Category Archives: Chiapas

Best Winter Vacation Tours to Mexico 2012/2013 – The Archaeological Mayan Journey

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If you’re looking for a winter vacation to Mexico that is out of the ordinary, the Archeological Mayan Journey is one of the best winter vacation tours for 2012/2013.

This guided tour will give you the opportunity to explore the area once dominated by the Mayan Civilization, and enjoy the beauty and warmth of Mexico’s Riviera Maya.

The Mayan civilization once spanned much of what is now Mexico and Central America and influenced the surrounding cultures to a significant degree. The Maya developed written language, created complex calendars and performed feats of architecture that still merit admiration today. Exploring this vibrant lost culture is the goal of the Archeological Mayan Journey, an exclusive tour that seeks to provide insights into the various periods of Mayan civilization and the achievements of this fascinating native culture.

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The Ancient Legacies of the Mayan Civilization

Estimates vary as to when the Mayan civilization first took root in the area now known as Belize, but archaeological discoveries put that date at somewhere around 2600 B.C. These early Mayans built monuments and may have constructed calendars. As time passed, the Mayans expanded their territories considerably and began creating permanent settlements. These were often the sites of the stepped pyramids, palaces and intricate stone carvings that continue to delight and amaze modern travelers to the area. Mayans engaged in trade with other cultures and maintained small-scale political systems that governed specific areas and regions of control. The development of written language and the detailed records preserved in stone carvings continue to provide the greatest degree of insight into the complex traditions and rituals of the Mayan people.


Tour Highlights – Tracing the Path of the Ancient Mayans

For most travelers, retracing the steps of the ancient Mayans can provide a real sense of connection with this ancient civilization. The Archaeological Mayan Journey provides this connection with the help of an expert tour guide knowledgeable about every aspect of the Mayan way of life. The journey begins upon arrival at the Cancun International Airport. Guests spend one night in this glamorous cosmopolitan city before traveling to Merida, the capital of the Yucatan. While en route, the tour visits a traditional Mayan Indian marketplace to allow travelers to interact with the native people and get a sense of the traditions that still shape the culture today. A stop at the archaeological site of Chichen Itza will allow guests on the tour to catch a glimpse of the famed Kukulcan-Quetzalcoatl temple and ceremonial complex for themselves.

Chichen

After a night in Merida, guests will have a chance to examine the gorgeous temple carvings in Uxmal and enjoy a traditional Mayan lunch; the afternoon is reserved for individual exploration of this beautiful and significant cultural area. The Archaeological Mayan Journey also includes expeditions to Palenque and Bonampak, both archaeological dig sites of great importance to researchers and scholars. Both sites have been painstakingly restored; Palenque is especially significant due to the exquisite Temple of the Inscriptions, which features exceptional architecture, well-preserved historical inscriptions detailing the lives of the dynastic line that once ruled this area. Throughout the journey, travelers will be immersed in the culture and the way of life still practiced in this legendary area of the world.

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The Mayan culture still influences many aspects of life in the Yucatan and continues to inspire and attract travelers to this exotic region of the world. The Archaeological Mayan Journey is an excellent way to explore the mysteries of the Maya and experience the wonder of this ancient civilization firsthand.

For more vacation tours to the Riviera Maya and Mexico you can visit our Destinations page.

Mundo Maya Trip 2012

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In September, Journey Mexico welcomed 7 of the most seasoned tour operators and travel agents from the UK, France, and Russia on an exclusive visit to the heart of Southern Mexico. With Journey Mexico’s Director of Operations, Matteo Luthi, by their side, the group explored the Yucatan Peninsula and experienced  Mayan culture. As the date nears closer to December 21, 2012, many tourists are flocking to visit and discover the secrets of Mundo Maya in anticipation for the new cycle to begin. Our expert guides met the group in Mexico City and led them on a journey through the Mayan World of Chiapas, Campeche, and Yucatan before ending on the turquoise waters of the Riviera Maya. Below is a recap of their 15 day journey.

Mundo Maya FAM 2012:

After a good night’s sleep in Mexico City’s Las Alcobas , the group was transferred to Chiapas to explore the Sumidero Canyon. Exploring via boat launch, everyone marveled at the rock walls towering thousands of feet high and the tropical wildlife they found accompanying them on the journey. After returning to the docks, they visited the nearby Magical Town of San Cristobal de las Casas. The colonial charm of San Cristobal de las Casas is best discovered by foot, wandering the cobblestoned narrow streets and visiting the local museums. After an adventurous first day, everyone settled into the newest boutique property in the area- Hotel Bo. The contemporary hotel flawlessly blends what Chiapas is all about: threads, knots, frets, textures, and colors of the culture. Guests are continuously surprised that such a harmonious property awaits them in the small town of San Cristobal.

