Yucutan - Revision history

Cocodude: /* Image:blank.gif Image:tick.gif Day 10, Monday 6th November PM - Day 11, Tuesday 7th November AM - Tulúm */

2006-10-26T20:13:43Z

[[Image:blank.gif]] [[Image:tick.gif]] Day 10, Monday 6th November PM - Day 11, Tuesday 7th November AM - Tulúm

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:13, 26 October 2006
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	== [[Image:~~blank~~.gif]] [[Image:tick.gif]] Day 10, Monday 6th November PM - Day 11, Tuesday 7th November AM - Tulúm ==		== [[Image:tick.gif]] [[Image:tick.gif]] Day 10, Monday 6th November PM - Day 11, Tuesday 7th November AM - Tulúm ==

	[[Image:Tulum_sm.jpg\|right\|Coast of Tulum]]		[[Image:Tulum_sm.jpg\|right\|Coast of Tulum]]
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	Most of the local accommodation are situated right on the sea. There are opportunities to go on cavern snorkelling and nature tours, including kayaking, snorkelling, fishing, horse rides and cycling trips, or you could just enjoy Tulum's beautiful beaches.		Most of the local accommodation are situated right on the sea. There are opportunities to go on cavern snorkelling and nature tours, including kayaking, snorkelling, fishing, horse rides and cycling trips, or you could just enjoy Tulum's beautiful beaches.

			[[Image:Tulum_street_map.gif\|left\|Map to hotel]]

	Things to do here include:		Things to do here include:
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	=== Accommodation ===		=== Accommodation ===

	~~Hopefully~~ staying at ~~[http://www.tierrasdelsol.com/ Tierra Del Sol bungalows]~~. '''~~Awaiting second e-mail response.~~'''		We are staying at the Cabañas Copal eco-hotel. It's worth remembering that '''there is no electricity here'''. Check in time is 3pm, although I've sent an e-mail asking them to keep the hotel even if we aren't there for 3pm. Just a quick word of warning - ''We consider Copal to be a clothing optional facility. You are welcome to be nude on the beach, on the sandy terraces, and among the cabañas.''

	~~<strike>Sent~~ an e-mail ~~about [http://shambalapetithotel~~.~~com/ Shambala Petit Hotel]~~ - ~~too expensive~~.~~</strike>~~

	~~<strike>Sent an online request~~ about ~~[http:/~~/~~www~~.~~posadamargherita~~.~~com/Inglese/index_ing~~.~~htm Posada Margherita]~~ - ~~cannot accept reservations of less than four nights~~.~~</strike>~~		Directions: To drive from the Cancún airport, take the highway south until you reach the crossroads leading to the Tulum hotel zone. You will see a sign for Boca Paila and also a plaza on the right side with a large San Francisco Supermarket. At the stoplight, turn left, heading toward the sea. Once the road forks, turn right. Cabanas Copal - You will see the reception for Cabanas Copal next to the road about 1/2 km from the fork in the road. Maya Spa - You will see the driveway just past the Cabanas Copal reception. Azulik - You will see the driveway a few metres farther from Maya Spa driveway. Zahra - You will see reception on the left and a small convenience store on the right. Parking is beside the convenience store.

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Cocodude: /* Image:tick.gif Image:blank.gif Day 11, Tuesday 7th November PM - Day 12, Wednesday 8th November - Cancún */

2006-10-25T19:20:01Z

[[Image:tick.gif]] [[Image:blank.gif]] Day 11, Tuesday 7th November PM - Day 12, Wednesday 8th November - Cancún

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:20, 25 October 2006
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	== [[Image:tick.gif]] [[Image:~~blank~~.gif]] Day 11, Tuesday 7th November PM - Day 12, Wednesday 8th November - Cancún ==		== [[Image:tick.gif]] [[Image:tick.gif]] Day 11, Tuesday 7th November PM - Day 12, Wednesday 8th November - Cancún ==

	[[Image:Cancun_sm.jpg\|left\|White beaches of Cancun]]		[[Image:Cancun_sm.jpg\|left\|White beaches of Cancun]]

	Our transport link to Cuba, Cancún, has lots of things to do. It doesn't seem so much of a cultural place but very busy and exciting. Its highlights are its striking modern hotels, hectic nightlife and high-energy entertainment including parachuting, jet skiing, scuba diving and golf. It appears to be a suitable base to explore some of the beaches on the East coast. We should definitely try to visit downtown during the day to see some of the 'real' Cancun where the locals live. In the evening, we'll go out in the hotel zone.		Our transport link to Cuba, Cancún, has lots of things to do. It doesn't seem so much of a cultural place but very busy and exciting. Its highlights are its striking modern hotels, hectic nightlife and high-energy entertainment including parachuting, jet skiing, scuba diving and golf. It appears to be a suitable base to explore some of the beaches on the East coast. We should definitely try to visit downtown during the day to see some of the 'real' Cancun where the locals live. In the evening, we'll go out in the hotel zone.

