Category Archives: South America

Five Beautiful Towns in Riviera Nayarit, Mexico

Situated between the Pacific Ocean and the Western Sierra Madre Mountains, Riviera Nayarit is a 200mile stretch of coastline drawing attention with a beautiful collection of virgin beaches, unspoiled Riviera Nayarit Mexiconatural parks and luxury resorts. It is a peaceful escape in Mexico with lesser number of crowds where you can simply relax with your family and friends, and have a rejuvenating holiday experience.

Take a look at the places you can explore in Riviera Nayarit:

Punta Mita

Once a fishing village, Punta Mita is just the right place for a tropical holiday in Riviera Nayarit. Located within a 1,500-acre private peninsula, it is a luxury destination with a fine collection of world-class, luxury resorts lined on magnificent beaches. There are two Jack Nicklaus golf courses drawing a number of golfers from different parts of the world. You can also discover several restaurants and pubs in the Downtown Punta Mita that are ideal for sampling local cuisine. Besides, adventure seekers can go for hiking to the Monkey Mountain, the highest point here.

Sayulita

Sayulita is one of the most popular beach villages along the coast loved for its breathtaking beaches, bohemian-vibe, laid-back living and world-class surfing opportunities. One cannot miss to discover the Marietas Islands in the village that appear like a volcano in the ocean and have a hole comprising a beach renowned for offering wonderful swimming opportunities. Another interesting thing to do here is to delight in the intricate yarn paintings and bead work produced by the indigenous Huichol people at Evoke the Spirit or Artefakto store. Besides, tequila, Paleta and fish tacos are some of the must-try treats here.

Puerto Vallarta

Known as the gay beach capital of the world, Puerto Vallarta is a beautiful and lively town in Riviera Nayarit visited by a large number of holiday-starved or wanderlust-compelled tourists. This place draws the attention with its white sand beaches, bustling streets, world-class restaurants, and the adrenaline-pumping range of activities such as horseback riding, diving and boat trips. The town is also popular for its exciting nightlife. Some of the must-visit places here include Los Arcos and El Malecón, Isla Río Cuale, Zona Romantica, Playa Los Muertos and Vallarta Botanical Gardens.

San Blas

A small historic town in Nayarit, San Blas is a quiet and friendly place to explore with family and friends. Here you can experience a true old-world charm across a number of ancient ruins and architectural remnants from the Spanish colonial days. Home to 80% of the migratory birds from the North America, San Blas also attracts bird watchers holidaying in Mexico. While you can spend a few leisure hours at the Borrego Beach, La Tovara National Park is a place to spot incredible wildlife including crocodiles. Besides, this place makes for a good starting point to get to Mexcaltitán, a magical island town in Nayarit.

Nuevo Vallarta

If you wish to experience the rich luxury of Riviera Nayarit, Nuevo Vallarta is the place to be. Nestled between the tranquil Pacific Ocean and the Sierra de Vallejo mountains, it is a planned resort popular for its long, sandy Nuevo Vallarta beach, golf courses, sophisticated spas, luxury resorts and gourmet restaurants. The place also draws attention with its breathtaking marine life; hawksbills, leatherback turtles, and humpback whale can be spotted here hitting on its shores. While the beaches here are just perfect to discover at nights, the resort is also popular for its exciting nightlife across various bars and clubs.

 

Uncover the Culture and History of Mexico City with a Visit to these Top Places

Mexico City, the capital of Mexico is a true cultural hub with plenty of awe-inspiring museums, historical buildings, old monuments, cultural centres and traditional neighbourhoods. Be it the historical and cultural highlights of Chapultepec Park, the Aztec Empire or the charm of colonial era, you can discover it all here.

Mexico

Here, we have collected five popular cultural and historical attractions of the city:

Templo Mayor

Also known as the Great Temple, Templo Mayor has been the main temple of Mexico City and the most revered religious place of the Aztecs. Dedicated simultaneously to Huitzilopochtli, god of war, and Tlaloc, god of rain and agriculture, the complex has a shrine for each of the gods at the top the pyramid with separate staircases. Visitors can have an ideal time here discovering the shrines along with countless structures and artefacts that have been unearthed here.

