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What do we mean by Ecotourism?

When we talk about ecotourism, what do we actually mean? Nowadays, the word “ecotourism” is thrown around like a buzz word by many people who give lip-service to the concept like it were a fashion rather than taking it seriously. So, what does it mean?

Ecotourism

When we talk about ecotourism, we are referring to responsible and sustainable tourism that works as closely as possible with the environment as opposed to promoting overcrowded tourist complexes that have little respect for their surroundings. Ecotourism involves not only spending your vacations in nature but also involves the active participation during your stay to protect the biodiversity in the destination. Another important factor is to support the local communities in the projects they introduce to protect the destination. Therefore, true ecotourism is active engagement with the natural environment.

Who is right for ecotourism?

Without a doubt, ecotourism is a different kind of vacation, for those people who are tired of visiting the same tourist destinations and following the crowd. Taking an active part in protecting the environment can be particularly rewarding and is a great opportunity for introducing one’s children to the sensibilities necessary for looking after the planet at large.

Choosing an ecological destination implies that you are taking responsibility for preserving the natural and cultural heritage of the place you are visiting, resulting in “green travelers” becoming evermore aware of their importance in the protection of the environment. Furthermore, this trend towards ecotourism is a positive move that can help combat (or at the very least raise awareness of) the impact of climate change. More and more travelers are taking responsibility for their role in the development of sustainability.

Benefits of Paddleboarding for Health

Everyone knows that in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle, getting lots of physical activity is a crucial part of that balance. If working out at a gym or following a fitness DVD at home doesn’t appeal to you, get reacquainted with the great outdoors while enjoying activities like Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) that are known for their ability to increase endurance and stamina. Working out can benefit both the body and mind in several ways to improve your health and sense of wellbeing, and Stand Up Paddleboarding delivers an outstanding dose of exercise and fun! Here are some top reasons to try this incredible form of exercise:

Tone Up and Shed Extra Pounds

Dropping unwanted weight and burning calories finally feels like it’s not a chore with SUP. You’ll look forward to working out when it means you will be gliding above the water on a paddle board. All of your core muscle groups will instinctively become engaged, working your entire body from your head to your feet. After you’ve done it a few times, you will build up your confidence and feel a stronger sense of balance, all while gaining a terrific leg workout. Stand up paddleboarding is an excellent way to tone your body and trim those extra inches while enjoying an entertaining water sport.

Enhance Cardiovascular Health

Stand Up Paddleboarding offers an excellent workout that will get your heart rate up and work your muscles. It is a proven fact that when practiced regularly, SUP will improve your cardiovascular system because of its overall intensity. Combat heart disease while having a blast as you paddle through the water.

Relieve Stress in an Entertaining Way

It is a well known fact that stress can play a major role in developing many serious illnesses, and with that knowledge, it is crucial that we do whatever we can to reduce the stress in our lives. Several factors make stand up paddleboarding a marvelous stress buster including the fact that it provides boarders a terrific way to release any pent-up tension the muscles (or mind!) may be holding. Another benefit is the gorgeous outdoor environment in which it is practiced, bringing a sense of peace and serenity. You will be amazed at how quickly your stress just melts away when you take some time for yourself to paddle out into the sea, skim over the glassy surface of a lake or venture up a rippling stream.

It can Strengthen Bonds

We humans are social beings, and SUP is the perfect excuse to head out on the water with friends or family for some quality time together. Paddleboarding lets you socialize and catch up with those you love while also getting in some endorphin-boosting exercise. You and your companions are sure to gain a sense of tranquility as you glide alongside one another, not only from connecting socially but also from the physical challenge of paddleboarding.

Gain a Deeper Sense of Consciousness

There is nothing that will make you more aware of your body and the connection between your muscles like keeping yourself balanced to avoid falling in the water. Maintaining your balance will continue to improve the longer you practice. Stand up paddleboarding forces you to focus on each miniscule movement your body makes, which will give you a more finely-tuned sense of awareness.

The Geography of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere

Mayan for ‘‘where the sky is born’’, the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, which is located in the Yucatan peninsula, is Mexico’s largest nature reserve, covering 1.3 million acres with a span of 120 kilometers (75 miles) that includes almost one-third of the country’s Caribbean coast. Home to tropical forests, sandy beaches, mangroves, wetlands, reefs, dunes and marshes, this biosphere preserve became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 because of its diverse geography and wetlands, plus its high diversity of species of both flora and fauna within its delicate ecosystem.