			=== Activities ===

			* Snorkeling and Diving: The reefs in the bay between the Hotel Zone and Isla Mujeres lie in shallow waters. Tropical Fish, Colorful Corrals, barracuda, rays and much more is to be discovered
			* Boat Tours: Take a tour into the Mangrove Forrest. Don’t forget to bring Mosquito repellant.
			* Cruises: Take a cruise to Isla Mujeres, Cozumel or Contoy (a bird sanctuary)
			* Submarines and Glass-bottom boats
			* Watersports: Just about anything you can imagine

			I'm sure we'll find hundreds of ways to spend our money on generic touristy activities here.

	=== Nightlife ===		=== Nightlife ===

Cocodude: /* Image:blank.gif Image:blank.gif Day 10, Monday 6th November PM - Day 11, Tuesday 7th November AM - Tulúm */

2006-10-25T18:37:48Z

[[Image:blank.gif]] [[Image:blank.gif]] Day 10, Monday 6th November PM - Day 11, Tuesday 7th November AM - Tulúm

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:37, 25 October 2006
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	== [[Image:blank.gif]] [[Image:~~blank~~.gif]] Day 10, Monday 6th November PM - Day 11, Tuesday 7th November AM - Tulúm ==		== [[Image:blank.gif]] [[Image:tick.gif]] Day 10, Monday 6th November PM - Day 11, Tuesday 7th November AM - Tulúm ==

	[[Image:Tulum_sm.jpg\|right\|Coast of Tulum]]		[[Image:Tulum_sm.jpg\|right\|Coast of Tulum]]

	~~'''We will go here if I feel there's time. I'm looking into transport links. I'd quite like to go here and have a chill out day.'''~~

	One of the longest, whitest sandy beaches in the Caribbean, with turquoise water and candlelit cabañas near ancient ruins.		One of the longest, whitest sandy beaches in the Caribbean, with turquoise water and candlelit cabañas near ancient ruins.
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	Most of the local accommodation are situated right on the sea. There are opportunities to go on cavern snorkelling and nature tours, including kayaking, snorkelling, fishing, horse rides and cycling trips, or you could just enjoy Tulum's beautiful beaches.		Most of the local accommodation are situated right on the sea. There are opportunities to go on cavern snorkelling and nature tours, including kayaking, snorkelling, fishing, horse rides and cycling trips, or you could just enjoy Tulum's beautiful beaches.

	'''~~Note~~''' ~~Sian Ka~~'an ~~Biosphere~~		Things to do here include:

			* The Tulúm Mayan Ruins: Carretera Cancun-Tulum Km. 133, Tulum 77500, Mexico, 011-52-987-2-09 72 (4/5 on TripAdvisor)
			* Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve: Highway 307, Tulum 77781, Mexico, 52-984-87-12499 ''We felt this was the highlight of our vacation to Playa del Carmen, which is 60 miles to the north of the start of the Biosphere area. We went on a full day tour with Sian Ka'an Info Tours who are a non-profit making organisation promoting the ecology aspects of the biosphere. The hardest part was getting on the tour - the commercial tour sellers don't seem to promote such tours and we couldn't initially find the Tour Operator's Office - its really close to Tulum ruins at the traffic-lights just to the north on the main road. We did the boat tour that others have described - through the mangrove swamps around the lagoon to the fresh water lake, the ruined temple complete with resident bats, and the floating down the river in crystal clear water on our backs. We also were lucky enough to rare West Indian manatees as well as many types of heron, hawks and other sea-going birds. All our questions were enthusiastically and knowlegeably answered by our bilingual guide. We also swam in a fresh water cenote, learned how mangrove colonises the shoreline, saw rare orchids in flower and hunted for massive land crabs. A great day out if you enjoy that sort of thing.'' (CeSiak tours are apparantly good too) (5/5 on TripAdvisor).
			* Abyss Dive Center: Tulum-Cancun Highway \| At the entrance to the Tulum ruins, Tulum 77710, Mexico (5/5 on TripAdvisor).
			* Xibalba Dive Center: Avenida Tulum Entre Satelite Y Geminis, Tulum 77780, Mexico (5/5 on TripAdvisor)
			* Lucky Fish Diving: Tan Kah Bay 16, Tulum 77780, Mexico (5/5 on TripAdvisor)
			* Punta Laguna Nature Reserve: Approx 10 km from the Coba ruins to the north. Punta Laguna is part of a 5000-hectare nature reserve called Ma'ax Yetel Kooh. Tucked away in the jungle where Yucatan meets the neighboring state of Quintana Roo near the Gulf Coast, sits Punta Laguna, a small Mayan village where roosters and pigs have the right of way and the smoke from women making tortillas over an open fire filters through the thatched roofs of their houses. Guided tours through some of the jungle trails reveal a wealth of exotic plants and animals, as well as partially buried pre-hispanic ruins. ''Punta Laguna was a wonderful adventure! We met a nice couple from Seattle that told us to go! Thanks to them we made the drive and truely had a wonderful time. Here you can get a tour guide or walk yourself. They had rock climbing and conopy tours over the Lagoon if you paid for the tour. We decided to take the tour on our own...we were not disappointed. There is much to see if you take your time and a handy map at the bottom of the hill (follow the street on foot that you entered on ...). The map gives you a GENERAL idea of what lies in the jungle. I use general because when you take the path to the right it splits a million times. I was a little uneasy at one point about getting lost....my wonderful boyfriend reminded me that all we had to do is go back to the lagoon and follow it around. Smart guy....not so smart girlfriend...'' (5/5 on TripAdvisor)