Bosque de Chapultepec

Sprawling across an area of over 1,600 acres, Bosque de Chapultepec is a huge green space in the heart of Mexico City popular for chilangos. The park encompasses lakes, forests and plenty of varied attractions, and presents a wide array of activities for the visitors to enjoy. The park has three sections and is also home to the Monumento a los Niños Heroes (Monument of Young Heroes), one of the most famous of monuments in Mexico City. National Museum of Anthropology, Modern Art Museum, and the Chapultepec Zoo are some other major attractions you can discover in the park.

Museo de Arte Popular

Located in a beautiful Art Deco building in Mexico, Museo de Arte Popular is a museum promoting and preserving part of the Mexican handcrafts and folk art. Visitors can discover here exhibits arranged in a thematic manner and a fine collection of textiles, pottery, glass, piñatas, alebrijes, furniture and much more. The museum frequently hosts a number of cultural events and special exhibits drawing the attention of culture lovers visiting the city.

UNAM

The largest public university of Mexico, UNAM is another cultural highlight of the Mexico City. With an impressive architecture shaped by the top muralists of the 20th century in Mexico, the university captures the eyes of many architecture lovers all throughout the year. The Ciudad Universitaria (University City), the University’s main campus here is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visitors can also discover concert halls, museums, and Olympic stadium within the campus to get an insight into the rich culture and history of the city.

San Angel

Situated in the southwest in Álvaro Obregón borough, San Angel is a colonia or neighbourhood of Mexico City known as a prominent tourist attraction. It is the erstwhile retreat of the well-heeled residents of Mexico capturing the attention of visitors with its several art galleries, elegant estates, cobblestoned streets, artisan markets and beautiful churches. The El Carmen complex, a former monastery converted to museum is the identifying marker of San Ángel and the most prominent attraction of the neighbourhood one must explore.

 

Uncover the Culture and History of Mexico City with a Visit to these Top Places

Mexico City, the capital of Mexico is a true cultural hub with plenty of awe-inspiring museums, historical buildings, old monuments, cultural centres and traditional neighbourhoods. Be it the historical and cultural highlights of Chapultepec Park, the Aztec Empire or the charm of colonial era, you can discover it all here.

 

Here, we have collected five popular cultural and historical attractions of the city:

 

Templo Mayor

 

Also known as the Great Temple, Templo Mayor has been the main temple of Mexico City and the most revered religious place of the Aztecs. Dedicated simultaneously to Huitzilopochtli, god of war, and Tlaloc, god of rain and agriculture, the complex has a shrine for each of the gods at the top the pyramid with separate staircases. Visitors can have an ideal time here discovering the shrines along with countless structures and artefacts that have been unearthed here.

 

Bosque de Chapultepec

 

Sprawling across an area of over 1,600 acres, Bosque de Chapultepec is a huge green space in the heart of Mexico City popular for chilangos. The park encompasses lakes, forests and plenty of varied attractions, and presents a wide array of activities for the visitors to enjoy. The park has three sections and is also home to the Monumento a los Niños Heroes (Monument of Young Heroes), one of the most famous of monuments in Mexico City. National Museum of Anthropology, Modern Art Museum, and the Chapultepec Zoo are some other major attractions you can discover in the park.

 

Museo de Arte Popular  

 

Located in a beautiful Art Deco building in Mexico, Museo de Arte Popular is a museum promoting and preserving part of the Mexican handcrafts and folk art. Visitors can discover here exhibits arranged in a thematic manner and a fine collection of textiles, pottery, glass, piñatasalebrijes, furniture and much more. The museum frequently hosts a number of cultural events and special exhibits drawing the attention of culture lovers visiting the city.

 

UNAM

 

The largest public university of Mexico, UNAM is another cultural highlight of the Mexico City. With an impressive architecture shaped by the top muralists of the 20th century in Mexico, the university captures the eyes of many architecture lovers all throughout the year. The Ciudad Universitaria (University City), the University’s main campus here is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visitors can also discover concert halls, museums, and Olympic stadium within the campus to get an insight into the rich culture and history of the city.

