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Archaeological

Merida

Merida is the gateway to numerous ancient Mayan cities and ceremonial centers. Most famous are Chichen Itza, Uxmal, Dzibilchaltun (where more than 8,000 artifacts and temples may be found, Kabah, Mayapan, the prehispanic capital of the Yucatan.

Tuxtla Gutierrez

Tuxtla Gutierrez is in the tropics, east of Alcapulco. One can visit the Grand Canyons and the Pyramids there. Also visit the Regional Museum of Chiapas which contains numerous monuments from Tonina, La Mar, and also many figurines, painted ceramics, and braziers.

Other attractions include: The Plaza Civica (the Main Square); The San Marcos Cathedral with a beautiful bell tower and a musical clock which is considered one of the most antique clocks in its kind in the world; The Madero Park which houses the Regional Museum of the State with two permanent exhibitions one of Mayan archaeological pieces and other ones regarding the history of the State through ethnographic collections; The Botanical Garden which has a great variety of flora from different regions of the State; The Theater; The Centro de Convivencia Infantil (Center for Children) with a pool, games for children, etc. and The Natural History Museum which exhibition of woods is unique in the Country. Another interesting place you can visit is the "Miguel Alvarez del Toro" Zoo, which is one of the best ones in Latin America, inhabited by: jaguars, eagles, serpents and birds among other beautiful animals. The visitor can find here a bookstore, a snack bar, areas for pic-nics and a parking area The Tuxtla Gutierrez local artisans make beautiful handicrafts that you can purchase at Ischanal Market.

Oaxaca

The land of the Mixtecs and Zapotecs. It could be said that Oaxaca (pronounced WA-HA-KA) is an open air museum. If you want to see all of Mexico in a week, come to Oaxaca. It is a beautiful colonial city surrounded by great archaeological sites such as Mitla and Monte Alban, Indian villages, old monasteries and magnificent scenery. It’s most famous churches are the cathedral and the Santo Domingo Church, which is known worldwide for having its roof and walls covered in gold.

The city offers the tourist a vast variety of museums and expressions of art. There is the Rufino Tamayo Pre-hispanic Museum, the Casa de Juarez Museum, which was home to Benito Juarez, one of Mexico’s great presidents, and the Oaxaca Regional Museum, which is located inside the ex-convent of Santo Domingo with exhibits of jewelry, arts and crafts which were found in Monte Alban’s Tomb 7.

In downtown Oaxaca, one can feel the majesty of the Plaza Principal or main square. When walking around, one finds the classic ice cream shops, typical coffee houses, choirs of traditional music and all the folklore of the Mexican countryside.

The Guelaguetza Fair (late July to early August) is a festival in which the tourist can participate. This fair traces its origins back several centuries. One can experience many great pre-Hispanic traditions which can be appreciated through the excitement of its dances, the variety in its food and the color of its costumes.

Villahermosa

The city of Villahermosa is the state capital of Tabasco, in the southeast of Mexico, surrounded by the Grijalva, Mezcalapa and Carrizal rivers.

Its main attractions include the Tomás Garrido Canabal Park, which contains La Venta open-air museum with 30 examples of colossal Olmec sculpture that were discovered on the archaeological site of La Venta and moved to Villahermosa. The park also contains the Laguna de las ilusiones, the Centro de Convivencia Infantil and the Center for Olmec and Maya Research.

In the center of the city are the cathedral of Our Lady of Tabasco, the Plaza de Armas and the Plaza de La Corregidora, the Government Palace, neoclassical in style, the Museum of Popular Culture, which has a handicrafts shop, and the "Zone of Light", an area of paved streets with a large number of shops and restaurants.

There are also the Villahermosa Cultural Center, the Tabasco History Museum, the Tabasco 2000 complex, which includes the Government Palace, a shopping mall, a modern planetarium, a convention center and La Choca Park, where there is a maquette of the entire state's tourist attractions.

The first settlers in this area were the Olmecs, one of the most ancient cultures in all Mesoamerica which developed over 3 thousand years ago.

This reached its peak in La Venta. Afterwards, the area was occupied by the Mayas, who settled along the valleys of the Usumacinta, San Pablo and San Pedro rivers, particularly Comalcalco.

The city was founded in 1596 as Villa Felipe II, the settlement has also been known as San Juan de Villa Hermosa and as San Juan Bautista; it was given its present name, meaning "beautiful city," in 1915. The city's cathedral was built in 1614; its archaeological museum is one of the best in Mexico.

Tulum

Tulum is located 80 miles from Cancun in the Yucatan Peninsula. It is perched on a 40 foot cliff above the aqua blue Caribbean Sea. This ruined city was a major port for the late Post-classic sea trading Maya (A.D. 1200). Until the middle of the 20^th century, the Mayans continued to make pilgrimages, burning incense and candles there. This ancient town is surrounded on three sides by an 11 to 17 foot wall, and by the sea. Points of interest here included the Temple of the Frescoes, Mural Paintings, the Castillos (the entrance to the temple).

