Y2K in Cancún

Cancun is a coastal city in Mexico's easternmost state, Quintana Roo, on the Yucatán Peninsula. Cancun is a world-renowned tourist resort, and although it is known as a mecca for booze-swilling college kids, there is much more to this location, which is also great for a family vacation.

Cancun is comprised of fourteen miles of pristine white beaches shaped like a number "7." It is home to Mayan archaeological wonders, turquoise seas, a bountiful underwater world and world-class vacation amenities. It is still considered the gateway to the Mayan World ("El Mundo Maya"). Mayan temples and ritual sites literally abound everywhere, some smothered by lush jungle, others easily accessible for the casual traveler.

The Cancun hotel zone is almost entirely built around the tourist industry. It abounds with all-inclusive resort hotels. Stay here only if you don't mind spending your vacation with many other tourists.

Cancun, sea of turquise waters showing off its white talcumpowder sand. Located just 20 minutes away from the Cancun International Airport. Facing one of the most modern and exclusive commercial centers.

In the ever-changing restaurant community that thrives in Cancún, it takes more than luck to stay on top. La Habichuela has been a staple of the downtown scene since 1977, with a romantic atmosphere and award-winning menu, it shows no sign of slowing down. The dishes are prepared from only the freshest ingredients, and the chefs stick to traditional recipes that make up for a great culinary experience. The outdoor patio is a great place to unwind with that special someone after a long day, as the full gardens and soft lighting transport you to a country retreat. Also, check out the drink menu, as there are some great choices to complement any meal.

The hotel zone of Cancun is the long, thin stretch of land between Nichupte Lagoon and the Gulf of Mexico. It is connected to mainland Cancun through bridges at the southern and northern end. As given by the name, the hotel zone is dominated by many luxury hotels. Shopping centers and restaurants are next in line, because it's rather inconvenient to drive all the way to mainland Cancun for shopping and dining, especially if you are in the middle of the hotel zone. Facing the Lagoon side are numerous marinas, plazas, and open-air restaurants, so there is always something to do. The main shopping centers are Plaza Caracol, Plaza Flamingo, Plaza Kukulcán, and La Isla Mall. Each features boutiques, souvenirs, chains, markets and restaurants.

Thought the interiors and the exterior of the restaurant may seem a little unusual, Pericos is the place to be if you want to have a bit of by-gone Mexico. The bar regularly features live mariachi band and skits featuring revolutionary leaders as you enjoy a wonderful meal. The food is cooked with local flavors and is not just nourishing but delectable as well. A fine list of spirits also awaits at the bar and is worth a try. The ambiance is fun and casual whereas the service is good.

Seventy-six miles south of Cancún is an amazingly beautiful, natural aquarium of the Mayan Riviera. Xel-Ha has a system of caverns, coves and lagoons that are home to hundreds of marine species. One of the species of fish, affectionately known as "kissers," are not afraid of people and come so close that they seem to "kiss" your skin. Beyond all of the natural features it offers, there is also a good selection of restaurants, shops and more located here. Ask your hotel about the organized tours if you don't want to rent a car.

This ecological park, Xcaret, was built in the tropical jungle. It is worth staying all day and part of the night, visiting its underground rivers and the beach. There is an archaeological zone, a breeding place for wild birds, butterflies and free fauna including different types of monkeys. For evening, there is a nightly tourist show and the caverns are visited using candles and torches for illumination. Book a tour from the box office near the Convention Center in Cancun's resort area or at the travel agent of your preference. It is open daily at 9 am.

Chichén Itzá is the most famous Maya ruin. Located on the mainland Yucatan Peninsula, these ruins date back to the Maya post-classic period from the 10th to 12th century. The main pyramid, El Castillo, dedicated to the serpent-god Kukulcan, is 98-feet tall. Also of note is a 272-foot long ball court. This ruin is six hours away from Cozumel. If your time is limited both Fiesta Holidays, Intermar Caribe or Classique Travel offer guided tours by air or by land. Entrance is USD8 from Monday to Saturday, free on Sundays.

Located 130 kilometers from Cancún is one of the most prominent archaeological sites of the Yucatán peninsula CALLED Zona Arqueológica de Tulum. Tulum is situated on the edge of a cliff and offers a beautiful view of the Caribbean. It has its own beach and an impressive archaeological area available for touring. The major focus of this site is the construction of this ancient city which dates back to between 1200 and 1400 A.D., and displays similar building styles to Chichen Itzá and Uxmal. Ask at your hotel reception about transport times and prices.