1.-Away from the crowded hot spots of the Yucatan Peninsula, there is a quiet, almost undiscovered town, where the leisurely air of the province is still perceived. Its peaceful pace, friendly people and quiet vibe, create a reminiscence of old time Mexico.
2.-Campeche is a charming instance of colonial architecture, with colorful buildings, cobblestone streets and an authentic pueblo culture, where each barrio has its very own church, saint, festival and street food.
Beautiful parks, old churches, pedestrian streets with cafés and small businesses are a delight to walk by.
3.-Its UNESCO World Heritage- listed historic center is enclosed in very well-preserved walls which used to protect Campeche against pirates. Each side is guarded by two fortresses that are each located on small hills, with awesome views of the ocean and the city. Both ramparts have very interesting Mayan archaeology museums. The wall has also a gate, formerly used to enter the fortified town, where visitors can watch an illumination show about the history of Campeche.
4.-Campeche is rich in prehispanic and colonial history, and also in anecdotes from the times of the pirate invasions.
The city has many interesting archaeology, art and history museums that are worth visiting. One of these museums keeps one of the most emblematic pieces of the Mayan world: the jade mask from Calakmul.
5.-Historic Campeche is a fairly small town, where you can see most barrios by foot, and promenade with no schedule along its picturesque and well maintained streets.
6.-Being a city that overlooks the ocean, Campeche has old fishing docks and a waterfront boardwalk that is perfect for sunset watching, jogging, cycling, or just for getting a grip of the local daily life.
Plus, its market is an authentic open space mercado where you find a great array of fresh produce and local goods.
7.-It has its very own culinary scene, abundant with fresh seafood, Caribbean flavors and shared dishes with flavorful Yucatan. Campeche's awesome cuisine can be discovered through high- end restaurants, pedestrian streets with open air tables, street food, small restaurants by the sea, taquerías, cantinas, coffee shops and markets.
8.-Campeche is rich in original arts and crafts, due to its Mayan live culture. Beautiful crafts are made from JipiJapa palm, from bull horn and sea shells, or from carved wood. People across the state create black on white embroidery, colorful natural fabrics, and awesome hamacas.
9.-Edzna Mayan ruins, a major site in the prehispanic history of the Yucatan Peninsula, is only an hour away from the city. Climb its outstanding Five Floor Pyramid and enjoy a place that has very few visitors. As the perfect compliment for your day trip, visit Hacienda Uayamon, an original hacienda hotel from the colonial period, with amazing gardens, pool, and a nice restaurant.
10.-There are also beautiful places to visit on a nature- day trip, like Bajo de Xpicob, to kayak along the tranquil coastline, or to swim in very shallow and clear waters. Take a boat through Los Petenes Biosphere Reserve, a mangrove net with amazing tunnels, home to a variety of birds and wildlife.
Fotos: Jose Manuel Martinez @jmm2362
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