Coba

Coba is a remote, jungle-covered city about 30 miles inland from Tulum (60 miles south of Cancun). The Mayan ruins of Coba are majestic, its pyramid temples tower above the treetops of the dense rain forest. Situated amid five lakes, its Mayan name appropriately means "Wind-Ruffled Water." Not in the northern Yucatan Mayan style, Coba strongly resembles the great Mayan site of Tikal in the jungles of Guatemala with its high pyramid temples and numerous free-standing carvings of rulers.. Only in recent years has it been cleared and restored. Known to be one of the largest Late Classic period Mayan sites (A.D. 600-900). Points of interest there: Coba Group (9-tier pyramid), Group Macanxoc (two-sided stella - 675 A.D.), carvings; Nehoch Mul, the highest restored pyramid in the Yucatan Peninsula, standing 120 feet.

Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza is the largest and best maintained of the ancient Mayan cities in the Yucatan with its massive pyramids, ball courts, and sacrificial wells. It is located 120 miles west of Cancun (3 hours by bus or car). Chichen Itza (Place of the Well of the Itza) is an example of Mayan engineering genius with its over-powering massive structures, warrior sculptures, feather-serpent balustrades and columns, and ominous skull racks. These ruins cover seven square miles. As a result of the Toltec conquest of the Mayans, a blend of architectural style, known as Mayan-Toltec, evolved.

Xcaret

Xcaret (one hour from Cancun) is a small inlet which served as departure point for Mayan voyages to Cozumel. Several stone "guest houses" still stand. Interesting caves, crevices, and tunnels; great for swimming, snorkeling, as well as a natural caleta or inlet. Xcaret, an eco-archaeological park that combines enjoyment of the natural environment with the reminders of Mexico’s leading ecological attractions. Underground rivers are the highlight of Xcaret. Crystal clear spring waters take you floating through the Mayan village, past prehistoric caverns, along canals and through tunnels lit naturally by shafts of sunlight. Other sites include white sand beaches, natural pools, a blue lagoon, a wild bird breeding aviary, restaurants.

Veracruz

Located on the Gulf of Mexico, Veracruz has something for everyone: beautiful beaches, archaeological zones, and tropical countryside. Veracruz also offers the finest seafood in Mexico. Wherever you go in Veracruz, the sounds of "Jarocho" music will follow you around. Sites to visit: San Juan de Ulua Castle, Veracruz Stadium, Boca del Rio Lake, 18 of March Stadium, Jalapa, Orizaba, and the Catherdral. Also see The Santiago Bulwark, housing the History Museum, the Veracruz Aquarium, where marine species from the Gulf of Mexico can be observed, the Museum of the the Revolution, the Plaza de Armas, the District of La Lagunilla; El Malecon, where you can take a walk and purchase beautiful handicrafts such as coral beads. Nearby Puerto de Veracruz you can enjoy: Villa del Mar, Mocambo, El Payon and Boca del Rio beaches where there are restaurants offering the delicious regional cuisine.

Other attractions in the Puerto de Veracruz are the Mandinga Lagoon and the Island of the Sacrifices.

The most important festivity of the port of Veracruz is its famous Carnival, which is celebrated with parades, dances and other amusing activities.

Thirty-five miles to the north of the Puerto de Veracruz is situated the Chachalacas sandbar which has beautiful beaches with soft sand and gentle waves, where you can partake in aquatic sports.

Beaches

Alcapulco

Alcapulco is known as "The Jewel of the Pacific." It was the first of the ports and resort cities on Mexico’s Pacific Coast. Its name is derived from the ancient Nahuatl Indian words meaning "Where the Reeds Stood or Place of the Giant Reeds." Deep sea fishing paragliding, surfing, or golf provide ways to fill the days while waiting for the night life to come alive after dark.

Sites to visit include: Papagayo Park, the Aquarium, Cici Marine Park, Isla (Island) La Roqueta, Laguna de Coyuca (fresh water lagoon), La Quebrada Cliff Divers (Death defying Mexican divers leap from 136 feet into a narrow rocky gorge), Pie de la Cuesta beach known for its sunsets, Yacht Cruises, and the Museum and Cultural Center.

Cancun

Cancun is known as the premier resort of the Caribbean. Cancun combines the best of the Caribbean and Mexico. It has an ideal climate (240 days a year of total sunshine), clear turquoise waters, miles of unspoiled white sand beaches, posh hotels, excellent shopping, and world renowned scuba diving and snorkeling. The newest and best night clubs can be found here. It is also the gateway to the richest archaeological region of the western hemisphere. (See Archaeological above)

For a change of pace, take a cruise to beautiful Isla Mujeres. Boats leave from either Punta Sam or Playa Bonita.

Xcaret

Xcaret (one hour from Cancun) is a small inlet which served as departure point for Mayan voyages to Cozumel. Several stone "guest houses" still stand. Interesting caves, crevices, and tunnels; great for swimming, snorkeling, as well as a natural caleta or inlet. Xcaret, an eco-archaeological park that combines enjoyment of the natural environment with the reminders of Mexico’s leading ecological attractions. Underground rivers are the highlight of Xcaret. Crystal clear spring waters take you floating through the Mayan village, past prehistoric caverns, along canals and through tunnels lit naturally by shafts of sunlight. Other sites include white sand beaches, natural pools, a blue lagoon, a wild bird-breeding aviary, restaurants.