	=== Accommodation ===		=== Accommodation ===

Cocodude: /* Accommodation */

2006-10-24T21:25:50Z

Accommodation

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:25, 24 October 2006
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	=== Accommodation ===		=== Accommodation ===

	[http://www.grlagoon.com/ Grand Royal Lagoon]. Don't expect this hotel to be at all cultural. It's in the Hotel Zone, i.e. touristy area as this will make a nice base for our evening (of course during the days, we can get some culture). Out of the hotels in the Hotel Zone, this does seem like one of the better cheaper ones. They might even provide ~~inclusive~~ drinks and have bar tours organised. Reviews are [http://cancun-hotels.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g150807-d242388-r3555786-Grand_Royal_Lagoon-Cancun_Yucatan_Peninsula.html here]. CONFIRMATION # 514986, ONE ROOM FOR 3 PERSONS $60 USD TAXES INCLUDED AND BREAKFAST.		[http://www.grlagoon.com/ Grand Royal Lagoon]. Don't expect this hotel to be at all cultural. It's in the Hotel Zone, i.e. touristy area as this will make a nice base for our evening (of course during the days, we can get some culture). Out of the hotels in the Hotel Zone, this does seem like one of the better cheaper ones. They might even provide unlimited food and drinks for a small fee and have bar tours organised. Reviews are [http://cancun-hotels.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g150807-d242388-r3555786-Grand_Royal_Lagoon-Cancun_Yucatan_Peninsula.html here]. CONFIRMATION # 514986, ONE ROOM FOR 3 PERSONS $60 USD TAXES INCLUDED AND BREAKFAST.

	=== Car Hire ===		=== Car Hire ===

Cocodude: /* Image:blank.gif Image:blank.gif Day 11, Tuesday 7th November PM - Day 12, Wednesday 8th November - Cancún */

2006-10-24T21:21:40Z

[[Image:blank.gif]] [[Image:blank.gif]] Day 11, Tuesday 7th November PM - Day 12, Wednesday 8th November - Cancún

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:21, 24 October 2006
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	== [[Image:~~blank~~.gif]] [[Image:blank.gif]] Day 11, Tuesday 7th November PM - Day 12, Wednesday 8th November - Cancún ==		== [[Image:tick.gif]] [[Image:blank.gif]] Day 11, Tuesday 7th November PM - Day 12, Wednesday 8th November - Cancún ==

	[[Image:Cancun_sm.jpg\|left\|White beaches of Cancun]]		[[Image:Cancun_sm.jpg\|left\|White beaches of Cancun]]
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	=== Accommodation ===		=== Accommodation ===

	~~Possibly hostel at~~ http://www.~~chacmool~~.com.~~mx/~~		[http://www.grlagoon.com/ Grand Royal Lagoon]. Don't expect this hotel to be at all cultural. It's in the Hotel Zone, i.e. touristy area as this will make a nice base for our evening (of course during the days, we can get some culture). Out of the hotels in the Hotel Zone, this does seem like one of the better cheaper ones. They might even provide inclusive drinks and have bar tours organised. Reviews are [http://cancun-hotels.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g150807-d242388-r3555786-Grand_Royal_Lagoon-Cancun_Yucatan_Peninsula.html here]. CONFIRMATION # 514986, ONE ROOM FOR 3 PERSONS $60 USD TAXES INCLUDED AND BREAKFAST.

	~~In/near~~ the Hotel Zone:

	* Grand Royal Lagoon http://www.~~grlagoon~~.~~com/~~ http://cancun-hotels.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g150807-d242388-r3555786-Grand_Royal_Lagoon-Cancun_Yucatan_Peninsula.html ~~'''Sent second e-mail and reservation'''~~
	* Girasol http://cancun-hotels.tripadvisor.~~com/ShowUserReviews-g150807-d185325-r4735366-Girasol_Condo_Hotel-Cancun_Yucatan_Peninsula~~.~~html~~

	=== Car Hire ===		=== Car Hire ===

Cocodude at 20:58, 24 October 2006

2006-10-24T20:58:26Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:58, 24 October 2006
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	Mérida's huge, main '''market''' is for most visitors a major attraction, and Mérida is probably the best place to buy the most popular souvenir of Mexico, a hammock. Good restaurants, juice bars and a bakery are plentiful in the centre of Mérida.		Mérida's huge, main '''market''' is for most visitors a major attraction, and Mérida is probably the best place to buy the most popular souvenir of Mexico, a hammock. Good restaurants, juice bars and a bakery are plentiful in the centre of Mérida.

