Different climatic conditions will more often than not determine a holiday maker’s decision to visit a particular tourist destination but not so in the sultry Mexican Caribbean. When other ‘best’ tourist destinations are experiencing the cold weather, the Caribbean becomes all the more attractive and irresistible even during the winter. Even though there are some specific places in the Caribbean that tend to overcrowd, some little research will show you other pristine destinations in the Caribbean that are less crowded. Take for example Akumal, it boasts the same set of panoramas with fewer people milling around.

Akumal is located a few miles, circa 100km south of Cancun and among other things, it guarantees total satisfaction, thanks to the numerous activities you can enjoy and the great opportunities provided to you for relaxation and unwinding. It is on the Caribbean coast, located in a place known as the Mayan Riviera. Even though Akumal used to be very remote a few years back, the place still enjoys some level of serenity and quietness than most of the other tourist destinations in Mexico. As such, you get to relish a breathtaking beach ideal for sailing, swimming, and surfing in the quietest atmosphere without having to worry about fighting for an ideal spot in your beach chair or having to argue with underage drinkers.

The name Akumal means ‘a place of turtles’, and true to its name, the place is full of sea turtles. Actually, there is a not-for-profit NGO that specializes in marine research, preservation and protection of sea turtle thus if you have a soft spot for these amazing beach dwellers, you can take a break away from the beaches and water activities and visit the centre to learn a thing or two about turtles.

The coral reef gardens, famously referred to as the ‘Jewel of the Caribbean’, and which adorn the scenario are another main attraction that attracts divers from all walks of life. The Akumal reef forms part of the famous Mesoamerican Reef and covers a 450 miles stretch along the Yucatan Peninsula down to the Honduras. The reefs are home to a high miscellany of marine life made up of fishes, reptiles, and mammals, all which you can sample at the Akumal Mexico’s bays.
But when all is said and done, to ensure you immerse yourself totally into the laid-back and relaxing lifestyle that Akumal boasts of, ensure you rent a vacation property. Such a unique getaway truly deserves a unique accommodation, exactly how a condo, beach house, or villa can be classified in this part of the world. Rather than rent a normal hotel that will feel familiar, you should rent a true gem that will feel as unique as an Akumal vacation, and one that will compliment your needs and tastes.

You will be very surprised to find that even though the properties which are drop dead gorgeous may seem expensive, they are pocket-friendly and bargain friendly, especially if you do your homework early enough. Doing proper homework and research early enough will give you an unimaginable bargain for a charming vacation property with lots of stellar amenities and space that will propel your holiday into a stratosphere and make it a memorable one.

And it’s usually best to rent directly from the owners instead from some rental agency.

http://vacationsurfer.net/

MEXICO – THE BEST PLACE FOR A HOLIDAY

Mexico is one of the most desired tourism places to visit in the world among most people. This city is huge and has many tourist spots that are fantastic tourist spots and also very popular as tourist destinations in the world. Mexico is one place that suits for any kind of visit, be it with your family, with your friends, alone or even a romantic honeymoon. The place has many wonderful landmarks and many beaches which drive a number of tourists from all over the world.

HOLIDAY AT MEXICO

Mexico also has a billion dollar industry which is dedicated strictly to please the visitors and tourists with full dedication in making them have a great time in the city. However the experience of a tour is best experienced if you have a pre packaged tour from a good tourist company. These tourism companies in Mexico would be surely dedicated and to make sure that the visitors have a great time on vacation in the city and go home with a complete satisfaction and memorable time and also with lots of wonderful images and videos of the amazing sights in the city.

VACATION

Every year, millions and billions of people turn over to this place from all over the world for holidays, making this place so special and famous. This is why it is obvious to say that Mexico is a stunning country where anyone would and should go to in their life to experience the ultimate tourism experience. This place is a very rich and diverse country, so you will sure have a lot in stake to see even on the end of your trip if you go to the place with few days in hand. For this reason, to have the best time in Mexico, visit the pace with lots of time in hand. You will surely love the place and the experience of being to such a fascinating city.

