Belize
 One of the most beautiful places in Central America is Belize. This Creole-dominated country is primarily English speaking and has a very, laid back approach to life. The majority of roads are still unpaved, which makes travel somewhat of a challenge but even so, you will see some amazing scenery. There is little infrastructure and prices are high but you will find dramatic Mayan ruins and untouched jungle area that make Belize a wonderful place for adventure.
Although there is really no bad time to visit Belize, it does have a hotter, dry season from November to May. However, keep in mind that this is also the season when there are masses of tourists, which help jack up hotel prices. Therefore, if you are on a stricter budget, visit Belize during their summer months, which are July to November. For example, you would expect to pay around $30 US per day for room and two to three meals.
The good news is that this price does not go up much for staying at the nicer hotels. While this may not sound much when compared to prices in the United States, when compared to other locations in Central America, these prices are extremely high. Keep in mind that haggling in Belize is quite common so if you do not like the price of a hotel room, see if you can get the owner to reduce it for you. The only disadvantage is that this is the hurricane season so expect rain and storms.
There are some wonderful activities and events held in Belize such as the Baron Bliss Day in March, which is a festival that honors the philanthropic British noblemen who fell madly in love with this country. After his death, all of his vast fortune was left to the people. Then in September, there is the Belize National Day, a commemoration of the Battle of St. George’s Caye. Other festivals are held throughout the year, some of which include Garifuna Settlement Day, Independence Day, and Columbus Day.
If you travel into Belize City, the former capital, you will not find much other than some rundown buildings that have been damaged from tropical storms. Sadly, this area has open drainage canals and a serious problem with foul odor. During the hot months, Belize City is sweltering and most people say visiting there, especially after dark, is a danger proposition. Another city, Lamanai is very different, featuring some impressive Mayan ruins. In all, there are 60 structures, one that is a 112-foot structure, along with a ball court and temple.
The name, Lamanai, translates to “submerged crocodile”, which was at one-time occupied in the early 16th century. During that era, it was a major ceremonial center well before the Mayan structures were built. The Mayan civilization lived there until the Spanish arrived, which is evident by two Indian churches that now lie in ruins. While in this area, you should consider taking a 90-minute boat trip to the New River. Along the way, you will pass the Mennonite community of Shipyard, which is an interesting site that is home to lots of crocodiles and bird life.
If you prefer getting away from things, then the Community Baboon Sanctuary and Placencia would be nice destinations. For the Baboon Sanctuary, you will discover more than 20 miles of rainforest, featuring the Belize River that runs right through the middle. Here, approximately 1,200 rare Black Howler monkeys call home, which are the local baboons. If you like, you can hike through the rainforest to get a better view or simply enjoy the trip y canoe.
For Placencia, this is very different in that it is a sandy peninsula in the southern region of Belize. This beach town is very quiet and peaceful and the village features a main street made from nothing more than a narrow footpath built out of concrete. However, you can enjoy fishing, swimming, sun tanning, and a number of water sports here. In fact, Belize is a haven for water sports enthusiasts with fantastic snorkeling and scuba diving, windsurfing, tubing, and much more.
History tells us that Belize was first inhabited by the Maya and Carib Indians. Considered a major part of the Mayan empire, Belize once stretched from Guatemala and areas of Honduras to El Salvador. The history in this part of Central America can be dated to around 4,000 years ago during the Classic Period. While the population reached its peak around the 7th to 8th centuries, it was in serious decline by the 14th century. Then when the Spanish came in the 16th century, the Mayan cities were deserted.
Interesting, the Spanish settlers thought of Belize as only being good for cutting logwood that was used for dye. With the safety provided by the reef, many Englishmen and Scottish pirates were attracted to this area in the 17th century and when piracy started to fade out, they got involved with the logging industry. By the 20th century, Belize went through a tough period of unrest, fighting hard for independency, which would not come until 1981 when British Honduras officially became Belize. Through wars, Belize stood her ground and when General Noriega fell from grace, it became a major trans-shipment point for cocaine going into the United States from South America. However, for the past two decades, the people of Belize have been working hard to regain control of their beloved country and to rebuild tourism.
When visiting Belize, you will see amazing things. Again, the Maya complexes are breathtaking and considering the lack of modern technology and tools, simply amazing due to their sophistication in design and structure. Although Belize does not have its own national food, you will notice a blend of Mexican, Caribbean, American, and UK flavors. Typically, dishes include beans and rice, which are often cooked with or served alongside chicken, beef, fish, pork, and vegetables. Other local favorites include fried plantain and coconut milk. However, there are other traditional foods that include venison, armadillo, and the brown-spotted rodent. No matter what you eat, you will find Belize to be a country with dense jungle, swap, and farmland. Because of the diversity of the land, there is an abundant and variety of wildlife and birds. For a place of adventure and relaxation, Belize would make a nice destination.
Travel to Nicaragua
 While the country of Nicaragua is known for many things, it is probably best known for the stunning landscapes and incredible cultural treasures. Unfortunately, war has had a hard effect on this country, leaving it in a reeling state of shock from which it continues to rebuild. Even so, this is an amazing destination that offers us a valuable look at history and one that is beautiful. The only thing you must beware of is that although most areas of Nicaragua remain safe, there are some such as the Corn Islands that should be avoided due to violent armed robberies.
Like most places in Central America, Nicaragua has two distinct seasons. The first is the dry season, which occurs from the mid part of April to mid-May. During this time, it is very hot, humid, and the land is parched. In fact, it is so hot and dry that the air is commonly very dusty. The other season is the wet or cooler season, which is a far better time to enjoy this country.
From historians, we have learned that footprints were discovered under layers of volcanic ash of the Acahualinca, showing there were inhabitants back as far as 10,000 years ago. Then sometime around the 10th century AD, the native people from Mexico migrated to an area in the Pacific lowlands. At that time, the Aztec culture was adopted as they moved out during the 15th century to establish a trading colony.