 

San Angel

 

Situated in the southwest in Álvaro Obregón borough, San Angel is a colonia or neighbourhood of Mexico City known as a prominent tourist attraction. It is the erstwhile retreat of the well-heeled residents of Mexico capturing the attention of visitors with its several art galleries, elegant estates, cobblestoned streets, artisan markets and beautiful churches. The El Carmen complex, a former monastery converted to museum is the identifying marker of San Ángel and the most prominent attraction of the neighbourhood one must explore.

 

5 Fabulous Reasons to Visit Argentina

Argentina boasts distinctive natural riches, incredible history and culture, and a thriving nightlife. Visit this splendid country and explore its terrific charms.

Argentine Wine

The fifth largest wine producing country in the world, Argentina has some of the best wines to offer. Wine lovers should not miss visiting Salta and enjoy aromatic Torrontes. Besides, the Mendoza Malbec in the central region and the classic Cabernet Sauvignon in the north are the most popular wines of the country. Argentine wines are being sold in all parts of the world; and most of the wineries offer special wine tours for the visitors to amaze them with their rich grape-growing and wine-making culture.

Iguazu Falls

Iguazu-Falls

Meaning “great waters” in the Guarani language, Iguazu Falls is one of the most scenic waterfalls in South America and for all good reasons. Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1984, it is a true wonder on the border between Brazil and Argentina. While the awe-inspiring views of the falls are a sight to behold, visitors can take delight in water sports, tours and treks at the base of the falls as well.

Festivals

A country where every day is a celebration, Argentina is home to many delightful festivals attracting large number of tourists from all corners of the world. Folklore National Festival, Buenos Aires Tango Festival, Oktoberfest Beer Festival and the Carnival are some of the most popular Argentine festivals presenting the best of its culture, history, dance, music and food.

Shopping in Palermo Soho

Everyone loves to shop and Argentina is a true shopper’s paradise with its incredible shopping options. Palermo, a neighbourhood of Argentina’s Capital, Buenos Aires, is where the streets are lined with beautiful boutique shops presenting a sensational shopping experience for the travellers. Enjoy a stroll and shop for a variety of fashion products such as stylish shoes and belts, chic dresses, dazzling custom jewellery, trendy jeans and a lot more. Besides, there are many restaurants, cafes and bars you must explore here.

Glaciers National Park

Glaciers-National-Park

With glacier-carved peaks and valleys, Glaciers National Park is an ideal place to experience the finest in Argentina’s wilderness. A world heritage site, biosphere reserve and an international peace park, it has a lot to amaze adventure lovers with. Home to more than 700 miles of hiking trails, it is a true paradise for hikers and excites visitors with other adventurous activities as well such as cycling, camping, backpacking and horse riding.

Top-rated 5 Attractions in Mexico

Mexico

Mexico, with its diverse range of pristine beaches, ancient archaeological sites and beautiful colonial cities, has become one of the world’s most fascinating travel destinations. If you are planning a trip to the country anytime soon, you need to know about some of Mexico’s most famous tourist attractions.

Palacio Nacional

Palacio Nacional, the National Palace, is a government building dating back to the age of the Aztecs and reflects the rich history of Mexico. Featuring red tezontle facade and designed from a blend of different old materials, it is unsurprisingly a big delight for the history buffs. Inside the building are Diego Rivera’s murals known to be the most-visited attraction here.

Teotihuacan

An ancient Mesoamerican city, Teotihuacan is an archaeological site located around 25 miles outside the Mexico City. Often referred to as the City of the Gods, this is the most-visited cultural destination in Mexico with several residential compounds and scores of pyramid temples. The important monuments of the city you should not miss visiting here are the Pyramid of the Sun, the Pyramid of the Moon and the Temple of Quetzalcoatl.

Catedral Metropolitana

With a fine mix of architectural styles such as baroque, neoclassical, and Mexican Churrigueresque, Catedral Metropolitana stands tall as one of the most iconic structures of the country. The major highlights of this historical structure are 14 chapels, five naves, a painting by popular Spanish artist, Bartolome Esteban Murillo, and underground catacombs. It is open daily and you can spend from an hour to a full day here depending on your interest in Mexican history and architecture.

