Lonely Planet Pathfinder, Macca Sherifi has just got back from exploring the ruins and relics of Mexico.
‘Mexico is a country that really does tick all the boxes. With beautiful beaches, a cracking climate no matter when you visit, and food that is out of this world, you’d think that would be enough, but then there’s the history of the area.
Linking North America to Central America, Mexico was always going to be a confluence of cultures, a place where beliefs were born, and that can still be seen today in all the ruins left behind by the different civilisations. Whether you’re walking up the steps of the Pyramids of the Sun at Teotihuacan or taking in the sheer size of Chichen Itza – one of the seven new wonders of the world – you’re constantly taken aback by what you find in Mexico. There aren’t many places in the world where you can walk in the steps of history like this.’
King of the castle
‘Many people consider Chichen Itza, one of the new seven wonders of the world, to be just a bucket list site to be ticked off, but it is so much more than that. The thing that’s so impressive about the El Castillo (the Castle) is it completely dominates its surroundings, and no matter where you are your eyes are always drawn to it.’
Climbing high
‘There are three things that make Coba so special. Firstly, compared to other Mayan sites in Mexico, there are hardly any crowds here. Secondly, this ancient city is spread throughout the forest, adding a certain magic. And finally, you can climb to the top of one of the pyramids for the most amazing views. It’s simply stunning.’
Local research
‘Whenever I’m researching a trip I like to pop down the bookstore and get lost among the words. With so much information online, I always find it quite nostalgic going into a bookstore like this, but I find it really gives me a flavour for a place I’m about to visit.’
Taking in Tulum
‘There’s no doubt about it – the ancient city of Tulum is in one of the most beautiful settings you’ll find. Located on the Playa Del Carmen coastline, these ruins couldn’t be any closer to the water, so much so that taking a dip in the ocean and looking up at this historic site is the best way to take it all in.’
The Pyramid of the Sun
‘One of the most impressive ruins in Mexico rivalling even Chichen Itza is Teotihuacan. Situated just an hour outside Mexico City, the site is home to the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. Together they make an incredibly impressive site and it’s not hard to imagine what this city would’ve been like in its heyday.’
The custodians
‘One thing you’ll notice walking around each of the ancient sites in Mexico are the iguanas – they really are everywhere. The funny thing is, when you see one, you can’t help but think this is how it’s always been for them, slowly crawling around a place they’ve called home throughout the centuries, regardless of anyone else.’
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