PLACES TO GO

Mexico is the best in providing friendly atmosphere and offers the best culture inherited from ancient times. The city also offers a great variety of food, a number of cultures that one would love to witness and also architectures and impressive and influencing traditions that are so unique that it would be a remarkable experience for someone who would visit the place for the first time.

Mexico has a number of places to visit but what makes it harder is choosing what all places to visit when you are in short of time or when you would expect to see the best part of the city. So here is a list of the best places that one must visit when they are in Mexico to see the most fascinating side of Mexico.

Along the coast of Sea of Cortez: in this part, you can find a number of beautiful beaches, ports and villages where it would be best to spend the holiday with the best moments.

• La Paz: La Paz is typically the true Mexico. It gives you an old world charisma with a primitive lifestyle of the place making it a place with preserved culture of Mexico. This place is stunning in its beauty.

• Isla Partida: This place is a wonderful island and one of the most beautiful places in Mexico which cannot be missed at any cost. Many water sports and adventures can be experienced and also scuba diving is allowed to explore the blue deep water and have a thrilling experience.

• Puerto Vallarta: Said to be the liveliest and most sophisticated towns of Mexico which is encircled by wooden hills and a stunning bay on either sides of the place.

• Acapulco: This is a party pace in Mexico. The most vibrant places of the city can be found in this place and the beaches give an exuberant effect to the party place with their golden sand and the posh cafes and pubs to chill and enjoy your time

• Manzanillo: This part of the city is a very busy port town. The place is best to spend time along the beach in the sun and also to have a great time in nightclubs and restaurants to witness the energetic nightlife.

• Mazatlan: Mazatlan is a destination that is one of its kinds in the world. It is also a historic town and the beach here is very popular. The town has marvelous cobbled streets and alleys that lead to the historic buildings. There are also small hotels that serve the best food in Mexico and the town also has museums that preserve the ancient culture of Mexico and displaying the rich cultural heritage of Mexico.

COSTS

People using dollars, euro and pounds will have a lot to spend in Mexico. And I mean, they will have a lot money in exchange since peso’s exchange rate against US dollar remains almost stable in all times thus making almost anyone think of Mexico as an affordable traveling destination for a holiday. Living expenses here in Mexico can be as low as just $75 to $125 for each person a day which is quite less compared to other tourism spots. People traveling with strict Budgets can manage to stay in hostels managing accommodation as well as meals for a day for as low as $40.

HOW TO GET THERE

Passport:

Tourists from US and Canadian will be allowed to enter Mexico without a passport provided they have a SSN card or any photo identification such as a driver’s license along with a proof of citizenship.

However like other tourists and other travel routines, it is always better to travel with a passport since almost every place is used to the passport facility and protocols. This will reduce chances of delay.

Sea:

People willing to visit Mexico over water can travel via a cruise ship. The Caribbean cruise is for this purpose and travels from South Eastern US or you can also catch the Mexican Riviera cruise that leaves from California, both of which may cost around $1000 US per person.

By land:

To reach the place by land, by your own vehicle, the documents required are listed below. These are strictly mandatory and a temporary vehicle import permit is also to be issued before you leave to Mexico. These permits can be issued at any of the offices when you are about to cross borders near posts that are a few kilometers into Mexico. The fee will come to around US$29.70.

Original documents of the tourist card obtained at the border, registration certificate for the vehicle, a Visa, MasterCard or American Express credit card, a proof of citizenship such as passport or voter’s card and a driver’s license are all mandatory.

Akumal information.

Akumal Villa Features

Experience the trip of a lifetime in our private home that’s right on the beach in South Akumal, Mexico. Our villa is truly a “house in paradise”. The dazzling sun, blue ocean, cool wind and verdant jungle foliage is a perfect setting for your next holiday. Walk through the bamboo and bougainvillea filled main garden into a genuine Mexican home!

Villa Paraiso, a luxurious villa located directly on the Akumal coast only 62 miles south of the Cancun airport, is the ideal location to relax with family and friends. Villa Paraiso is a dream vacation rental, located inside a secure gated community.