A Sacred Mayan Region

Known throughout the region as a magical place even in the present day, the Sian Ka’an Biosphere was once a sacred area for the ancient Maya civilization, and is still home to two dozen known archaeological sites with artifacts.

Hummocks

The land throughout the Sian Ka’an reserve is relatively flat and does not have any significant changes in elevations. Because Sian Ka’an sits just slightly higher than sea level, even seemingly insignificant topographical changes can have a major impact on the landscape. Amongst the most unique characteristics of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere are it’s rare hummocks, which are low expanses of forest surrounded by marshes only found in Florida’s Everglades, Cuba and the Yucatan.

Underground rivers

The reserve is positioned on top of limestone subsoil, shallow soil in higher regions, and a water table close to the surface. Underneath the Yucatan peninsula, there are caves which house underground rivers. The rainwater that descends on the land filters into this cave system, which makes its way to the sea. Topographic variations in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere can cause flooding periods to differ, although during the rainy season most of the ground areas around the reserve are flooded, along with its shallow lagoons. Fortunately, there are certain mangrove species present that help filter impure water that passes through, which naturally protects the nearby reef. The level of flooding, plus the salinity of the water, largely influences the vegetation that will grow in any specific area.

Mesoamerican Reef

Situated along the eastern edge of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is the top portion of the Mesoamerican reef, the world’s second largest coastal barrier reef. Because it is home to an incredible variety of marine species, it is a sought-after destination for scuba divers and is a popular area for snorkeling. On land, the secluded beaches are a popular nesting area for endangered sea turtles.

Climate

Finally. the Sian Ka’an Biosphere’s climate is warm-subhumid and is home to a summer rainy season. Annual rainfall averages between 1,100 and 1,200 mm, 70% of which takes place between the months of May and October, while the remainder falls during the “dry” season.

Sian Ka’an Luxury Packages

When you are planning your next vacation to Mexico, why settle for one spectacular destination when you can enjoy two! Book the trip of a lifetime that includes visits to both Cancun and the Sian Ka’an Biosphere. You can experience both magnificent places with Sian Ka’an Village’s vacation packages, which offer a Paradise Diving Adventure or a Luxury Fly Fishing Escape.

Luxury Getaway Packages – Villa del Palmar Cancun and Sian Ka’an Village

With either of these luxury getaway packages, you will have a pleasurable stay at two of the most prominent vacation properties located on the Yucatan peninsula: Villa del Palmar Cancun Luxury Beach Resort & Spa and the Sian Ka’an Village. Regardless of which package you choose, your getaway starts at Villa del Palmar Cancun, where you can relish a few nights’ stay at the amazing resort. From there, you will travel by road to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere where your magnificent accommodations — a luxury villa on a completely secluded beach — at the Sian Ka’an Village will await you.

Villa del Palmar Cancun

Located right on a white sandy beach overlooking the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean, Villa del Palmar Cancun is the perfect escape for guests who want to relax in luxury. This award-winning property will impress even the most discerning of travelers with its sweeping views, gourmet cuisine, a world-class spa, infinity pools and Jacuzzis.

Sian Ka’an Village

Guests of Sian Ka’an Village enjoy absolute privacy and security at this sheltered slice of paradise where the lush natural environment takes center stage. Revel in the exclusive services made available to you at this stunning villa which is home to 7 double bedrooms, an impressive terrace, a Grand Salon with dining area, bar and lounge, as well as beach palapas and non-motorized water toys to make the most of the splendid outdoors.

Luxury Getaway Packages

There are currently two Luxury Getaway Packages that allow guests to visit both Villa del Palmar Cancun and Sian Ka’an Village: the Paradise Diving Adventure package and Luxury Fly Fishing Escape package. Both packages include lodging at each magnificent property with all inclusive benefits plus return road transportation from Cancun to Sian Ka’an.

Paradise Diving Adventure

This Luxury Getaway Package is an all-inclusive vacation that is a dream come true for diving fanatics that incorporates a stay in a Three Bedroom Master Residence at Villa del Palmar Cancun as well as a stay for six people at the blissful Sian Ka’an Village. Diving tours for up to three guests are also included in this package, while the whole group can get in on the fun of other water sports such as snorkeling, paddleboarding and kayaking around Sian Ka’an Village.

