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For decades
vacationers have been drawn to the Pacific Coast of Mexico. From
Mazatlan to Acapulco, the “Mexican Riviera” was the most
famous stretch of beach in the country. However, In the late
1960’s things on the Mexican tourist scene began to change.
The government began to take interest in a remote sandbar on the
Eastern shore of the Yucatan Peninsula. As a result, the resort
of Cancun was born and the Pacific Coast destinations were in
for some big competition.
Even though the prospects of Cancun as a
major player in the tourist business were considered in the
60’s, it wasn’t until the 1980’s that things began to
really take off. Then a string of hotels and promotions made
Cancun the “hot spot” of Latin America in the 1990’s. As a
matter of fact, the state of Quintana Roo (where Cancun is
located) now garners 35% of all Mexico’s tourism revenue.
I think that for most “beginner”
travelers to Mexico, Cancun is a great destination choice. The
American restaurants, shopping malls and the widely spoken
English keep things easy for the gringos who might not be
interested in delving too deep into the authenticity of Mexico.
Built specifically as a tourist destination, Cancun is designed
to cater to a predominantly American clientele.
If you aren’t hip on big crowds you may want to stay
outside the city, but either way, there is an astounding amount
of things to do and see.
Cancun is ruins and riches, beaches and
shopping, fishing and snorkeling, and has all the exotic flavor
of a tropical paradise. It
is a perfectly melded mixture of natural, cultural and man-made
attractions. Technically an island, Cancun’s resort zone is
approximately 14 miles of sugar-white sand shaped like the
number seven. Framed by the turquoise and emerald waters of the
Caribbean, Cancun is without question one of the most stunning
resorts not only in Mexico, but all of North America.
The lay of the land is very easy to follow
as it is divided into three distinct yet integrated areas. The
“city of Cancun” is a booming town of 300,000 and popular
for dining, shopping and less expensive accommodations. The
“ecological reserve” is a haven for nature and a collection
of lovely lagoons and mangroves. And, as mentioned, the
“resort zone” is an island. Though growing at a rapid rate,
development is designed to be ecologically sensitive therefore
always maintaining the integrity of the land and natural
surroundings.
In addition to accommodating the constant
influx of tourism, Cancun works hard to remain focused on its
most fascinating treasure – history. For centuries, prior to
the Spanish arriving to the Yucatan Peninsula in 1519, the Maya
Indians and their culture flourished here. Over 1200
archaeological sites are scattered within a few hour’s drive
from Cancun. Some of the sites have been beautifully restored
while others remain undisturbed in the jungle vegetation. Even
the modern resort zone is home to ruins dating back to the 12th
century. The Mayan society was one of the most highly advanced
of the ancient cultures and day tours to sites like Tulum, Cobá
and Chichén Itzá will demonstrate the magnificence of a lost
civilization.
If you prefer to step away from the fast
pace of Cancun, be sure to travel about an hour south to Playa
del Carmen. This is a “real” Mexican experience. Though this
town is growing as well, Playa del Carmen maintains its rustic
charm and laid back lifestyle. Cozy restaurants and an active
nightlife keep the town colorful and a lot of fun. The beaches
can get crowed, but the energy is relaxed. I would most
certainly recommend including a stay here in your Cancun
itinerary.
Cancun has achieved a unique goal. It has
successfully combined the best of Mexico with the best of the
Caribbean, and that makes for quite a combination. And though
commercial tourism has boomed, there is no denying the seductive
appeal of Cancun’s history, culture, beaches and resorts. This
is one for your “must see” list.
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