Mexico is seeped in both history and culture. The Mayan ruins are one of the main reasons that many tourists are drawn to the shores of Mexico. Dating back hundreds of years, the ruins give some insight into the lives and traditions of ancient cultures.

Among the most fascinating are the Olmac stone heads, which have baffled historians with their typically African features and the Templo de las Inscripciones in Palenque where the tombs of classical Mayan rulers can be buried deep in tropical forests of the region.

There are a number of fascinating churches, museums and galleries scattered throughout Mexico.

Some of the more well known destinations include the National Anthropology Museum in Mexico City and the 16 th century Baroque Church of Santo Domingo in Oaxaca. Visiting the village of San Juan Chamula near San Cristobal is equivalent to entering a time capsule that has remained undisturbed for centuries. Local villagers still practice ancient religious traditions in the village church and the area has remained untouched by civilization for centuries.

Cultural heritage is by no means the only reason to visit Mexico however.

If you are looking to experience the best of what nature has to offer, then you won't be disappointed by the azure waters, endless white sands and lush tropical forests of the region. Filled with colourful aquatic creatures, porpoises and giant turtles, Mexican reefs are a snorkels and divers paradise.

Visit the Sian Kaan Biosphere Reserve and you will understand why it has been named the place where the sky was born by the local population. The ecoreserves scattered throughout the country are home to an endless array of bird and animal life and you could spend days exploring the treasures of the mangrove swamps and tropical forest areas alone.

Many tourists make the mistake of thinking that the only destinations worth visiting in Mexico are the buzzing coastal hot spots such as Cancun and Acapulco. With their towering hotels, array of water sports and fantastic nightlife, it is not surprising that these areas are a popular choice with vacation goers from around the globe. But while a lot can be said for these lively resort towns, venturing into some of the sleepy Mayan fishing villages around Mexico can prove just as worthwhile.

Rent a beachside cabana and lie back on a hammock strung between two palm trees on the beach as you stare out at the never ending blue of the ocean. Or visit one of the local farmer's markets and tuck into a plate of freshly baked tortillas. Sit in a beach side cafe and enjoy fresh prawns as they are carried up from the beach by local fishermen. The rural areas of Mexico truly do paint a charming and vivid picture of some of the last unspoilt areas on earth.