Xochimilco

Located to the south of Mexico City, Chinampas, Xochimilco in Spanish, are raised agricultural fields between canals. These are known as the floating gardens of the Aztecs where you can ride vibrant boats along the canals and hire a mariachi band for a more enjoyable experience. Xochimilco is also where you can explore a smaller village outside the city.

Museo Frida Kahlo

Also known as the Blue House for its cobalt-blue walls, Museo Frida Kahlo is a historical and art museum which used to be the family home of the popular artist, Frida Kahlo. Dating back to 1904, the building is decorated with Mexican arts and crafts and thus, reflects the rich culture of the country. If history is something that excites you the most, it is an ideal place to explore and treat your eyes with the timeless art of the country.

5 Most Popular Attractions in Chile

santiago

Regarded as a natural wonderland as its features some of the most diverse landscapes on the planet, Chile has become a popular tourist spot in South America, primarily among nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. From the world’s driest place, the Atacam Desert to the mystifying ancient statues of Easter Island, the country has many exquisite offerings to delight visitors. Here’s a list of a few of them.

Easter Island

Famed for its 887 extant monumental statues called moai, this Chilean island is one of the most isolated islands on earth lying thousands of miles off the coast, roughly halfway to Tahiti. It is officially a territory of Chile which presents an opportunity for the history buffs to explore the captivating history and the traditions of Rapa Nui. Here peace and adventure seekers can bathe in the crystal-clear sea, walk on the pristine white beaches and enjoy adventure activities such as snorkelling and diving.

Valparaiso

The third largest city of Chile, Valparaiso is a historic seaport destination situated on the Pacific coast of the central region of Chile and sprawling up the sides of 42 hilltops. Loved for its immaculate beauty, the city presents a bohemian culture, and offers stunning seaside views. With a maze of streets and cobblestone alleyways, the city makes for a mesmerising holiday destination in the country offering travellers a glimpse of the rich architectural and cultural legacy of Chile.

Santiago

The capital and the largest city of Chile, Santiago is situated between the Andes and the Pacific and makes for an ideal luxury holiday destination in the country. Home to the country’s cultural and entertainment hubs, Santiago has some of the region’s best museums and galleries and offers terrific shopping opportunities for the guests. Besides, the city is home to top quality restaurants and bars.

Arica

A true paradise for ocean lovers, Arica is the northernmost beach town of Chile and is known as the City of Eternal Spring. With its warm and sunny weather all year round, this heavenly oasis draws the attention of peace seekers from all around. While it is an ideal getaway for adventure enthusiasts to indulge in swimming, wind surfing, scuba diving, paragliding, sport fishing, biking, trekking and much more, a number of wildlife sanctuaries here, majorly Lauca National Park, are sure to enthral the wildlife lovers as well.

Osorno and the Lake District

The Lake District and its one of the oldest cities among four major ones, Osorno, are a peaceful paradise to explore in the country of Chile. With its marvellous vistas of deep blue mountain lakes, snow-capped mountains and alerce forests, the Lake District proves to be a perfect place to relax and rejuvenate with the nature’s bliss. While a collection of luxurious resorts ensures a memorable stay here, year-round sports thrill tourists with breathtaking adventures.

8 Best Places to Visit in Mexico

mexico

A beautiful mosaic of high mountains, pristine beaches, ancient ruins, salsa rhythms and attractive corals, Mexico is a fabulous travel destination in North America. Featuring an interesting history of varied civilizations and conquests, the country is famed for its long list of interesting attractions. With around hundred small and big cities and each one an exciting chapter in the book called Mexico, a holiday here is truly unique and memorable!

Mexico City

Renowned for its historic murals and ancient structures, Mexico City is the capital of Mexico. Narrating the history of the rich bygone era are popular forts, castles, cathedrals, museums and complexes scattered around the city. Templo Mayor, Pyramid of the Sun, Chapultepec Castle, Palacio de Bellas Artes, Great Pyramid of Tenochtitlán, Museo Soumaya and Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral are few of the top attractions in the city. Besides sightseeing, you will love the famous Mexican food; Tlacoyos, Tacos al Pastor, Tacos de Canasta, Tacos de Suadero and Tamales and Atole are some of the must try dishes here.

