This article is adapted from the new Lonely Planet guide to Cancún, Cozumel and the Yucatán Peninsula, now available from Lonely Planet. (I didn’t adapt it, but I did research and write the part of the brand new book. Read more about my adventures in the Yucatán here.)
“Only one region in Mexico can dazzle you with ancient Maya ruins, azure Caribbean waters and photogenic colonial cities, all within close proximity of one another: the Yucatán Peninsula. Composed of three separate states, Mexico’s southeastern corner boasts a staggering array of natural and human-made wonders. This is the place to come to snorkel with sea turtles, explore cenotes, and kayak through biosphere reserves, followed by evening drinks by the beach.
“Conjured out of thin air in the 1960s, Cancún’s powdery sands and tropical resorts have made it famous throughout the world. Yet it’s only one of the many seaside destinations along Mexico’s near-endless Caribbean shoreline. This coast is also home to buzzing cities, sleepy fishing towns and lagoon-fronting villages, not to mention enchanting island getaways like Cozumel and Isla Mujeres. All are surrounded by a colorful wonderland that lies beneath the water’s surface, part of the world’s second-largest barrier reef.” Read more at Lonely Planet…