The next two days of the journey were dedicated to discovering the local cultures and pre-Hispanic ruins. The group explored the towns of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan where indigenous customs and traditions are still very much present. After mingling with the artisans and visiting a unique church and cemetery, they headed to the natural wonder of Misol Ha, a single jump waterfall that offers a unique perspective of the lush river valley.

Toniná was next in the itinerary where the guide illuminated the group that they were currently at one of most well developed central temple complexes in all Mayan civilization. Toniná is one of Chiapa’s archaeological sites recognized as UNESCO World Heritage along with Palenque, which was where they were headed next. Palenque was an important and powerful group of ancient Mayans. Their city was created around 100 BC and although the site is massive and sheds a lot of light on the traditions, rituals, ceremonies, and spirituality of the ancient Maya, only a very small fraction of the actual site has been excavated. At night, the group was split into two beautiful hotels, Quinta Cha Nab Nal and Chan Kah Resort.

By day 5, the group had made its way to Campeche where they were able to relax at the luxurious Hacienda Puerta Campeche. After a pampering recharge, they were on their way to Uxmal, another UNESCO archeological site also very important to Mayan civilization, considered one of most representative of the region’s dominant architectural style.

After days of exploring the ruins of Mundo Maya, the guide led them through the town of Merida, the capital city of the Yucatan. They strolled the streets and visited the Governor’s Palace, where giant murals line the wall, each representing a significant part in the history of Mexico.  They spent time getting to know  two boutique hotels in the area, Casa Lecanda and Casa Azul as well  the magnificent Villa Sirena (also managed by Casa Lecanda.)

Moving on from Merida, they journeyed to the Magical Town of Izamal, also known as “Yellow City”. It is here where Mayan codices and images had once been burned, effectively erasing much of Mayan history. Valladolid, the third Mexican Magical Town on their trip was the final stop before heading back to the Riviera Maya.

 

Making their way across the peninsula toward the Mexican-Caribbean waters, they stopped at the ruins of Chichen Itza to discover the Mayan’s most popular ruin site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Finally making it to the shores of the Riviera Maya, the group stayed the night on a nearby island, Isla Holbox, to witness a spectacular sunset. In the morning, they woke up for an extraordinary experience—swimming with whale sharks. Laetitia Fain / Henry Cookson Adventures in the UK commented on her experience “My most special moment on the tour was diving with the whale sharks, such an intense moment swimming next to such immense creatures.”

They then island hopped via private yacht to Isla Mujeres before settling on shore for the next three days in the Riviera Maya. The group inspected some of the most extravagant properties in the area and were able to spend nights in Viceroy Riviera Maya, Hotel Esencia and Maroma Resort & Spa.

Claire Betts, from Last Frontiers in the UK sums up the 15 day journey they best: “We had to nick-name Matteo the dream-maker as the trip fully surpassed any expectations time and time again! Was it the swimming with whale sharks? The Mayan ritual and massage on the beach at night? Watching a green turtle lay her eggs metres away? The private yacht to Isla Mujeres? Watching the sunset on Isla Holbox with a cold margarita? Setting baby turtles free into the ocean? Or was it the sopa de lima and cochnita pibil? So hard to pick just one special moment on such a magical tour but I am entirely convinced that Mexico seduced each and everyone of us with its passion, rich cultural heritage, fine cuisine and spectacular beauty! “

 

Top Adventure Travel Trips in Mexico

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Adventure travel trips and tours in Mexico are one of our specialties at Journey Mexico. For those of you planning adventure vacations this summer, we’ve put together a list of our favorite adventure tours.

From pristine beaches and remote jungles to spectacular mountains, lakes and rivers – these travel adventures get to the heart of this grand destination: Mexico.

 

1)      Baja Multisport: Sea Kayaking and Hiking Trip

On this adventure trip you’ll visit both the Pacific Ocean and Sea of Cortez coastlines of Baja California, Mexico. Perfect for active travelers, it combines remote hiking and paddling in intact wilderness settings, plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities and visits to local villages.

This trip includes a full day Sea-Kayaking expedition in the Sea of Cortez. Experience the turquoise waters of the protected beaches of the Island of Espiritu Santo.  We will also visit the resident sea lion colony where you can opt to swim and snorkel with these marine mammals.

