Cancún - Chichén Itzá & Tulum

Cancún is the final stop of my Mexico trip. This coastal city is filled with numerous resorts and is a popular vacation destination for Europeans and Americans. Before even catching a glimpse of the Caribbean Sea, I hurried off to explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichén Itzá. Following local customs, entering the Mayan territory required undergoing a ritual performed by a priest, involving a mysterious and smoky ceremony. After the ritual, we visited a cenote. The Yucatán Peninsula lacks rivers, making these cenotes vital water sources for the ancient people. The Mayans believed these cenotes, which connect to the underground water system of the region, were gateways to another world. In the past, they even conducted sacrificial ceremonies here. Nowadays, these cenotes have transformed into refreshing "swimming pools" for tourists. Chichén Itzá is a pre-Columbian archaeological site located in the northern part of the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico's Yucatán state. It is also one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The site still retains traces of ancient ball courts, observatories, temples, palaces, and baths. The main structure is a pyramid-like building known as the Temple of Kukulcán (El Castillo), which is said to function as a Mayan calendar. The inner, older pyramid was designed based on the lunar calendar, while the outer, newer pyramid follows the solar calendar. "In ancient Mesoamerican cities, it was customary to build larger and more magnificent pyramids over older ones, and the Temple of Kukulcán is a prime example. Archaeologists discovered an entrance on the northern staircase of the pyramid leading to a tunnel. Inside the tunnel, one can climb the steps of the older pyramid hidden within and see a red-painted, jade-studded jaguar throne representing the Feathered Serpent deity." However, this area is no longer open to visitors. To the northwest of the pyramid lies the largest ball court in ancient Mesoamerica. The court features stone panels depicting players, and it is said that the captain of the losing team (or, according to some accounts, the winning team) would be decapitated as a sacrifice. The design of the court is ingenious; the guide demonstrated the echo effect by clapping near the stone walls, producing a resonant sound that evokes the grandeur of ancient games. Another archaeological site, Tulum, is one of the last cities built and inhabited by the Mayans. Located on the cliffs of the eastern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula overlooking the Caribbean Sea, Tulum is a bit far from Cancún, making a one-day tour quite rushed. However, among archaeological sites, Tulum boasts the most stunning scenery, offering breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and its endless coastline. Many animals casually wander around, unafraid of humans. 🎈 Long trips can sometimes be challenging when there's no place to do laundry. I had to take my clothes to a local laundromat, which turned out to be great—affordable and clean. 🎈 Chinese buffet (10-12 pesos for two to three dishes with rice). Many locals dine here, and the food is quite authentic. 🎈 The hostel offers bookings for various one-day and half-day tours. The staff honestly mentioned that these tours are the same as those offered on the streets, though slightly pricier when booked through the hostel. 🎈 Free shuttle buses are available within the airport. 🎈 Shared taxi services are also available upon arrival.