Then in 1502, the people of Nicaragua first encountered the Europeans when Christopher Columbus passed through. By 1522, the Spanish had built an exploratory mission on the south shores of Lago de Nicaragua, followed by a colonized region and many developed cities. Nicaragua was a part of Mexico for a short time followed by the Central American Federation, and achieved independence in 1838.
Although there are some areas of Nicaragua that have been devastated by war and earthquakes, there are many more that stand tall and proud. As far as the culture of this country, the arts are a big, important part, especially when it comes to literature. In fact, poetry is probably one of the most valued of all the arts in Nicaragua. However, you will also find reggae being the music of choice where musicians and artists show off their talents in street markets.
As far as dining in Nicaragua, you would typically eat meat or eggs along with rice, beans, and salad, usually consisting of cabbage and tomatoes, as well as tortillas and whatever fruit happens to be in season. One very delicious yet simple food is called Gallo Pinto, which is simply a perfect blend of beans and rice along with just enough water to cook the beans. You might also enjoy a mix of beef, green and ripe plantains, and yucca called Bajo or Yucca served with coleslaw and fried pork skins, known as Vigoron. For beverages, you will find street vendors all over selling a drink called Tiste, which is a special mix of corn and cacao as well as Posol Con Leche, corn and milk. In addition, you will find great quality rum and beer.
Being the largest country in Central America, there is always something to do. Nicaragua borders with Honduras on the north, Costa Rica to the south, the Pacific Ocean to the west, and the Caribbean Sea to the east. You will discover three regions that include the lowlands, north central mountains, and the Caribbean lowlands, more commonly referred to as Mosquitia or Mosquito Coast.
The lowlands are very fertile and the home of close to 40 volcanoes. Additionally, you will discover the largest lake in Central America there called Lago de Nicaragua. Then for the Mosquito Coast, this part of Nicaragua is actually quite sparsely populated although there is a magnificent rainforest and wonderful rivers. Interestingly, just 17% of this vast country is used as a national park.
The lake is very fascinating. There, you will find some very unusual fish and in fact, the world’s only freshwater shark. The rainforests are abundant with wildlife that includes pumas, warthogs, ocelots, sloth, jaguars, and the comical spider monkey. For birds, there are hummingbirds, woodpeckers, elegant trogon, shining hawk, stripe-breasted wren, and quetzal, which is the holy bird of the Mayan. For the jungle areas of Nicaragua, these too are interesting with massive trees that grow to 200 feet tall and the home to jaguars, deer, howler monkeys, and boas.
The capital of Nicaragua is Managua, which is the most crowded area although it is consistently hit by earthquakes. However, there you can enjoy the municipal cathedral, the restored Palacio Nacional with two mammoth paintings, and the Plaza de la Republica. You can even visit several of the volcanoes as they spew steam.
Of all cities in Nicaragua, Leon is known as being the most liberal. Today, it is still an intellectual but radical center where you will discover monuments, murals, and buildings still standing that are riddled with bullet holes. There are also wonderful colonial churches, charming Spanish-style homes with white adobe walls and red tiled roofs, and beautiful gardens.
In addition to just enjoying the beautiful scenery of Nicaragua, you definitely want to hike while there, visiting the mountains and islands. The most incredible volcano, Volcan Masaya, is also a great place for climbers. Whether fishing and surfing during the morning, shopping and sightseeing in the afternoon, or dancing and dining at night, you will enjoy your visit to this bountiful land.
Panama City, Panama
 Panama City, Panama is often referred to as the “Crossroads of the world”, primarily because of the massive number of people that pass through. Located in Central America between Costa Rica and Columbia, Panama has long been used as a route from the Atlantic to the Pacific.
Historians tell us that the earliest inhabitants of Panama were the Cocle and Cuevas cultures but because of overwhelming disease and fighting with the Spaniards in the 16th century, the numbers quickly diminished. Although it took a little time and effort, the Spanish finally established a settlement in 1510 at the mouth of the Rio Chagres called Nombre de Dios. Eventually, this coastline area became a popular target for invasions of Peru and wealth generated by the incursions was brought over land from the port of Panama to the Spanish settlement.
Because of the abundance of wealth, pirates were attracted to Panama as well and by the 18th century, the Caribbean had become such a dangerous place that even the Spanish ships would go completely around Panama, sailing directly to Peru. At that time, Panama started into a decline, becoming a province of Colombia with the South American nation finally getting its independence. Then by 1846, a treaty was signed by Colombia, allowing the United States to construct a railroad, as well as use military force to protect it.
With this came the idea of a canal across isthmus but when the French tried to construct one in 1880, 22,000 workers lost their lives from yellow fever, malaria, and unfortunately, bankruptcy for all. Even so, a new contract to build the canal was negotiated with both strategic and financial interest from the United States. Although there was friction as a result of the treaty, issues were ironed out and in 1904 the building of the canal again began, this time by the United States. Then 10 years later, the first ship made its way successfully through the canal.
Since that time, there has been some unrest in Panama but under the leadership of General Manuel Noriega, drug trafficking, money laundering, and democracy problems were corrected. Today, crime rates are down and the city has worked hard to make it a wonderful place to visit. When you go to Panama City, you will see a lot of diversity due to a wide ethnic mix. Because of this, the food, entertainment, and even traditional arts are quite diverse.
The Panama Canal joins South and Central America, bordering on Costa Rica to the west and Colombia to the east. The arch shape is unique in that the canal serves both as a bridge that passes between two continents and a passageway of oceans. The narrowest point of the canal is just 30 miles but at the widest, 720 miles. In addition, the Panama Canal is 50 miles long and works by effectively dividing the county.
All around Panama are hundreds of beautiful islands. Then, there are two primary archipelagos, which include Bocas Del Toro and San Blas. There, you can enjoy a number of water sports to include deep sea fishing snorkeling, and scuba diving. In addition to the ocean, Panama also has flat coastal lowlands as well as two mountain ranges with the highest peak being Volcan Baruat 11,400 feet about sea level.