	Every evening, you'll find the streets buzzing with revellers enjoying a variety of '''free entertainment'''. Typical performances might include energetic and fascinating dances, big-band music, marimba , classical music conerts and open-air performances of traditional songs and music. Sunday is probably the best day to se the Plaza Mayor because vehicles are banned from the area and street activities take over all day. There are a number of '''mariachi nights''' in hotel bars and '''salsa dancing''' in nightclubs. Many big hotels also have video bars and discos. There are also hard-drinking '''cantinas''' for the hardcore.		Every evening, you'll find the streets buzzing with revellers enjoying a variety of '''free entertainment'''. Typical performances might include energetic and fascinating dances, big-band music, marimba , classical music conerts and open-air performances of traditional songs and music. Sunday is probably the best day to se the Plaza Mayor because vehicles are banned from the area and street activities take over all day. There are a number of '''mariachi nights''' in hotel bars and '''salsa dancing''' in nightclubs. Many big hotels also have video bars and discos. There are also hard-drinking '''cantinas''' for the hardcore. In the evening, dance to big band music of the 40´s in Santiago Park on the corner of Calle 59 and 72 at 9:00 pm (a site said this for their Wednesday itinerary).

	Useful websites are at http://www.cultur.com , http://www.yucatantoday.com/ and http://www.cityview.com.mx/ .		Useful websites are at http://www.cultur.com , http://www.yucatantoday.com/ and http://www.cityview.com.mx/ .
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	== [[Image:tick.gif]] [[Image:~~blank~~.gif]] Day 9, Sunday 5th November - Day 10, Monday 6th November - Chichén Itzá AM ==		== [[Image:tick.gif]] [[Image:tick.gif]] Day 9, Sunday 5th November - Day 10, Monday 6th November - Chichén Itzá AM ==

	[[Image:Chichen.jpg\|right\|Maya ruins of Chichen Itza]]		[[Image:Chichen.jpg\|right\|Maya ruins of Chichen Itza]]

	Visit the most famous Maya site, with its vertiginous temple, Chac-mool figures and dramatic, snail-shaped observatory.		Visit the most famous Maya site, with its vertiginous temple, Chac-mool figures and dramatic, snail-shaped observatory. Also, try to see El Castillo,

	It is, by far, the most visited of all Maya sites and lies conveniently along the main road from Mérida to Cancún. It's perfectly feasible to visit as a day's excursion from Mérida to the coast, but an overnight stop is worth considering. The rough guide goes into great detail about the site itself, but noteable statements include the fact that one reason it's fascinating is because of its divergence from Maya tradition, ability to climb the main pyramid and see the entire area, area where human sacrifices may have been made, the 90 metre ball court (the loser may have gotten decapitated!), and series of tombs.		It is, by far, the most visited of all Maya sites and lies conveniently along the main road from Mérida to Cancún. It's perfectly feasible to visit as a day's excursion from Mérida to the coast, but an overnight stop is worth considering. The rough guide goes into great detail about the site itself, but noteable statements include the fact that one reason it's fascinating is because of its divergence from Maya tradition, ability to climb the main pyramid and see the entire area, area where human sacrifices may have been made, the 90 metre ball court (the loser may have gotten decapitated!), and series of tombs.
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	[[Image:Cenote_Samula.jpg\|left\|Cenote Samula]]		[[Image:Cenote_Samula.jpg\|left\|Cenote Samula]]

	If ~~we have time to spare~~, ~~it might be nice to visit~~ the ~~flamingo colony at~~ '''~~Río Lagartos~~''' ~~or go~~ to the ~~beach at~~ '''~~San Felipe~~'''. I'd especially like to visit '''Cenote Dzitnup''' (akak '''X'Keken''') which is open from 7am - 6pm. It is reached by descending into a cave, where a nearly circular pool of crystal-clear turquoise water is illuminated by a shaft of light from an opening in the roof. A swim in the ice-cold water is a fantastic experience, but take a sweater as the cave is pretty cold. Also, there is the '''Cenote Samula''' which is as impressive and has the roots of a huge tree stretching down into the pool. Address: West on route 180 from Valladolid. Directions: Go west on Calle 39 or Calle 41 from the town center. They merge into 180. There is a sign to the cenotes several kms out of town to the left.		If longer than a day is spent here, which is reached by descending into a cave, where a nearly circular pool of crystal-clear turquoise water is illuminated by a shaft of light from an opening in the roof. A swim in the ice-cold water is a fantastic experience, apparantly. There is another pool, the '''Cenote Samula''' which has the roots of a huge tree stretching down into it.

			If we have time to spare, it is worth visiting Valladoid, a town about 40km eastwards. Valladoid has the '''Cenote Dzitnup'''. I'd especially like to visit '''Cenote Dzitnup''' (akak '''X'Keken''') which is open from 7am - 6pm. It is reached by descending into a cave, where a nearly circular pool of crystal-clear turquoise water is illuminated by a shaft of light from an opening in the roof. A swim in the ice-cold water is a fantastic experience, but take a sweater as the cave is pretty cold. Also, there is the '''Cenote Samula''' which is as impressive and has the roots of a huge tree stretching down into the pool. Address: West on route 180 from Valladolid. Directions: Go west on Calle 39 or Calle 41 from the town center. They merge into 180. There is a sign to the cenotes several kms out of town to the left. Additionally, it might be nice to visit the flamingo colony at '''Río Lagartos''' or go to the beach at '''San Felipe'''. Coba's nice and on the way to Tulum too.