The house is surrounded by jungle foliage and beautiful beaches, with the emerald crystal waters of the ocean. The villa offers spectacular sea panoramas and natural lighting from virtually anywhere in and around the villa.

Villa Paraiso is the ideal place to relax after a fun day of shopping, diving, and touring. These are all popular tourist activities in the area, however just relaxing on the beachfront might be preferable!

There is a new Robert Trent Jones 27 hole championship golf course, opening in the Summer of 2009 directly across the highway from the villa. This beautiful golf course is open to the public, so bring your best game! There is also a 9 hole Par 3 course and a practice course if you don’t have time for a full game. A 12 mile drive will bring you to Puertos Aventuras, where another professional golf course awaits you.

Archaeological buffs can like a trip to see the Mayan ruins of Tulum only 6 miles south of the villa. Tulum offers a unique view into the lives and living spaces of the elite Mayan civilization members. Contrasted with the intricate carvings and superb architecture, the thick surrounding walls enabled the city’s resistance to influence from outsiders over several thousand years.

The home is equipped with central air conditioning, which is unusual in the area of Akumal. An onsite swimming pool and Jacuzzi allow you to relax and sun on the deck.

Upstairs, a wet bar is available to fix a delicious drink made with fresh tropical fruits. Downstairs, the breakfast bar, dining room and fully-stocked kitchen allow for an intimate first meal of the day. You can use the fully equipped gourmet kitchen to prepare your meals or have our chef cook for you.

If you want to stay connected with the outside world, satellite television and unlimited free long distance phone calls are furnished. A stereo, DVR player, CD player and high speed Wi-Fi service also allows you to entertain and work if necessary.

Two fire proof safes allow for safekeeping of your valuables while away from the villa, though a private security service goes a long way in preventing unwanted events. A daily maid service ensures you are never required to exert yourself while visiting Akumal.

Linens and towels are provided for all everyone up to a maximum of 8 guests. Ceiling fans are also installed to help circulate the cool air from the central service for a relaxing effect after a day in the hot sun.

A charcoal grill allows you to cook for all and invite guests to enjoy a quiet evening at “home”! An outdoor shower also enables you to rinse off salt and sand or simply experience the beautiful surroundings in your daily grooming activities.

Two complimentary massages, hammocks and kayaks are all available to guests of Villa Paraiso to create the ultimate dream vacation package!

Akumal information.

Akumal Villa Features

Xel-Ha is known as a unique eco-park located south of Playa del Carmen, about 15 minutes from our villa in Akumal. It lies on the eastern coastline of the Yucatan Peninsula, the archaeological site of the Mayans in pre-Columbian Mesoamerica.

Multiple leisure, ecological and natural attractions offer activities for the entire family to enjoy themselves. The unique open-sea aquarium allows visitors to view ocean life in their natural habitats unaltered and not disturbed.

Swimming with trained dolphins is also a popular activity for tourists, which is not found easily in surrounding areas. Animal and nature lovers enjoy spending time in the water with these gentle creatures, and have a wonderful story to bring home to their family and friends!

Snorkeling is also ideal in the local lagoon. The coral is dead there, but regular feeding keeps the many types of colorful fish returning for more. Some snorkelers will have another party feed the fish while they view the swimming visitors from below.

There is a river which starts in a natural spring, and inner tubes are available to float to the end. This provides a relaxing complement to an afternoon nap in a hammock on one of the local beaches as well.

More adventurous spirits enjoy climbing and diving from the local cliffs in Xel-Ha, exploring the Mayan cave, and touring the local Xel-Ha ruins. These ruins are largely untouched and totally original, with a unique look into past centuries and architectural contributions.

Hammock Island, Xpa, Bay of Caprices and The Beach are popular hotspots for those who wish to lounge and experience the leisurely activities at Xel-Ha. Chacah Garden, the Mayan Wall, the Apiary and Plant Nursery provide unique ecological attractions for plant life lovers. Natural wonders are also seen at the Inlet, El Dorado Cavern, Ixchel’s Gulf, the Mayan Cave, Chaac Mangal, and many Cenotes.

