Mexico's Secrets Revealed
Located 11 hours and 40 minutes flying time from the UK, Mexico is a melting pot of different cultures. Combining Spanish traditions with 5* luxury, Mayan influences with world class cuisine and ancient ruins with sleek city haunts, there is something for everyone in Mexico.
Culture
The Yucatán Peninsula has the privilege of playing host to some of the most awe inspiring Mayan ruins to be found in Mexico. Undoubtedly the most famous of these, and a UNESCO world heritage site, is Chichén Itzá with an estimated 1.2 million visitors every year. Named one of the 'New Seven Wonders of the World' in 2007 the ruins have become a must see for many culture buffs and it isn't hard to see why.
The most iconic structure, and one that many will instantly recognise, is El Castillo, or the Kukulkán pyramid. Standing about 30 metres high, the 365 steps around the temple (91 per side) denote the 365 days of the year demonstrating how advanced Mayan science was. This is but one of the fascinating features of the remains of a once dazzling city at the heart of the Mayan empire.
Restaurants
Nobody can visit Mexico without trying the local cuisine, and unsurprisingly Mexican restaurants are extremely popular! This, however, is only the tip of the iceberg - open your eyes and you will discover that Mexico offers culinary treats and gastronomical experiences to delight even the most discerning foodie.
Top of our recommendations would be Passion by Martín Berasategui, located in the Paradisus Playa Del Carmen La Perla Hotel. Seven Star Michelin Chef Martín Berasategui holds more Michelin Stars than any other Spanish chef and his world renowned cooking brings travelers flocking to his restaurants to try his signature Basque-French cuisine. Guests of the hotel get preferential dining here but it is open to all.
For another taste of pure luxury why not try Le Chique which, if we are to believe their website, is 'a feast in every sense'. With head chef Jonatan Gomez Luna having trained at El Celler Can Roca this isn't hard to believe (for those not in the know, El Cellar Can Roca holds 3 Michelin Stars and was this year named Best Restaurant in the World for the second time - need we say more?). Le Chique is the proud owner of several accolades in its own right, including Five AAA Diamonds and if it is high end gourmet dining you are looking for, then this should be high on the list.
Beaches
It is every holidaymakers dream to arrive at their hotel and be greeted by a lush stretch of powdery soft white sand as far as the eye can see. With 10,000 km of coastline Mexico does not disappoint and its beautiful beaches are lapped by some of the most crystal clear waters you will find. If your mission is to find the perfect beach then try Playa Paraiso in Tulum. Literally translated as 'Paradise Beach', it has been voted the Best Beach in Mexico in the Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Awards this year.
Hotels
There is no shortage of luxury 5* hotels in Mexico and the choice can be tough. Our top recommendation for the ultimate in pure, unadulterated luxury is the Fairmont Mayakoba which combines 5* elegance with stunning, natural surroundings. Whether you choose to lounge by one of the five freshwater pools, explore the lush grounds on one of the hotels nature trails or indulge in a relaxing spa treatment, the Fairmont will leave you blissfully relaxed.