	=== Accommodation ===		=== Accommodation ===
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	[[Image:Cancun_sm.jpg\|left\|White beaches of Cancun]]		[[Image:Cancun_sm.jpg\|left\|White beaches of Cancun]]

	Our transport link to Cuba, Cancún, has lots of things to do. It doesn't seem so much of a cultural place but very busy and exciting. Its highlights are its striking modern hotels, hectic nightlife and high-energy entertainment including parachuting, jet skiing, scuba diving and golf. It appears to be a suitable base to explore some of the beaches on the East coast.		Our transport link to Cuba, Cancún, has lots of things to do. It doesn't seem so much of a cultural place but very busy and exciting. Its highlights are its striking modern hotels, hectic nightlife and high-energy entertainment including parachuting, jet skiing, scuba diving and golf. It appears to be a suitable base to explore some of the beaches on the East coast. We should definitely try to visit downtown during the day to see some of the 'real' Cancun where the locals live. In the evening, we'll go out in the hotel zone.

			=== Nightlife ===

			As we will have thoroughly refreshed ourselves after the relaxing time at Tulum, we'll be larging it up in this evening. A good thread on nightclubbing in Cancún is available at http://cancun-hotels.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g150807-i8-k819335-Overview_of_clubs-Cancun_Yucatan_Peninsula.html Information on bar/club crawls is at http://cancun-hotels.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g150807-i8-k783220-Best_bar_tour-Cancun_Yucatan_Peninsula.html The nightlife is excellent there's a club for all tastes, Coco Bongo for a busy cheesy loud night, The City for pure dancing and excellent floor shows with many locals attending, for a a club with a more upmarket feel and fantastic aircon with branded drinks go to Bulldog. I strongly advise we go to Coco Bongo - it looks insane and really different. Senor Frog's also looks good if we can fit that in too.

	=== Accommodation ===		=== Accommodation ===
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	* Girasol http://cancun-hotels.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g150807-d185325-r4735366-Girasol_Condo_Hotel-Cancun_Yucatan_Peninsula.html		* Girasol http://cancun-hotels.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g150807-d185325-r4735366-Girasol_Condo_Hotel-Cancun_Yucatan_Peninsula.html

	=== ~~Nightlife ===~~		=== Car Hire ===

	As we will have thoroughly refreshed ourselves after the relaxing time at Tulum, we'll be larging it up in this evening. A good thread on nightclubbing in Cancún is available at http://cancun-hotels.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g150807-i8-k819335-Overview_of_clubs-Cancun_Yucatan_Peninsula.html Information on bar/club crawls is at http://cancun-hotels.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g150807-i8-k783220-Best_bar_tour-Cancun_Yucatan_Peninsula.html The nightlife is excellent there's a club for all tastes, Coco Bongo for a busy cheesy loud night, The City for pure dancing and excellent floor shows with many locals attending, for a a club with a more upmarket feel and fantastic aircon with branded drinks go to Bulldog

	~~=== Care~~ Hire ===

	We will return the car at Cancún airport at Wed, Nov 08, 2006 at 07:30 PM.		We will return the car at Cancún airport at Wed, Nov 08, 2006 at 07:30 PM.

Cocodude at 20:24, 24 October 2006

2006-10-24T20:24:45Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:24, 24 October 2006
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	Also need to check Mayab, Maya de Oro, Cristobal Colon, ADO.		Also need to check Mayab, Maya de Oro, Cristobal Colon, ADO.

	The main nearby transport hub is Villahermosa (15 daily; 2.5 hours) and it may be easier to get there and change for our onward journey. Onward travel will be to Mérida during the afternoon/evening.		The main nearby transport hub is Villahermosa (15 daily; 2.5 hours) and it may be easier to get there and change for our onward journey. Onward travel will be to Mérida during the afternoon/evening. From the main terminal in Villahermosa to Palenque is only a couple of hours by first class air conditioned bus.
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	== [[Image:tick.gif]] [[Image:~~blank~~.gif]] Day 7, Saturday 4th November AM - Day 9, Sunday 5th November AM - Mérida ==		== [[Image:tick.gif]] [[Image:tick.gif]] Day 7, Saturday 4th November AM - Day 9, Sunday 5th November AM - Mérida ==

