Progreso: 19 Feb 2009 to 21 Feb 2009

After entering Progreso on its famous long pier (to allow ships to dock in the shallow waters), relax on the white sandy beach that stretches the length of the Malecón, a 16-block seaside walkway with built-in bench. Here, the Gulf waters are safe and tranquil with no currents or tides. For a look at ancient Mayan architecture, there are the ruins of Dzibilchantum and a bit farther inland Chichen Itza with its famed El Castillo pyramid and mystic ball court.

Merida, Yucatan’s capital city, is also known as “The White City” for its limestone buildings and clean streets, plazas and parks. Flat coastal limestone turns into jungle in the Yucatan Peninsula’s centre. Traditional Mayan towns alternate with haciendas and cathedrals, cenotes accentuate tropical nature scenes. Try some Yucatecan cuisine abundant in fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood and scrumptious meats prepared with chilis and spices to accentuate their flavour.