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Cancun (photo: Enrique Brener) |
EXPLORE MAYA CULTURE
Before Cancun became a world-class resort destination, the area was the center of Maya civilization for thousands of years. Maya culture is known for its sophisticated astronomy and mathematics, impressive architecture, and unique art. In addition to visiting archaeological sites from the past, experience Maya culture today:
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Maya crafts |
Visit a Maya Village
Alltournative Cultural Mayaville excursion (www.alltournative.com)
Many descendants of the ancient Maya still live in the area. Visit an authentic Maya village and meet a Mayan family who will share their traditional ways. Swim in a cenote (the Maya believed they were entrances to the underworld), and enjoy a meal of typical foods. You can also add a visit to the Coba archaeological site and the Nohoch Muul pyramid, the tallest on the Yucatan Peninsula with great views of the jungle.
Sacred Maya Journey (May)
Xcaret Eco-Archaeological Park
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Sacred Maya Journey |
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Sacred Maya Journey, oarsmen |
Museo Maya de Cancun (Maya Museum)
Boulevard Kukulkan, Km 16.5, Hotel Zone, Cancun (Open: Tues-Sun, 9am-6pm; Fee: bring pesos) Designed by Mexican architect Alberto García Lascurain, this very modern building is a portal to the past--centuries of Maya culture on display: pottery, jewelry, tools. Three exhibit halls illuminate Maya history, art, and archaeology. There's also an impressive archaeological site, San Miguelito, on the museum grounds.
ART IS ALL AROUND
Museo Subacuático de Arte (MUSA, Underwater Museum) Cancun commissioned British sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor to create an underwater sculpture museum within the National Marine Park as a tourist attraction with an environmental objective. Taylor's stunningly-beautiful sculptures form artificial reefs, attracting marine life. Under the sea, the sculptures transform as they're covered in algae, barnacles, and coral growth. See for yourself on a snorkel tour in the Punta Nizuc section. But, if you've ever dreamed of learning to scuba dive, now would be the ideal time!
Colorful Wall Murals: By bringing Mexican and international artists together, two projects have resulted in interesting public art, brightening up walls and buildings, as well as raising awareness:
Public Art Festival in Holbox (IPAF) - promoting the art and cultural richness of the region; Sea Walls: Murals for Oceans Project in Isla Mujeres - with help from PangeaSeed, international street artists created works to encourage environmental activism to protect oceans, sharks, and endangered marine life.
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Taylor's Vein Man, MUSA |
NoseGo's mural |
Public Art Festival in Holbox (IPAF) - promoting the art and cultural richness of the region; Sea Walls: Murals for Oceans Project in Isla Mujeres - with help from PangeaSeed, international street artists created works to encourage environmental activism to protect oceans, sharks, and endangered marine life.
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Museo Maya |

HAVE FUN AT FESTIVALS
Wine & Food Festival (March): Top Mexican and international chefs come together with sommeliers from the best wineries of Europe, Mexico, and regions around the world to offer cooking demonstrations, tastings, and special dinners. Musical entertainment accompanies the events adding to the festivities.
Riviera Maya Jazz Festival (Nov): Enjoy some of the world's best jazz and R&B artists along with local musicians.
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El Dia de Muertos |
COMMUNE WITH NATURE
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Whale Shark |
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Public Art Fest, Holbox |
The Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach is in a great spot. Enjoy live jazz at the award-wining restaurant Le Basilic or partake in a fascinating Mexican history/culinary experience at La Joya's "The Table."
When looking for art, activities, and hotels, keep in mind that the Cancun area, in the state of Quintana Roo on the Yucatan Peninsula, includes the islands of Isla Mujeres, Isla Contoy, and Holbox, along with the seaport town Puerto Morelos. Cancun is part of the Riviera Maya. Enjoy!
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