Blue agave plants along the path in Xcaret.
Friday, November 28, 2008
Belltower
The tower of a building facade at Xcaret. The bright colors on the stucco and soft pink clouds in the dusky sky were captivating
Yellow Breasted
Though the park is definitely tamed and well maintained, there is still a lot of beautiful flora and fauna. Including this bright bird who let me get close enough to catch him with my telephoto lens.
Approaching the Summit
Xcaret was once the site of a Mayan port settlement. There are a number of small pyramid structures around the grounds. We climbed this one.
Stately
He looks quite nice, but this tall bird (egret, I believe) was cruising the fish farm ponds looking for an easy lunch.
Fungi Farm
The mushroom farm definitely had an otherworldly feeling about it. Especially up close with the macro. Not without its challenges, though...my lens kept fogging up because the humidity in the room was about 100%!
Soft Orange Mouth
The orchid farm and exhibit at Xcaret was impressive. And were most places I've been would need climate control to grow these delicate flowers, the combination of warm and humid on the Mayan Riviera suited these just fine.
Xcaret Eco Park
Located on the coast, a short drive South of Playa del Carmen, the Xcaret eco- and adventure-park was one of the trip highlights, despite cloudy and rainy weather. Part nature preserve, part zoo, part cultural heritage museum, part aquatic wonderland (dolphin interaction and snorkling through underground rivers), and part delicious food and drink enjoyment.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Pinks
Two of the aforementioned flamingos. They're surprising loud in large groups. And, no, they're not plastic.
Storm Brewin'
While this is not the Playa of Playa del Carmen proper, it was fun to walk out along the pier into the growing storm.
At the Edge
This infinity pool (complete with palm-tree studded islands) runs right up against the man-made lagoon (complete with turtles and diving birds) in the middle of the resort.
Lounging
El Pistachio, lounging by one of the pools at the Grand Mayan resort in Playa del Carmen. Can you say, "relaxation"?
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