During our day hike, you will indulge in the seascapes of the rugged Pacific Coast of Southern Baja California. In this hike into the Sierra de la Laguna Biosphere reserve you will also experience the beauty of cascading waterfalls in the stunning cactus forests.  A visit to the fishing village of Todos Santos and a day of surfing provides a taste of the old Baja.

2)      Chiapas Adventure Trip – Ziplines, Waterfalls, and Ruins

On this fabulous adventure trip to Chiapas, Mexico, you will zip line through the tree-tops of the jungles and mountains of the region. Take in the magnificent beauty of one of the area’s waterfalls, measuring over 100 feet in height, and swim in the refreshing water from the falls. This journey also includes a visit to the archaeological site of Palenque, an ancient Mayan city known as one of the greatest achievements of ancient man, and to San Cristobal de las Casas, a charming colonial city where you can converse with the indigenous people of San Juan Chamula and Zinacatan, and learn about their colorful ceramics and textiles.

 

3)      Swim With Whale Sharks and Visit Ancient Ruins Trip

This adventure trip to the Riviera Maya in Mexico, is perfect for wildlife lovers. One of the highlights of this adventure includes swimming and snorkeling with docile whale sharks (ranging from 10 to 65 feet in length) on a secluded island. After a few days of nature immersion, explore the ancient Mayan ruins at the world renowned Chichen Itza. Your private guide will explain the significance of this archeological site and the achievements of the Maya civilization. You will also have the chance to cool off in a beautiful sinkhole before enjoying a picturesque lunch nearby. Accommodations at the Isla Holbox (a tranquil island 3 hours from Cancun) are in a quaint eco-friendly hotel.

 

 

4)      Copper Canyon Hiking Trip – Lower Rio Urique Wilderness

The Copper Canyon hiking trip is an expedition style adventure where hikers follow the Urique River as it winds through the Mexican canyon. This tour offers stunning views, trails through narrow slot canyons and a crossing of the magnificent suspension bridge at Vado de la Cueva. You will also visit the native communities and the historic settlements of El Fuerte, Cerocahui, Creel, Chihuahua, and Batopilas.

A train journey on the world famous Chihuahua al Pacifico Mexican railroad offers a panoramic view of the amazing transition between the Sea of Cortez and the canyons of the Sierra Tarahumara.

 

5)      Mainland Mexico Surf Trip

This surfing adventure trip is 10 days of non-stop surfing combined with luxury accommodations to relax and recharge in the evening. On this trip you will stay in 2 magnificent villas right on the water. You will also go on exciting road trips on private SUVs and take a private fight to some of the region’s best kept secret surfing spots.

An expert guide will be with you providing insider access and a professional photographer will shoot video and photos of the adventure.

 

6)      Oaxaca Cycling Excursion

This exciting tour lets you experience a bike tour like you never have before. During this cycling excursion you will not only see great bike routes but you will also discover Oaxaca’s amazing culture, food, and natural beauty.

You will visit Teotitlan del Valle, where the world-famous, traditional, woven, wool blankets and rugs come from, as well as other remote villages with XVI century churches, old plazas and vibrant markets and galleries.  On this tour, you will also see Monte Alban – an archeological site from around 500BC.

 

7)      The Volcano Mountain Climbing Expedition

This adventure tour is 10 days of amazing mountain climbing. Explore two Mexican volcanoes: The Malinche volcano, named after the Indian lover and interpreter for Cortez , and the Iztaccihuatl, the 3rd largest in Mexico famous for its shape of a sleeping woman.

In addition to exploring the mountaintops, caves, and glaciers of central Mexico, you will also visit the charming towns of Puebla and Cholula outside of Mexico City.

This trip also includes a visit to Teotihucan, a world-famous archeological site, and the Basilica de Guadalupe. This Basilica is the 3rd most important religious center worldwide.

8)      Yucatan  Adventure

This adventure trip on the Riviera Maya takes you through the jungles of the Yucatan Peninsula and brings you to incredible archeological sites designated as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. Visit the Mayan ruins of Uxmal, Chichen Itza, Celestun, Ex-balam and Sian Ka’an.

This ecotourism tour includes a visit to a local Maya family where age old traditions are still maintained. It also takes you to Tixkokob where locals still practice the age old tradition of Hammock weaving.

The Riviera Maya, with its turquoise waters and soft powder sand beaches awaits you.