When visiting Akumal, Xen-Ha is an easy day trip that will please the entire family and offer plenty of varying activities. Reasonably priced and unique to the area, activities center around relaxation, fun and exploring historical and natural wonders.

Water sport lovers will enjoy the inner tube ride, cliff diving and snorkeling in the lagoon. Nature lovers enjoy swimming with the dolphins and exploring the multiple forms of plant and animal life in the area, and those curious of the historical roots of the Peninsula have plenty of opportunity to explore Mayan ruins and advanced architectural influences for that era.

Our kids and grandchildren always plan spending the whole day at Xel-Ha every time they visit Akumal. There is so much to do they never get tired of returning year after year. They enjoy riding a bicycle through a path in the jungle, jumping off cliffs into the limpid blue sea, swimming with the dolphins, and walking through stingrays on the bottom of the sea.

This year for the first time they signed up for the Sea Trek. They wore a technologically advanced helmet that looks like deep-sea diving equipment. Sea trek required no previous training, diving or otherwise. Experts will be close at hand at all times during the walk, aiding them in every way and satisfying every curiosity concerning the aquatic walk of a lifetime. They all said it was a walk they would never forget!

We highly recommend you visit Xel-Ha on your next trip to the Yucatan.

Read more about Akumal.

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The more you know about Akumal, Mexico, the more excited you will be when you visit this paradise. Therefore, in the months or weeks leading up to your trip you should spend a litle time doing research so that you can learn more about Akumal.

To discover more about Akumal, Mexico, you can easily turn to the Internet. The Internet has a wealth of information, providing historical and straight information as well as tips and reviews from other vacationers who have been to the area. The site, AkumalVacation.com, has many interesting stories about the Akumal Mexico area. This type of information can provide everything you need to know about many parts of your vacation, including the good places to eat, stay, shop, and explore. We will tell you what we have enjoyed and what to watch out for, while the other sites will tell you all about other areas that you plan to visit.

In addition to this type of information, you can also learn more through Akumal hotel, resort, and tourism websites. Each site will provide you with pictures of their accommodations, a list of local attractions and activities, and typically, a short history of the area. They may also give information about things that they provide, which will not only help you learn more about Akumal, but also help you organize your daily agenda while on vacation.

Although their objective is to talk you to visit Akumal, the information that they provide about their property and the area needs to be correct or they will start to lose business. So, you can usually believe the information from a website, especially the information that they portray about local actitivies and the history of Akumal.

Alternatively you can learn more about Akumal is through a travel agent. It is the responsibility of a travel agent to know a wealth of information about their main destinations or at least be able to give you the information. Even if you do not expect to use a travel agent, you can still get some information through them.

A trip to Akumal and the Mayan Riviera area of Mexico would not be complete without a visit to one of the many Mayan ruins in the area. This area is in the heart of this ancient civilization that still influences the art, food and culture of the Yucatan today. Akumal and its surrounding area were major trade routes for the Mayans and historians are continuing to uncoverstill uncovering many ruins of this once mighty civilization.

One of the nicest ruins to visit not only near Akumal but in all of the country is Tulum. There are also the Coba and Xel-Ha which are all conveniently located not far from Akumal and other areas in the Mayan Riveria region. They are an easy drive by automobile or if you prefer, you can arrange to take a tour bus.

A trip to Akumal, Mexico can be a learning and bonding experience for the whole family. Discover the history and the culture of the land. Learn about the sea and what activities you can enjoy in the water. Plan your trip based on the subject that interests you most. The more you learn about Akumal, the more interesting it will be once you finally arrive.

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Akumal Mexico Travel Links

The more you know about Akumal, Mexico, the more exciting you will be to vacation in this land of paradise. Therefore, the months or weeks leading up to your trip should be spent doing research so that you can learn more about Akumal.

