Eventually the pilot was diverted to the Cozumel airport where we remained for several hours. As we waited, one could see the raging storm far off in the distance; however, it would reach Cozumel in time and our plane would be swayed by the wind and pelted by the driving rain. The wind blew, the rain came and it was over within five minutes.

The pilot now had to refile his flight plan and wait for confirmation. Finally, four hours after we were to arrive in Cancun, our plane set-down and we were all safe. I must say it was an exciting start to a much anticipated vacation.

Eugenia and I slept in and when we awoke it was to a place of beauty. The gentle ocean breeze was refreshing as it swirled around our balcony. We both knew it was going to be a great week.

Now I realize when on vacation many get on the fast-track touring everything. I use to be this way; however, it was a vacation and I didn’t want to come back home in order to relax! For me, a vacation is where one can slow down, relax and rejuvenate.

The short version here is that we stayed in a wonderful, all-inclusive hotel by the ocean, we had great food, drinks, played pool, swam in the ocean and enjoyed the gracious people of Mexico.

Our exciting tours were a grand total of two. The first was to Chichen Itza, a major tourist attraction where the Mayan ruins told the story of an ancient civilization. It was an all-day guided journey in exploring this archeological site and surrounding areas. It is a must see.

Our second excursion was when we rented a Jeep Wrangler and drove to Tulum…the other Chichen Itza, only smaller. It was here that we found ourselves in awe.

Tulum, (originally called Zama) is now known as the “Walled” city, (newly named in the early 1900’s) where it sits high on a bluff overlooking the Caribbean. It is believed that Juan Diaz was the first to discover Zama (Tulum) in 1518.

According to research, Tulum was a major port in the Maya’s trade. Artifacts found attest to the fact that this was a main hub for commerce from Central Mexico to Central America.

During the Maya uprising of the War for the Castes, (1847-1901), Tulum was occupied several times by rebels because of the protection its wall afforded. In 1871 it became one of the sanctuaries of the “Speaking Cross” cult, led by the Indian woman Maria Uicab, who was known as patron saint or queen of Tulum.

In time, and with many invasions from the outside world, disease over ran the native population and soon Tulum became a statistic. As the ancient civilizations left or died, this once spectacular city, filled with a thriving culture bowed to the winds of change…it too fell prey to nature’s elements.

It is indeed a city that holds the mysteries of an ancient culture. It tells of a people who were proud and built a walled city, high on a bluff, overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean. We left Tulum that day knowing that its’ beautiful surroundings, the trees, the structures, the ocean breezes, the beach and its’ history will remain forever imprinted within our minds and hearts.

They speak of the spectacular sunsets of Tulum. Perhaps one day I shall embrace such a sight as I stand on the bluff overlooking the beautiful blue-green waters of the Caribbean.

The adventures to Cancun, Chichen Itza and Tulum was an experience I am truly grateful for. It was exciting, educational, fun and rejuvenating…just as a vacation is designed to be. And, to my dear friend Eugenia, thank you so much for the wonderful time and your great photos.

Photos   By   Eugenia   Jarrett

Michelene Bell is the publisher of In Light Times  

A Metaphysical, Spiritual, Holistic Publication   |   In Light Times   |  Issue Index