 

We hope you embark soon on your adventure travel tour and discover the wonders that Mexico has to offer.

 

Journey Mexico’s Chiapas Tour: National Geographic Traveler Magazine’s “50 Tours of a Lifetime”

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At Journey Mexico, we’re especially proud that one of our favorite vacation packages to Chiapas made the National Geographic Traveler Magazine’s “50 Tours of a Lifetime” list this year! Although it’s always an honor to achieve this level of recognition, this year is truly special. For 2012, National Geographic Traveler chose “transformation” as the overall theme in addition to evaluating each tour based on authenticity, sustainability, and degree of immersion. This means that the judges at National Geographic Traveler felt our Chiapas Tour: A Journey through Mexico Less Visited has the power to make a permanent change in the lives of both our travelers and the local residents who live in the various villages along the route. While we like to think that each of our packages is a “trip of a lifetime,” the Chiapas Tour lives up to that reputation more than any other! If you’d like to become fully immersed in the rich culture of Mexico, here’s a closer look at this Chiapas Tour:

The Journey Begins The Chiapas tour is designed to give you an intimate look at Southwest Mexico and the Mayan World. Your journey will begin in Tuxtla Gutierrez, the capital of Chiapas, where your tour leader will welcome you at the Tuxtla Gutierrez airport. Next, you will travel through the Sumidero Canyon before ascending into the highest reaches of the Sierra Madre Sur to reach the quaint colonial city that serves as the commercial center of the highland people of Txotzil and Tzetzal. Within this part of Mexico, the proud farmers still live their lives according to ancient cultural traditions. You’ll have ample opportunity to see this up close as your group explores the area surrounding San Cristobal on foot and interacts with the locals. During your stay, you’ll visit the workshops of local artisans, view the colonial architecture and explore the San Cristobal museums.

The Adventure Continues After you fully explore the highland areas, your group will descend to the exotic Chiapan rainforests where you will enjoy a day filled with swimming, hiking and waterfall exploration. Once you arrive at the jungle, you’ll discover a number of ancient Mayan ruins including Yaxchitlan, Palenque, Bomampak and Edzna.

Compared to other better-known sites, these are much less crowded but just as significant. The locations are stunning, and your leader will fill you in on the amazing accomplishments of the ancient Mayans in the fields of astronomy, engineering and agriculture. From the jungle, you’ll venture into Tabasco to visit the zoo and the museum to learn more about the Olmec culture.

The Final Transformation On the last night of your stay, you’ll attend a farewell fiesta and dance the night away with the Tabasco locals. The next day, you’ll depart from the Villa Hermosa’s International Airport. From here, you can get a flight into many other Mexican destinations to continue your adventure or fly back to the States. If you’re ready for your “Journey of a Lifetime,” book an adventure and discover an entirely new side of Mexico.

 

Top Travel Destinations Worldwide for 2012 Include Mexico’s Tulum, Chichen Itza and Chiapas

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CNN Travel recently asked the top travel experts from Orbitz, Lonely Planet, Smarter Travel and Altour for their picks for 2012. With all the recent publicity about the impending end of the Mayan calendar, it should come as no surprise that this part of Mexico, including Tulum, Chichen Itza, and Chiapas, tops the Top Travel Destinations in the World for 2012!

If you’d like to soak up the sun on an unforgettable trip to the Maya World, here are a few examples of what you might experience during your stay:

Chichen Itza – One of the New Seven Wonders of the World!
No trip to the Maya would be complete without touring the most famous ruins in Mexico. Let Journey Mexico show you the way to a private entrance where our expert guide can lead you directly to the most interesting features of this ancient city. After a leisurely lunch, spend the afternoon exploring the ancient temples of Coba, a relatively new discovery with more than 6,500 unexplored structures.

Edzna and Uxmal – Plus a Tequila Tasting!
On a different day, experience the magic of the ceremonial sites and religious temples of Edzna. Nestled within the jungle, this set of ruins houses the Platform of the Knives, the Big House and the Gran Acropolis. Once you’re done, enjoy a traditional Mexican meal before reaching Uxmal, one of the best examples of Puuc architecture in the world. As you roam through the temples, your guide will explain the intricacies of the ancient society that once called this city home. Finish off your day with some of the best Tequila in the world as you learn more about one of Mexico’s most important products.

The Biosphere Reserve of Celestun
Leave the ruins behind and discover a part of Mexico that’s full of life! This protected area contains one of the nation’s largest wetland areas. Among other wildlife, you’ll get a chance to see one of the largest colonies of charming Pink Flamingos. Afterwards, enjoy your midday meal in the shade at one of the local beachfront restaurants.

