14 Reasons to Visit Puerto Morelos in Mexico

November 1, 2020 1 Comment

Visit Puerto Morelos - A Lesser Known Gem of Mexico

Nestled between the tourist-packed glamorous Cancún and Playa Del Carmen of the Yucatán peninsula is the quaint little fishing port town of Puerto Morelos. Rickety old wooden boats bobbing in the salty yet blissful Caribbean sea and local children sucking on their ice lollies are regular scenes you witness when you visit Puerto Morelos.

Our trip to Mexico was extra special because this was the last trip of just the two of us alone and the first of the 3 of us as a family.

My pea in a pod braved the mesoamerican barrier reef system in questionable boats with just a raggedy old life jacket. We snorkeled, played in the water, and spent hours drawing hearts and playing tic tac toe on the ocean sand, watching the waves wash our art over and over again.

Here are 14 reasons why you must visit Puerto Morelos.

Beautiful beaches – Puerto Morelos is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico. The white sand and crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
Snorkeling and diving – The coral reef located just offshore is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. Visitors can explore the vibrant underwater world and swim with colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures.
Unspoiled nature – Puerto Morelos is surrounded by lush greenery, mangroves, and wildlife. Visitors can take a guided tour of the nearby nature reserve and witness the beauty of the flora and fauna.
Peaceful atmosphere – Unlike other tourist destinations in Mexico, Puerto Morelos has a quiet and laid-back atmosphere that is perfect for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing vacation.
Local culture – The village is home to a friendly and welcoming local community that is proud of its culture and traditions. Visitors can experience the local way of life and learn about the customs and history of the region.
Fresh seafood – Puerto Morelos is known for its fresh seafood, which is caught daily by local fishermen. Visitors can sample the delicious dishes at the many restaurants and street vendors located in the village.
Cenotes – The Yucatan Peninsula is home to several cenotes, which are natural swimming holes formed by the collapse of limestone bedrock. Visitors can take a refreshing dip in the cool, crystal-clear waters and explore the unique ecosystem.
Mayan ruins – The Yucatan Peninsula is also home to several Mayan ruins, including the famous Chichen Itza and Tulum. Visitors can take a guided tour and learn about the rich history and culture of the region.
Eco-tourism – Puerto Morelos is committed to sustainable tourism and eco-friendly practices. Visitors can take part in various eco-tourism activities, such as sea turtle conservation, beach cleanups, and wildlife rehabilitation.
Adventure activities – For those seeking adventure, Puerto Morelos offers several activities such as zip-lining, jungle tours, and ATV rides.
Bird-watching – The village is home to several species of birds, including toucans, parrots, and pelicans. Visitors can take a guided bird-watching tour and spot the colorful and exotic birds.
Art and culture – Puerto Morelos is home to several art galleries and cultural centers that showcase the work of local artists and artisans. Visitors can browse the art and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Wellness and relaxation – The village is home to several spas and wellness centers that offer various treatments such as massages, yoga, and meditation.
Sunsets – Finally, Puerto Morelos offers some of the most beautiful sunsets in Mexico. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking views of the sun setting over the Caribbean Sea and relax in the peaceful and serene atmosphere.

Cool winter breeze and playful stray dogs set the mood for our long walks from this cozy little beachfront cottage we were renting to the town’s square where musicians serenaded everyone with live Mexican music. With tabletop shops selling artwork, clothing & jewelry and restaurants serving flavors of local food, the town square became our favorite spots to hang out in the evenings.

Small straw hut shops along the square sold fresh fruits and vegetables. Some shopkeepers would go the extra mile to slice up delicious ripe mangoes and sprinkle chili powder, salt, and lemon. It transported us back to our childhood days eating mangoes from the pushcarts at Marina Beach in Chennai.

The Chichén Itzá is a spectacular ancient Mayan city that is worth a visit when you are in the beautiful state of Quintana Roo. The ruins reminded us a lot of our own South Indian temple architecture. It is a beautiful 2.5-hour drive from Puerto Morelos. We stopped en route at Valladolid, a town that boasts colonial-style architecture, and the array of colors of buildings and homes is a sight to see.

This structure reminds me so much of South Indian Architecture

The Caribbean waters on the Yucatán peninsula are the bluest of blues, and the sand is so soft like flour. Away from the glitzy overcrowded resorts of nearby cities, Puerto Morelos is the perfect vacation destination to enjoy the culture and architecture of Mexico while relaxing your mind, body, and soul!

The many seaweed carpeting the beaches of the Yucatán Peninsula

Plan a trip to Puerto Morelos

Overall, Puerto Morelos is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and adventure. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful getaway or an action-packed vacation, Puerto Morelos has something for everyone. So if you’re planning a trip to Mexico, make sure to add Puerto Morelos to your travel itinerary and experience the magic of this charming village for yourself.

TRAVEL

Exploring Bodi – A Trip to South India’s Best Kept Secret

October 31, 2020 3 Comments

Exploring Bodi - TN's Best Kept Secret — Dreamy hills of Bodinayakkanur

One of the charming things about traveling around lush South India is the access to healthy food options. Fast food is fast but never unhealthy. Nothing can beat a relaxed sit-down meal served on a banana leaf. The harmony of colors and flavors as you scoop the food off the banana leaf is an experience on its own. I would opt for the latter any day! Here is a little recollection of my journey exploring Bodi – the cardamom capital of Tamil Nadu.

Undoubtedly, far away from the hustle and bustle of Chennai, the calm interiors of Tamil Nadu are a clean and welcome change!

Our Trip to Tamil Nadu and Kerala

Our trip around South India began in our hometown Chennai and made its finale among the humble tea plantations of the luscious hill station town Munnar. We sojourned at the textile haven Coimbatore and explored the precious “princess of hills” Kodaikanal. Obviously, Our itinerary was lined up with a few small towns and villages along the way. But there was one place that was not meant to be a stop that I can never forget.

