America’s

MONTHLY DIGEST

Travel to marvelous beaches while exploring diverse cultures

May 2022

EXPLORE BEACHES

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Cultural Dishes I Recipes Dive into México’s Culture with this Ceviche Recipe. By Natasha Kravchuk

Santorini, Greece Everything we love about Greece can be found on the island: beautiful scenery, relaxing beaches, delicious food and wine,and a glimpse into the past. By Piper Taylor

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Cancún, your next Caribbean destination Besides visiting the most breathtaking beaches, you have the opportunity to experience one of the Seven Wonders of the World. By Sandy Allen

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Cancún, your next Caribbean destination

Besides visiting the most breathtaking beaches, you have the opportunity to experience one of the Seven Wonders of the World. By Sandy Allen

CULTUR AL DISHES I RECIPES

Dive into México’s Culture with this Ceviche Recipe Recreate this succulent prawn cocktail utilizing cooked or raw shrimp, or tilapia. By Natasha Kravchuk

Ceviche is loaded with shrimp or tilapia, avocados, tomatoes and cucumbers; which are marinated in lime juice. It is essentially your choice to choose the fish you want to utilize when recreating this recipe. You are capable of either using raw or cooked shrimp for this dish that is a Mexican shrimp cocktail. Ceviche is among our favorite appetizers, along with the very popular shrimp salsa. It is a crucial crowd pleasing recipe and it is so satisfying served over crisp tostadas or with tortilla chips. This authentic Mexican ceviche recipe was shared with us by one of our readers, Blanca Villasenor. The secret ingredient for the best ceviche is Clamato juice which melds the flavors together and makes it one of the most fresh and satisfying appetizers you will try. However, incorporating Clamato is not necessary. One is fine with simply adding lime juice to the shrimp or tilapia.

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What is Ceviche?

Ceviche has many names including cebiche, seviche, or sebiche. The origin is debated; however, it is thought to have its roots in Peru. It is a seafood cocktail utilzing fresh fish that is marinated or “cooked” in a large amount of lime juice. It also includes tomatoes, onion, cilantro and some format of spice or pepper. We love bulking it up with fresh cut cucumber and diced avocado.

How to Make Ceviche:

1. Place chopped shrimp in a large bowl bowl and stir in 1 cup of fresh squeezed lime juice. Refrigerate and marinate (1 1/2 to 2 hours for raw shrimp and a total of 15 minutes for cooked shrimp). 2. Then, slice the remaining vegetables: cucumber, avocado, tomato, onion, cilantro and jalapeno. 3. Once the shrimp is done marinating, stir the shrimp in the diced vegetables.

4. Lastly, season with black pepper, and add Clamato juice (although Clamato is not required to have a delicious shrimp cocktail, thus a great outcome).

Is Ceviche Safe to Eat?

Marinating shrimp in lime juice essenttially cooks the shrimp due to the high acidity of lime juice. Due to food safety, if using raw shrimp, purchase it from a trusted source (preferably shrimp labeled “wild caught”) and one should consume the ceviche the first day it is made for quailty and security. Use pre-cooked shrimp if not comfortable with raw (or want to save marinating time), and it will remain tasting as good. We frequently use cooked shrimp meat to save time and one does not have to dice it. In either case, you rinse the shrimp and thoroughly pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture so your cocktail isn’t watered down.

Ceviche eR cipe

In order to prepare this prawn cocktail it will take approximately fifleen minutes. Hence, this meal or appetizer does not require extensive time. But, the tilapia or the shrimp must be marinated in lime juice for about two hours to provide the fish with ttavor. During those hours of waiting, how about watching some Netttix, or you can also begin chopping the vegetables that will be neccesitated to complete and enjoy the ceviche. Therefore, total estimated time to make this recipe is 2 hours and 15 minutes. Individuals who aim to make this recipe should know that it is uncomplicated to prepare, as well as inexpensive since it will cost $18 to $20 for the necessitated materials that make this ceviche recipe. This recipe is capable of feeding around 8 people, but it all depends on the total amount of fish one uses or incorporates with this cocktail.

