Discoverymundo Blog

Category: Things to do

Best things to do in a place or a City. Including places to visit, where to go, events, festivals, attractions, tours, free activities, and entertainment.

List of things you should never forget before traveling
Before travelling, you must have everything ready for your departure, I recommend making a complete list of things to not forget anything. Writing everything down helps you a lot even if you think you have everything in your mind. One funny and really bad thing that happened to me was the day I was already at the airport and realize my bags where in my house. I was so distracted and didn’t remember to put them on the car!

That’s how I learned by time this important list of things you should never forget before travelling:

1. Your luggage
- A few days before traveling you must have ready your luggage without forgetting any detail. For example my most important things in my bag have to be 3 outfits at least, makeup, toothbrush, shampoo, and other stuff.
- Aircraft normally let you bring two bags of 10 pounds each. If you have a long journey of more than 10 hours I recommend you bring as less as possible on hands to travel more comfortably.
- If you want to protect your bags that go under the plane, put a lock on each one in case someone tries to open them. Never forget your key….
2. Enlist your travel documents

Do not forget your travel ticket, passport, ID, medical and travel insurance card (if applicable), money, home address and important phone numbers (in case of lost luggage or emergencies). The best is all locate it in a folder so you have everything in one place.

3. Your Pet

If you know about any safe place as a hotel for dogs, it’s a good place to keep your dog safe and happy for a couple days, but a friend or family will be always better. Instead, if you are one of those who love taking your pet everywhere in the following article I’ll show you some tips for traveling with your pet.

5. Say goodbye to your loved ones

Even if you just leave for a few days it is important to say goodbye before your trip.

6. Transport to the airport

If you are traveling on a domestic flight, you must be two hours before the departure, but an international flights asks you to be 3 hours before to check in. There are several types of transportation to take you to the airport. If you want to take your family to the airport I recommend you to reserve a Van for 6 people, they are cheap if you divide the cost and also you can take all of your bags in the trunk. Don’t forget to remind the driver at what time your flight departs so you get on time at the airport.

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September 10, 2015
Top Places to Celebrate the Independence Day of Mexico

We’re practically on national holidays and many want to plan an outing with the family, here you will find the most symbolic places with some tips for an unforgettable Independence Day of Mexico on this September 15 and 16.

Dolores Hidalgo, Guanajuato

This is a magical city and the top place to celebrate the Independence Day of Mexico because it is the city where the night of September 15, the father Don Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla called the people from the parish of Dolores to take up arms and began the struggle for Independence.

Nothing could be more symbolic, to celebrate outside the parish where this great event originally took place.

In this city you can take a tour in a bus to know the colonial city and the parish, also you can visit the Museo Casa Hidalgo is the house in which the priest lived and was declared a National Monument. Also visit the Museum of Independence, the Mexican author José Alfredo Jimenez Museum, the Mausoleum, La Hacienda de la Erre, House of visits (Baroque style, this is the place where leaders and officials stay) & Crafts (Here you can find potters and ceramists that are distinctive of Guanajuato).

Also you can eat delicious mexican food like mole or chiles rellenos. For dessert enjoy an ice cream of different flavors like exotic cactus, avocado, tequila or mezcal.

San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato

This city retains a colonial style, in one of his old but elegant mansions born the right arm of Hidalgo: General Ignacio Allende.

At night on the Independence Day of Mexico, hundreds of visitors gather in the main square to hear (around 10:30) the “Independence scream” given by the mayor of the city.

Queretaro

In 1810, Doña Josefa Ortiz de Dominguez, wife of the mayor of the city, discovered the conspiracy against the colonial governor, and sent a letter to Father Miguel Hidalgo. Because of this, he rang the bells of the parish and took up arms early on September 16.

The tourist sites are: the house of the magistrate in the city center, the Aqueduct, the Cathedral (Temple of San Felipe Neri) and the Theatre of the Republic.

In Queretaro there are beautiful colonial hotels and exquisite cuisine. You can not miss the fireworks show projected from across the historic center for the Independence Day of Mexico.