Guadalajara

Best known for its tequila and Mariachi music, Guadalajara is another beautiful city in the western end of the country. Featuring an array of fascinating attractions and interesting things to do, the city is an apt spot to learn about the rich history and culture of Mexico. Guadalajara Cathedral, Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Ilustres, Parque Agua Azul, and Museum of Arts of the University of Guadalajara are few of the must visit attractions in the city. Offering a range of exciting activities like train tours and shows, Guadalajara Zoo is a terrific spot for families looking to have a great time.

Acapulco

Home to some of the finest beaches and golf courses in Mexico, Acapulco is a beautiful resort town in the country. Lying on the Pacific Coast, this city is ideal to enjoy a range of exciting activities including energetic water sports. Along with the many attractions and activities of the city, you can enjoy the stunning nightlife of the region. Palladium, Baby´O S.A. De C.V., Hannah Sun Club, LOVE Acapulco and El Palomazo Acapulco are among the top spots in the city to have fun.

Cancun

cancun

Lying on the Yucatán Peninsula and featuring miles of pristine beaches, Cancun is arguably one of the world’s most famous beach destinations. Loved for its vibrant nightlife, natural aquariums, ancient sites, pristine beaches and terrific fine dining restaurants, Cancun has a whole list of interesting things to do especially water sports. Coba, Xcaret Park, Cancun Underwater Museum, Sistema Dos Ojos and El Rey Archaeological Zone are some of the city’s most famous sightseeing spots. Cancun is also known for being host to some spectacular celebrations and festivals such as Festival de San Luis, Feria Nacional de San Marcos, and Cancun-Riviera Maya Food and Wine Festival.

Cuernavaca

Known as the City of Eternal Spring, Cuernavaca is a charming Mexican city. Home to the iconic 16th century Palace of Cortés, Cuernavaca is packed with numerous other fascinating attractions and promises several exciting activities for the visitors. Palace of Cortés, Cuernavaca, Chapultepec Ecological Park and Cuernavaca Cathedral are some of the must visit sites in the city. Comprising of a group of seven lagoons, Lagunas de Zempoala National Park, a famous protected area in Cuernavaca, remains one of the most popular attractions in the region.

Mérida

Home to the popular 16th century mansion, The Casa de Montejo, Mérida is a paradise for historic enthusiasts. Famed for its rich colonial heritage and Mayan architectural wonders, the city is a perfect place to learn about the history and culture of the country. Besides, Mayan World Museum of Mérida Palacio Cantón, Parque Zoológico Del Centenario, Quinta Montes Molina and Museo Casa Montejo are the top attractions in the city. If you enjoy shopping, make sure you visit the popular markets like Mercado Lucas De Galvéz, Mercado Santiago and Slow Food Market.

Monterrey

Famed for its vibrant culture and historic legacy, Monterrey is the third largest city in Mexico and features old museums, complexes and forts. Macroplaza, Museo Del Acero Horno 3, Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Monterrey, Museo de Historia Mexicana, Palacio Del Obispado, Alfa Planetarium and Museo Del Noreste are among the popular attractions here. Featuring a range of thrilling rides and exciting games, Parque Plaza Sesamo is a popular amusement park in the city and remains a must visit for families on holiday here.

Tijuana

A melting pot of diverse cultures, customs and traditions, Tijuana certainly deserves a visit from travellers who wish to unravel all the gems of Mexico. Known for its range of fascinating attractions most of them build during the colonial era, the city is a perfect place to enjoy a memorable holiday with your loved ones. Playas de Tijuana, Jai Alai Frontón palace and Centro Cultural Tijuana are among the prominent landmarks in the city. Offering the rich taste of authentic Mexican delights and other delicacies, restaurants and street side eateries are the places to hit for the food lovers.

