Chichen Itza and Riviera Maya



New 7 Wonders of the World

Chichen Itza, Mexico
The Great Wall, China
Petra, Jordan
Christ Redeemer, Brazil
Machu Picchu, Peru
The Roman Colosseum, Italy
The Taj Mahal, India


Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza, meaning "at the mouth of the Itza well", was a powerful Mayan city located in the Yucatan peninsula in Mexico.  It was a religious and ceremonial site as well as a sophisticated urban center and hub of regional trade.  Today, the brilliant ruins showcase the architecture and art of the Maya culture.  The Maya developed astronomy, calendrical systems, and hieroglyphic writing.

Kukulkan Pyramid of Chichen Itza

The Kukulkan Pyramid, also known as El Castillo (the castle), is a monumental representation of the Mayan calender.  There are 364 steps on this pyramid and when combining the platform at the top, it totals 365 which equals the days in a year.  During the spring and autumn equinoxes, the afternoon sun casts its rays on the pyramid, creating 7 triangles that resemble a serpent's body.  The shadows join a serpent's head carved in stone at the base of the staircase.  As the light changes, it appears the snake slithers down the pyramid towards a sacred cenote, a natural sinkhole considered by the Maya to be an opening to the Underworld.  Human bones have been found in the cenote which could indicate ritual human sacrifice.      

see the shadow of the serpent slithering down the pyramid? (photo source)
serpent head at base of pyramid (photo source)



On the day that I visited Chichen Itza in May, there were brief showers which helped break the hot sun.  I recommend comfortable shoes and a hat.  There are plenty of resting areas though and vendors inside the front gate that offer refreshments/snacks.  

I got to see one of the new 7 wonders of the world!  6 more to go!
different view of El Castillo
Climbing the steps is now forbidden due to past tourists vandalizing with graffiti, breaking stones for souvenirs, and urinating at the top of the pyramid.

Hard Rock Hotel- Riviera Maya

I stayed at the all-inclusive resort, Hard Rock Hotel, as it was the location of my friend's wedding.  The food was so good, the staff was so kind and helpful, and the resort was beautiful.  I highly recommend this place!

the girls and me relaxing at the resort
    
friendly lizards on the resort

Aventuras Mayas

I booked my excursions with Aventuras Mayas.  Our guide, Rocco, was very knowledgeable and fun!  He made sure everyone was having a good time.  

ATV ride is guided.  max speed was 43 mph for me.  Pretty safe as the roads were pretty groomed.  pictured is a cool girl I met from Toronto.

snorkeling at Turtle Bay.  We were not allowed to hang on to them or touch them.  They come up for air every 5-8 minutes so hanging on to them could drown them!  (photo courtesy of Aventuras Mayas)

I also got to see a stingray!  (photo courtesy of Aventuras Mayas)
snorkeling in underground river. you have to be careful not to hit your head on stalactites.  the water was refreshing aka cold!


if you look up, you will see bats! (photo courtesy of Aventuras Mayas)

the cave was not this well lit when I was there but in this picture you can see the formations and how clear the water is (photo courtesy of Aventuras Mayas)

Love

This trip is possible because of the union of two beautiful people, Chris and Joyce.  I had an amazing time in Mexico and at your fun and unforgettable wedding.  

What are the girls laughing at?
they are laughing at the groom and his men!
Love you guys... here's to new adventures! 



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