Luxury Fly Fishing Escape

Your all-inclusive Luxury Getaway Package begins with accommodation in a Three Bedroom Master Residence at Villa del Palmar Cancun, followed by a journey to Sian Ka’an Village for a minimum of two days fly fishing or light tackle fishing. You can choose to extend your stay for up to 4 days fishing in one of the most awe-inspiring UNESCO protected biospheres found on the planet.

If you are planning a trip that includes diving or fishing, take advantage of one of these superb Luxury Getaway Packages and take your vacation to the next level of comfort, adventure and style.

Artist Alejandro Durán and Sian Ka’an

Inspiring change through his thought-provoking artwork, multimedia artist Alejandro Durán has literally taken trash and turned it into treasure. Originally from Mexico City and currently based in Brooklyn, New York, Durán’s project Washed Up takes the international debris that washes ashore along the coastline of Sian Ka’an, located on the Caribbean in Mexico, and creates environmental installations designed with plastic garbage which are then photographed. His work has been on exhibit in several galleries and has garnered attention and praise from several prestigious media sources including National Geographic, ABC News and the Huffington Post.

Art in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere

Durán has traced the origins of the plastic waste he uses in his installations to fifty-three nations and territories on six continents and counting. This garbage has all found its way onto the shores of the coastline of Sian Ka’an, which is Mexico’s largest federally protected reserve and an UNESCO World Heritage site. He uses this international rubbish to produce site-specific sculptures, employing various items within the same color family for impact such as shoes and bottles. His sculptures imitate items found in nature such as algae, fruit, rivers, roots or waves to make a statement about the invasion that the environment has experienced by plastics.

Trash Sculptures

Upon first glance, his sculptures are a beautiful sight to behold, yet upon further inspection, they make it clear that the ocean is faced with a horrifying problem: an abundance of unwanted plastics. The purpose of his installations runs so much deeper than making surreal artwork; he is hoping to change the way we look at plastics and spark a conversation about our disposable culture.

His photo series highlights the serious predicament the consumerism of modern society has created. It is especially disturbing when you realize that this garbage has been washing ashore upon undeveloped land in a federally protected reserve, making it clear that almost no place on earth is safe from the negative impact it is causing. The Washed Up project in Sian Ka’an isn’t just altering a landscape that has been filled with unwanted plastic trash; it aims to raise awareness about our complicated relationship with consumption and hopes to change how we deal with waste.

You can learn more about the Washed Up project and get involved by visiting Alejandro Duran’s website.

Vacation Hair – Get the Best Tips

So you’re planning your summer vacation, and your ‘to do’ list is only getting longer… we’re guessing that your hair is the last thing you want to worry about right now, but never fear! We’ve done all the thinking for you. The wind, humidity, UV rays, salt water and chlorine can really mess with your mane, and as such it’s really important that you take every measure to protect your hair so that you don’t come back with an unruly, unhealthy mop to rescue! So, have a look at our top tips for getting the very best vacation hair you can!

Say “adios!” to styling products

Though styling products are the go to for those who have difficult to tame locks we would recommend that you avoid them whilst on vacation – gels and hairsprays especially. The wind and water will already do enough damage to your hair, making it hard to tame, but adding chemicals to this mix can only make it worse. Use a clarifying shampoo every second or third day to enhance your hair’s natural texture and volume whilst keeping it clear of debris and residue. Moisturizing styling lotions with shea butter are a good idea if you want to look sleek and sexy.

Brush with care

This should be a rule you abide by every day, but it is extra important when you’re on vacation; the humidity and salt can leave your hair very dry and prone to breaking so you have to be gentle when combing. You can get special rubber coated combs which will do the job nicely, but be sure to condition well too.

Hairdryers are vacation hair’s worst enemy

Natural methods of drying should be pursued whenever possible, but this is especially important when you’re on vacation. Why not put in some leave-in conditioner and twist your hair into a bun during the day. When it dries you’ll have natural looking beachy waves!

Embrace Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is used in many beauty regimes for many things, but did you know that it makes a wonderful mask for dry and damaged hair? It really does; running some through your hair after washing will restore lustre if you let it dry in. If you’re going out you could even run some through the mid-lengths and ends of your hair for a glossy shine. Argan oil is another great alternative for your vacation hair.

Healthy fats

Healthy fats are key to your general health and wellbeing, so your diet should contain them anyway, but did you know that they’re good for keeping your hair thick, durable and shiny? It’s true! Foods like avocados, coconuts, olives, and hemp or flax oils have just what you need so stock up on these a few weeks before you jet off.