Cozumel

A Diver’s Paradise – Sacred island for the Mayans where prehispanic ruins on the island can be seen as a testament to their culture. The luster of Cozumel (28 miles long, 10 miles wide) is as white as its sand, and transparent as its waters, which surround the beautiful coral, trademark of the Mexican Caribbean. It is said that Jacques Cousteau thought that Cozumel was one of the best diving spots in the world.

Diving enthusiasts (and snorkelors) will experience such excitement when diving in the crystal clear waters of Cozumel. The Palancar reef, 18 miles of coral is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. El Cantil is another reef which is 90 miles from the Sotavento Coast. At the end of pier in the city of San Miguel de Cozumel, one will find shops where you can rent diving equipment. Don’t miss the Chankanaab Lagoon – a natural aquarium and beautiful park located south of town, and the sunken airplane in front of the La Ceiba Hotel.

Activities include sport fishing for sailfish, swordfish, and marlin; In April and May the International Sport Fishing Tournament is held. There are the archaeological zones of El Ramonal, El Castillo, San Gervasio, and El Cedral. Rent bicycles or a moped and tour the island. Visit the local museum. The Cozumal Carnival is held three days prior to Ash Wednesday. Try windsurfing. Island and city tours available. There are many restaurants and nightclubs to pass the evenings away.

You can get to Cozumal by air or as most do, by ferry boats from Playa del Carmen (straight across from the mainland). You can go to Playa del Carmen from Cancun by bus, car, or taxi. The trip is about an hour.

Huatulco

Huatulco, located south of Acapulco, is a small (but growing) new beach resort. This preplanned city has a recently-discovered feel to it. Not too many hotels, restaurants, or night clubs. You can experience the nine interconnected, small bays. Walk on these virgin beaches, where during sometimes of the year, the only footprints you will find are yours. The jungle comes down and kisses each of these bays – of which only three have any development on them. Although some areas are accessible by car, a fun alternative is arriving by panga (or water taxi) available from Santa Cruz.

Activities include Scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing, windsurfing, deepsea fishing for sailfish, grouper, bass, and red snapper. Take a guided tour through the jungle to a few of the bays on four-wheel trail bikes…very exciting! Huatulco hosts a lush golf course. Guided tours are also available to Puerto Escondido and Laguna Manialtepec, Maxunte, and Puerto Angel. Ride horses around Conejo Bay passing Copalita River. A day tour can be taken to the myriad of archaeological sites in and around the city of Oaxaca, including Mitla and Monte Alban.

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo is actually two little towns that are next to each other. Ixtapa (pronounced: EATS-TAH-PAH) typically hosts the international traveler and beach goer with its beachfront luxurious hotels, exclusive restaurants, night clubs, golf and tennis. Ixtapa is unique from all the other Mexican tropical beach resorts, being smaller and very tropical. Visit the beautiful beaches of the Bahia de Palmar and Playa Quieta. For fun, take a short boat ride to Ixapa island, located close to the mainland, ideal for snorkeling and watching its wild birds and exotic animals.

Enjoy all the typical beach water sports: parasailing, banana boat, water ski, beach-jungle tours on small off-road vehicles or motorcycles. Zihuatanejo (pronounced ZEE-WHAT-TAH-NAY-HO) next door to Ixapa, is a typical Mexican coastal town with its old buildings, cobblestone streets, folklore, and arts and craft shops. Enjoy the old world restaurants here. The main street in Zuhuatanejo leads to the Municipal Beach Plaza where there are beachfront hotels and restaurants. At the pier, boats can be rented and fishing trips can be arranged.

Los Cabos

Where the desert meets the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean, Los Cabos is at the tip of the peninsula of Baja California. The Cabo Falso is a unique rock formation where you will find the icon of Los Cabos, El Fin del Mundo (The end of the world). Hidden below the rock formations you have Lover’s Beach, known for the soft sand of its beach and majestic view of the Pacific. Once a beacon for north and south sailing ships, it is now the entrance for fishing vessels and yachts of all sizes. Los Cabos is world renown for its fishing of marlin and sailfish. Each year there is a fishing tournament where people from all over the world come to try their luck.

Cabo San Lucas, where you find El Arco, the bay, and the marina, is an upbeat party town. The lure is the sun, fishing, cold bear, and friendly partying that always prevails. Traveling down the only highway, you pass the mega-resorts and hotels, and championship golf courses, in route to San Jose del Cabo. Located 24 miles from Cabo Las Lucas, this typical Mexican small town offers the visitor the quaint appeal of small streets containing homes, markets, and open-air restaurants – in an American term… "laid back."

Manzanillo

Manzanillo is lush resort with its bay and unique architecture of its hotels. It is located on the Pacific coast, just south of Puerto Vallarta. This resort is famous for its sunsets, outstanding fishing, and green vegetation. Tropical jungles meet the beaches of Las Brisas, La Audiencia, El Paraiso, and Los Cocos. Visitors partake in water skiing, surfing, windsurfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing, and relaxing under the palm trees. "La Mantarraya" course is renowned as one of the most scenic and challenging courses in the world. For hunting, deer can be found in the jungle further inland. Horseback riding is available in Tenacatita and Careyes. Most of the major hotels have good tennis facilities. For golf, The new town architecture has retained the traditional colonial Mexican style, only with subtle hints of the modern to enhance its romance. The beauty of Playa Azul (blue beach) is the main attraction of the bay, where a unique ambiance is felt at the bars and restaurants.