Enjoy the Riviera Maya!
Spend a day or two in luxury before or after your tour of the ruins! Relax by the pool, snorkel in the crystal-clear Caribbean waters, shop for souvenirs and sample the local cuisine. No matter how you decide to spend your time in the Riviera Maya, this will give you a complete picture of the pleasures this part of Mexico has to offer!

Of course, these are just a few examples of how Mexico earned a top spot on CNN Travel’s list of top destinations for 2012. If you’d like to learn more about what you can see and do in Mexico in the coming year, contact Journey Mexico for more information.

Traveling to Mexico in 2012: The Mayan Calendar Challenge!

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Chichen Itza Mayan Calendar 2012Don’t be taken in by hyped-up claims that the world is ending in 2012 or that this is what the Mayans predicted thousands of years ago. The media and movie industry have purposely misinterpreted this historical information to attract attention, boost ratings, and scare school children. Once you understand more about this misconception, you’ll be ready to visit charming Mexico to celebrate the beginning of a whole new cycle and take the Mayan Calendar challenge!

The Real Deal on the Mayan Calendar
The Mayans, an ancient civilization that existed in southern Mexico and much of Central America from 250 to 900 A.D., used two different calendars. The first, the Calendar Round, covered a 52-year period, or 18,980 days. At that time, this period represented a single generation or the average lifespan of a typical person of that age. This was the measurement tool that this culture used on an everyday basis.

If the Mayans needed to refer to a date that was more than 52 years in the past or future, they moved to the “Long Count,” the long-term calendar. This measurement tool is based on a numerically predictable algorithm that used a beginning date of 3114 B.C. according to our modern calendar. From there, they calculated forward for 5,126 years for an ending date that just happens to be in 2012 A.D. This gave the Mayans a historical measure that reached over 3,000 years into their past and more than 1,000 years into their future.

If you think about it for a few minutes, common sense will tell you that it’s only a coincidence that the calendar is running out in 2012 A.D. The Mayans didn’t predict the end of the world; they just got tired of crunching the numbers. After all, the world existed long before the calendar started, so why shouldn’t we expect it to last long after the calendar ends? This doomsday theory has no more credibility than any of the countless end-of-the-world claims that have been proven false in the past.

Don’t Let the Doomsday Gang Ruin Your Plans
What could be better than leaving the naysayers and pessimists behind to celebrate the beginning of a whole new cycle in the very place that started all this controversy? The Mayan Long Count Calendar is scheduled to end on December 21 of next year, and Mexico is warm and sunny at that time of the year! To make this trip even more attractive, you can bet that the locals are planning quite a few festivals and fiestas to celebrate their continued existence as well as the upcoming holidays!

How can you resist the chance to snap a souvenir photo to prove you survived the “End of the World” in a beautiful Mexican paradise? Whether you’re partying on the beach or living it up in Mexico City, you’ll be able to tell everyone how you won the Mayan Calendar challenge!

Still doubtful? Well, you’re not alone. On Thursday, Mexico’s archaeology institute  acknowledged that a second reference to the date exists on a carved fragment found at a southern Mexico ruin site.  Here’s a link to the full article!

Journey Yucatan

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After months of anticipation, we are proud to announce the launch of Journey Yucatan, a branch of Journey Mexico specializing in the Yucatan Peninsula.

In response to an increasing number of travelers looking for unique travel experiences in Mexico’s Southeast including the Cancun, the Riviera Maya, Costa Maya, the Yucatan Peninsula, Campeche, and Chiapas, Journey Yucatan focuses on custom private tours, destination management services, and luxury transportation designed to get beyond the hustle and bustle of the typical tourist destinations. Picture the magical silence of an exclusive visit to ancient ruins outside of regular tourist hours. Imagine the thrill of a private expedition into the underground rivers and caves of the region. Envision the luxury of a helicopter, private aircraft, catamaran or luxury yacht tour of the natural and cultural wonders of the Yucatan complete with catered lunches and champagne toasts. Let our expert Cancun-based team create an authentic experience for you and your clients in this magical region.

