It’s not uncommon in the dreary, cold winter months to start dreaming about a spending a week sunning yourself on one of the many beautiful beaches in Mexico. Destinations like Cancun, Acapulco and Cozumel are all popular resort towns where you can find white, sandy beaches, turquoise waters and palm trees swaying in the warm breeze. Savvy travellers know, however, that the summer months are also a great time to visit our southern neighbors. Because it’s considered low season, you can find great deals on flights and hotels while also avoiding the winter crowds. And there’s no shortage of interesting things to do and see.
For animal lovers, summertime offers the opportunity to view the amazing wildlife that inhabit the coastal waters. If you’re brave, you can swim with the whale sharks in Cancun during the months of July through November. For those who’d prefer to admire from afar, there’s a whale shark festival in Isla Mujeres in July.
If you’re passionate about conservation, you can be part of the effort to protect the ancient, majestic sea turtles. Female turtles emerge, nest and lay eggs every year in the month of May, and the babies are born about five-six weeks later. Because the eggs and babies are vulnerable to predators, volunteers are needed to hunt for the nests, mark or transport them to safe areas, and make sure the babies are released to the ocean.
Because the Mexican people love celebrations and fiestas, every month features a different festival. One of the most colorful folk festivals, Guelaguetza, occurs in July in the the city of Oaxaca. During this celebration, people from the many different communities in Oaxaca come together to share traditions and embrace their diversity. Representatives from the many different ethnic groups converge on the city, wearing traditional clothing and performing folk dances particular to their unique heritage.
My personal favorite is the Zacatecas international Folkloric festival of chamber music in San Miguel de Allende in August. While you’re there, check out the vibrant art scene and stop in a local restaurant to sample delicious Mexican treats like Tacos al pastor, made with strips of pork off a spit or Elote (corn on the cob).
No matter what your particular interests, there is truly no “low season” in Mexico. Summer or winter, you’ll get a chance to experience local festivities, cultural events, different foods and a variety of wildlife.
Guest blogger, Jacqui Keady, is a freelance writer and lifelong reader of mystery and romance novels. She lives in Folsom, California with her husband of nearly 30 years and two beloved dogs.