Ingredients

The following information pertains to the supplies that one needs to execute this ceviche appetizer; however, one is able to substitute some of these items, such as the fish you decide to use since it does not have to be shrimp. •1 bl of pshrim or pialt (it can be w ra or ed)cok ed,pl eind,v and dice •1 puc of lime ,uice j t emnpli 6 limes •1 , ber umc tus m pel and hent dice •1 eglar odcav (or owt y int os)dcav •2 omar oestma , tha tus m be dice 2•1/ edr ,oni dice ot in lsma piecs 4 •1/ huncb ,ort cilan phoc yleaid yhinlt •1 penolaj tha is eds and minced 4 •1/ esponbl at kcbla per or etsa •1 puc ot clam uice j ezilt(u ”et pican“ ersionv for spicer lsa)

oT serve •16 sdato T (or a gba of ilaort hips)c d•A tho ceuaS (or y an tha uoy efr)p

Instructions

1. Dice uroy pshrim or pialt and cepla ot in a evsima sgla ( wl).bo ezuSq undoar 1 ot 1 4 1/ psuc of lime uice j omfr 6 limes ervo het .pshrim irtS ot ,binecom hent ervco and -marin eta in het orteafig et (marin 1 21/ ot owt urs,ho het w ra pshrim or ilt un uoy no erongl wvie t cenurasl and -marin et 15 estu min for edcok p),shrim ir-ts ng y alfwh .ughort 2. pCho het wingofl es:b atgv u-c , berm ,odcav oes,tma edr ,oni ci,ort lan and .penolaj 3. When pshrim or pialt is oned mari ing,ta cepla het pedhoc esbl at gv in uroy wlbo of .hoice 4. dA 4 1/ bsp t of kcbla , per or s-ea on ot etsa it and ytl eng irts ot .binecom , ytlsLa one wil ned ot irts 1 puc of cla otma ,uice j mixng in erdo ot .bine com uo Y dulsho esrv hwit ilaort hipsc or hwit s,dato and env ytlsa ers.kca

lat-meno mixng

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Santorini, Santorini, Greece Everything we love about Greece can be found on the island: beautiful scenery, relaxing beaches, delicious food and wine, and a glimpse into the past. By Piper Taylor

G

reece has beauty and history around every corner, and Santorini is no exception. After all, everything we love about Greece can be found on the island: beautiful scenery, relaxing beaches, delicious food and wine, and a glimpse into the past. There are so many things to do in Santorini on tour. Want to spend your days lounging on black-sand beaches or how about enjoying a cliff-side dinner at sunset, or taking a stroll through local markets? Then read our guide to Santorini to find out why this island should be on the top of your travel bucket list! The currency that is utilized on this island is Euros, while the main language spoken is Greek, as it is evident. Despite this, locals speak English. There is no better time than the present to pick up a few words of the native language! To get around there is a bus system, called (KTEL), a cheap and easy way to traverse the island. For a little more money out of pocket, you can always rent a local taxi to get around. Of course, walking through the alley ways and winding hills is also a must - seeing the sites on foot is one of the best things to do in Santorini!

to upper 70s, the beaches are the perfect spots to relax and to unwind while on tour in the island of Santorini.

Hoping for a quiet vacation without the crowds? Then Novem-

ber through February is the time to go since these months are considered the offseason of travel, however, make for a unique and relaxed vacation, without crowded streets, beaches, and restaurants, you can take advantage and experience more of the island than you would during peaktravel season. Off-season travel means flights are cheaper as well as accommodations, making the perfect time to plan a trip to Santorini without having to break the bank.

Want the best sightseeing experiences? March through June

and September through November are the best months to plan a trip to Santorini; being in between off-season and peak-season, these months are perfect times to explore the island, because the weather will be just right in order to go on hikes, visiting shops, and observing the local beautiful scenery.

THINGS TO DO ON THE ISLAND

Santorini fun fact: The island is formed from a volcanic crater.

Stunning beaches, ancient ruins, plenty of spots to watch the sunset—there are so many amazing Santorini attractions, and you’ll never run out of things to do in Santorini! Here are some of our favorite ways to see the best of the island on a Santorini tour.