 Dominating the Canal Zone are magnificent rainforests. Then if you go toward Costa Rica, you will be amazed at the abundance of wildlife. In fact, Panama has a large number of flora and fauna species, mass amounts of land for preservation, and with few people to scare the wildlife away or damage the vegetation you get the chance of a lifetime to enjoy unspoiled land.
In addition, Panama has two specific seasons, one that is dry, lasting from January to April and then the rainy season from late April to December. Keep in mind that on the Caribbean side of the highlands, the rainfall is quite heavy. The temperatures are usually hotter in the lowlands, averaging 80 degrees, but nice and cool in the mountains, typically between 55 to 65 degrees.
The ferry ride to the island of Taboga is a nice day trip or you can enjoy folklore shows, experiencing some of the colorful culture associated with Panama City to include costumes and traditional dances, and even eco touring at the rainforest reserve, take a train ride along the Canal banks, and any number of exciting activities. This city is truly an incredible place, well worth exploring.
Guatemala
 Guatemala has a long history of being a thriving fishing and farming community that can be dated back to 2000 BC, even before the Maya civilization dominated Central America. During the Early Classic period around AD 250, many magnificent temple cities were constructed in the Guatemalan highlands. However, by the Late Classic period, from AD 600 to 900, the primary power had moved to the lowlands of El Peten. However, after the mysterious demise of the Mayans, the Itzaes settled in El Peten.
Interestingly, many of the Mayan ruins were discovered when Pedro de Alvarado came to this country for the King of Spain in 1523. However, the kingdoms remaining in the highlands were crushed by Alvarado’s armies, lands turned into large estates, and the people exploited by the new property owners. Then friars of Dominican, Augustinian, and Franciscan arrived but they were unable to stop the exploitation. Sadly, the religious imperialism they brought with them was the cause of many valuable traces of the Mayan culture to be demolished.
Today, you can still find many of the Mayan ruins and colonial buildings standing in Guatemala. The architecture is quite impressive, making this an excellent place for exploration. While there are many fascinating things about Guatemala, one of the most impressive is the exotic variety of the traditional clothing, all handmade and proudly worn by the Mayan people. The women’s clothing is amazingly colorful and embroidered with great detail. Different villages use different detailing on the garments, a subtle way of separating each.
If you love Mexican food, you might be surprised. While you can sometimes find a taco or tortilla, the food in Guatemala simply is not as good as what you would find in Mexico. Instead of juicy meat and tasty beans and rice, you will find mostly meat that is either grilled or fried and usually tough. However, what most people find interesting is that there are actually many Chinese restaurants in Guatemala. Now, if you love coffee or beer, then you are in for a delicious treat.
Guatemala borders Mexico on the north and west and then to the northeast is Belize and to the east, El Salvador and Honduras. The mountains are dense and forested, almost jungle like. There are also more than 30 volcanoes in the highlands, which are over 12,000 feet above see level. In fact, as you look up the mountains at nighttime, you will notice a soft red glow. In addition to volcanoes, Guatemala also experiences earthquakes.
For the beaches on the Pacific coastline, they are not terribly impressive and primarily black sand. Although the beaches themselves are quite small, the area along the coastline is very rich culturally. Then for the lowlands, there is the jungle of El Peten, which is a beautiful blend of soil where archeologists have discovered dinosaur bones and banana plantations.
There is also a wide variety of wildlife living in Guatemala. For example, there is deer, tapir, peccary, and the quetzal, the national bird that is the most amazing creature you have ever seen. Unfortunately, because of the forests being cut down and the greedy poachers, this bird is near extinction. Even so, the wildlife is diverse, colorful, and a real joy to watch.
As far as temperatures in Guatemala, in the summer, it is common to have days hitting 100 degrees. That coupled with the high levels of humidity and it can be a little harsh during the dry season. Temperatures will generally dip down at night, especially in the highlands where the night air becomes damp and chilly. Because of the extreme heat and humidity, we recommend you visit between December and April.
Guatemala is also an exciting place to visit in that there are always things going on. For example, the week before Easter is called Semana Santa, which is the largest festival, held in this country. There are celebrations, processions, and a huge party. Then in mid to late summer, another festival called Rabin Ajau is held, which is a traditional Mayan celebration. For the month of December, there is another annual celebration in Santo Tomas.
Now, if you enjoy real adventure, you can get of the beaten path a little by visiting Livingston, a jungle hideaway where black Guatemalans live called Garifuna. These people are actually African descendants who were brought to the New World as slaves although some landed there via shipwreck.
Santa Lucia Cotzumalguapa is yet another possibility that is located on the Pacific Slope. If you have an interest in learning more about the Mayan culture and art, you certainly want to take a trip here. You will see green sugar cane fields with massive stone heads and remnants of the Pipils, which was a culture, directly linked to the Nahuatl people of central Mexico. The fascinating thing about these people is that no one knows how they got there or what the rituals objects are.
Whether staying within the larger areas of Guatemala, enjoying exciting nightlife, fine dining, or time at the beach or getting back into the jungle areas, you will find this to be a very interesting part of the world. It has an important history that we should all celebrate. Guatemala is a beautiful place with very humble and hard-working people.
Volcanoes of Costa Rica
 Costa Rica is a place with pristine beaches, blue water, warm, sunny days, abundant fish life, and welcoming people. Interestingly, many people are not aware that Costa Rica is also home to 200 plus volcanic formations, dating back 65 million years! Of these, seven are active, which is related to the fertile soil.
Over the years, eruptions from these seven volcanoes have left massive destruction. Irazu is the highest volcano in Costa Rica while Poas is the second widest, which measures almost one mile in diameter, and Arenal is the most active. In 1963, Irazu erupted, spewing ash over San Jose and other areas for two years. The amount of ash that fell was so significant rooftops were covered with five inches while people had to walk around with a cloth to their face in order to breathe.