Find Sun, Sand and Surf at these Beautiful Towns in Riviera Nayarit, Mexico

beach

The 200-mile stretch of coastline between San Blas in Nayarit and Banderas Bay in Nuevo Vallarta, the Riviera Nayarit is off the tourists’ radar by large, a fact that validates the presence of virgin beaches, unspoiled natural parks, unparalleled  luxury resorts and lesser number of crowds in this region. If you too are looking to get away to a unique destination where you can have your peace of mind and a rejuvenating experience, here’s our basic guide to the Riviera Nayarit:

Sayulita

One of the most popular beach villages along the coast, Sayulita enchants visitors with its stunning beaches, bohemian-vibe, wonderful surfing opportunities and laid-back living. Visit the Marietta Islands to be astonished at the natural marvel that awaits you there in the form of a volcano in the ocean, with a hole that also has beach that you can swim to. Be sure to visit Evoke the Spirit or Artefakto store later to see intricate yarn paintings and bead work produced by the indigenous Huichol people. You can’t leave Sayulita without trying tequila, fish tacos as well as Paleta.

Punta Mita

Popular as a luxury destination, Punta Mita is the place to just let go and unwind. Once a fishing village, Punta Mita now has an array of world class, luxury resorts lined on its breathtaking beaches. The town is of special interest to the golfers who can find two Jack Nicklaus golf courses here. The Downtown Punta Mita hosts a plethora of restaurants and pubs that are great for sampling local cuisine and meeting local people. The adventure seekers will particularly enjoy the hike to the Monkey Mountain, the highest point in the area.

San Blas

San Blas moves at its own languid pace which is why travellers looking for slowing down for some days find it easy to love this quiet and friendly town. The old-world charm of San Blas is reflected through its ancient ruins and architectural remnants from the Spanish colonial days. The bird watchers love it here as 80% of the migratory birds in the North America are found in San Blas. In addition to spending a few leisurely hours at the Borrego Beach, tourists like to visit La Tovara National Park for meeting crocodiles. For travellers looking to get to Mexcaltitan, San Blas makes for a good starting or resting point.

Nuevo Vallarta

Positioned favourably between Puerto Vallarta and Bucerias, Nuevo Vallarta has grown into a luxury resort town owing to its image as the ultimate holiday destination in the Riviera Nayarit. Apart from plush resorts, gourmet restaurants and sophisticated spas, visitors to Nuevo Vallarta can brace themselves for an encounter with hawksbills, leatherback turtles, and humpback whales that hit on its shores. A hike to the Sierra Madre Mountains is a highly recommended experience as it is from there that one can have a panoramic view of the whole of Nuevo Vallarta.

Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is sought by many a holiday-starved or wanderlust-compelled tourists for its white sand beaches, top-notch restaurants, bustling streets and the adrenaline-pumping range of activities – boat trips, horseback rides, diving- that this astonishing coastal town has in store. The nightlife is exciting, and the town, also known as the gay beach capital of the world, is one of the friendliest to LGBT travellers. Among the places that you must visit in Puerto Vallarta, Los Arcos and El Malecón, Isla Río Cuale, Zona Romantica, Playa Los Muertos and Vallarta Botanical Gardens are the most recommended.

5 Reasons You Should Visit Mexico For Your Next Holiday!!

Mexico is among the hottest tourist destinations in North America.  Nestled along the Pacific Coast, the beautiful coastal paradise has something to offer to everyone. For the ones planning a holiday, here are a few reasons why you should aim your dart on Mexico!

Mexico

Beaches

Owing to its extensive and attractive coastline along the Pacific Ocean, the beaches in Mexico are among the best in the world. These calm and sandy beaches in Mexico are perfect for those hunting a quick escape from the city life. Visitors here can indulge in a wide range of interesting adventure activities such as surfing, snorkelling and scuba diving. Whale watching and dolphin spotting are other interesting things to do at some of the beaches here. Tulum, Playa de Akumal, Playa del Carmen, Zipolite, Playa La Ropa and Cancun Beach are few of the most popular beaches in the country.

Food

Mexican cuisine is delicious and has a lot more than just tacos and tamales. A perfect fusion of indigenous Mesoamerican spices mixed with European herbs and Spanish elements, food in the country is perhaps the best in this part of the world! Bringing in some vibrant and flavourful dishes from different regions are popular dishes including chayote, barbacoa (special type of meat), birria (spicy stew made from goat meat or mutton), cabrito (roast goat kid), carnitas (roast goat kid), mole sauces, tacos with different fillings, and sub-like sandwiches known as tortas. Seafood in the coastal region is a big hit too. To enjoy the country’s finest wine, make your way to Baja California and its nearby areas.