WHEN TO TRAVEL TO SANTORINI

Ride to the top of Mount Profitis Illias. The panoramic views

One of our top travel tips for Santorini is this: GO! Really, the island is a must-visit place no matter when you decide to travel to Greece. However, to help you plan a trip to Santorini at a time that’s perfect for you, the following are some of the best times to take off.

Going for the beaches? If your

goal is to soak up as much sun as possible, the best time to travel to Santorini would be June through September. With the temperature consistently in the mid 17

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of Santorini that you’ll see from the top of this mountain make it one of our favvorite places to visit in Santorini. There’s also a monastery located here (complete with a beautiful courtyard and gardens!), so you can step into history while taking in the beautiful scenery.

See the Akrotiri Archaeological Site. Referred to as, “the Pompeii of the

Aegean”, this Bronze-age village was finely preserved by a volcanic eruption nearly 4,000 years ago. It’s home to beautiful frescoes and pottery which date back to the

16th century. Here, you’ll feel like you walking amongst the Ancient Greeks! Who wouldn’t want to experience this incredible and surreal feeling?

Enjoy a dip in the Nea Kameni Hot Springs. Take a quick boat ride

over to the small volcanic island of Nea Kameni, to admire otherworldly terrain. After, stop by the sulfur-rich hot springs, which are noted for healing abilities.

Take in the views from Oia.

If you’re looking for beauty and Greek history, this village is a must-see! Oia is located on northwestern part of Santorini and has some of the greatest hidden gems for history buffs and nature lovers alike. Here, you will find the Naval Maritime Museum, and the legendary sunssets over the Aegean Sea.

SPENDING FREETIME There are countless things to do while in Santorini; therefore, filling your free time while on tour in Greece will not be a challenge, especially with the expert guidance from your Tour Director! But, to give some ideas, here are a few free time tips for Santorini that you should accomplish before leaving this magnificent island.

Enjoy a sunset cruise around the caldera on our Santorini Caldera

Cruise & Dinner excursion. This is one of the top things to do in Santorini! You may regret not having done this. Be certain to bring your bathing suit since a day of snorkeling, sunbathing, and consuming local Greek specialties at sunset is expected.

Since the landscape is one of the most photogenic things to see in Santorini! Don’t miss the opportunity to take your own photos of the iconic white-and-blue cave houses, called yposkafas.

Soak up the sun on Perissa Beach. If you’re looking for an easy,

relaxing day on the sand and under the sun, this is the perfect beach for you! It is also known as Black Sand Beach, this hotspot has plenty of delicious restauraants and hotel accommodations that are just steps away.

Visit the Archaeological Museum of Fira. If you’re looking

to uncover more history after your ontour visit to Akrotiri Archaeological Site, visit the museum during your free time to check off your bucket list! The museum is home to artifacts from Akrotiri and Thera, another nearby Bronze Age civilization that was present here.

WHAT TO EAT & DRINK IN SANTORINI No Santorini travel guide is complete without a mention of feta cheese, grilled octopus, Vin Santo wine. Long story short: the food you’ll try on tour in Santorini is top-notch! Here are some of our foodie tips for Santorini, and a handful of our favorite places to eat in the regional unit of Santorini, too.

Sip Greek wine at the Koutsoyano-

poulos Wine Museum. It is located within a cave, this museum doubles as a winery. After wandering through historic exhibits and learning the ins-and-outs of winemaking in Santorini, unwind with a nice cool glass of wine in their tasting room. Be prpared to love every sip—Greece has a storied grape-growing tradition and has been making wine longer than anyone else in Europe has been.

Taste fresh seafood dishes!

The Greek Islands, known for fresh fish gathered from the sea, and digging in to everything from grilled octopus and calamari to sardines and swordfish on tour in Santorini is a must. You can try some of the best at psarotavernes, or fish taverns, or you can splurge and paya vist to Selene which is located in Fira, the capital of Santorini. This restaurant has some of the best Greek fine dining on the island. Owner and chef Giorgos Hatzigiannakis takes classic Greek tastes and re-invents them with modern perspective. 19

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Dig in to roasted lamb, a Greek

classic, at Metaxi Mas. This restaurant totes its authentic Cretan and Santorinian tastes, as well as a carefully curated wine list. Surrounded by the mountainous terrain, restaurant is great for a full sensory experience of Santorini.