Bobby pins

Bobby pins are vacation hair’s best-friend, and anyone with long hair knows this already. The sun, sea, and sand will dry out your hair, even if you do take good care of it. Elastics will be too harsh on your hair, but bobby pins will enable you to keep control of your mane without breaking or damaging it. Stash some of these budget friendly hair savers into your luggage so you can make some pretty up-dos when you’re hair is just screaming “don’t!”

Getting to Sian Ka’an Village

Located within breathtaking tropical surroundings upon the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere, Sian Ka’an Village is flanked by the Caribbean Sea and a rolling landscape of mangroves, exotic flora and palm trees. Sian Ka’an Village’s secluded location offers an off-the-beaten-track luxury vacation most can only dream of.

Sian Ka’an Village is situated on the coast of Felipe Carrillo Puerto, Quintana Roo, approximately 1 hour north of Mahahual by land, around 4 hours from Chetumal airport and over 6 hours from Cancun airport. It forms part of the breathtaking Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 and is well worth the journey to reach this secluded luxury villa.

To help you plan your trip, below you will find some basic advice about getting to Sian Ka’an Village, although our pre-arrival concierge service can help you with these arrangements and offer advice to suit your preferences and budget.

Getting to Sian Ka’an Village by Air

The most convenient way to get to Sian Ka’an Village is by air, arriving to the small airstrip relatively nearby in Pulticup and then traveling about an hour on dirt roads to reach Sian Ka’an Village. For example chartered flights are available from Cancun and Mexico City. Such travel details can be arranged on your behalf once you have decided on your dates and wish to confirm a reservation.

Getting to Sian Ka’an Village by Land

Cancun International Airport is about 6 hours by land and Chetumal International Airport is about 4 hours away from Sian Ka’an Village. Most of the journey by land is along good quality highway, although the latter part is along dirt road, so you should aim leave early in the morning so that you arrive during daylight, as there are no street lamps once you leave the highway. An SUV or Jeep type vehicle is advisable for the latter part of the journey.

Bohemian Weddings at Sian Ka’an

Finding the right venue to create your day your way is all about knowing what you want from your wedding day. If you are set on an intimate bohemian wedding, then Sian Ka’an Village is the perfect solution to your wedding day dreams. The unique setting at this stunning UNESCO protected biosphere offers the ideal surroundings to organize all kinds of bohemian weddings and exclusive celebrations.

Bohemian Weddings at Sian Ka’an Village

Sian Ka’an Village is an exclusive luxury villa that sleep up to 18 people (with options for a further 12 wedding guests in an adjacent building) that overlooks a secluded beach miles from civilization and packed with charm in the fameds Sian Ka’an Biosphere. The staff on hand are able to provide the most enchanting options for a Bohemian Wedding by the beach in Mexico’s Caribbean. Together with wedding and event planners, Sian Ka’an Village can prepare a truly unique and unforgettable wedding celebration that will leave a lasting impression on your guests and provide a dream-like solution for your wedding day.

What makes a Bohemian wedding?

While everyone might have their own interpretation of “bohemian,” when brides look to give their nuptials that bohemian feel, what they are generally looking for is something original, artsy and alternative, representing the free spirit of the bride and groom. Nature is often a key feature of bohemian weddings, with couples looking for a venue where the natural surroundings become part of their decor.

Sian Ka’an Village

The location of Sian Ka’an Village on a secluded beach surrounded by palm trees, white sand and mangroves that compete with the rolling turquoise hues of the crystal clear Caribbean Sea for the prize of most breathtaking, is certainly one of the attractions for choosing this incredible property for a bohemian wedding. The totally private and exclusive location of this villa also means that you will feel even freer to express your originality for an alternative wedding that represent you and your style. The villa is also prepared to help you with activities and tours you may wish to organize for you and your guests as well as activities at the property such as paddle boarding, kayaking, bike rides and picnics amongst others.

Choose Sian Ka’an Village for your bohemian wedding and you will add that free spirit to your nuptials.

Sacred Cenotes in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere

When you choose to vacation on Mexico’s eastern coast, you will discover that the area is home to a great variety of features including 5 star resorts, world-class dining, outdoor activities galore and some of the planet’s most gorgeous beaches, complete with glittering white sand and turquoise water. However, one of the biggest highlights of visiting this spectacular region is experiencing the rich cultural history of the ancient Mayan empire. Scattered around the Yucatan Peninsula are several sites of former cities and temples filled with ruins to explore, as well as mystical underwater pools called cenotes found in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere, where the ancient civilization believed they could communicate with the gods.