Culture

Reflecting the country’s rich and complex history, the Mexican culture is truly fascinating. From Mesoamerican to Spanish and European, the country is a beautiful amalgamation of different traditions and customs from across the world. The Mexican food, festivals, languages, handicrafts, and architectural wonders reflect the beauty of the existing diversity in the country. Diez y Seis, Day of the Dead, Lent and Easter, Dia de la Raza and Dia de Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe are among the most celebrated festivals in Mexico. Those interested in the region’s tribal aboriginal culture, head to the Oaxaca or the mountains of Jalisco and Chihuahua.

Music

Influenced by diverse cultures and different traditions, music in Mexico is exceptional. Mariachi (ensemble consisting of guitarrón, vihuela, guitar, violins and trumpets), Corrido (narrative poetry), Conjunto de marimba (ensemble specializing in folk music and consisting of marimba, double bass and drums), Mexican Son music (mixture of Spanish and indigenous music) and Tamborazo Zacatecano are among the popular musical forms in the country. In order to enjoy folk music and dancing, make your way to the tribal villages and native communities located in the interiors of Mexico.

Sightseeing

From museums to markets and from archaeological wonders to national parks, Mexico has it all. Offering visitors a chance to enjoy the best of both the worlds, the country is home to modern cities and ancient sites. Some of the buildings and monuments in the country are hundreds of years old. Monte Alban, San Miguel de Allende, Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, Great Pyramid of Cholula, Museo Nacional de Antropologia (National Museum of Anthropology), Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral, and Copper Canyon are among the must visit attractions in the country.

Holidays in Mexico: Popular Events & Festivals in the Country

mexico

Home to numerous tribes, ethnic groups and indigenous communities, Mexico is a vibrant nation with a calendar packed with celebrations and festivals all year round. Here is a list of some of the popular festivals of Mexico.

Cinco de Mayo

Held annually on the 5th of May, Cinco de Mayo is one of the most famous festivals in Mexico. It marks Mexican Army’s victory over the French troops during at Battle of Puebla under the leadership of General Ignacio Zaragoza. Military parades, processions, mariachi music performances and dance shows are the popular attractions of the festival. Street plays and theatre shows recreating important scenes from the war are held in every part of the country during the festival.

Las Dias de los Muertos

Officially known as ‘Day of the Dead’, Las Dias de los Muertos is another famous Mexican festival. Held in the month of November, the festival celebrates the spirit of the deceased. During the 3 day festival, it is believed that souls of the dead return back to earth to visit their family members and bless them. The festival is celebrated with music and feasting. Visiting cemeteries and offering prayers on the graves of the ancestors are the popular traditions of the festival.

Las Posadas

Recreating the tale of Mary and Joseph’s search for lodging in Bethlehem, Las Posadas is a prominent religious festival celebrated by Mexicans across the world. Beginning on the 16th of December every year the festival continues for nine days and is marked by numerous activities and processions. Theatrical enactments and stage shows are held in different parts of the country.

El Grito de Independencia

Also known as ‘the Cry of Dolores’, El Grito de Independencia is celebrated on the 6th of September every year. The event is popularly celebrated as the Mexican Independence Day. The date actually marks the formal declaration of the struggle for freedom from the Spanish rule. Decorating homes with national colours, band performances, military parades and processions are held across the country during the festival.

Guelaguetza

Celebrated in the city of Oaxaca, Guelaguetza is an annual indigenous cultural event in Mexico. The celebration takes place on consecutive Mondays at the end of July and is a symbol of diverse traditions and practises followed by ancient tribes and indigenous groups. Costume dancing, group singing, parades and processions accompanied by folk dance and music are the prominent traditions of the festival. Numerous street shows and events are organized in different parts of the country during the celebrations.

Festival Del Centro Histórico

Also known as ‘Mexico Festival’, Festival Del Centro Histórico is an important cultural festival in the country. The 18-day festival hosts over 280 concerts, shows, and educational events spread across 60 venues. The Palace of Fine Arts, The Metropolitian Cathedral, National Museum of Art and the Theatre of the City are among the famous venues where celebrations and activities take place.