Mazatlan

Mazatlan – the sailfish capital of the world, was the first Mexican port (resort) to develop a tourism infrastructure. Mazatlan, located across the Sea of Cortez from Los Cabos, enjoys a slightly dryer climate than those beach resorts farther south along the Pacific. Famous for its giant shrimp from the area and great sport fishing, Matzatlan has been luring visitors for decades. The waters off the coast are always warm and perfect for water sports such as swimming, surfing, jet-skiing, parasailing, and scuba diving year-round. There’s also a 10-mile stretch of beach from the old city, up the coast and past the hotel and shopping area know as the Zona Dorada. The popular beaches include Playa Los Asbalos and Playa Las Gaviotas. Less populated beaches, north of town, are Playa Las Brujas and Playa Los Cerritos. Fuerte Carranza, an old Spanish fort, is located near the town and is where Mazatlan defended itself from the French invaders in the 1860.

Carnival time in Mazatlan is celebrated one week before Ash Wednesday every year. This celebration dates back to 1898 and is a "fiesta" of music, dance, fun, and parades. Considered the third most popular in the world after Rio de Janeiro and New Orleans.

Puerto Vallarta

This destination has it all: white buildings clinging to the mountain side and over looking the sea – cobblestone streets – the ambiance of Tahiti – the smells and flavors of international cuisine – and especially, the warm and friendly people of Puerto Vallarta. There is a synergetic (ying/yang) relationship between the visitors to Puerto Vallarta and its people – it is always positive and sharing. Over the decades, this sea town has keep its charm and is always ready to provide you the time of your life.

Puerto Vallarta is located on the Bay of Banderas, one of the largest natural bays in the world. In times past, this place was a fishing village that turned into a world renown tourist destination. Unlike many other resort destinations were there is only one long beach, in Vallarta each beach, cove, inlet, and little bays are unique and inviting. The climate is agreeable year-round. During the summer months, the ocean is as warm as your bath. And in the rainy season (July - August), the timely afternoon rains (usually 3-4 hours) cool down the earth to make to a balmy evening to explore Puerto Vallarta. The ideal time to visit is between November and May.

All the water and land sports you can think of are available. Small, quaint hotels or large five star international hotels can be chosen to meet your needs. Fifteen minutes up the coast you will find Nuevo (new) Vallarta. Its new developments host new world class resorts, hotels, restaurants, night clubs, and golf courses, but the same beautiful and curving coastline. Less populated that old Vallarta, Nuevo Vallarta may be the place for you.

The night life has the variety for any desire. Along the ocean-front boardwalk (malecon) you will find an assortment of nightclubs (also open during the day), restaurants, stores, art exhibits, and the Plaza where the locals and tourists intermix. There are dance clubs that offer everything from swing and pop, to hip hop and techno, to Salsa. Although the malecon seems to draw the most tourists, there are so many other great nightclubs and restaurants a short taxi ride away.

Puerto Escondido

This hidden port (Puerto Escondido) is a somewhat unknown destination for most travelers. Located 249 miles southeast of Acapulco and 164 miles south of Oaxaca, it offers the beach lover great surfing, exotic beaches, and the warmth of a small, quiet fishing village. Once a year, however, this town hosts an international surfing contest where many arrive to test their skill in the surf of Zicatela Beach. Other activities here include sport fishing, swimming, boat rides to remote beaches such as Playa Carrizalillo and Playa Manzanilla where you can snorkel and scuba dive. Visit the Lagoons of Chacahua where you can canoe through national forest containing three majestic lagoons surrounded by exotic vegetation, birds, and marine animals – a visit to the past.

Cities

Durango

Durango, capital of the state with the same name, is in the north of Mexico, at the foot of the Cerro de Mercado on the banks of the Tunal river. The climate is temperate, but the winters are severe.

This city was founded in 1563 under the name of Villa de Guadiana, but this was later changed to Villa de Durango. The first church to be built in the new town was that of San Juan Bautista de Analco.

The City Hall is in a beautiful 17th-century house which had its own private theater, now the Teatro Victoria. Near the Plaza de Armas, which marks the center of the city, there is a small square with the Mexican baroque Sagrario and the Instituto Juárez, originally a convent that now houses the Natural History Museum.

Durango has various mansions, for example the Churrigueresque House of the Counts of Suchil, built in 1752, and the Larrea House, also dating from the 18th century. Sacred buildings worth visiting are the church of San Juan de Dios where the city's first hospital was founded, the white stone church of the Sacred Heart, and Santa Ana on the Jardín Hidalgo. Near the city are El Saltito waterfall and spa, Santa Cruz Spa and the thermal baths of Batan.

Mexicali

Mexicali is the capital of the State of Baja California and is located 29 miles from the border with the United States. It lies in the Mexicali Valley, an extension of the Imperial Valley of the United States, in the extreme northeastern portion of Baja California. The city lies across the Mexico-U.S. border from Calexico, Calif. Its name, formed from the first two syllables of Mexico and California, was chosen as a gesture of international friendship.