That one eruption alone covered approximately 62 square miles, leaving the land completely devastated. The last time a volcano erupted in Costa Rica was in the summer of 2000 when Arenal killed one person, injured many others, and caused more than 600 people to be evacuated from their homes. Although volcanic eruptions can wipe out entire communities, they are also a key contributor to the landscape seen and enjoyed in Costa Rica.
For example, the volcanic slopes are rich with minerals. That coupled with the abundant rainfall and the result is amazing, green agriculture. Additionally, Costa Rica features mesmerizing waterfalls and beautiful, flowing rivers. The volcanic soil supports the dense and diverse forests, which in turn creates a protective home for all types of wildlife.
Volcanoes in Costa Rica also provide recreation for humans. With dozens of rivers and lakes, you will find that swimming, fishing, and boating are all popular activities. The land being so diverse also offers hiking, camping, horseback riding, and mountain biking. With this, you have thriving businesses in the form of guided tours, horse stables, campsites, boat rental companies, and more.
As mentioned, Arenal is the most active volcano in Costa Rica, making it a popular destination. For this reason, there are wonderful places to explore around the volcano to include Arenal Lake, which is a great spot for fishing, boating, and windsurfing, Fortuna Waterfall offers a winding trail that comes to end on a small, beautiful beach, and Venado Caves offer a great opportunity for adventure as you make your way through various caverns.
Around the volcanoes are other places to visit such as the Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge. There, you will enjoy a 2,000-acre seasonal lake overflowing with all types of waterfowl to include spoonbills, anhingas, wood storks, and jabiru storks. This area is also inhabited by many rare and endangered species such as pumas, caymans, and tapirs.
Another volcanic formation in Costa Rica is called Turrialba. In addition to being a volcano, this is also a national park. This particular volcano has not erupted in more than 130 years but still stands at 10,000 feet, making it the second tallest of all the formations. All around this volcano is farmland and green slopes. The nice aspect of Turrialba is that you can climb down to the central floor of the crater, although getting to the craters is a challenge, requiring a four-wheel drive.
Not far from the city of Turrialba is the Guayabo National Monument, which is a large archaeological site that was once occupied between 1000 BC and 1400 AD. The 2,000 inhabitants that lived there were hard workers, creating walls, cisterns, petroglyphs, and many other types of structures. Catie is another area near Turrialba that is a tropical agriculture research center offering guided tours that will take you through incredible collections of tropical plants.
Barva is yet another volcano in Costa Rica, standing 9,534 feet. This formation is accessible on a nearby road, also requiring a four-wheel drive. However, if you want to hike to the first crater, you can although it will take you about three to four hours. Then, there is the volcano called Rincon de la Vieja, which stands at 6,217 feet. This area is great for taking hikes and offers nice camping. Without doubt, the volcanoes of Costa Rica are an important part of this country’s history that lives on today.
Costa Rica Travel
 If you have been thinking about taking a trip to Central America, then Costa Rica should be at the top of your list. Costa Rica is truly an oasis, a magnificent ecotourism that is a little slice of heaven, which is why it is one of the best places in the world to experience the tropics. Costa Rica is primarily coastline, making it perfect for boating, surfing, scuba diving, or merely lying out on the beach to enjoy warm sunshine.
The jungles of Costa Rica are full of playful monkeys along with a wide variety of other life to include poison-dart frogs, crocodiles, sloth, and a full array of colorful birds such as the Toucan, and then finally, gorgeous butterflies and of course insects. You will even find an endangered sea turtle from time to time, as well as jungle cats.
People typically come to Costa Rica for one of two reasons they are either looking for some peace and quiet, a place of tranquility, or they are looking for real excitement. This means you have your choice of taking an afternoon nap in a hammock overlooking the green mountains and blue, ocean or zooming through the jungle on zip lines, visiting boiling volcanoes, or swimming with dolphins and whales.
Costa Rica is actually quite populated with approximately four million people living there although there are many small villages scattered about. Although there is really no bad time to visit Costa Rica, the best time as far as climate is concerned would be in late December to mid-April. However, remember that because this is prime season, you will pay more for your hotel and meals but it is well worth the increased price.
Unlike some of the other countries in Central America, Costa Rica is a rather well to do country. Here you see fast growing development as more and more people become aware of the importance of the tourists and even more, the money they bring in. Although some accommodations are very nice, there are others that are less than desirable. Regardless of where you stay, what you will discover is kind people who are always eager to please.
Interestingly, for pre-Columbian Costa Rica, there is some mystery regarding the history of this country. You will find a few archaeological monuments but to this date, no one has ever found any writing to uncover the mystery. We do know that Christopher Columbus was there in 1502, staying for about two weeks. In fact, Columbus was so impressed with Costa Rica and the gold necklaces worn by the local people that he gave the country its name, which translates to “rich coast.”
Even though this country was known for wealth, it was not until about 60 years later when Spanish settlers came to the jungles that the wealth was enjoyed. However, once word got out, it quickly became colonized, suffering from the backlash of the European invasion. Since there were simply not enough people to fight off the Spanish and the many diseases brought over with the Europeans, the population quickly declined.
Although there had been talk of gold in Costa Rica, the massive amounts expected to be found never panned out. Therefore, this country was forgotten for several years but then by the 18th century, many settlements were established to include Alajuela, Heredia, and San Jose. Then in 1808, something wonderful happened. Coffee was introduced and by the 19th century, entrepreneurs came from near and far to get in on the discovery. With this finding came wealth and independence.
Sadly, Costa Rica experienced more invasions, one by the United States whereby Nicaraguan slaves were captured. As times settled down, more great things began to happen. For example, in 1949, blacks and women were allowed to vote and the country’s army dismantled, making Costa Rica the only country without an army. Even the President Oscar Arias was given the prestigious Nobel Peace Prize in 1987 for his amazing work in bringing peace back to a damaged country.
