Strike a pose in Tulum
If you’re In RivieRa Maya :
Tulum
Tulum, the world’s
only Mayan ruins
built next to the sea
ruINs: sAM cAMp/IsTOck; yOgA: rIcheLLe MOrgAN yOgA
By Jennifer Allford
If you’re at a resort in Cancun or the
Mayan Riviera, Mexico’s third most-visited
archaeological site is a stone’s throw away.
While people lived in Tulum as far back
as 500 AD, the port city was really hopping between the 13th and 15th centuries.
It was the only Mayan city built on a coast
and trade centred on valuable turquoise and
jade, which may help explain the sevenmetre-thick walls around the city. (But like
most things when it comes to the Mayans,
no one can say for certain.)
As you wander through the ruins—
marvelling at the castillo (castle) perched
on the cliff and the well-preserved Temple
of the Frescoes—you can’t help but wonder
about the people who once lived here. Hire
a guide to get the goods or go it alone.
Either way, you’ll want to bring a swimsuit
and climb down the steep stairs to swim
or snorkel the beach beneath this ancient
city. A word to the wise: Ignore the many
operators hawking offshore snorkel trips—
colourful fish abound near the beach.
There are many lingering questions about
the Mayans, but one thing we do know is
their passion for ornate jewellery, including jade earrings, bracelets and beads. For
a glimpse at modern-day Mexican artistry,
pop by the Tulum Art Club. More than a gallery, the club also provides studio space for
local and international artists to create
and collaborate in music, visual arts, film
and more. You’ll also find wicked Mexican »
CAA MANITOBA
FALL 2016
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