It's main attractions are the Friar Junipero Serra's Monument; The city park with a Zoo, a man-made lake, and a playground. Crafts exhibitions of regional handicrafts from around the country, including costume dresses, ceramics, jewelry, etc. You can also enjoy: Horse and greyhound races, Bullfights Cockfights, Jai-Alai, and rides on decorated donkeys and wagons.

Tampico

Tampico is a city and port located in southeastern Tamaulipas state, northeastern Mexico. It lies on the northern bank of the Pánuco River, 6 miles from the Gulf of Mexico. Tampico is almost surrounded by swampy lands and lagoons.

Tampico is a tourist resort, and there are fine facilities for golfing and hunting and for swimming, fishing, and other water sports. The port city and suburb of Ciudad Madero was annexed to Tampico in the 1970s.

In Tampico, visit interesting places such as: the Cathedral with a neoclasic facade; the Plaza de Armas; the Plaza de la Libertad; the University Center; the Sea Crafts Market; the Santa Cruz Temple; the Piramide de las Flores (the Pyramid of the Flowers) with archaeological vestiges; The Chairel Lagoon; and the wharf. During Easter vacation, fishing tournaments are organized in the Panuco and Tamesi rivers -- one of the most important fishing tournaments is the Golden Sea Bass.

Tampico has magnificent hotels and restaurants. Nearby you can visit Ciudad Madero, whose main attractions are the Miramar Beach and the Museum of the Huasteca which is found inside the Regional Technological Institute.

Tijuana

Tijuana is located on the border with the U.S. (next to San Diego, CA) in the northwest corner of the Baja California Peninsula. It offers the visitor a great variety of attractions such as: Mexican style architecture, hotels and restaurants, trailer / R.V. parks, nightclubs, handicrafts, markets, jewelry stores, perfume and clothing stores. Activities include horse, greyhound, automobile, and motorcycle races; bullfights, Jai-Alai games, boxing and wrestling matches, sports fields, spas, and theaters. Interesting places to visit include: The Revolution Avenue, one of the largest shopping areas, The Cathedral, The Art Morisco Palace, The Aguacaliente hippodrome (Jai-Alai) and greyhound race track, The Monumental and El Toreo bullrings, and the Tijuana Cultural Center with its satellite Handicraft Workshops.

There are also beautiful beaches located just west of the city and plentiful lodging (hotels, cottages, RV parks, etc.) nearby. The beaches are noted for their fine sand and large breaking waves excellent for surfing

Aguascalientes

Aquascalientes is located in the center of the Republic of Mexico. It is one of the smallest states, but its capital (Aguascalientes) hosts a population of one million people. It is an important agricultural and wine growing region, as well as being famous for its textiles. Many international high tech industries can also be found here.

Founded as a mining settlement in 1575 and designated a town in 1661, Aguascalientes was named capital when the state was created during the 1850s. It is sometimes called La Ciudad Perforada (The Perforated City) because of a labyrinth of tunnels excavated beneath it in pre-Columbian times by an unknown tribe.

The city has beautiful gardens such as the Gardens of San Marcos, the area in which the world famous San Marcos Fair is held every Spring in April for three weeks straight. This fair dates back to 1604. Normal city activity shuts down during this period. Schools close for vacation. There are many events that are only presented during the fair period. The visitor can enjoy: folkloric dances, cock fighting, bull fighting, all kinds of nightclubs open specially for the fair, dancing, open air bazaar’s, music concerts where famous artists appear, and the gambling casinos which draw visitors from all over Mexico, and the world. In a phrase, the San Marcos Fair is "excitement day and night."

In San Marcos you can also visit the Crafts House and the Museo del Deshilado (Museum of Frayed-Thread Handiwork). Also celebrated in this city is a Grape Fair as well as the Pilgrimage of the Assumption on August 15th, an event which includes a parade, dances, and other recreational activities.

It is the abundance of hot springs in this state that give it its name: Aguascalientes (Hot Waters). You can enjoy springs at the Sport Center and Spa "Ojo Caliente". Other attractions include Plaza del Vestir (clothing mall), where embroidered and frayed-thread cotton clothing articles can be found. Other local crafts are leatherwork, artistic ironwork, and religious artifacts.

The Spanish architecture is very apparent all over the old city, especially its 18^th Century Cathedral and numerous churches. The most notable of the city's many churches are San Juan de Dios, San Francisco, and La Parroquia, each of which possesses outstanding examples of colonial religious art. The main square, with its ionic columns, was built in 1808. The old government palace (still operational) is a museum in itself, with its old Spanish architecture and murals.

The city is located in the high desert which stands on the central plateau at 6,194 ft above sea level so the weather is always warm, and very hot in the Summer.

Zacatecas

This city is a silver mining town with an old world flavor was founded in 1548. The name means "place where zacate grass grows." It is a high 8,200 feet above sea level. It is famous for its Baroque style churches. The most famous in Mexico being the Catedral Nuestra Senora de Zacatecas. The cathedral, noted for its highly carved portico, was begun in 1612 and completed in 1752. It contained European paintings and elaborate silverwork and goldwork until the reforms of the 1850s and 1860s, when most of them were confiscated. The extensive Indian ruins of Chicomóztoc are 28 miles south-southwest of the city.

