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Cancun has something to offer for all kinds of travelers

| March 30, 2010 2:00 PM

(ARA) - One of the most wonderful things about travel is that it takes us outside of our comfort zones. That alone often dares us to try new things, which in turn become memorable experiences. The other advantage is that when we go somewhere we've never been before, we can indulge our unique personal interests, just in a new setting.

Cancun has myriad attributes that have been drawing travelers to it for decades, whether they arrive by air, land or the many cruises that sail to its shores. Its location on Mexico's "Riviera Maya" is indisputably gorgeous, adorned with sugar-soft sand beaches and the vibrant turquoise waters of the Caribbean. Though it's justifiably touted as a destination for lovers of sand and sun, Cancun vacations have plenty to offer visitors with a wide range of interests.

* Historians: Cancun's position on the Yucatan peninsula means that there is an abundance of Mayan ruins in the vicinity. Taking a tour will help you to understand just how advanced this society was, but you can appreciate the ingenuity of the construction even if you walk through on your own. If you can't spare the time for a day trip, consider going to Zona Arqueologica "El Rey," which is just a short ride away - you can even see Cancun hotels in the distance. Other sites in the area range in size and degree of restoration. Some examples are the world famous Chichen Itza and Tulum to lesser-known Xel-Ha and Muyil.

* Adventurers: There is plenty of opportunity to play in the beautiful scenery around Cancun. The warm waters of the Caribbean are ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving, and for those looking for a big thrill, from June to September, you can take an expedition to snorkel alongside whale sharks. For a change of underwater scenery, you can also dive in cenotes (underwater caverns) near Cancun. The jungles near the city also provide a fascinating backdrop for all sorts of active pursuits, from canopy tours to horseback riding to zipline rides.

* Aesthetes: A trip to the Casa de Arte Popular Mexicano showcases Mexico's diverse folk art traditions and will delight and inspire artists and collectors alike. Another worthwhile museum is the Museo Arquelogico de Cancun. It is filled with artifacts from a number of sites in the region that illustrate the uniquely stylized motifs of Mayan art and also offer a glimpse of daily life as far back as 2,000 years ago. For visitors looking for souvenirs, Cancun has multitudes of artisans creating one-of-a-kind treasures. Find exceptional hand-crafted silver jewelry and home decor collectibles that you'll be able to hand down as heirlooms, or seek out unique clothing inflected with the colorful, rich textile traditions of Mexico.

Courtesy of ARAcontent