Enjoy a Horiatiki salad—it doesn’t

get more quintessentially Greek than sliced tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumbers, local olives, and a brick of feta cheese! Really, don’t even get us started with the feta. This salad is yummy, no matter where you try it on tour in Santorini, so simply look for a taverna with a view of the sea and dig in to your greens.

Try Santorini’s famous white eggplant at Katharos Lounge. If you’re looking for delicious plant-based eats— including local eggplant, a staple in Santorini—this vegan spot is the place to be. Located on the cliffside, Katharos is the perfect place to enjoy a light lunch while enjoying the view.

Sip Vin Santo, a sweet white wine

that Santorini is known for. Try some of the best at Vassaltis, one of our favorite vineyards on the island, and one you’ll visit on tour in Santorini.

SOUVENIRS TO BUY The most important part of any Santorini travel guide is the must-have experiences to seek out on tour! That being said, who doesn’t love bringing home a few trinkets to remember their adventure? So, we are rounding out our guide to Santorini with souvenirs to snag on tour in Greece.

Bottle of Ouzo. This anise-flavored

spirit is considered the national beverage of Greece. Compared to the liquorice -like taste of absinthe, ouzo is often served with a traditional Greek appetizers, called mezze. If you have time, come by Canava Santorini, Santorini’s own distillery, in order to learn how ouzo is made and produced on the island.

Local honey. Surprisingly, Santorini is

home to more than a few beekeepers! Shaped by the local flora and its volcanic soil, this island’s honey is unique in flavor.

Jewelry. Santorini is home to a mul-

titude of small boutiques run by local artisans. Even if jewelry isn’t your thing, these shops are a great stop to admire modern Greek art on tour in Santorini.

WHAT TO PACK FOR A TRIP TO SANTORINI A packing list may not be the most exciting part of a Santorini travel guide—how can it be when it’s up against Greek beaches to visit and where to eat the best feta around?! However, you will be glad you have these travel tips for Santorini when you’re swimming in the Aegean since you remembered to bring a bathing suit! The following information pertains to necessities to pack for Santorini tours.

Universal adapter and converters. The plug outlets are

shaped differently in Greece, so you will need this to charge and use your electronics. Having a proper electrical converter helps your electronics from overheating, because Greece runs on a different electrical voltage than the United States and Canada.

A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Whether you’re planning

on spending the day at the beach or taking a stroll around the town, these items are must-haves! If you happen to forget a hat or sunglasses at home, never fear since there are numerous local boutiques that carry all the sunny-day essentials.

A bathing suit. Speaking of sunnyd-

ay essentials, swimsuit will come in handy if you desire to lounge on the island’s beaches which is one of the best things to do in Santorini!, or set out on our Santorini Caldera Cruise & Dinner excursion. When you are deciding what to pack for your trip to Santorini, be sure to check this one off your list.

Comfortable footwear. Comfort

is key to enjoying a vacation in Greece. Are you planning on strolling along the cobble-stone streets to enjoy the whitewashed houses and nice ocean views? How about taking a nice hike over Santorini’s iconic volcanic terrain? Then proper footwear is a must.

Inspiration for His & Hers Santorini Wardrobe

Cancún CANCÚN yr next Caribbean desnaо.

Besides visiting the most breathtaking beaches, you have the opportunity to experience one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Written by Sandy Allen

MONTHLY DIGEST

“Favorite’s” in Cancún All-Inclusive Family Resorts • Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancún • Hard Rock Hotel Cancún • Moon Palace – Cancún

Water Park Resorts • Moon Palace • Hyatt Ziva • Royal Solaris

Family-Friendly Resorts • The Grand at Moon Palace • Iberostar Selection Cancún • Paradisus Cancún

Things to Do • Walking Tour & El Rey Ruins • Get Some Sun at Playa Marlin • Speed through the Jungle Lagoon

Things to Do with Kids • Ride ATVs • Swim with Whale Sharks • Captain Hook Pirate Dinner Cruise

Things to Do at Night • Chichen Itza Light and Sound • Xcaret at Night • Floating Tour at Nichupte Lagoon

