo
is the antithesis of resort—you won't find towering hotels
or landscaped promenades here, but rather a paradise as it has always
existed, in its natural condition. Indeed, both the locals and the
handful of European expatriates who call Zihua home embrace the
inherently simple life in this pueblo by the sea. With great restaurants
serving fresh seafood, a wealth of marine life, and plenty of outoor
activities to keep one busy, coupled with a host of outstanding
beaches, it's the kind of place you visit once and then make immediate
plans to return to again.