The peace was short lived with another disaster struck Costa Rica in 1996 in the form of Hurricane Cesar. The results were devastating with lives lost and the majority of Costa Rica’s southern region closed off. The overall damage was horrific and just when the country was getting back on its feet it was hit again in 1998 by Hurricane Mitch. This time, even more damage was done but this time more to the north, hitting areas such as El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Honduras. However, this is a strong country, fighting back every step of the way. With time and rebuilding, you can again enjoy the countryside, which is breathtakingly beautiful, greener than green and just gorgeous.
What Costa Rica offers in beauty it does not make up for in cuisine. The traditional food includes beef, chicken, and fish dishes that are usually coupled with beans, corn, or rice and then some type of fresh fruit, perhaps pineapple, mango, or papaya. Although the food is not bad, it is not the best either. However, the one thing you can say is that the food is spicy and extremely salty. The one thing that is decent is the coffee, of course.
Taking a trip to Costa Rica shows you completely different culture and amazing biodiversity. For example, the tropical forests are home to more than 1,500 different species of trees and national parks account for about 12% of the country along with forest reserves. You will leave this country feeling refreshed and appreciative for the natural beauty that is seen everywhere.
Acapulco
 Acapulco
Acapulco is a city and major seaport in the state of Guerrero on the Pacific coast of Mexico, 190 miles from Mexico City. Acapulco is located on a deep, semicircular bay, almost land-locked, easy of access, and with so secure an anchorage that vessels can safely lie alongside the rocks that fringe the shore. It is the best harbor on the Pacific coast of Mexico, and it is a port of call for shipping lines running between Panama and San Francisco, California, USA. In 2003 the estimated population was 638,000 people.
Geography
The town is built on a narrow strip of low land, scarcely half a mile wide, between the shoreline and the lofty mountains that encircle the bay. There is great natural beauty in the surroundings, but the mountains render the town difficult of access from the interior or at at least did, until the construction of a 2-km-long tunnel to the waterfront from the hinterland in the 1990s. An earlier effort to admit the cooling sea breezes by cutting through the mountains a passage called the Abra de San Nicolas had some beneficial effect.
History
Acapulco has been well known as a traveler's crossroads for at least a millennium. Its name is Nahuatl, meaning "plain of dense reeds."
The earliest local remains, stone metates and pottery utensils, were left in the 3rd millennium BC. Much later, sophisticated artisans fashioned curvaceous female figurines. Some hypothesize that there was early Polynesian or Asian influences in Pacific Mexico as early as 1500 years before the arrival Christopher Columbus.
Other artifacts resemble those found in highland Mexico. Although influenced by Tarascan, Mixtec, Zapotec, and Aztec civilizations, sometimes paying tribute to them and frequented by their traders, Acapulco never came under their direct control, but instead remained subject to local caciques until the Spanish conquest.
After conquering the Aztecs, Hernán Cortés sent expeditions south to build ships and find a route to China. The first explorers sailed from Zacatula, near present-day Lázaro Cárdenas, Michoacán, on the coast 400 km (250 miles) northwest of Acapulco. By a royal decree dated April 25, 1528, "Acapulco and her land ... where the ships of the south will be built...." passed directly into the hands of the Spanish Crown. Voyages of discovery set sail from Acapulco for Peru, the Sea of Cortez, and to Asia. None returned across the Pacific, however, until Father Andrés de Urdaneta discovered the northern Pacific tradewinds, which propelled him and his ship, loaded with Chinese treasure, to Acapulco in 1565.
For more than 200 years after that, a special yearly trading ship, known to the English as the Manila Galleon, set sail from Acapulco for the Manila and the Orient. Its return started an annual merchant fair in Acapulco where traders bargained for the Galleon's cargo of silks, porcelain, ivory, and lacquerware. This trade connection, which persisted up to Mexican independence, was instrumental in placing the Philippines on the east side of the International Date Line until the end of 1844.
Acapulco's yearly treasure soon attracted marauders, too. In 1579, Francis Drake attacked but failed to capture the Galleon, but in 1587, off Cabo San Lucas, Thomas Cavendish seized the Santa Anna. The cash alone, 1.2 million gold pesos, severely depressed the London gold market.
After a Dutch fleet invaded Acapulco in 1615, the Spanish rebuilt their fort, which they christened Fort San Diego in 1617. Destroyed by an earthquake in 1776, the fort was rebuilt by 1783. The War of Independence (1820-21) stopped the Manila Galleon forever, sending Acapulco into a century-long slumber.
The town suffered considerably from earthquakes in July and August 1909.
There are exports of hides, wood, and fruit, and the adjacent district of Tabares produces cotton, tobacco, cacao, sugarcane, Indian corn, beans, and coffee.
Mexico City Travel
 Mexico City
When it comes to excitement and cultural diversity, Mexico City, Mexico ranks near the top. In this city, you could be out partying at night, eating at a wonderful restaurant, or dancing into the wee hours of the night but then turn the corner the next day and be face-to-face with poverty, deprivation, and people living in filth and squalor. Literally, there are magnificent neighbors with vast mansions and just a short distance away, people living in shantytowns or sleeping on public walkways. What you find in Mexico City is incredible wealth and smothering poverty. Even with the negative aspects of Mexico’s capital city, people are lured in from around the globe.
When visiting Mexico City, you can stay in nice accommodations but you would do best to stick with the area west of Zocalo, which is close to the Plaza de la Republica and Alameda Central. You will also find a number of restaurants that offer good food at affordable prices. This area also offers several good forms of entertainment to include mariachi, theater, the symphony, or dancing. As you will discover in this article, Mexico City, Mexico is a unique place to visit that moves to a different beat from the rest of the world.
Dating back as far as 10,000 BC, many people lived around the lake called Lago de Texcoco, which covered the majority of the Valle de Mexico floor. However, around 7500 BC, that same lake began to decrease in size, which meant that hunting was more of a challenge. Because of that, the people had to turn to other forms of eating and earning a living so they turned to agriculture. Then around 200 BC, a number of villages were established. The largest called Cuicuilco was destroyed 100 years later by a massive volcanic eruption.
