Planning a Family Trip to Mexico – How You Can Immerse the Kids in the Mayan Culture
A family vacation is a wonderful
opportunity for everyone to escape day-to-day life, relax, and unwind. It’s
also a great opportunity to expose kids to different cultures, cuisines,
sights, and attractions. For those who are planning a family trip to Mexico,
you’ve got a great opportunity to really immerse kids in a different culture,
in particular, the Mayan Culture. The Mayan people remain one of the most
studied and mysterious groups in history, which can help to spark interest in
the kids.
So, as you plan your family holiday to
Mexico, here are some ways you can help immerse the kids in the Mayan culture
and truly take away a unique experience from your trip.
Read About the Mayans in Advance
Before you even depart for your trip, why
not take the time to read about the Mayan people with your kids? There is plenty of information
available online and in the library that is written specifically for kids
so that it’s easy to grasp. The Mayan culture was known to have existed all the
way back in 2,000 BC, but they completely disappeared by 800 to 900 AD. The disappearance
of the Mayan civilization still remains one of the greatest mysteries in
history.
There are all kinds of theories that exist
about what happened to the Mayan people and where they went, but there is no
definitive answer. Because they were thought to have been one of the most
advanced civilizations to ever walk the earth, the mystery just grows deeper
and deeper.
Visit Mayan Sites While in Mexico
Of course, there is no better way to bring
the lure of Mayan culture to life than by visiting Mayan ruins and sites while
in Mexico. These ruins can be found throughout the country, but some areas are
truly spectacular.
Take, for example, Chichén Itzá, which is
by far the most popular and well-known archaeological site in the country. This
site is a wonderful example of Mayan architecture,
and even a lesson in astronomy. The Mayans settled the site in 423
CE and then it was suddenly abandoned by the 9th century. The ruins are
massive and they include a large pyramid, a giant Mayan calendar constructed
from stone, an observatory, and more.
Another must-see Mayan site is the walled
city of Tulum, which is found on the coastline, adjacent to a white sand beach.
The Spanish sailed this exact coast all the way back in 1518 when it served as
a scenic port.
Sample Mayan Cuisine
No trip to Mexico is complete without at
least sampling a little bit of what Mayan cuisine has to offer. Many of the
foods are ones you've likely enjoyed at home dozens of times, not realizing
where they originated from.
Some of the most popular dishes include
guacamole, corn tortillas, chocolate (yes, it started in Central America), tamalitos, tamales, and quinoa.
Make it a Memorable Experience
By teaching the kids about ancient Mayan
culture, you’ll be making sure they not only have a fun trip but a memorable one!