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.
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.
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.
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.
Director of Operations, Matteo Luthi, operated a successful pre-FAM trip that inlcuded an exclusive 1-day air expitidion visit to Chichen Itza Archaeological site while President and CEO of Journey Mexico, Zach Rabinor, spoke as a key industry figure on the topic of Eco-tourism, Volunteerism and Sustainability.
If you’re looking to avoid the winter chill, Mexico is the ideal destination to soak in the sun and enjoy a luxury golf vacation in first-rate resorts. In Condé Nast Traveler’s 2012 list of the top golf resorts worldwide, 5 of Mexico’s outstanding locations ranked amongst the 15 best foreign golfing getaways. This natural paradise is known for its multi-faceted golf courses defined by lush tropical greenery, desert stretches, mountain vistas and dazzling waterways. Find out where to stay in Los Cabos, Cancun and Punta Mita and more, for an amazing golf trip.
1) One & Only Palmilla, Los Cabos, Mexico
2) Four Seasons Resort, Punta Mita, Mexico
Public areas quickly transform into scenes of holiday cheer with attractive Christmas decorations. As the holiday is widely celebrated in Mexico, special markets are arranged where locals can purchase Christmas decorations, supplies for the Nativity scene and other seasonal items. For the children, holiday candy is a common attraction, and of course, the bright and inviting plazas are great place for amusement and mingling.
The country’s dynamic capital is one of the most exciting places to visit worldwide. From bustling bazaars full of exquisite artisan jewelry, glassware, silver and weavings to the astonishing archaeological sites of ancient civilizations, Mexico City is pulsing with invigorating culture, living history and thriving arts. Visitors are charmed by the Zocalo plaza and quaint colonial layout of the city, which features stunning architectural landmarks that house museums, cathedrals, galleries and government offices. The homes of remarkable figures like Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera still stand in remembrance of their work while just beyond the city the ruins of Teotihuacan tell the story of Mexico’s pre-Hispanic ancestors, the Aztecs. To find out more visit our
Guanajuato, located in central Mexico, is another destination for a memorable vacation. In this colonial heartland, the city is still home to incredible Baroque architecture and underground pathways such as Boca Mina, a famous mine once coveted for its silver. For the traveler who enjoys diverse entertainment, the city is bursting with thrilling nightlife, chic restaurants, live music and boutique hotels with luxury amenities.
3)Casa Yakunah
Mexican culture exudes spirit and vitality that truly comes to life during the El Dia de los Muertos celebration, a national event honoring the lives of lost relatives, friends and public figures. This important holiday, known as Day of the Dead in English, takes place annually on November 1st and 2nd.