Then, Teotihuacan, which was just 16 miles from the lake, became a serious influence. In fact, Teotihuacan was the capital of a large empire for centuries but during the 7th century, it fell. Some of the cities and states that were in this area included the Toltec empire, which was just 40 miles to the north of what we know today as Mexico City. Another was the Tula Empire, which fell in the 13th century.
The Spanish conquest destroyed Tenochititlan, which was later rebuilt as a Spanish city. The population of Valle de Mexico dropped to just 100,000 within the next following century but in 1550, the city was again growing, strong, and elegant. Soon, schools, hospitals, palaces, churches, parks, and even a university were constructed. However, by the 19th century the city was partially destroyed by floods. Then in 1810, approximately 80,000 rebels from Mexico City were defeated by the Spanish.
Miguel Hidalgo who was the leader of the Spanish conquest did not want to advance on the city. Because of this, Mexico had to fight another 11 years to win their independence. After obtaining their independence, Mexico City began to rebuild and by 1940, more than 1.5 million people lived there. Soon, skyscrapers and factories were built, providing work for the people. In fact, Mexico City grew so quickly that jobs and housing could not keep pace. Sadly, Mexico City underwent even more challenges over the years but by the 1970s, the growth had not yet let up. Even with a devastating earthquake in 1985 that killed more than 10,000 people, Mexico City continued to fight to stay on top. Experts estimate that in current times, every day some 1,100 newcomers pour into the city.
Today, Mexico City is comprised of 350 neighborhoods called Colonias. There is an abundance of restaurants, hotels, shopping malls, nightclubs, and more. When visiting Mexico City, Mexico, you have a huge selection of places to visit. Bosque de Chapultepec, which translates to “Hill of Grasshoppers”, is a nice area that offers a zoo, several nice museums, and lakes. The Museo Nacional de Antropologia is a one-of-a-kind museum and definitely worth seeing.
Centro Historico, which is the Historic Center, is dotted with colonial buildings and a number of historical sites. However, Zocalo is the heart of this city where you have a variety of things to do and see. In addition, you might take time to see Templo Mayer, which is believed to be the very place where the Aztec Indians saw the symbolic eagle with a snake in its beak, sitting perched on top of a cactus, which is still Mexico’s symbol today. A stellar museum is called Museo Nacional de Arta that makes a great day trip and for a magnificent view of the city, you can visit the top floors of Torre Latinoamericana, an incredible skyscraper.
Because of the high altitude of Mexico City, you need to pace yourself. In fact, most visitors claim they become fatigued for a few days while others experience headaches or nosebleeds. Just slow down a bit and you will be just fine. Without doubt, Mexico City, Mexico has had a long, hard history but the people there are strong and dedicated to this city and its success. From bull fighting to shopping for ivory, Mexico City offers something for everyone and if you want to spend a day at the beach, you can drive to Acapulco!
Mexico City
Mexico City
Mexico City (Spanish: Ciudad de México) is the name of a megacity located in the Valley of Mexico (Valle de México), a large valley in the high plateaus (altiplano) at the center of Mexico, about 2,240 meters (7,349 feet) above sea-level, surrounded on most sides by volcanoes towering at 4,000 to 5,500 meters (13,000 to 18,000 feet) above sea-level.
Mexico City was originally a municipality founded in 1521 by Cortés on the ruins of Tenochtitlan, the capital of the Aztec Empire, in the middle of the now drained Lake Texcoco. The municipality was abolished in 1928, and the names “Mexico City” can now refer to two things.
Officially, the Distrito Federal (D.F.) uses the name Ciudad de México. The D.F. is a federal district serving as the capital of Mexico and which the Mexican Federal Government administers. The D.F. encompasses the historical center of Mexico City, but is much larger than the historical municipality of Mexico City abolished in 1928. The urbanized area of Mexico City covers only the north of the D.F., while the south of the D.F. is made up of rural areas and mountains. Although the D.F. is not a municipality, Mexican authorities use the name Ciudad de México as a synonym for Distrito Federal (such as in Article 44 of the Mexican Constitution).
In a broader meaning, "Mexico City" refers to the whole metropolitan area of Greater Mexico City. The metropolitan area extends beyond the limits of the D.F. and encompasses tens of independent municipalities located in the State of México (Estado de México), to the north, east, and west of the D.F., extending as far north as the State of Hidalgo. The population of the entire metropolitan area in 2005 is estimated between 18 and 22 million inhabitants (depending where the limits of the metropolitan area are set). This means Mexico City is the third or fourth most populated metropolitan area in the world (behind Tokyo, New York, and possibly Seoul, depending which data is compared).
 Mexico City, with its distinct mestizo culture, blending native Indian (Nahuatl) and Spanish heritages, is the largest metropolitan area in Latin America, and the second largest in the Americas behind New York. By the end of the 20th century it became one of the largest financial, economic, educational, cultural, and tourist centers of the world.
After centuries of pre-Columbian civilization, Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés first arrived in the area, then the Aztec capital Tenochtitlan, in 1519. He did not succeed in conquering the city until August 13, 1521, after a 79-day siege that destroyed most of the old Aztec city.
The city served as the capital of the viceroyalty of New Spain from ca. 1525 to the outbreak of the War of Independence in 1810, and of the various Mexican states afterwards.
Most of the growth of Mexico City in population occurred in the late 20th century. In 1950 the city had about 3 million inhabitants. By 2000 the estimated population for the city proper was around 18 million.
Tijuana Mexico
 Tijuana Mexico
Tijuana is the largest city in the state of Baja California, Mexico. Tijuana is also the most northerly city in Latin America. It is known as the corner of Mexico and consequently of Latin America. The city is bordered to the north by San Diego County, California, United States; to the south, by the municipalities of Playas de Rosarito and Ensenada; with the municipality of Tecate to the east; and to the west, by the Pacific Ocean. The municipality of Tijuana has an extension of 1,727 square kilometers and includes part of the Coronado Islands located off the coast of the municipality in the Pacific Ocean.