	[[Image:Merida_sm.jpg\|left\|Cathedral at Merida]]		[[Image:Merida_sm.jpg\|left\|Cathedral at Merida]]
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	'''Plaza Mayor''' is the hub of the city's life, particularly in the evenings. The plaza is ringed by some of Mérida's oldest buildings, dominated by the Cathedral of San Ildefonso, built in the 16th century. Noteable places to visit include the '''Cristo de las Ampollas''' (Christ of the Blisters) church, '''Museo MACAY'''; the finest art museum in the state, the '''Casa de Montejo'''; a palace built in 1549, the '''Palacio Municipal''' and '''Palacio de Gobierno'''. North and east of the plaza feature a number of similar places. The '''Paseo de Montejo''' is a broad boulevard lined with trees and modern sculptures by Yucatecan artists.		'''Plaza Mayor''' is the hub of the city's life, particularly in the evenings. The plaza is ringed by some of Mérida's oldest buildings, dominated by the Cathedral of San Ildefonso, built in the 16th century. Noteable places to visit include the '''Cristo de las Ampollas''' (Christ of the Blisters) church, '''Museo MACAY'''; the finest art museum in the state, the '''Casa de Montejo'''; a palace built in 1549, the '''Palacio Municipal''' and '''Palacio de Gobierno'''. North and east of the plaza feature a number of similar places. The '''Paseo de Montejo''' is a broad boulevard lined with trees and modern sculptures by Yucatecan artists.

	Mérida's huge, main '''market''' is for most visitors a major attraction, and Mé~~erida~~ is probably the best place to buy the most popular souvenir of Mexico, a hammock. Good restaurants, juice bars and a bakery are plentiful in the centre of Mérida.		Mérida's huge, main '''market''' is for most visitors a major attraction, and Mérida is probably the best place to buy the most popular souvenir of Mexico, a hammock. Good restaurants, juice bars and a bakery are plentiful in the centre of Mérida.

	Every evening, you'll find the streets buzzing with revellers enjoying a variety of '''free entertainment'''. Typical performances might include energetic and fascinating dances, big-band music, marimba , classical music conerts and open-air performances of traditional songs and music. Sunday is probably the best day to se the Plaza Mayor because vehicles are banned from the area and street activities take over all day. There are a number of '''mariachi nights''' in hotel bars and '''salsa dancing''' in nightclubs. Many big hotels also have video bars and discos. There are also hard-drinking '''cantinas''' for the hardcore.		Every evening, you'll find the streets buzzing with revellers enjoying a variety of '''free entertainment'''. Typical performances might include energetic and fascinating dances, big-band music, marimba , classical music conerts and open-air performances of traditional songs and music. Sunday is probably the best day to se the Plaza Mayor because vehicles are banned from the area and street activities take over all day. There are a number of '''mariachi nights''' in hotel bars and '''salsa dancing''' in nightclubs. Many big hotels also have video bars and discos. There are also hard-drinking '''cantinas''' for the hardcore.

	Useful websites are at http://www.cultur.com , http://www.yucatantoday.com/ and http://www.cityview.com.mx/ .		Useful websites are at http://www.cultur.com , http://www.yucatantoday.com/ and http://www.cityview.com.mx/ .

	~~Will possibly hire a car here until Tulum or Merida. Example price for two days, from Merida to Tulum, is $166 USD. http://www.velozrentacar.com.mx/us/~~

	=== Car Hire ===		=== Car Hire ===
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	== [[Image:blank.gif]] [[Image:blank.gif]] Day 10, Monday 6th November PM - Day 11, Tuesday 7th November AM - Tulúm ==		== [[Image:blank.gif]] [[Image:blank.gif]] Day 10, Monday 6th November PM - Day 11, Tuesday 7th November AM - Tulúm ==

	[[Image:Tulum_sm.jpg\|~~left~~\|Coast of Tulum]]		[[Image:Tulum_sm.jpg\|right\|Coast of Tulum]]

	'''We will go here if I feel there's time. I'm looking into transport links. I'd quite like to go here and have a chill out day.'''		'''We will go here if I feel there's time. I'm looking into transport links. I'd quite like to go here and have a chill out day.'''
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	== [[Image:blank.gif]] [[Image:blank.gif]] Day 11, Tuesday 7th November PM - Day 12, Wednesday 8th November - Cancún ==		== [[Image:blank.gif]] [[Image:blank.gif]] Day 11, Tuesday 7th November PM - Day 12, Wednesday 8th November - Cancún ==

	[[Image:Cancun_sm.jpg\|~~right~~\|White beaches of Cancun]]		[[Image:Cancun_sm.jpg\|left\|White beaches of Cancun]]

	Our transport link to Cuba, Cancún, has lots of things to do. It doesn't seem so much of a cultural place but very busy and exciting. Its highlights are its striking modern hotels, hectic nightlife and high-energy entertainment including parachuting, jet skiing, scuba diving and golf. It appears to be a suitable base to explore some of the beaches on the East coast.		Our transport link to Cuba, Cancún, has lots of things to do. It doesn't seem so much of a cultural place but very busy and exciting. Its highlights are its striking modern hotels, hectic nightlife and high-energy entertainment including parachuting, jet skiing, scuba diving and golf. It appears to be a suitable base to explore some of the beaches on the East coast.

