Page 43 - Mexico Diving From the Caribbean to Pacific Isles
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EL CARACOL “The Snail” is an observatory Hotels/Resorts Listed on the Franko Maps Card
with a stone spiral staircase inside and doors
aligned to view the vernal equinox, the Moon’s Imperial Las Perlas A half-dozen beautiful Bellamar Condos All the amenities of
greatest northern and southern declinations, buildings grace Cancún’s softest white sand home with a kitchen, laundry, and cable
and other astronomical events sacred to Kukul- beach, with tranquil water for swimming TV. Walking distance to nightclubs, shops,
kan, the feathered-serpent god of the wind and and water sports. bars and restaurants.
learning.
CHICHEN ITZA This Mayan city-state domi- Holiday Inn Cancún Arenas All-inclusive Barcelo Costa Cancún Four-star beach-
nated the Yucatan Peninsula during the Classic resort features restaurant, poolside bar, fit- front all-inclusive hotel surrounded by
period (from 500 A.D. to 900 A.D.), during ness room, kid’s club with game room, and tropical gardens and a huge pool area.
which time the Mayan civilization reached its movies. Plaza Nautilus
zenith. The most impressive building from this Club Verano Beat Features big-sized rooms The Caribbean Princess Deluxe accom-
era is The Observatory (El Caracol). Later, in and colorful gardens. This resort is one of modations with the added bonus of superb
the 10th century, the city was invaded and the Cancún’s most family-friendly hotels. entertainment programs.
invaders constructed another series of build- Blue Bay Getaway & Spa This adults-only Elan Resort & Spa 5-star resort located on
ings, including the famous stepped pyramid resort features a world-class spa, two spec- a private peninsula.
known as El Castillo and a ball court. By the tacular pools, seven outdoor whirlpools, View Mediterrando Mexican-style rooms,
mid-13th century, Chichen Itza was largely swim-up bars, and restaurants. pools, and gardens, plus volleyball.
abandoned as the center of power shifted to Ocean Hotel Excellent service with a Suites Bellamar All the comforts of home
Mayapan (100 km west of Chichen Itza). To marvelous view of across the turquoise bay including a kitchen, plus a sunset view.
get to Chichen Itza, drive 128 miles (205 kilo- to Isla Mujeres. Try their Juice Therapy to Oasis Palm Beach Huge all-inclusive resort
meters) west from Cancún on Highway 180. replenish your body. on Cancún’s calmest beach. Superb bars
The driveis two to two-and-a-half hours, and Aquamarina Beach Offers an all-inclusive and restaurants.
the main road is a toll road. There are signs as plan, and fun for the whole family, with
you approach the main site of Chichen Itza that mini golf, ping pong, beach soccer, water
will guide you to the ruins. volleyball, and more.