To learn more about Akumal, Mexico, you can easily turn the Internet. The Internet is a wealth of information, providing historical and accurate information as well as tips and reviews from other travelers who have taken a trip to the area. This site, AkumalVacation.com, has many interesting articles about the Akumal Mexico area.  This type of information can provide all you need to know about many parts of your vacation, including the best places to eat, stay, shop, and explore. We will tell you what we have enjoyed and what to watch out for, while the other sites will tell you all about other areas that you plan to visit.

In addition to this type of information, you can also learn more through Akumal hotel, resort, and tourism websites. Each hotel will provide you with pictures of their accommodations, a list of local attractions and activities, and typically, a brief history of the area. They may also provide information about items that they provide, which will not only help you learn more about Akumal, but also help you plan your daily activities while on vacation.

Although their objective is to pull you into the area, the information that they provide about their hotel and the area needs to be accurate or they will begin to lose business. Therefore, you can typically trust the information from a website, including the information that they provide about local attractions and the history of the area.

Another way that you can learn more about Akumal is through a travel agent. It is the job of a travel agent to know a wealth of information about their top destinations or at least be able to provide that information to customers. Even if you do not plan to book your trip through a travel agent, you can still find a lot of information through them.

A trip to Akumal, Mexico can be a learning and bonding experience for the whole family. Discover the history and culture of the land. Learn about the sea and what activities you can enjoy in the water. Plan your days based on the information that interests you most. The more you learn about Akumal, the more fascinating it will be once you finally arrive.

Browse the Travel Links at http://linkroo.com/Travel/.

Akumal Traveler

Yucatan Peninsula has become the newest and the most famous tourist destination in Mexico. Not only does its popularity stem from its excellent tropical location and the fact that it has many new and exciting options to offer the tourist but also due to the vast amount of activities that are provided to the visitors to this area. Every tourist or visitor which arrives in the Peninsula regardless of their lifestyle surely discovers that he or she is looking for an interesting and different vacation then what they normally engage in. Here in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico they can readily find this escape.

There are a lot of Maya archaeological sites throughout the Yucatan. The best known are Chichen Itza, Tulum and Uxmal. Indigenous Maya and Mestizos of partial Maya descent still make up a sizable portion of the peninsula’s population and Mayan language is still widely spoken although it is slowly dying out.

The Yucatán Peninsula once was a cattle ranching, logging, chicle and henequen production area. But recently it has turned its economy towards tourism, especially in the state of Quintana Roo. Cancún, Once a small fishing village, has grown into a thriving city. The Riviera Maya, which stretches along the east coast of the peninsula between Cancún and Tulum, currently has more than 50,000 beds including world class resorts and charming beach side villas and has become a major tourist destination. The best-known locations are the former fishing village of Akumal, Playa del Carmen, the ecological parks Xcaret and Xel-Há and the Mayan ruins of Tulum.

As an example if you happen to be one of the many eco-tourists which arrive daily you will find that the snorkeling or scuba diving in one of the countries many coral reefs can be a very exciting pastime. For the amateur or professional archeologist or even the curious visitor who likes to traces the various roots of the past with such artifacts as antiques or visits to historical ruins then you would certainly enjoy the Coba Great Pyramid or the Chichen Itza’s El Castillo.

The Mexican traditional market is full of antique items which you can purchase as souvenirs for friends, family or simply to place in your office as conversation pieces. Yucatan is also famous as a destination where those tense feelings just disappear and you can unwind and relax. The calm beaches coupled with many of the comfortable places for the visitor to stay in make this paradise a great means of relaxation. Children on the other hand will surely enjoy the themed ecological parks in the area such as Xel Ha or Xcaret. They will willingly get in touch with Mother Nature as they take some of the exciting tours offered within the parks.

Finally, for the mom and dad shopping and dining represent one of the essential elements for a great vacation in this area of Mexico. Hospitable Mexican people are all smiles as they show you their best buys or offer you some of their specialty cuisines. There are many activities that you can get involved with such as playing golf, swimming or even a romantic candle light dinner with the ocean as your backdrop.

Here in one package you have wonderful people, great weather, excellent cuisine and romantic surroundings. These are only a few of the important and reassuring reasons to choose the Yucatan when planning your next vacation.

