Tulum
This walled city could not have a more dramatic setting on the coast. The
short ride from the parking lot to the entrance and even the climb on the stone
stairway gives little hint at what lies beyond. Tulum does not cover an area as
large as Coba or Chichen Itza but it is equally impressive. Within in the walls
are nearly sixty structures. The largest and probably most photographed is "El
Castillo" sitting high on the bluff. Its position served both as a look out and
as a navigational aid to guide boats through a break in the reef to the beach.
Tulum is the only Mayan port city ever discovered. Its is believed that there
were more of these ports and that they served inland cities. Long after interior
cities collapsed due to fighting, the Mayan Riviera continued to flourish. The
Mayans did a significant amount of sea trade. By the time the Spanish arrived in
the 16th century, they had routes as far south as Panama and Costa Rica. Tulum
also appears to have been used for religious purposes. The Temple of the
Frescoes is now closed to visitors but, you can still catch a glimpse of the
frescoes from the outside and your guide may have a photograph to show you. Many
of the buildings have exterior sculptures depicting the "descending god." We
visited Tulum in the morning as part of a package tour that included Xel-Ha. You
can enter on your own after paying the fee but, a guide will be able to give you
much more information than the small plaques.
Xcaret
This ecological park is owned by the same people who own Xel-Ha. It is
located one exit north of the cruise terminal, Calica. It is larger than Xel-Ha
and offers evening entertainment. Like Xel-Ha is offers snorkeling (here through
underground rivers), a dolphin experience, ruins and lush grounds. In addition,
it boasts a butterfly pavilion, horseback riding, an orchid greenhouse, a bat
cave, and cougar and jaguar enclosure. An entire day could be spent here, just
make sure you pick a day when a ship is not in port as Xcaret is a popular shore
excursion.
Golf
The Playacar golf course is located in Playa del Carmen. Palace Resorts now
owns the golf course and offers lodging packages that include golf. The Riu
Tequila and Caribbean Village Playacar are located on the golf course and offer
golf packages.
Shopping
Plenty of opportunities to shop can be found in Playa del Carmen. One block
back from the beach, 5th Avenue is pedestrian only for much of its length. Small
shops alternate with restaurants and bars. There is also an indoor
air-conditioned shopping mall further back from the beach. After loading up on
souvenirs, handicrafts, vanilla and tequila, you can walk back down to the beach
to one of the beachfront bars for a cool drink. Those who wish to combine
drinking with souvenir shopping should head towards the ferry terminal where you
will find Senor Frog's. Continue
Playa Del Carmen Photos
|
