Nestled in the base of Mexico, situated in the state of Quintana Roo and lying on the coast is the flourishing tourism city of Cancun with a population of some 600, 000. This lovely city began its tourism trade in the 1970's and was further developed by American investors during the 1980's. It was then developed as a tourism destination and now boasts a flourishing tourism community. Many people from North America now call Cancun home in its idealistic tropical paradise settings. Hurricane Wilma extensively devastated the region in 2005 and a great deal of restoration as occurred in the aftermath to lift the pristine shorelines to their original beauty and the beaches are now much wider as a result.

The Cancun economy relies very heavily on tourism and is the number one source of revenue for the region. You will find the hotel area as being coastal in its location and takes on the appearance of the number seven if viewed from an aerial aspect. Within this shape is Nichupte Lagoon, being supplied by freshwater and offers many fun filled water based sports activities with equipment being available by day hire to all guests. Nightlife is available to those who wish to take in the party atmosphere with a large variety of places to entertain you.

To get to the older side of Cancun take one of the two bridges available to you to get across to the city itself and explore the wonders available to you in a more cultural setting, this area is less affect by tourism so you can explore the markets and take in the more "natural" ambiance of the older part of the city. You will discover here that nothing much has altered and you will be able to experience the people and cultures first hand. Then you can get a feel for the cultural flavor of this remarkable area.

You will find traditional foods to sample at a reasonably low cost, take your pick from the available bars, restaurants and local eateries. Bull fights put on daily show for your excitement and entertainment, and you will find less expensive shopping available to you in the older part of town.

Across the Yucatan peninsula you can explore and learn firsthand information regarding the ancient Mayan civilization and culture that once thrived here so long ago. The ruins of El Ray are located within the Hotel Zone with El Meco; a much more substantial site to be found on the mainland just outside the city limits on the road to Punta Sam. While just to the north of the city a more larger and interesting site exists for exploration the lives of these amazing people. If you are interested in day tripping, the lost city of Uxmal is recommended or perhaps even Xel-Ha.

Incorporated in the natural reserves are Xel_Ha and Xcaret, these are probably the most visited sites for tourists. Here you can explore and take in the natural sites while taking advantage of the available amenities in the shape of swimming with dolphins and exploring the local marine life. These two sites also offer a wondrous and natural eco-tourism with jungles and beautifully stretching sparkling beaches and awe inspiring coastlines. Set yourself plenty of time to take in the sites of this area and you will not be disappointed.

This wonderful and diverse tourism destination will remain high on the list of must-see and as long as care is taken to preserve the natural wonders of this place, with humans working with nature it will remain a highly visited area with beautifully stretching coastlines and pristine beaches coupled with the tranquil blue waters of the Caribbean. Put this one high on your list of must go and see.