Vive Latino

Usually held in the months of April and May, Vive Latino is one of the most prominent rock en Español music festivals in the world. The event has served as a platform for upcoming artists and new bands. Every year, the grand event showcases talent from different genres and hosts guests from across the world. Live acts and musical performances are the major highlights of the festival.

Most Romantic Beaches for a Cancun Honeymoon

The charming Mexican city of Cancun, which is located on the Yucatán Peninsula, is famous for its fabulous beaches, luxurious resorts and happening nightlife. These are all the ingredients which concoct the settings for a perfect honeymoon, which is why the city is a popular destination among couples from across the world.

honeymoon-destination

This coastal city’s sun-kissed beaches, soft sands and azure waters make these romantic escapes for couples’ all the more terrific! Here are some of the most romantic beaches of Cancun, which the newly-weds and other couples can visit during their trip to this stunning destination in Mexico.

North Beach (Playa Norte)

The amazing North Beach, or as it is locally called Playa Norte, is a big hit with honeymooners! Head to this romantic getaway, which is located on the northern end of the Isla Mujeres Island in Cancun. The beach has a beautiful coastline with soft white sands and warm azure waters. To make your visit more fun, spend some time at one of the several beach bars here. The beach offers breathtaking views of sun setting over the ocean, which you can enjoy with your beloved with a glass of margarita in your hand!

Dolphin Beach (Playa Delfines)

Dolphin Beach is a perfect place for couples who wish to spend some time alone, away from the hustle and bustle of crowded places. The beach, which is also known as El Mirador or the Lookout, is located along the hotel zone of Cancun. However, the destination offers the much-coveted isolation since it is a long stretch of beach with no hotels, restaurants or any other structure built along the coastline. At the Dolphin Beach, enjoy walking hand-in-hand with your beloved sinking your toes in the soft sands or enjoy a cooling dip together with your beloved. Since the seawaters here are bit rough, do take care while going out for a swim. Jet-skiing is another popular activity at the beach.

Pearl Beach (Playa Las Perlas)

Located along the hotel zone of Cancun is the beautiful Pearl Beach, which is locally known as the Playa Las Perlas. The beach is located exactly midway between the urban city of Cancun and the Puente Nichupte, a bridge on the north side of the city. Generally, the sea along the Pearl beach is calm with almost no waves, making it an ideal and safe place for couples to swim in together for hours. After an enjoyable cool dip, stroll along the beach, with the calm yet endless azure sea on one side and large, beautiful houses on the other side.

Whale Beach (Playa Ballenas)

Share the excitement of spotting majestic whales in the wild seas with your partner on your visit to the Whale Beach. The beach, which is located between Cancun Palace Hotel and Le Meridien Hotel, offers great views of big sea creatures. But, the real fun is on the boat excursions into the seas, which often reveal playful whales breaching the water surface. Playa Ballenas, the popular name of the beach, is also a good place to spot the hundreds of vibrant bird species that flock the beach. After spending some time spotting exotic marine life, you can enjoy popular water sports including jet-skiing and parasailing at this destination.

Point Nizuc Beach (Playa Punta Nizuc)

Visit the Point Nizuc Beach and enjoy a slice of paradise all alone, with no one but your beloved! The Playa Punta Nizuc is located at the southern tip of the Hotel Zone in Cancun. This beach is a perfect spot for honeymooners since this lesser-known beach is less crowded and offers more privacy to couples. The beach is lined with jungles, instead of hotels, on one side offering it more scenic beauty as compared to the other beaches in the city.

Turtle Beach (Playa Tortugas)

The turtle beach is a good place to do some shopping with your partner during your honeymoon. The beach has one dock, which contains ferries, and one indoor craft and flea market, which is a good place to buy local handicrafts and knick-knacks to take back as souvenirs of your honeymoon. The beach, locally known as Playa Tortugas, is dotted with restaurants serving cold beer and is a popular local haunt especially on weekends. However, only experienced swimmers should take a dip here, since the waters of the beach are deep.