Day Trips •Rio Secreto •Xcaret •Xel-Há

Excursions and Tours • Amigo Tours – Chichen Itza Plus • Jungle Tour Cancún Adventure • Cancún Sailing – Premium Tour to Isla Mujeres

Beaches • Playa Chac Mool • Playa Delfines • Tulu

F

rom beautiful beaches and stunning sunsets to adventurous watersports, historic sites, worldclass entertainment, Cancún, México is a favorite among families, singles and couples. The island, along with its people have rebounded from the effects of Wilma the Hurricane, with spirit and resilience. Travelers can enjoy all the amenities, restaurants and activities at an all-inclusive resort, or they can take in the casinos, attractions, shopping and nightlife of downtown Cancún. Head off on a day trip to Isla Mujeres, Tulum or the Mayan archaeological site of Chichen Itza, known to individuals as one of the Seven Wonders of the World. If you’re looking for a dependable Cancún, México travel guide in order to plan your next family vacation or romantic getaway, keep reading to check out our tips and advice on this Caribbean destination.

Best Months to Visit

While Cancún weather is wonderful yearround, there are certain times of the year that might suit your interests. December through April brings low humidity, cooler Caribbean waters and warm sun. Hence, this is a great time to vist Cancún if you want to visit cultural sites since you will not be dripping in sweat before you get to where you’re going. If you want to avoid crowds, the best time to visit Cancún is April through June, and November. Stay away from this site from late February through March since this period is prime spring break season; hence, the area is overwhelmed. Nature enthusiasts will want to visit in May for sea turtle nesting and whale shark sightings. For great deals and low crowds, July through October are your best bets. It is the rainy (and hurricane) season; hence, if you’re more into casinos, shopping and indoor entertainment than the heat, humidity and rain of the great outdoors, you’ll be happy. There have only been two hurricanes in Cancún over the past three decades, hence, the chance of a hurricane is a fairly low possibility. Although, one may take place.

Save Money in Cancún

Between local transportation, all-inclusive packages and careful souvenir spending, there are several ways to save money during a Cancún vacation. Buses are available all over the place in Cancún. They cost less than a dollar to ride, making them an excellent alternative over taxis or walking.

Bundle your trip with an all-inclusive package. When accommodations, dining, resort activities and taxes and gratuities are all bundled into one neat package, you’ll find that a Mexican vacation can be quite affordable. Beaches and attractions are popular places for vendors to sell overpriced souvenirs. You will save money by politely declining and instead, buying at stores and other locations.

What You Need to Know

Here are a few Cancún travel tips and advice for tourists and visitors in order to make your experience a good one and one you will never forget. 1. Most businesses in Cancún accept credit cards and U.S. dollars. However, it’s still a good idea to exchange dollars for pesos to use at local markets and for tipping taxi drivers, street performers and waiters at off-site restaurants. 2. Timeshare solicitors are the bane of most every traveler I’ve ever met. They try to capture your interest everywhere. Give a polite, but very firm, “No, thank you” and keep walking. 3. Organized day trips to sites such as Tulum or Chichen Itza are the way to go when it comes to seeing the cultural side of things. If you need help booking tours and making reservations, your resort concierge can assist you.

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What Not to Do

Cancún is tourist-friendly, but there are some tips to follow to avoid trouble, wasting time and money. 1. Taxis can get extremely expensive and take longer. Consider using the bus for affordability and time constraints as buses have their own lanes. 2. Don’t buy bottled water at the resort. All-inclusive packages usually include beverages and bottled water. 3. Don’t accept the first price that is offered by street vendors. You can usually negotiate to get a better price. 4. Don’t exchange money at your hotel or at the airport. You’ll get the best rate by doing it ahead of time at a bank. 5. Don’t book tours and excursions off-site from your resort since this may result in scam as well as safety issues.

Culture & Customs

My favorite thing about visiting another country is experiencing different cultures and customs. Cancún offers museums, cultural attractions and archaeological sites such as Coba, Xoximilco Cancún, the Museo Maya de Cancún, Tulum and Mexican-themed Xcaret park. Cultural festivals and events include Dia de los Muertos (taking place, from October 31 – November 1 and 2), Children’s Day in April, Semana Santa (Holy Week) at Easter, Carnival in Cozumel (which coincides with Mardi Gras) and the Spring Equinox at Chichen Itza.

