The Multi-Layered Country of Mexico
When it comes to contradictions and dual realities, Mexico is surely among the top countries of the world.
Not only can one find cultural tradition that is ancient but also a completely opposite way of life displayed in spring break shenanigans, not to mention the often frivolous tourist industry.
Mexico has a very long and very tumultuous history that has resulted in civilizations that were highly developed inhabiting the region for almost three thousand years.
Prior to the arrival of the Spaniards, these civilizations rose and fell, enriching the country with their surviving legends which seep into every aspect of the country's art, design and architecture.
When Hernan Cortez conquered the Aztec capital back in the sixteenth century it resulted in a unique superimposition of the Spanish culture over the indigenous heritage and beliefs.
This can still be seen all over Mexico to this day.
The Ancient Age of Mexico
When it comes to the field of archeology the Yucatan Peninsula is a perfect site.
It is located where the Mayan civilization had there center for the duration of their rule and is on the Gulf of Mexico's southern shore.
Calakmul, The City of Two Adjacent Pyramids, boasts extensive ruins for archeologists to examine.
Deep in the thick tropical forest of the Calakmul Bioshphere Reserve are some of the world's most impressive and spectacular ruins.
From the top of one of the ancient cities pyramids one gets the best view. To the east of the Yucatan Peninsula is Teotihuacan where the ancient largest city and most unifying empire dwelled.
With 248 steps, the Pyramid of the Sun is the third largest pyramid in the whole world.
Thanks to the discoveries of archeology and the heritage of the Olmec, Teotihuacan, Mayan and Aztec Empires, still in their surviving descendents, we are able to discover their history is rich with advanced mathematics, astronomy, farming and technology.
Sadly, when the European conquest occurred in the 16th century, bringing with it disease, a lot of that heritage was obliterated.
Solace in the Sand and Sun
During the colder months of winter Mexico is one of the most popular tourist destination around. Much of the country lies in the tropics which results in fairly reliable weather conditions.
Of course many people avoid being there during the months of July and August since the temperatures often do not drop below the 90°F mark even at night.
Acapulco and Puerto Vallarta are among the most popular of all the tourist hotspots along the Pacific coast of Mexico.
Along the warmer coastline of the Gulf coast one can enjoy the towns of Cancun and Veracruz. Among the world's top notch places for scuba divers is Cozumel, just of Cancun's coast.
The whole area is a protected underwater national park. Bordering the Sea of Cortes and the Pacific is the hugely popular Baja California.
Here surfers, kayakers, and sun worshipers flock to enjoy the great waves and sea caves, while for those who prefer to stay dry there are plenty of locales o make this a richly interesting and satisfying vacation destination.
Time-Out Tijuana
If you forget the immediate image that is conjured up when you think of Tijuana you will be able to appreciate the sheer majesty of the place which lies south of the border.
This is where you can experience the country's urban centers such as Mexico City and Guadalajra.
Explore almost twenty thousand years of human history while you dance to a Mariachi band with a sombrero on your head and sip on the best tequila on the planet.
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