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Whether you’re an experienced diver or wanting to learn the art, Akumal provides the perfect ecological setting to view amazing specimens of natural beauty underwater.  Akumal is a tourist resort community located 62 miles south of Cancun, between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, with a small local population of 1,198.

The name “Akumal” means “place of the turtles” in Mayan language.  Surrounding bodies of water and fine, white sandy beaches provide the perfect setting for many sea turtles’ breeding grounds.

Akumal was founded in 1958 specifically as a community for scuba divers to experience the many species and types of turtles which call the area “home”.  Akumal Bay and Half Moon Bay provide optimal opportunities to survey the land and underwater life via diving tours and expeditions.

For experienced divers, local dive shops offer a variety of exciting diving trips to the 30 reef sites which include shipwrecks, cenotes and caverns and a breathtaking amount of marine life that you can see. The dive shop makes all the arrangements and you can rent a tank, mask, flippers and anything else you need. You can book an all day diving excursion or if you are more adventurous, you can dive the caves, caverns and cenotes that make Akumal famous. People from all over the world come to explore the cenotes and caves of Akumal and this small village is truly a diver’s paradise.

Dive shops also teach courses so you can get certified to dive in open water. They teach at all levels from resort course to advanced cave diving.  And what better place to learn to dive than Akumal, one of the best places in the world to go diving? These PADI Certified Instructors will guide you through the process of certification so you can enjoy exploring the wonders of the reef that awaits you in Akumal.

Cavern and cave diving is a popular activity for tourists.  These caves are called “cenote”, which means “sacred well” in Mayan.  Dive packages offer several destinations and different depths of diving, group packages, equipment rental and instruction to fit varying diver needs.

One of the shallow diving sites which are very popular is Cuevas de Tiburones.  This site features reef overhangs which provide an optimum sleeping spot for nurse sharks.  Las Redes offers an abundance of marine life, schools of fish, barracudas, stingrays, lobsters and sea turtles.  Yal-ku is a popular feeding site chock full of Elkhorn coral structures, tunnels and lobster.

Other shallow dives are found at Dick’s Reef and Motorcycle Reef.  Motorcycle Reef is named so for the 15-year-old motorcycle which is now covered with live coral and plankton that nourishes local ocean life.

Deep divers enjoy an afternoon at Tzimin-Ha, which features ruins from a 20-foot fishing boat wreck.  Dives up to 100’ deep are found at Trigger Fish, which is a favorite deep dive spot for locals.  Here, widespread patches of coral contrast with the sandy white beaches among various forms of tropical fish for a colorful array of rare surroundings.

Xaar Beach and Gonzalo’s Reef offer various types of feeding grounds for several different species of sea turtles for a once-in-a-lifetime diving experience.  Xaar features reef fingers reaching 30’ up from the ocean floor, as well as turtles, nurse sharks and stingrays.  Gonzalo’s Reef is famous for its large and vivid reef fingers; visitors are virtually guaranteed a view of Hawksbill, Green, or Loggerhead turtles which use the area for feeding and play time.

My Akumal Articles

Akumal Villa Rental

When vacationing in Akumal, you will find that rental cars provide an economical form of transportation in and around the town.  You can take the direct route and drive from the Cancun airport to Akumal via Highway #307.

Akumal is an easy drive on a well-maintained four lane divided roadway from the Cancun airport.  We are located 100 kilometers south of the airport, which translates to a 1 to 1½ hour drive.

From the airport, take the first right exit road, Highway 307.  just follow the Playa del Carmen exit signs south onto the highway.  There is a gas station and McDonalds on the right just after getting on 307 if you need gas or a snack.  After 20 minutes, you can stop at Puerto Morelos for gas or a convenience store.  Although many gas stations are available in Mexico, it’s always a good idea to stop if you have less than a quarter of a tank of fuel left.

Further along highway 307, you will pass through Playa del Carmen.  There are numerous eateries here as well as mega superstores.  Don’t go over 80kph as they use radar extensively.

After you pass Puerto Aventuras, you are only 10 minutes from the Akumal exit.