Favorite visitor sites include: the Baroque-Style Cathedral, built in the XVIII century, the Santo Domingo Temple, with beautiful golden altars, the San Francisco Convent, built in the XVII century, the San Agustin Church, the Calderon Theater (XIX century), the Gonzalez Ortega Market, which nowadays is a commercial center with restaurants, and handicraft shops. The Universo de Pedro Coronel Museum is where artistic works from different parts of the world are exhibited. Also visit The Mineralogy Museum of the Autonomous University of Zacatecas and The Enrique Estrada Park, where you can see an amazing aqueduct built in the XVIII century

The De La Bufa Hill, which is considered a symbol of the City which can be visited by funicular railway. Located on this hill you can see a meteorological observatory and La Toma de Zacatecas Museum and the Mausoleo de los Hombres Ilustres (Famous Men Mausoleum).

The principal festivities are The Fair of Zacatecas, which is celebrated during the second week of September and The De La Morisma Fair in the Chapel of Bracho celebrated during the last three days of August.

A Swiss-built cable car takes you to the highest point of the city for a panoramic view. Looking at the old city architecture, one might think that they are in 18^th Century Spain.

Colonial

Guanajuato

Guanajuato is the Capital of the State of Guanajuato and is one of the most important historical and cultural colonial cities of Mexico. The whimsical trace of its streets, its peaceful squares and gardens and the beauty of its houses and buildings give Guanajuato an evocative and romantic touch. Places to visit and enjoy include: El Callejon del Beso (The Alley of the Kiss), The Union Garden, located in front of the Juarez Theater, and The Baratillo Square with a beautiful florentine fountain. Also visit the San Roque Temple, famous for its valuable paintings and sculptures, and for its great square where the traditional festivities of the Cervantino Festival are celebrated. Visit The Hidalgo market, with its great four-face clock,The Campanero Bridge, and the underground street Miguel Hidalgo, constructed on the riverbed of the Guanajuato river.

Outside the city of Guanajuato you can visit La Valenciana mine, which is still active. Museums to visit include: The Alhondiga de Granaditas Museum, The Diego Rivera Museum, The Alfredo Duges Museum ( a natural history museum honoring the french naturalist), The Minerology Museum, The Ex-hacienda de San Gabriel de la Barrera (famous for its beautiful gardens), and the traditionally famous Mummy Museum

Leon

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Leon is located to the north of Guanajuato, by the federal highway 45 in Mexico. Leon is a very dynamic city and it is considered as the country's main shoe center. Leon is a city with colonial buildings. El Arco Triunfal, symbol of the city of Leon, is situated on Calzada de los Heroes.

Near Leon city we find the archaeological zone of Ibarillo, of Tarasco-Chupicuaro origin. Twenty-three Km. east of Leon city you can visit Los Tanques and La Granja Spas.

The the most important festivity of the state of Guanajuato is celebrated in Leon from January 20th to February 3rd, famous for its farm, cattle and industrial expositions.

Morelia

Morelia is the capital of the state of Michoacan and is located 303 kms (188 mi) from Mexico City. Morelia was founded in 1541. It was named Valladolid by Don Antonio de Mendoza, the first Viceroy of Nueva España, but was renamed in 1828 Morelia in honor of Jose Maria Morelos and Pavon. Among its main attractions are: The cathedral, with its beautiful facade, its towers over 70 Mts. high, a silver baptism font and its large organ containing 4,600 pipes; The Government Palace, built in 1732. This building was home to the Trindentate Seminary and was the ideological cradle of the Independence. Inside it, are valuable oil portraits and a mural with a historic theme painted by Alfredo Zalce; The Palace of Justice, built as the Town Hall in the XVI century. Its beautiful French style facade was built in 1885; The Museum of Michoacan; The Municipal palace, Baroque-style; The Colegio de San Nicolas, built in 1850; The Clavijero Palace, Baroque-style, constructed in the XVII century; The university library; The Conservatorio de las Rosas; and the beautiful French-style Federal Palace.

Also visit The Cultural House, where you can see among others, masks from throughout the country, over 100 figures of Christ and archaeological pieces; The Handicraft House; The Franciscan ex-Temple, built in 1610; and the house where Morelos was born, now a cultural center and a museum.

Architectural wonders include: The aqueduct with 253 arches; and Beautiful churches such as: the Santa Rosa de Lima Santa Catarina de Sena; Guadalupe Sanctuary. Morelia also has two airports: the Jose Maria Morelos and the General Francisco J. Mujica.

Its agricultural fair, is celebrated May 10th through May 21st. Fourteen kilometers (7 mi) from Morelia on the highway towards Tenencia, is the Cointzio Spa with its beautiful gardens and magnificent installations.

Oaxaca

See Oaxaca above.

San Luis Potosi

San Luis Potosi is located in northeastern Mexico. Some of the richest silver mines in Mexico are located in San Luis Potosí.

The name of San Luis Potosí was given in honor of San Luis, French King and Potosí was used to compare the wealth of the mines of the Hill of San Pedro with those of Potosí in Bolivia. Other version of the origin of the name is that was given as homage to the Viceroy Luis of Velasco.