Population
According to the INEGI (Instituto Nacional de Estadística, Geografía e Informática Eng: National Institute of Statistics, Geography and Data Processing) the municipality of Tijuana in 2000 included 1,210,820 inhabitants. More than 20 universities and centers for higher education give it a dynamic student sector. The city ranks fifth in population in Mexico, after Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey and Puebla.
Geography
This border city just south of San Diego, California, USA, is sometimes considered a mix of Mexico's good and bad: known for its economic prosperity, popular discos, and shopping areas, Tijuana is also considered to be Mexico's biggest illicit drug and prostitution center. Many of the prostitutes are women from Central America who hope to enter the United States.
History
Traffic traveling into Mexico through San Ysidro tends to be less congested than traveling vice versa. The border entering Mexico is also less guarded.The area in which the city of Tijuana is situated in a region once inhabited by the Kumeyaay Indians, a tribe of Yuman-speaking hunter-gatherers. Europeans first arrived in 1542, when the Spanish explorer Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo toured the coastline of the area, which was later mapped in 1602 by Sebastián Viscaíno. In 1769, Father Juan Crespí documented more detailed information about the area that would one day be called the Valley of Tijuana and Father Junípero Serra founded the first mission of Alta California in San Diego.
More settlement of the area took place near the end of the mission era when José María Echendía, governor of the Baja California and Alta California, awarded a large land grant to Santiago Argüello in 1829. This large cattle ranch, Rancho Tía Juana ("Aunt Jane Ranch"), covered 100 square kilometres.
In 1848, as a result of the Mexican-American war with the United States, Mexico lost all of Alta California. Tijuana acquired a new and distinct character and purpose on the international border. The city began to shed its cattle ranching origins and began to play in a new role, forming a socio-economic structure for the city.
The year 1889 marked the beginning of the urban settlement, when descendants of Santiago Argüello and Agustín Olvera entered an agreement to begin development of the city of Tijuana. The agreement was dated July 11 of that year. Decades later, during the second Symposium of History held in 1975, this date was recognized as the date the city was founded.
Tijuana saw its future in tourism from its inception. From the end of the 19th century to the first decades of the 20th, the city attracted large numbers of Californians crossing over the border, coming to Mexico for trade and entertainment.
During the Mexican Revolution, Tijuana was also a small stage for revolutionaries loyal to Ricardo Flores Magón, who took over the city in 1911. Shortly, thereafter, federal troops arrived and routed the rebels. Being so close to the action, San Diegans could watch the battle from the safety of the international border.
In 1916, the Feria San Diego, California Panamá brought a great number of visitors to the neighboring American city to the north. Tijuana took the opportunity to attract these tourists to the other side of the border with Feria Típica Mexicana. The fair included curio shops, regional foods, thermal baths, horse racing and boxing matches. With this event, the city became universally known as a tourist destination.
The 1920s changed Tijuana forever when the enactment of prohibition in the U.S. sent droves of Americans across the border to partake in legal drinking and gambling. Large and impressive casinos opened, like Agua Caliente in Tijuana. The Caesar Salad was invented there during this period.
Mexico’s Copper Canyon
 Located in Mexico’s Sierra Madre Mountains you will find a magnificent place called Copper Canyon. The canyon itself is about 300 feet deep and the homeland of the Tarahumara Indians. Although there are many magical things to see while visiting Copper Canyon, one of the most spectacular is the Chihuahua al Pacifico Railroad, which offers a magical ride that passes through 86 tunnels, over 37 bridges, and on its way into the rugged mountain range, climbs to almost 8,000 feet high. This particular trip is so incredible that it is known as the best in the entire Western Hemisphere.
Many people refer to the train ride as “train ride in the sky” and as you reach the highest point, you will see why. The canyon is best seen during the daytime when the scenery can be appreciated with all its color. You can catch the eastbound train from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon for the absolute best view and then in the winter months, after sundown is truly a sight to behold.
The train runs daily from each direction, which includes the Segunda Chase and Primera Especial. This second train offers first class cars that have a bar car, restaurant, and security while the Segunda is a second class train, no restaurant, typically crowded, and must slower. Therefore, if you are going to enjoy this adventure, it is highly recommended you choose the Primera Especial.
You can find a number of hotels near Copper Canyon, especially in the town of Chihuahua. Here, the hotels will vary from nice, luxury accommodations with swimming pools and saunas to those designed more for people on a budget, with shared baths, small rooms, and no air conditioning. If you enjoy hiking, you will find both short and long trails. However, for longer hikes, you can generally get vehicle transportation to and from the starting point.
You will find the canyon surrounded by many small towns, each having a distinct history. For example, El Fuerte, which translates to “The Fort”, is a small colonial town with quaint cobblestone streets. This town was established by Spanish Conquistador Don Francisco de lbarra in 1564 to be a military post. In fact, for 300 years, it did just that, trading primarily silver and gold. Then there is the village of Cerocahui, which is very small and very quiet, with only about 600 people living there. The town itself sits about 5,000 feet above sea level but down below in the valley, there are orchards of fresh apples and peaches, which is reachable only by a dirt road.
Chihuahua City is the capital and therefore a much larger city that has more modern accommodations. When the Mexican Revolution and the War for Independence were raging, this city was a hub of activity. In fact, a main leader in Mexico’s fight for independence was Father Miguel Hidalgo, who was executed there. Other famous people from Chihuahua City include Pancho Villa and Benito Juarez. One of the great sites is the Chihuahua State Museum and the Chihuahua Cathedral, which took more than 100 to finish.
Urique is another small village that sits at the bottom of Copper Canyon. Founded in 1690, the town was pretty much isolated from everything and everyone until 1975 when a dirt road leading to Chihuahua City was built. Although gold mining is no longer as robust as it once was, some residents still do mine some. El Divisadero translates to “The View Point”, which sits at the top of the canyon, almost to 8,000 feet. As you can imagine, the views are spectacular. Many visitors go to El Divisadero to explore caves where the Tarahumara Indians once lived.