To get to South Akumal check your odometer at the overpass in Akumal and go exactly 4 kilometers past Akumal to the returno at Bahia Pricipe and then go back towards Akumal exactly 2 kilometers where you will see the drive for South Akumal  (Akumal Sur).

If you want to go to North Akumal just make a U-turn at the first returno after the overpass and then turn right at the overpass.  When entering the town of Akumal, you will pass an information stand.  This stand is an ideal place to pick up a local map of the area for current and future reference during your trip!

Just before the Arch, you will see the Super Chomack on your right, and Mulgren’s Lavenderia, Oshun Boutique, and Minisuper Las Palmas on your left.  The outdoor market may be open, and is a great area to buy some fresh produce for a taste of the local fare.  If you failed to make reservations before arriving in Akumal, the information stand will also be able to refer you to a reputable local establishment.

Something to note about local drivers in Mexico is that observing stop signs is considered optional.  Taxicabs have the right of way, and it is best to simply stay patient and allow the other drivers to do what they wish.

Defensive driving is the most important skill when operating a vehicle in and around Akumal.  Study the local driving laws prior to getting behind the wheel.  If you feel uncomfortable with driving in a foreign land, the task is best left to local professionals, and perhaps you should hire a taxi driver.

You can rent our villa in South Akumal.

Read articles about Akumal.

If you bring the kids to Akumal on vacation, there are many activities available which are perfect for the younger members of the group.  It’s important to keep the kids busy and entertained in all of the exciting activities available in Akumal.

Aside from touring the local Mayan ruins, snorkeling is perhaps the most popular activity for all travelers to Akumal, and some of the locations are especially perfect for the kids.  With a few safety precautions, the kids can partake in this fun with little possibility of injury or accident.

Well fitted life vests should be worn by each child. Most houses provide these life vests free of charge.  These will not only stop deadly accidents in the water, but will help to cover their body and stop sunburn in this area.  It should also be applied frequently to avoid major skin damage from the tropical Caribbean sun!

Yal-Ku Lagoon offers an optimum site for young snorkelers.  The calm waters of the area are free of choppy waters and multiple waves, allowing them to see the bright sea life easily.  The bay in front of the villas in South Akumal also is excellent because of the reef blocking the waves.

A day at the beach is loved by all, and the kids can busy themselves with the pliable sand all day long.  Buckets and shovels provide the chance to make sand castles while you rest and watch the kids play.  A sandy beach in front of your rental is a huge plus.  Most rental houses also have a fresh water pool with a deck for the family to enjoy.  Many also have kyacks for you to paddle.

Always discuss with the kids the importance of being aware of your surroundings before a day at the beach.  They should not walk on turtle nests or dig around in them for fear of destroying eggs buried beneath the sand.

The Jungle Place is a great place to take the animal-loving kids in the group.  It is a sanctuary for spider monkeys situated four miles south of Akumal neat the town of Chemuyil.  Here, they can see many of the local wild animals which are caged or chained for safety.  They may also play with the monkeys and talk to the many colorful parrots located here.

Places like Xel Ha, Hidden Worlds, Dolphin Adventures and Actun Chen offer something for everyone in the family, and are good for even the small kids.  Hike the jungle to cenotes, visit a cavern, ride the zip-line in the jungle, swim with the dolphins, tube down a river, jump from a cliff, or eat homemade ice cream available at many of the local eateries.  They are all within a few minute drive of Akumal.

Determining whether your children are adventurous, interested in animals and nature, or simplyenjoy to play in the water all day will help you to pick the best for them to partake in.  Discuss with your kids about what they would prefer to see and do while in Akumal, and try to do at least one thing that even the kids want to experience.

Rent our house in Alumal Mexico!

Akumal Dream Vacation

Aktun Chen, located along the Mayan Riviera, is just 4 kilometers south of Akumal. This provides a perfect opportunity to take a day tour of the location most known for its many explored caves.

The name “Aktun Chen” means “cave with an underground river inside” in ancient Mayan language. Nearly 988 acres of unexplored rainforests surround the town, aside from the harvesting of a gum from a local tree called “chicozapote”.