Have you ever felt spellbound by a place so lush it was like a beautiful poem you can never forget? That was Bodi or Bodinayakkanur for me. Bodi is a small town, a mere 20 mins from Theni, sometimes described as “Earth’s hidden paradise”. Lying at the foothills of the Western Ghats, Bodi is considered the cardamom capital of India.

Bodi is located at the foothills of the Western Ghats and is surrounded by lush green tea estates, mountains, and waterfalls. Bodi is known for its natural beauty and is a popular destination for tourists seeking a peaceful and scenic getaway.

Visit the Tea Plantations when exploring Bodi

Of course, one of the main attractions in Bodi is its tea estates. The town is home to several tea plantations, which are spread over vast acres of land. These plantations produce some of the finest tea in the country and attract tea enthusiasts from all over the world. Visitors can take a guided tour of the tea estates and witness the process of tea-making, from plucking the leaves to processing and packaging. Some of the popular tea estates in Bodi include the High Field Tea Estate, the Kuttikkanam Estate, and the Mayilaadumpara Estate.

Unexplored Nature in the heart of Bodi

Apart from tea estates, Bodi is also home to several waterfalls that are worth exploring. One of the most popular waterfalls in the town is Suruli Falls, which is located about 35 km from Bodi. The falls are surrounded by lush green forests and offer a breathtaking view of the cascading water. Visitors can take a dip in the cool waters and enjoy the beauty of nature. Another popular waterfall in Bodi is the Kumbakarai Falls, which is situated in the Kodaikanal hills. The falls are surrounded by dense forests and offer a serene and peaceful atmosphere.

Exploring Bodi is a Trekker’s Paradise – Bodinayakkanur

For those interested in trekking and hiking, Bodi offers several opportunities to explore the surrounding hills and mountains. The town is located at the foothills of the Western Ghats and offers some of the most scenic trekking routes in the region. The Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, which is located about 20 km from Bodi, is home to several trekking trails that offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The trekking routes in Bodi vary in difficulty and can be customized to suit the needs of different levels of trekkers.

Witness rich culture in Bodi

Another must-visit attraction in Bodi is the Veerapandi Gowmariamman Temple, which is located in the heart of the town. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Gowmariamman and is a popular pilgrimage site for devotees. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture, intricate carvings, and colorful decorations. Visitors can witness the daily rituals and prayers conducted at the temple and learn about the rich history and culture of the region.

In addition to its natural beauty and religious sites, Bodi is also known for its delicious cuisine. The town is famous for its traditional South Indian dishes, such as dosas, idlis, sambar, and simple, heartwarming rasams. Visitors can sample the local delicacies at the many restaurants and street vendors located in the town.

Overall, Bodi is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or an adrenaline junkie, Bodi has something for everyone. So if you’re looking for a peaceful and scenic getaway, consider adding Bodi to your travel itinerary and experience the magic of this beautiful town for yourself.

An Unforgettable Poem that is Bodi

As we ascended the Western Ghats, wrapping the outskirts of Bodi, it felt unreal that such a place would even exist where I come from. If this isn’t heaven, I don’t know what is. Like a painting etched in my mind, these will be the 5 minutes I will never forget for the rest of my life.

STORIES

The Birth of a Star

October 30, 2020 No Comments

Puloma had not cleaned the room in a month. Her loss was a personal one. A star she wished to be reborn. She was now alone. Puloma made a mask with her tea towel. The dust had settled into every crevice. She cleared away the brand new cloth nappies bought in the hopes of reducing waste. She coughed through her tea towel mask. Dusting always gave her the allergies. She wiped every speck of dust away. Every wipe made her cry tears that had been locked away deep inside. She decided to start afresh. The paint was in the garden shed. She didn’t know which color to choose. She opened the dusty garden shed door and there in the corner, right behind the paint cans, squawking and squealing with their tiny beaks were little birds. Suddenly she was not alone anymore. Her many stars reborn.

STORIES

The Mission of a Lifetime

October 29, 2020 No Comments

A one-way trip to Mars. A water source has been discovered. Possibly green too. Jothi and a whole team of exploratory members rocket off to a planet of new possibilities. A year later, the exploratory team are running low on resources. They look through their scope and spot something green in a sea of blue. They look closer. The lights are dotted all over the earth’s surface like gold and diamond dust.

STORIES

Where are the farmers?

October 28, 2020 No Comments

Soubin’s year of mandatory military service was here. He packed his bags with essentials, a photo of his family, a drawing by his daughter and some of his favorite food. The borders were hostile with active mines, uninhabitable terrain and arid vegetation. A war had broken out. One so intense, the likes of which had never been seen before. The poor and vulnerable had no choice but to serve. Countries everywhere fought. They fought for a very long period of time until they could no more. They could fight no more not because they had lost the will to fight but because they had lost so many in the fight. There weren’t enough people. The country’s birth rate had fallen. They had to pull back. So did their neighbors. Feeding their families was far more important than any war in the world. In the meantime, there was no food at Soubin’s home as the farmers had gone to fight.

STORIES

Love’s Plight

October 28, 2020 No Comments

It was the rush hour. The bus was always packed at this time. Luckily, Anvi found a seat. She looked at the strikingly handsome man sitting on the other side and smiled. They were on the same route. A couple with a child seat next to him were trying to pacify the baby. Anvi glanced at the teeny bit of space between the man and the child’s seat. There was hope. The older couple to her left gave her a knowing smile as they left. Now was her chance. She offered her seat to the couple with the baby. Anvi was now seated next to him. A sigh of relief as their hands touched, the rings on their fingers shone the words “A ❤️ V”.

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