Next, there is Creel, which is also high in the canyon, about 7,200 feet. This lumber town is considered a midway stopping point for many of the Indian villages and there too, you will find amazing caves to explore along with waterfalls, pine forests, magnificent lakes, and unusual rock formations. Tejaban is also on the rim of Copper Canyon but they have a remote hotel that offers some of the best views of the canyon and well worth the stay. In addition, there are wonderful hiking trails such as La Purisma, which will lead you to a historic gold and copper mine.
Batopilas is back on the bottom of the canyon and just a sleepy little town that is truly a step back in time. There, you will find cowboys on horses, Indians packing burros with supplies for smaller villages, Gothic mansion ruins, abandoned mines, a 400-year old Jesuit mission, and more. With the surrounding mountains, this is a very unique town that is best visited from October through March to avoid the intense subtropical climate. Finally, Cuauhtemoc is a modern city that was named after the famous Aztec Indian leader. Today, Cuauhtemoc is a Mennonite community that is popular for its wonderful cheese.
The name Copper Canyon is used as a general reference to all the various canyons in this area. In fact, there are six massive gorges cover 25,000 square miles that make up “Copper Canyon”. Although copper was mined here, it was never in large quantities. Instead, the name “Copper” Canyon came from the copper/green lichen that clings to the canyon walls, giving it a coppery color.
Acapulco Mexico
Acapulco Mexico
Acapulco, Mexico is a unique city, one divided by the rich and famous and poverty. Even so, this is a city of excitement and opportunity. What you will see as you come around the bend into Acapulco is an unspoiled paradise just waiting to be discovered, right on the coast of the Pacific Ocean. When Acapulco was first established some 3,000 years ago, there were few animals living on the island but beautiful vegetation and ocean.
The Nahua tribe members were the first inhabitants that came before the Aztec Indians, according to archaeological findings. Then in 1521, Hernan Cortes ordered Franciso Chico to go to this area and as the first foreigner to step foot on land, he named the area Santa Lucia. Soon, modern day Acapulco became a huge trading center between America and Asia with massive ships rolling in and out carrying wonderful goods and spices.
As you can imagine, this created a huge growth in population along with much wealth. Unfortunately, the wealth drew the attention of many legendary pirates such as Morgan and Cavendish and Sir Francis Drake, eager to take their share of what was not theirs to take. To protect the port from the frequent pirate attacks, a castle was built called the Fuerte de San Diego. However, this very castle was destroyed due to an earthquake that hit in the 18th century. Keep in mind that while you do not hear much about earthquakes in Acapulco, it is actually one of the greatest earthquake-prone areas in the country.
Then at the start of the 19th century, Acapulco was declared “Ciudad Oficial” by King Charles IV, helping it become an important factor associated with the Spanish Crown. Even so, the city was attacked and burned to the ground in 1810 led by Jose Maria Morelos during the War of Independence. Determined to rebuild, the city did recover during the gold rush years.
At this time, many ships stopped at the Acapulco port as they headed to Panama but what happened, was that each time, passengers would disembark and fall in love with the food, the beaches, and the lush, green hillsides, deciding to stay. With this, the population continued to grow and as word leaked out about this secret oasis, more and more people came. By 1920, Acapulco had become such a well-known tourist destination that both the Prince of Wales and future King Edward VIII made frequent visits.
As popularity spread to Europe, it was obvious that better hotel accommodations were required for the affluent visitors. A Texas executive by the name of Pullen started the process by building a hotel now known as “Old Acapulco.” Then a few years later, President Miguel Aleman made major changes to the port by adding drainage systems, installing electricity, and building and paving the first road, thus bringing even more people to this exciting city.
Today, the popularity of Acapulco has remained strong. There are many wonderful things to do, starting with the electrifying nightlife. You can visit a number of dance clubs and restaurants late into the night to include incredible food and great music. However, along with the nightlife, Acapulco also offers pristine beaches of white sand, a number of water sports to include parasailing, snorkeling, jet skiing, and scuba diving, outstanding hotels with first class accommodations and service, and some of the finest Mexican restaurants south of the border.
If you prefer, you can take a relaxing day tour of the city that shows off not only the incredible view looking out over the ocean but also older areas of the city along with modern areas. Then, you can drive to one side of town to take in a show of the cliff divers as they jump off 150-foot cliffs into the water below, something very impressive and worth seeing. Then, you might consider taking a trip at night on a “booze cruise”, which is a smaller boat featuring a wonderful dinner and amazing entertainment as you cruise out on the ocean.
Other things to do while in Acapulco include taking a trip to Mexico City to watch the bull fights, shopping at some great stores where you will find incredible prices and selection on ivory, leather, crystal, and other items, or simply soaking up some of the warm sun out by the pool or on the beach. Of course, if you love deep-sea fishing, then be prepared to put up a fight, especially for sailfish.
Along with all these activities, some people enjoy learning about the history of Acapulco. For instance, this city has a number of historic temples that date back to the days of the Aztec Empire. Sadly, when the Spanish invaded, they soon discovered that Acapulco provided a huge advantage with the shape of the bay. With this, they had the protection needed and the ideal location for establishing their base for exploration of the Pacific. Interestingly, this city was the only port in the New World that was authorized to receive the Spanish galleons coming from China and the Philippines.
Today, more than one million people call Acapulco home. With its beautiful green hillsides and crystal blue water, it is easy to see why so many people flock there. When planning a trip to Acapulco, you want to keep your eyes open for bargains in that the price to visit has gone up in the past several years. However, the cost of the trip is well worth it when you see how gorgeous the scenery is and how warm and welcoming the people are.
Teotihuacan Ruins
 Throughout Mexico, you will find a number of ruins that provide a glimpse of the past civilizations and their amazing skill. < |
