Talk about Mexico, sand and surf and you immediately get a vision of Cancun, its fourteen-mile stretch of white sand glistening in the hot tropical sun. Cancun is the brainchild of a group of Mexican government computer analysts who picked the location as a prime ideal tourist development spot. Now, 33 years later, Cancun is one of the most famous tourist destinations frequented by the moneyed, the famous, and those in between, all who flock to bask in the brilliant Cancun sun and enjoy the tropical weather, the powdery beaches and clear blue waters.

Despite its rapid progress and development, Cancun has managed to preserve its rich slice of Mexico's rich 1000-year past. Glamorous high-rises and 5-star resorts are all within a short distance from ancient Mexican ruins. Cancun or 'the golden snake' stretches from the old city to the small stretch of island which is connected to the mainland by two bridges. In between, Cancun has left untouched a small strip of jungle, a fitting reminded of Mexico's untouched jungles. Climb down from your 5-star tower and start the day by soaking up on the Mexican sun, go through a short hike to see ancient Mayan ruins, experience fine dining at the many restaurants and spend an afternoon browsing through native Mexican goods at the mercados or shop for high-end brand items in Cancun's upscale boutiques.