At Journey Yucatan, we pride ourselves in our unbending commitment to seamless service and spirit of authentic adventure as you’ve come to expect with Journey Mexico. The Journey Yucatan brand combines the finest properties, private villas, expert guides and unique transportation services including luxury vehicles, charter planes, yachts and helicopters; with over 20 years of on the ground experience exploring the peninsula, we take great pride in sharing the unique and unexpected travel experiences that this magical region offers. We are a guide-owned and operated company with over 20 years of experience on the ground. Our logistics and site knowledge are unmatched and our safety and operational standards are uncompromising. We take special pride in our expertise in the lesser visited areas of the Republic. We are a company built on a deep mission of service that spans from the sales process to the seamless service on the ground that builds repeat customers.

Matteo Luthi, Journey Mexico’s Director of Operations and newly appointed General Manager of the Journey Yucatan Office, together with the Cancun-based, Journey Yucatan team are available to create the most spectacular, creative, and memorable ways to spend your holidays. Their local knowledge is extensive and they take great pleasure in sharing exclusive insights with our important guests.

Feel free to get in touch with any of our staff for an insider’s view into the exceptional experiences that await you in the Yucatan Peninsula.
Email Matteo or come visit us at our new office location:
SM 57, m 3, Lote 1, local 102
Cancun, Q. Roo
Mexico C.P. 67500

October 2011 Newsletter

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OCTOBER 2011 NEWSLETTER
(View full newsletter >>)

After months of anticipation, we are proud to announce the launch of Journey Yucatan, a branch of Journey Mexico specializing in the Yucatan Peninsula. In response to an increasing number of travelers looking for unique travel experiences in Mexico’s Southeast including the Cancun, the Riviera Maya, Campeche, and Chiapas, Journey Yucatan focuses on custom private tours, destination management services, and luxury transportation designed to get beyond the hustle and bustle of the typical tourist destinations. The Cancun-based Journey Yucatan team are available to create the most spectacular, creative, and memorable ways to spend your holidays. Their local knowledge is extensive and they take great pleasure in sharing exclusive insights with our important guests.

We are proud to announce that for the second consecutive year, Travel + Leisure magazine has chosen Journey Mexico Founder and President, Zachary Rabinor, as a member of their coveted A-List: World’s Top Tour Operators.

 

 

 

Best of the Blog This Month

New Archaeological Discoveries Mexico has been uncovering new discoveries that trace back thousands of years ago: ancient tombs, Mayan palaces, pre-Hispanic carvings, early human footprints and Aztec temples.

Share YOUR Mexico Experience Mexico Today launched its Social Magazine on Facebook and brings you the opportunity to share your Mexico stories for the chance to win $500.

Mexico at the Forefront of Sustainable Tourism Mexico has piled up their “green” awards to make it a recognized world leader in sustainable tourism development. The most fascinating story yet comes from the rehabilitation of Cabo Pulmo, a marine preserve.

 

Journey Mexico: On The Road and In The News

October 31 – November 4: Journey Mexico will participate in PURE Life Experiences Trade Event in Morocco. Find us at #A18

November 7-10: Journey Mexico will participate in World Travel Market in London, at #LA100

November 14-16: Visiting clients in Chicago

November 17-19: Signature Travel Network Sales Meeting and Trade Show #240

 

New Mayan Palace Discovered in Mexico

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ancient mayan palace in chiapas, mexico

The archeological sites of Mexico having been offering up fresh findings at such a rapid rate, it’s tough to keep up. Just a few days ago, archeologists discovered what is believed to be a 2,000 year old Mayan Palace in the state of Chiapas.

This new discovery is particularly significant as the palace has become the first piece of evidence suggesting that Mayans occupied the Upper Usumacinta basin region of the Lacandona jungle as early as the year 50 B.C. Before finding this Mayan palace, it was believed that the Mayans hadn’t occupied the region until 250 A.D.

As is common of many ancient Mayan sites, this newly discovered palace had been covered by other structures that were built on top of it during the Classic Period (around 250-800 A.D.). Because the Mayans of the Classic Period often built atop previous temples and buildings, once uncovered, the structures underneath are usually very well preserved, offering archeological travel enthusiasts the unique opportunity to experience the re-writing of history as we know it – first hand.

The discovery of this ancient Mayan Palace comes just a month after a pristine carving of three jungle cats (deemed “The Triad of Felines” and believed to date back to sometime between 1500 to 400 B.C.) was discovered south of Mexico City. Just months before The Triad of Felines was discovered, archeologists found two Mayan sculptures at the ancient site of Toniná (also in Chiapas) that depict two captured enemy warriors, kept as trophies of strength and might.

For more information about visiting this and other newly discovered Mayan sites, contact Journey Mexico.