Cocodude at 20:13, 24 October 2006

2006-10-24T20:13:22Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:13, 24 October 2006
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	[[Image:Map.jpg\|center\|Areas covered by this leg]]		[[Image:Map.jpg\|center\|Areas covered by this leg]]

	== [[Image:tick.gif]] [[Image:~~blank~~.gif]] Day 6, Thursday 2nd November PM - Day 7, Friday 3rd November PM - Palenque ==		== [[Image:tick.gif]] [[Image:tick.gif]] Day 6, Thursday 2nd November PM - Day 7, Friday 3rd November PM - Palenque ==

	[[Image:Palenque_sm.jpg\|right\|The Maya ruins of Palenque]]		[[Image:Palenque_sm.jpg\|right\|The Maya ruins of Palenque]]
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	Palenque has been recommended to me as the best site for Maya ruins in the whole of Mexico and we simply must visit it, even though it is far away from the rest of the sites in the Yucutan. Set in thick jungle screeching with insects, Palenque is strongly linked to the lost cities of Guatemala while keeping its own distinctive style, and though it's not large - you can see everything in a morning - it is hauntingly beautiful. The town of Palenque is of little intrinsic interest to visitors and is best viewed simply as a base for exploring the ruins and waterfalls in the nearby hills. Alternatively, since there are a number of camping sites and cabañas near the ruins, we may not stay in town at all.		Palenque has been recommended to me as the best site for Maya ruins in the whole of Mexico and we simply must visit it, even though it is far away from the rest of the sites in the Yucutan. Set in thick jungle screeching with insects, Palenque is strongly linked to the lost cities of Guatemala while keeping its own distinctive style, and though it's not large - you can see everything in a morning - it is hauntingly beautiful. The town of Palenque is of little intrinsic interest to visitors and is best viewed simply as a base for exploring the ruins and waterfalls in the nearby hills. Alternatively, since there are a number of camping sites and cabañas near the ruins, we may not stay in town at all.

			=== Before we get here ===

			If time is on our side, we should try to visit Agua Azul, 64km South of Palenque or Misol-Háa, 18km from Palenque. These sites are on the road that takes you to San Cristobal.

	=== Maya Ruins ===		=== Maya Ruins ===
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	[[Image:Cenote_Samula.jpg\|left\|Cenote Samula]]		[[Image:Cenote_Samula.jpg\|left\|Cenote Samula]]

	If we have time to spare, it might be nice to visit the flamingo colony at '''Río Lagartos''' or go to the beach at '''San Felipe'''. I'd especially like to visit '''Cenote Dzitnup''' (akak '''X'Keken''') which is open from 7am - 6pm. It is reached by descending into a cave, where a nearly circular pool of crystal-clear turquoise water is illuminated by a shaft of light from an opening in the roof. A swim in the ice-cold water is a fantastic experience, but take a sweater as the cave is pretty cold. Also, there is the '''Cenote Samula''' which is as impressive and has the roots of a huge tree stretching down into the pool.		If we have time to spare, it might be nice to visit the flamingo colony at '''Río Lagartos''' or go to the beach at '''San Felipe'''. I'd especially like to visit '''Cenote Dzitnup''' (akak '''X'Keken''') which is open from 7am - 6pm. It is reached by descending into a cave, where a nearly circular pool of crystal-clear turquoise water is illuminated by a shaft of light from an opening in the roof. A swim in the ice-cold water is a fantastic experience, but take a sweater as the cave is pretty cold. Also, there is the '''Cenote Samula''' which is as impressive and has the roots of a huge tree stretching down into the pool. Address: West on route 180 from Valladolid. Directions: Go west on Calle 39 or Calle 41 from the town center. They merge into 180. There is a sign to the cenotes several kms out of town to the left.

	=== Accommodation ===		=== Accommodation ===
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	* Palenque: 15:37:35N, 92:45:04W		* Palenque: 15:37:35N, 92:45:04W
			* Palenque Ruins: N1730.627 W9159.431
	* Merida: 20:59:12N, 89:36:25W		* Merida: 20:59:12N, 89:36:25W
	* Pisté (very close to Chichen Itza): 20:42:26N, 88:35:07W		* Pisté (very close to Chichen Itza): 20:42:26N, 88:35:07W
			* Chichen Itza Ruins: N2041.016 W8834.376
			* Chichen Itza (just south of) Sacred Well (cenote): N20.68600 W88.56910
	* Tulum: 20:13:17N, 87:28:07W		* Tulum: 20:13:17N, 87:28:07W
			* Tulum Ruins: N2012.885 W8725.728
	* Cancun: 21:31:25N, 87:02:52W		* Cancun: 21:31:25N, 87:02:52W
			* Cancun Hotel Zone: N2108.093 W08644.881
			* Cancun Airport: N2102.467 W08652.530

Cocodude at 19:53, 24 October 2006

2006-10-24T19:53:40Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:53, 24 October 2006
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	=== Car Hire ===		=== Car Hire ===

	We will be picking up a car at Merida Centro, Calle 60 No. 486 D on 55 and 57 Av Paseo Montejo, Merida. Pick up is at Sun, Nov 05, 2006 at 10:00 AM and it's a Crysler Atos. The cost for this is US $287.62. Full details are available [[Mexico Car Hire\|here]].		We will be picking up a car at Merida Centro, Calle 60 No. 486 D on 55 and 57 Av Paseo Montejo, Merida. Pick up is at Sun, Nov 05, 2006 at 10:00 AM and it's a Crysler Atos. The cost for this is US $287.62. Full details are available [[Mexico Car Hire\|here]]. With a car, there are loads of places we can visit inbetween towns should we have lots of time to spare. These include Izamal, Valladolid.

