Yucatan Peninsula

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The Yucatan peninsula that immense thrust of land dividing the Gulf of Mexico from the Caribbean is so flat that the landscape takes on a uniformity approaching monotony. But beneath that deceiving cloak of sameness there exists a people exuding warmth and vitality, and a land with an inexhaustible wealth of archaeological treasures. Images that will linger in your mind might be smooth, bronze Maya faces with sparkling eyes and spontaneous, genuine smiles; the charm of Merida; the huipiles (a long white overblouse embroidered at neck and hem), sandals, and pleated shirts worn by the Yucatecans; and the gemlike brilliance of the Caribbean.

Three islands Isla Mujeres, Cancun, and Cozumel lie close to the mainland just off the northeast tip of the peninsula; all are accessible by boat or air. A causeway now reaches Cancun.

The peninsula is divided into the states of Yucatan, Campeche, and Quintana Roo all once within the land of the Maya. For years the Maya sites of Chichen Itza, Uxmal, Kabah, Tulum, and others less well known to the casual traveler have lured archaeologists and adventurers to this remote part of Mexico. The Yucatan would be interesting even without its ruins, but they make the peninsula one of the world's most fascinating tourist areas. As time and restoration funds allow, more ruins are becoming easily accessible to the traveler.

Aside from its Maya ruins, Yucatan is famous for henequen (sisal) rope and twine. Until the end of World War II Yucatan supplied most of the world's high grade sisal, but synthetic fibers have since cut sharply into the henequen market, bringing difficult times to the industry.

Yucatan Peninsula - Mexico