Three caves call Aktun Chen “home”, and rivers flow underground in these caves. The main cave offers an easy walking tour that may even be an option if you require the aid of a walking cane. Most who are able to walk on their own, even with manual assistance, are able to navigate the cave paths.

Indirect lighting from several openings in the cave prevents an uncomfortable experience for those who suffer from claustrophobia. Water and calcium carbonate formed the stalactites, stalagmites and natural sculptures seen there over the past five million years.

Regional and local wildlife is also easily seen in Aktun Chen. This includes white tail deer, spider monkeys, badgers, wild boars, wild turkey, iguanas and multiple species of birds.

When arriving at Aktun Chen’s main cave, a specially-trained guide will greet you in the reception area. The guide will then take you and your traveling companions on an hour and fifteen minute tour of the friendly cave system over 600 meters long.

During the tour, you will have the opportunity to view a beautiful cenote with crisp, clear water that is 12 meters deep. Local flora and fauna abound at this cenote, and offer an ideal photo opportunity for future memoirs.

At the end of the cave tour, a small restaurant is available for a quick bite to eat or a relaxing drink. This establishment offers local cuisine, tropical fruit and Mexican beer for a unique taste of Aktun Chen.

When arriving at and leaving the cave, you will notice the reception area which is surrounded and decorated with local tropical flora. This will also offer an ideal opportunity for you to snap a picture of the pretty scenery or a memorable moment with your travel mates!

Eco tours are also available at Aktun Chen, offering several opportunities to hike and climb cliffs, as well as explore the local rainforests. The largely untouched environment in which Aktun Chen resides allows visitors to truly experience the local wildlife and plant life in its raw and natural form.

Our villa is 3 miles from the entrance to Aktun Chen.  Why not rent our villa in Akumal.

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Tulum, located 15 miles south of Akumal, was once called “Zama”, meaning “place of the dawning”.  This breathtaking location which sits on a cliff facing the east Caribbean shoreline offers many Mayan ruins and ocean views for a day or short visit.

It is generally accepted that Tulum was an important city in Mayan culture between 1000 A.D. and 1600 A.D.  Only the elite Mayans lived there, where the vast views of the ocean suggest the remains of an ancient country club.  However, a 20-foot wall surrounds the site to prevent invaders from both land and sea from entering Tulum.

This location was one of the first Mexican cities discovered by the Spanish Conquistadors, though the high walls dissuaded them from exploring it.  At that time, Tulum was the only city still thriving when it was found.

It was the major center of resistance during the 19th century War of the Castes, though later succumbed and signed a treaty with the Mexican government in 1935.  In recent years, Tulum has become a major tourist attraction in the Mayan Riviera for those who appreciate ancient architecture and craftsmanship.

Structures throughout Tulum boast several columns and intricate carvings.  The most famous building ruins in the city include the Temple of the Frescoes, Castillo Pyramid, and the Temple of the Diving God.

The Temple of the Frescoes is well-known for housing multiple 13th century murals which picture ancient ceremonies highly regarded by the Mayans.  One such mural depicts the Mayan goddess of fertility and medicine, Ixchel, which is extremely rare.  Outside, pieces of the stucco are still painted red; it is believed that at one time the entire city was encompassed in this same paint.

The Castillo Pyramid is known as a scenic location offering multiple breathtaking photo opportunities and climbing options.  Small windows in the structure were perhaps once used to view the ocean and secure the city against incoming sea invaders.

The Temple of the Diving God boasts a figure above the entrance doorway which depicts a man diving headfirst toward the earth.  Two similar carvings are found at Coba in the Grand Pyramid, and are believed to reference the planet Venus.  The figure may also be called “the bee god” or “the god descending”.

Tulum offers a unique insight into the lifestyles and living spaces of the elite Mayan civilization members.  Contrasted with the intricate carvings and superb architecture, the surrounding walls speak to the city’s resistance to influence from outsiders over several thousand years.

It is only about a 15 minute drive from our villa in Akumal to the Tulum, Mexico ruins.

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