Where to Stay

Whether you’re looking for a luxury resort, a small hotel or mid-size accommodations with a kitchenette, deciding where to stay in Cancún can become overwhelming. To help narrow it down, start by deciding whether you prefer a bustling city vibe or a laid-back and natural setting. The Hotel Zone is the most popular resort area and offers a wide variety of family-friendly hotels with all-inclusive packages, pools, fitness centers, spas, restaurants, and live entertainment. The downtown El Centro area is a good choice if you like the beach, but want to engage and participate in other activities and attrations. About an hour from downtown, the laid-back Playa del Carmen is for the nature and water lovers.

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At just four miles long, Isla Mujeres is located off the coast of Cancún and provides an idyllic setting of crystal blue water, lush palm trees and relaxation. Puerto Morelos, located between the Hotel Zone and Playa del Carmen, offers boutique hotels and local businesses in the charm of a Mexican fishing village. Cozumel is one of the area’s most popular islands. It’s accessible by a 20-minute flight or a 45-minute ferry ride. Travelers who enjoy history and authentic Mexican culture will love this island setting.

What to Eat

Between your resort and the Hotel Zone, you will have plenty to choose from when it comes to finding the best restaurants in Cancún. The area is filled with choices which range from steak, sushi andseafood to Mexican, Italian and French cuisine.Hence carnivores, vegetarians and the pickiest of eaters can all find something that will please their palate and appetite. For dinner with a view, El Fish Fritanga Navios and Captain’s Cove feature seafood and Mexican cuisine by the beach, a deck and overlooking Nichupte Lagoon. If you are craving sushi, head to Irori. For vegetarians, Elefanta has lots of options. Parque de las Palapas is a casual and laid-back park setting with taco, dessert and empanada vendors. If you’re a fan of creative cocktails, check out Nebrina Gin & Cocina. Their menu offers a variety of gin concoctions and Mediterranean cuisine. Tempo, offers a Basque menu in a contemporary setting. Lorenzillo’s is a popular place for lobster. For a traditional Mexican meal, go to La Fonda del Zancudo. Breakfast and brunch at Café Antoinette or Marakame Café are good ways to start the day.

Where to go Shopping

For mall and big-name brand Cancún shopping, head to La Isla Shopping Village, Malecon Americas and Plaza Las Americas in Cancún. Puerto Cancún Marina Town Center has local boutiques, souvenir shops, and as well as a movie theater, restaurants and chain stores. For bars, restaurants and designer shops, you should check out Luxury Avenue and Plaza Kukulkan.

Mercado 28, known as Market 28 when translated to the English language, in downtown Cancún is one of the best places to find local handicrafts, pottery as well as jewelry.

Safety

You’ll be happy to hear that Cancún is very safe. The Hotel Zone is guarded with patrol cars and surveillance cameras in public areas. However, it’s still wise to pay attention to your surroundings and not wander off into unfamiliar areas.

According to official travel information for Cancún, México, the area is safe for tourists and visitors. Many of the large resorts have gated entrances and strict security rules. The biggest safety issue you may encounter is rough surf at the beach. Swimming in warm waters of the Caribbean is one of the best things about Cancún. You will just need to use caution and pay attention to conditions and the lifeguards in order to avoid unfortnate accidents such as drowning.

Getting Around Cancún

Unless you have a rental car, you’ll find that buses are the best way to get around Cancun. They are cheaper than taxis and usually faster. You will want to take a taxi, or a resort shuttle bus, to and from airport. The ferry is a fun and usually the only way one is able to get to the islands such as Isla Mujeres.