Natural Wonders

Beginning millions of years ago, these subterranean groundwater pools were formed when sea levels dropped drastically to expose miles of coral reef and gradually rose once more, filling empty tunnels and caves with water. Cenotes are home to fascinating geological formations as well as a wide variety of stunning flora and fauna. Mayan for ‘sacred well’ or ‘cave filled with water’, cenotes are an amazing entrance to a surreal underwater escape in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere.

Sian Ka’an’s Sacred Sinkholes

Because cenotes provided the Mayans with crucial freshwater during difficult summers and periods of drought, they were accurately thought of by their society as life givers. Thus the reason they chose to build many of their cities near the entrances to these sinkholes. This is also why they worshipped the rain gods whom they believed resided within the cenotes and performed ceremonies to honor them. The Mayans thought of the cenotes as a gateway into another realm where they were able to communicate with the gods and ask for their consent to travel through the regions they cared for and defended.

Cenote Adventures

At the Sian Ka’an Village, you will find a knowledgeable staff who will be happy to let you know when tours and excursions are available, as well as pricing information. Visiting the local cenotes is a wonderful way to explore this magical, ancient realm where you can become as familiar with it as you like. You will discover a breathtaking collection of flora and fauna in addition to amazing naturally developed geological formations no matter the method you choose to tour, from snorkeling to kayaking to diving straight into the water and swimming around.

Once you experience the dazzling cenotes near Sian Ka’an for yourself, you will realize why the Mayans were so fond of these underwater getaways which showcase the powerful beauty Mother Nature has to offer.

Refreshing Drinks for the Beach

When you find yourself basking in the sun on the beach while on vacation in Mexico, there’s just something about having a cold drink in your hand while you’re hanging out on the beach that makes the experience feel complete. Nothing complements quality time spent in lounge chairs or hammocks underneath beach umbrellas better than a frosty beverage (and some sunblock!). Here are some of the top picks to help keep you cool as you take in the calming sights of the ocean and relax with your toes in the sand:

Margarita

The quintessential drink of Mexico that, for some, comes to mind at the mere mention of the festive country, a margarita definitely hits the spot while on the beach. The traditional ingredients of a margarita include tequila, triple sec (an orange-flavored liqueur) and lime juice and is most commonly served on the rocks (shaken with ice) or blended (frozen), sometimes with a salted rim. The blended margarita has evolved to include delicious fruit flavors such as strawberry, peach, and mango.

Tequila Sunrise

Named for its pretty appearance which resembles a sunrise when served, this delicious cocktail is a perfect treat on a hot day on the beach. It is made up of unmixed layers of tequila, orange juice and grenadine which makes a gorgeous presentation served in a tall glass. Originating in the 1970s, this classic drink is so great, in fact, that the Eagles wrote a song titled Tequila Sunrise.

Ice-cold Beer

There are times when you may crave a cold drink but you’re just not in the mood for anything too sweet, and these are the perfect moments for a frosty bottle of beer. Mexico is home to an amazing variety of beers, from lighter tasting beers like Corona, to lagers like Dos Equis to darker brews like Bohemia and Negra Modelo, meaning you are sure to find something you’ll love.

Mojito

Without a doubt one of the most popular cocktails available, this Cuban classic will quench your thirst in the most tasty and satisfying way while enjoying the beach. Consisting of five simple ingredients, the flavors deliver a slightly sweet yet refreshing drink that is ideal when you want to cool off. A mojito begins with lime juice, cane sugar (or syrup) and spearmint leaves, which are gently muddled to bruise the mint and release its essential oils. Rum and soda water top it all off, as well as some ice to keep it chilly.

Sangria

Originally popular in European countries such as Portugal and Spain, sangria is a tempting blend which usually consists of red wine, chopped fruit and a small portion of brandy which has been sweetened and steeped for a period ranging from a few minutes to a few days. In Mexico, it is common for the brandy to be substituted with limonada (limeade made with sparkling mineral water), making the drink extra fruity, tangy and effervescent.

Keep Hydrated

It should go without saying however, that the number one refreshing drink for the beach is water! Keeping yourself hydrated is of paramount importance while enjoying a beach vacation. If straight water is not your style coconut water or cucumber water is a great alternative and very healthy too!