Principal places you can visit are: The Plaza de los Fundadores, The Neoclassic-Style Ipina Building, constructed with pink quarry stone, The Loreto Chapel, which has a Baroque-Style facade, The Temple de La Compañia, where you can admire a sugar cane image of Christ, and some sculptures and paintings. Also, visit the main building of the Autonomous University of San Luis Potosi, The Baroque-Style Real Caja, famous because of its sturdy gateway and its typical Potosi balconies, from this place you can see: The Plaza de Armas, The Cathedral, and The Dome of the Camerin del Carmen.

See the Regional Museum, where there is an exhibition of handicrafts from the State: The Museum of the Mask, which is decorated with paintings of Molina and Campeani (Italian artists), here there is an important exhibition of masks from the Country; The House of Manuel Othon which nowadays is a museum; The Teatro de La Paz (Theater of Peace) and the railway station.

The Culture House contains temporary and permanent exhibitions of paintings, archaeological pieces and handicrafts. In the San Francisco Square you can see the Popular Art Museum and the San Francisco Temple with some paintings of the XVIII century

Among San Luis Potosi City principal feasts is the National Potosin Fair, which is celebrated in August with a commercial, cattle and industrial exhibition.

For a day trip, Guadalcazar is located 45miles from San Luis Potosi City by the federal highway 57 in Mexico. Guadalcazar principal attractions are: The House of the Viceroy Don Diego Fernandez de Corboda, which nowadays is the Municipal Palace; Two magnificent Franciscan Temples, built in the 17^th century; The Mexican-Baroque-Style Antique Parish and the Church of San Pedro, where you can admire a beautiful golden altarpiece with paintings and sculptures; And, nearby Guadalcazar one can find the "De las Comadres" Hill

San Miguel de Allende

Founded in 1542, this terraced, garden-like village is perhaps the most beautiful hamlet in all of Mexico. It remains virtually unchanged since colonial days, as the entire town is a national historic monument.

San Miguel served as the center for the Mexician independence movement between 1810-1821, and today boasts one of the finest cultural institutes (Instituto Allende) and equestrian schools anywhere. In addition, it is home to numerous North Americans, many of which are writers and artists.

Places to visit include: The parish church, The Allende's House, The House of El Mayorazgo de la Canal, The Mariscal Lanzagorta's House, The House of Los Perros (the house of the dogs), and The House of El Conde Loja. Some other interesting places to visit in San Miguel Allende are: The Angela Peralta Museum, The Allende Institute, and The Ex-Convent.

Nearby of San Miguel Allende you find the Begonias Dam and the beautiful Taboada Spa.In addition, San Miguel Allende is characterized by its great variety of handicraft works.

Taxco

Mexico at its most traditional from its red-tiled roofs to its sun-bleached white stucco houses. It was under Cortes’ direction that the country’s first silver mines were opened in Taxco. Silver is still a major component of the city’s life.

Among its main attractions are: The Santa Prisca Parish, built in 1751 with elegant decorations inside; The San Bernadino Convent, founded in 1592; The Chapel of Señor de Chavarrieta with its old crucifix; The house of Figueroa, also known as Casa de las Lagrimas (house of tears) because it was built by workers who were forced to do so because they did not pay tribute; The city museum; The Humboldt house or House of Mirrors; The house of Hangmans; The antique Spanish castle; and the ranch of Spratting, whose designs would bring Taxco silver its international luster. Nearby you can visit: The antique Hacienda Minera of San Francisco Cuadra and the Cacalote Falls.

Villahermosa

See Villahermosa above

Hermosillo

Hermosillo is the capital of the State of Sonora. It is also known as the City of the Oranges, because of the abundance of oranges in its territory. It is situated on the coastal plain, at an elevation of 778 ft above sea level, near the confluence of the Sonora and San Miguel rivers. It is south of Nogales on the Mexico-U.S. border and east of Kino Bay on the Gulf of California coast.

Sites you can visit in Hermosillo include: The Government Palace, which has beautiful murals; The Zaragoza Square and its Moorish kiosk; The Cathedral of La Asuncion; The Del Carmen and Espiritu Santo Chapels; The modern building of the Autonomous University of Sonora, where the Museum of the State is situated; Madero Park, The Culture House, The Tres Pueblos Square and The Batuc Church.

Nearby on La Campana Hill (the Bell Hill), there is a lookout from where you can enjoy a beautiful view of the city. Another lure is the Abelardo L. Rodriguez Dam, an ideal place for fishing.

Hermosillo has several hotels and restaurants where the tourist can taste its famous regional cuisine. The main festivity is the Vendimia Feast, which is celebrated on June 21st-26th, with a parade of floats and an industrial exhibition.

Veracruz

See Veracruz above.

Metropolis

Mexico City
(Ciudad de Mexico)

Like an enormous living museum, Mexico City is a remarkable showplace for Mexico's 3,000 years of human cultural achievement. It ranks as one of the world's great capitals and is a must for anyone yearning to understand Mexico's complex past and ever-challenging future. The size and grandeur of the city are staggering. It is not only the oldest continuously inhabited city in the Western Hemisphere, but also carries the burden of being the largest city the world has ever known.

Mexico City is located on an enormous dry lakebed in a highland basin (elevation 7,400 feet) surrounded by towering mountains. The city faces some formidable urban problems.

