11 Days Highlights of Mexico

About the destination: Mexico City is a vivid metropolis and cosmopolitan city situated on a plain in the central highlands at an altitude of 2, 286 metres. It is the capital city of Mexico, and the largest city in North America by population. Spanish administrative buildings and private houses in the heart of the city have replaced the temples of ancient Mexico and has resulted in a synthesis of both old and new architectural styles. Located at the Plaza de la Constitución, in the Historic Downtown, the Catedral Metropolitana is the country's largest cathedral and its construction took 250 years. The lower section is quite plain but the upper section is of Baroque and Neo-Classical design. It contains many altars and the main altar is made from solid gold. An elevator ascends the Torre Latino America, an earthquake-proof tower that was built in 1958. A viewing platform provides a wonderful panoramic view that includes the Palacio de Bellas Artes, with its orange and yellow dome, and the Juárez Monument. Of course a visit to Mexico DF would be incomplete without the Mariachi music. Go to the Plaza Garibaldi in the evening, and enjoy the Mariachi music.Located 50 kilometres from Mexico D.F. are the ancient remains of Teotihuacan that was once a centre of trade, art and ritual ceremonies. Its Sun Pyramid is one of the greatest building achievements of ancient times and it is considered by one of the most important cultural centres of mankind.The city's fascinating history is reflected in both its art and architecture with age old charm, Indian roots and elegant buildings. For surprises, sights and history galore, Mexico D.F. definitely deserves a visit.

About the destination: Puebla, located in the Puebla Valley, surrounded by volcanoes and snow-capped mountains, is the capital of the state of Puebla and one of Mexico's oldest Spanish cities, founded in 1531. Puebla is renowned for its distinctive colonial architecture, savoury cuisine, Talavera ceramics, onyx crafts, and textile industryThe city retains a remarkably well-preserved centre, a beautiful cathedral, which has two of the tallest church towers in Mexico, and many beautiful churches. The city offers a thriving art and nightlife scenes. Los Sapos, the art district, has a bohemian feel to it and it is full of workshops from local artist. Every Saturday and Sunday, there is a flea market where you can find handicrafts and some antiques.Puebla is a beautiful tribute to the architecture and history of Mexico. The people truly lived up to its reputation. With 22 churches and numerous colonial buildings the city deserves its title from UNESCO as a world heritage site.

About the destination: Oaxaca City is a beautiful colonial city with charming cobbled streets, gallery-lined walkways, lively squares and colourful markets. It is a cosmopolitan city, full of excellent restaurants and a vibrant nightlife, yet very traditionally Mexican, featuring Mexican folk art all around. The main Zocalo or square is a gorgeous and bustling place to hang out and enjoy the region’s unique and fantastic food in one of the sidewalk cafes. Around the Zocalo there are many fine crafts stores and markets. The church of Santo Domingo is a stunning historical church and a glorious example of Baroque architecture, blending Spanish and indigenous influences to spectacular effect. Next to it, we find the Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca, a museum of regional history and culture.Near Oaxaca City we find Monte Alban, one of the most impressive ruins in Latin America. The surrounding landscape, a set of spectacular mountain scenery, part of Mexico’s central volcanic belt, is, as well, worth exploring. Don’t miss out, Oaxaca City is one of Mexico’s most bewitching places.

About the destination: Mérida is the capital of the Mexican state of Yucatan. Mérida is a fascinating and festive city with a very distinct Spanish colonial influence. Mérida is a very atmospheric town, especially on weekends when the central streets are closed off and there is music and dancing in the main square. The whole city seems to move downtown to celebrate. It is also a good base to explore the Yucatan Peninsula. From Mérida you can visit Mayan ruins and museums, haciendas, cenotes, and a great variety of Catholic churches.Mérida was founded by Spanish conquistadors in 1542. They conquered the existing Mayan town, dismantled the pyramids and used the stones to build the Cathedral of San Idelfonso. The site of one pyramid is now Mérida's main town square. This town square or Plaza is now ringed by this cathedral as well as the town hall, the governor's palace and the Casa de Montejo, the former home of the conqueror of Yucatan. Stroll down Paseo Montejo to admire restored Spanish and French colonial mansions.Mérida is an interesting mix of amazing culture and history, tasty food, endless cultural activities and exciting attractions. Mérida is the cultural capital of the Yucatan and its beating urban heart.

About the destination: Cancun is a city located on the southeast coast of the Yucatán Peninsula in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. It is a major world-renowned tourist destination, as well as being the seat of the municipality of Benito Juárez. The city is located on the Caribbean Sea, and is one of the easternmost points in Mexico. Cancún is located just north of Mexico's Caribbean coast resort band known as the Riviera Maya. Cancun, located in the Yucatan region of Mexico, has many great attractions. Start with the white sand beaches of Cancun City. In the jungles of Yucatan lies one of the largest and best preserved archaeological sites in Mexico, Chichen Itza. The world famous Mayan ruins with thousands of years of history are one of the most visited sites in the world. Cancun is surrounded by spectacular scenery. Isla Mujeres, a small gorgeous island close to Cancun, is simply spectacular. The magical underwater natural pools known as Cenotes are a big draw around the Cancun area. Many have rocky edge formations above them. Outside of Cancun we find Tulum, a unique site where you can go for a swim in turquoise waters and visit the famous ruins of Mayan civilizationCancun has lots to offer. With its mix of tropical beaches, ancient ruins and modern resorts, this area is simply the perfect vacation destination for everyone. Modern Cancun offers wonderful white sand beaches and turquoise sea, great restaurants, lively clubs and activities of every type imaginable.