Yucatan Peninsula

Unique among the mix of peoples who have become Mexico, are the Yucatecans. Once an independent country, by mutual agreement, Yucatan became part of Mexico in 1821, went independent again in 1823, and finally rejoined Mexico for good in 1825. However, the defining observation about this blend of Mayan, Spanish, Caribbean, French and Middle Eastern (yes, Middle Eastern!) cultures is still “Yucatecans first, Mexicans second!”

In addition to the well-known Riviera Maya on the eastern side of the Yucatan Peninsula, there are the states of Yucatan and Campeche on the northern and western sides. In state of Yucatan, Merida, the capital and financial and cultural center, claims a large, active ex-pat community while the beaches of the Gulf are preferred by a large number of “snowbirds” that join the fishing communities in the Progreso Corridor from November to April every year.

You can find almost any eco-environment you like in the state of Yucatan, except mountains (the Puuc Hills in the southern part of the state do not qualify).  It is home to the Gulf Coast, hundreds of cenotes, Mayan ruins - including the most famous Chichen Itza and an extraordinary, fascinating culture and people.