But beneath its riveting facade, is an endearing and captivating city that has magnetism unfound in other cities. With some patience, the city's engaging history and cosmopolitan air compensate for its glaring urban character.

Few cities on earth can match Mexico City for historic grandeur. Its tumultuous past encompasses every phase of Mexican history. It is unique in the Western Hemisphere as a colorful and compelling mosaic of Pre-Columbian, European colonial, and modern eras.

It is here that in 1519 the Old World and New World met face to face in a confrontation that would forever shape world history. Mexico City is the exact site upon which the great Mexica (Aztec) civilization flourished, developing one of the greatest cities of the 16th century.

Mexico City is still the economic, political and cultural hub of Mexico. It is a vivacious, pulsating city that clamors to be chic and modern while showcasing its colorful ancient roots. Interspersed throughout the city's unwieldy, and often unsightly, sprawl, are pockets of beautifully preserved remnants of its colonial and Native American heritage. These include astonishing historic sites, ranging from awesome ancient ruins, to meticulously restored, century-old colonial buildings, churches and mansions, to lovely parks and plazas, to grandiose monuments.

Visitors find accommodations ranging from fine world-class resorts, to colonial inns and stately Old World hotels. The city is home to dozens of outstanding museums, spanning topics of varied artistic and academic interest. Music, dance, theater and modern art thrive in the city's flourishing fine arts community. Dining and shopping are first rate and the city's spring-like climate invites visitors year round.

Visit the Templo Mayor, Plaza of the Three Cultures, and Teotihuacan. Don’t miss the exhibit at the Pino Suarez metro station. See the Ballet Forklorico in the Palace of Fine Arts. Experience a bullfight where the finest matadors from around the world perform. Relax in beautiful Chapultepec Park – stroll through a maze of walkways, a large lake, botanical gardens, a zoo, and an amusement park. Visit El Castillo, built in 1783, once the home of Emperor Maximilian and subsequent Mexican Presidents – now a museum. Take a short trip to the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco where you can ride boats, relax, and enjoy the music and food in adjoining boats. Visit the world’s largest pyramid in Cholula, nearly twice as big (by volume) as the Egyptian pyramid at Tiza. See the Enormous stone columns in Tula towering avove this city’s pyramids, ball courts, and platforms. Here the mighty Toltecs rose and fell (100-1300AD). Know Teotihuacan, Mexico’s earliest urban center (100 - 750 AD).Its gigantic pyramids, temples and courts offer one of the world’s most awesome archaeological experiences.

Mexico City surrounds visitors with reminders of the city's larger-than-life past. A strong air of Europe drapes the capital, sometimes in sharp contrast to the city's ancient Indian past. Its people make gregarious and gracious hosts.

Guadalajara

Guadalajara is the capital of the State of Jalisco, Mexico and is located 580 kms (360 mi.) from Mexico City via federal highways 57, 45, 110 and 90.

Guadalajara is characterized by its architecture and interesting places such as: the Plaza Tapatia, where you can visit the Municipal Palace, La Rotonda de los Hombres Ilustres, The Cathedral, which construction began in 1561, the Government Palace, containing murals painted by Clemente Orozco, El Museo Regional (museum), the Archaeology Museum, El Templo de Santa Maria Gracia, temple built in 1661, the Degollado Theater, neoclassic-style, El Templo de San Agustin (temple), the National Institute Cabañas, a neoclassic-style building where some murals painted by Jose Clemente Orozco are exhibited, and the Libertad Market, also known as San Juan de Dios Market.

Among its beautiful colonial - style buildings are: El Templo de Aranzazu, temple having ultra-baroque and churrigueresque-style altarpieces, Templo de Santa Monica, temple built in 1704, and the Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe and Nuestra Señora del Rosario Sanctuaries

To see civil architecture in Guadalajara you can visit: the Belem Cemetery, the Alcalde Park, the State University, the ATL mirador, which is located on the Oblatos Ravine, and the Cola de Caballo Waterfall.

The fascinating city of Guadalajara is also characterized for its handicrafts such as pottery and ceramics. Its regional cuisine offers such specialties like "pozole" or pork stew, and "carnitas" or fried pork.

Monterrey

Monterrey is the capital of the State of Nuevo Leon. Monterrey is best known for its industrial activity.

El cerro de la Silla (the Hill of the saddle) is a mountain that looks like a horse saddle is a landmark that symbolizes the Nuevo Leon State. Among its more interesting attractions it is recommended to visit the following ones: La Gran Plaza (the Great Square), the Municipal Palace, where you can find a sculpture in honor to the Rufino Tamayo's son, the Government Palace, built in 1908, the City's Modern Theater, the Supreme Court of Justice, the Zaragoza Square, built in the 19^th century, where you can see a kiosk and several sculptures in bronze, the Hidalgo square, the Cathedral, built in the 18th century, the Mariano Escobedo Park, the wooded zone and the Zoo, and the Purisima Church with its Virgen del Roble and the Purisima Square.

Monterrey has a great gastronomic tradition represented by the roasted cabrito (barbecued baby goat) and the "machaca" made with shredded dried meat.

The most important museums are: the Monterrey Museum, the Forum of Spectacles, the Hall of Fame of Professional Players of tennis and baseball, the Culture House, and the Regional Museum of Nuevo Laredo, with a light and sound spectacle