	=== Accommodation ===		=== Accommodation ===
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	'''Note''' Go to light and sound show		'''Note''' Go to light and sound show

			=== Onwards Travel ===

			[[Image:Cenote_Samula.jpg\|left\|Cenote Samula]]

			If we have time to spare, it might be nice to visit the flamingo colony at '''Río Lagartos''' or go to the beach at '''San Felipe'''. I'd especially like to visit '''Cenote Dzitnup''' (akak '''X'Keken''') which is open from 7am - 6pm. It is reached by descending into a cave, where a nearly circular pool of crystal-clear turquoise water is illuminated by a shaft of light from an opening in the roof. A swim in the ice-cold water is a fantastic experience, but take a sweater as the cave is pretty cold. Also, there is the '''Cenote Samula''' which is as impressive and has the roots of a huge tree stretching down into the pool.

	=== Accommodation ===		=== Accommodation ===

Cocodude at 19:40, 24 October 2006

2006-10-24T19:40:25Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:40, 24 October 2006
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	=== Accommodation ===		=== Accommodation ===

	I think I've booked a room at [http://www.hostelz.com/hostel/38067-Rakshita's Rakshita's] at [http://www.elpanchan.com/presentacion_eng.htm El Pachan]. I had to make quite an embarassing phone call to some person that didn't speak any English. He definitely realised that I want a cabana on 2nd November for one night for three people. Some information on the site is available [http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g249851-d569971-Reviews-El_Panchan-Palenque_Central_Mexico_and_Gulf_Coast.html here]. Contact number is 52 916 100 69 08 (possibly Chato's Cabanas on 52 916 341 4846).		I think I've booked a room at [http://www.hostelz.com/hostel/38067-Rakshita's Rakshita's] at [http://www.elpanchan.com/presentacion_eng.htm El Pachan]. I had to make quite an embarassing phone call to some person that didn't speak any English. He definitely realised that I want a cabana on 2nd November for one night for three people. Some information on the site is available [http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g249851-d569971-Reviews-El_Panchan-Palenque_Central_Mexico_and_Gulf_Coast.html here]. Contact number is 52 916 100 69 08 (possibly Chato's Cabanas on 52 916 341 4846). I've also been informed that Chato's Cabanas might be nicer, so perhaps we'll just see if we can go there instead when we get to El Panchan.

	At the resort, every night at Restaurante Don Mucho's you will enjoy a fabulous show, along with dinner. Traditional Mexican music, Andean music, Cuban son, Drumming and Fire show. Groups like Eco Andino, El Rojo, Los Mismos, play for nightly dancing. In addition, visiting artists from all over the world often share their unique sounds with us.		At the resort, every night at Restaurante Don Mucho's you will enjoy a fabulous show, along with dinner. Traditional Mexican music, Andean music, Cuban son, Drumming and Fire show. Groups like Eco Andino, El Rojo, Los Mismos, play for nightly dancing. In addition, visiting artists from all over the world often share their unique sounds with us.
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	We are staying at [http://www.luzenyucatan.com/ Luz En Yucatan]. This is an apartment with a sitting room with fold out double futon, (and to which a cot can be added), kitchenette/dining area, bathroom, bedroom with king size bed, cable TV and AC. The rate is $650 pesos per day for two persons plus an additional $70 pesos per day for the third person, daily total to be $720 pesos, app $67 US. The [[Merida Accommodation\|accommodation confirmation]] is available..		We are staying at [http://www.luzenyucatan.com/ Luz En Yucatan]. This is an apartment with a sitting room with fold out double futon, (and to which a cot can be added), kitchenette/dining area, bathroom, bedroom with king size bed, cable TV and AC. The rate is $650 pesos per day for two persons plus an additional $70 pesos per day for the third person, daily total to be $720 pesos, app $67 US. The [[Merida Accommodation\|accommodation confirmation]] is available..

			Calle 55 #499 x 60 y 58, Mérida, Yucatán, México 97000. Telephone: 011-52-999-924-0035. When you stay at Luz En Yucatan, you are only three blocks from the main plaza, or zocalo. A twenty minute drive brings you to the beach at Progreso and other beaches on the Gulf of Mexico

	<br clear="all">		<br clear="all">
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	Looking at the [http://www.clickmx.com Click Mexicana] website, the flights from Cancún appears to be at 14:05-17:10 and 20:40-23:45.		Looking at the [http://www.clickmx.com Click Mexicana] website, the flights from Cancún appears to be at 14:05-17:10 and 20:40-23:45.

			== GPS Locations ==

			* Palenque: 15:37:35N, 92:45:04W
			* Merida: 20:59:12N, 89:36:25W
			* Pisté (very close to Chichen Itza): 20:42:26N, 88:35:07W
			* Tulum: 20:13:17N, 87:28:07W
			* Cancun: 21:31:25N, 87:02:52W