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Mexico Overview
From rugged mountains to the Pacific, from the soaring walls and waterfalls of Copper Canyon to Caribbean shores, Mayan ruins and picturesque colonial cities, Mexico is a country that covers an extensively diverse topographical and cultural area. While Border Towns like Tijuana or Matamoros serve primarily as day-trip destinations or points of entry into this fascination land, they also offer an introduction to the Mexican cuisine, markets and fiestas. Stretching south into the Pacific, the Baja Peninsula is all about making the most of long sunny days at the shore. Whether you're looking for a languid day of snorkeling in the Sea of Cortez, whale-watching or sport fishing, Baja should be your base. Travelers who are in Baja not for rest but to keep busy can be sure to find a party, a game of golf or good surfing at 'Los Cabos', the cities of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, at the peninsula's southern tip. If you haven't exhausted your vacation time exploring Baja, take a ferry over to mainland Mexico and discover some of the country's historic and natural beauty. Beaches lining the shores of the Central Pacific Coast offer a local experience while the slick, sleek skyline of developed areas, like Acapulco and Mazatlan shelters endless hours of entertainment and socializing. Find cliff-divers, spring-breakers and romantic sunsets before you loose yourself in the soft sea breeze and succumb to a snooze on the beach. Outdoor enthusiasts won't want to miss a trip to Copper Canyon in Northern Mexico. Catch the train that runs through this region for a glimpse of the spectacular time-scoured canyons and valleys. Spend a few days hiking or horseback riding in the region to get a first hand feel for this paradise. Learn Spanish in the charming city of Alamos and make your stay in this delightful region as long as possible. Sprawling out through the mountains of Central Inland Mexico, this country's capital, Mexico City, is a thriving urban center. Don't be intimidated by the crush of people and buildings, but take the city slow and enjoy the diversity. Get a break from metropolis life with a visit to some of Mexico's colonial cities nearby, retreats popular with foreign visitors and locals alike. Enjoy the architecture and ambiance of San Miguel de Allende, tour the silver mine at Guanajuato or steer out into the diverse landscapes of volcanic region, Michoacan. For a cultural experience and pleasant sunny days in the charming cities of Southern Mexico, steer towards Oaxaca City or San Cristobal de las Casas. Should these cities fail to romance you permanently, set out to see the crashing Pacific at Puerto Escondido, a surfing hot spot, or enjoy the bays of Huatulco, a favorite with eco-tourists who seek solitude and outdoor adventure. Should the Caribbean beckon, set your sites on the Yucatan Peninsula. In addition to the attractions of historic city, Merida, this region lures travelers who want vast expanses of sand and warm sea with their sunshine. Find endless water-related activities, from snorkeling to kayaking and cruises, out of destinations like Cancun, Cozumel and Costa Maya. Don't miss a trip to the cenotes, or fresh water pools, around Playa del Carmen, a pleasant way to break up day-trips to the wonderful archaeological ruins that crumble around the region. Tulum, on the coast, is smaller than other famous Mayan sites like Chichen Itza and Uxal, but set against high sky and endless sea, makes up for size with an unforgettable setting. Get far off the beaten path with an exploratory trip up the Gulf Coast. Pay a visit to the city of Veracruz, east of Mexico City on the Gulf for a true Mexico cultural experience and a chance to see how this country ticks away from tourist-related development. A vast and varied place, don't expect to see all of Mexico on a rush tour. Make sure to see the Mayan ruins, colonial cities, Copper Canyon or spend a few days on the Pacific or Caribbean - but importantly, leave yourself time to soak up the sunshine and color of this country, rich in history and alive with color and culture. |
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