What to Pack

Cancún is typically warm and sunny yearround, so you’ll want to include light and comfortable items. Shorts, cool tops, flip flops and water shoes for the beach and pool, while pair of sunglasses, and a sun hat are the top items for a sunny and relaxing Cancún vacation. Don’t forget sunscreen, though you can purchase this in places in the city and in the resort.

not exchange “ Do money at your hotel

or at the airport. You will get the best rate by doing it ahead at a bank! ”

TOURISM FACTS I HISTORY

People & the Culture of Cancún Learn some of this famed city’s history, the land the ancient and mystical Mayans once traveled on and lived thousands of years ago. By John Walsh

The Cancun that people know today only began in 1974. Before this time this area was pretty much unknown except by local fishermen. The resort zone has a reputation of white sandy beaches and sun. However, one will also see many of the rich past that this area once had. The ancient and mystical Mayans once traveled this area, and lived on the territory thousands of years ago while they enjoyed their time before the arrival of the Spanish Conquistadors, they constructed many marvelous buildings that you see today. Among these erections is the Chichen Itza, the Snail, Warriors Temple, the Castle, the Ball Game, the Tzompantli, the Eagles House, the Osario, the Temple of the Chac Mool, along with numerous more. There are tour packages that take you back in time when you visit these incredible and historic ancient buildings.

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After the Spanish took over this area it was pretty much forgotten until it finally was given an official territory name in 1902. It was known as the Quintana Roo after a famous army general who was names Andreas Quintana Roo. In the 1960’s, the Mexican government became interested in this area of white beaches and Caribbean Sea. They decided to take this untamed jungle region, along with its white sandy beaches and transform it into the resort of Isla Cancun. It took some time to bridge the mainland to the island, create manicured tropical gardens, and tame the wild bush. But, their vision became true in 1974 when the resort first opened its doors. The people of Mexico and locals surrounding Cancun are quite festive. Several of their traditions and culture date back to the time of the

Mayans. They have many celebrations in a year, but the major National holidays include: New Year’s Day on Jan.1st, the Constitution Day on February 5th, the birthday of Benito Juarez on the 21st of March, The Holy Week Celebrations which includes Good Friday and Easter Sunday varies between March and April each year, Labor Day on May 1st, Cinco de Mayo on May 5th (The Anniversary of the Battle of Puebla which took place in 1862), Mother’s day on May 10th, Independence Day - 16th of September, Dia de la Raza on October 12th (the day of the race, marking the arrival of Christopher Columbus in 1492), the Presients State of the Nation Address on October 12 Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead, individuals that have died are honored) on November 2nd and 3rd, the Anniversary of Mexican Revoltion on November 20th, and Christmas

week celebrations that take place in the month of December, occur from the 25th to January 2nd. If you are visiting Cancun during any of the above dates, you will love all the parades, decorations, and atmosphere that is present among these popular celebrations. The United States dollar is widely accepted in Cancun, but you may notice that sometimes there is a price in both the Mexican dollar or peso. They have new and old pesos floating around Cancun and one should know how to tell these two apart. If you receive large bill, such as ten thousand, eliminate the last 3 zeros to see what your bill is truly worth. On average, the American dollar bill is equivalent to 20 pesos and the best place to get your moneys worth is at a bank located in downtown Cancun. The exchange rate is frequently closer than any of the local shops.

Currencies other than the US dollar may be much lower than you expect Despite this, the best place to learn about universal currency rates is by visiting the following website: eX Currency Converter. This should aid you understand a lifile bit more the conversion rate before traveling. If you are planning on using your credit cards instead of cash or check talk with your credit card company before you go on vacation. They can tell you their exchange rate for Mexican pesos. You may or will flnd that you can save money using your credit card because sometimes the exchange rate is befier. When your credit card is charged more than likely it will result being charged by Mexican pesos instead of the U.S. dollar. You can flnd ATM machines in many areas througout Cancun; you usually receive pesos rather than US dollars, considering this is the nation’s

currency; however, there are instances when one is allowed to pay wiith American dollars. This of course, solely depends on the individuals or the company that you are purchasing items from. When tipping, it should be about 10% to 15% of your bill. There are no automatic tips included on people’s bills, whether that be at a shop or a restaraunt. The average tip for a porter at the airport is 1 US dollar and the same rate applies to housekeeping and gas station workers. You are also capable of tipping ushers, wash room afiendants, and others people you desire to give change from your pocket, such as the homeless. Bargaining and bartering can be fun; however, most of the stores usually have flxed prices they are unwilling to change. But, if you enjoy negotiating a price, then you will love visiting the markets.

America’s Monthly Digest

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May 2022

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