Guanajuato

In this city, Miguel Hidalgo on September 28, 1810, sent a letter of intimidation to the mayor of the city to deliver the square. As he did not have an answer, he decided to conquer by force and start the first battle, known as “the taking of the Alhóndiga”.

The main tourist sites are: Juarez Theater, the Kiss Alley, the Plaza de la Paz, the Mummy Museum, La Valenciana (church), among others.

Being here, you can not miss the Museum of Independence, located in the center and take the opportunity to buy crafts typical of Guanajuato. The festivities take place in all the alleys of the city, but especially in the Jardin Union, the main rallying point.

Mexico City

During the celebrations for the Independence Day of Mexico in September, this city gets completely different, the main buildings around the Zocalo become a spectacle of lights and Paseo de la Reforma is illuminated with patriotic colors.

On September 15 the President gives “The Scream” from the balcony of the National Palace, accompanied by a festival of lights, fireworks and music with mariachi. All bars and restaurants in town join the celebration.

The next day the military parade performance starts from the Zocalo and ends at the National Auditorium.

The main tourist sites are: Historical Center, Chapultepec Park, Xochimilco and colonies Roma-Condesa, Polanco, More Info…

I recommend the Grand Hotel of Mexico, from there you can enjoy dinner while you watch the whole event from the unique view of the Zocalo restaurant. How to get there

Puebla, Puebla.

Beautiful hotels in Puebla are a reason to go for a few days and especially during the Independence Day of Mexico weekend bridge by its colonial style and the beautiful views of Popocatepetl. The historic center of the city has been declared a World Heritage Site for its architectural beauty.

Besides the Cathedral, you must know the Artist Quarter, which is surrounded by a creative magic

Las Vegas, United States

If you prefer to take your national pride abroad, then Las Vegas, Nevada is the perfect choice for you!

Go to Las Vegas for the Independence Day of Mexico is tradition for many Mexicans who manage this city put on the national colors during the weekend. In addition, Mexican music is well represented with Mexican artists like Alejandro Fernandez, Carlos Santana, Lila Downs, Marco Antonio Solis, Luis Miguel and there is even an international mariachi festival.

On the other hand, it is a tradition that at this time, or even the same September 15, a boxing match in which a Mexican defends the sport is held.

Therefore, the Independence Day of Mexico is to Las Vegas and its visitors the opportunity to celebrate and honor the cultural heritage of Mexico in a dynamic and fun way.

Xcaret, Quintana Roo.

If you have decided that Cancun and the Riviera Maya is your destination for the Independence Day of Mexico, we recommend that you spend a whole day and enjoy a park with water activities in addition to its main theme the traditions of our country. September is the cheapest month to visit Cancun, so get advantage of it!

You do not want miss the spectacular show that will beat Mexico pride to your heart.

September 4, 2015
Cancun’s Best Karaoke Bars

Cancun is an ideal place to party any day of the week, being a tourist destination and the most visited in Mexico makes the possibility to enjoy any activity you are seeking.

For me, I love music, karaoke and especially since I stepped in Cancun, my goal was to find the best Karaoke citywide. Going out every weekend to a different karaoke, some dissapointed me because I sang every half hour and ended singing 2 songs until dawn, others were karaokes show where you had to dress up like an artist with cool music to dance all night and the type of karaoke that i like where you could sing all kinds of genres with a good enviroment and some drinks.

I’ll tell in my very experience Cancun’s Best Karaoke Bars:

Karaoke at the Four Elements in Hotel Xbalamque

Actually, this is the best karaoke I’ve ever gone, I met it until two years after living in Cancun. My family and I loved it so much that we ended up going every weekend without fail. The style of this place is based in Mayan culture, you have to enter through the hotel lobby and then find a sign that says 4 elements.

The music is excellent, the atmosphere is relaxed but fun for every guest. I recommend you to order some delicious alitas with drinks.

The dj is super fun! The microphone has an excellent sound and I loved it so much that I could ask for 10 songs and I could not miss anyone!! You see people from all over the world enjoying the singing and dancing. I really like also that at least between each 5 songs the DJ plays music for dancing ALL kind of music: salsa, reggaeton, bachata, jazz and even tango! When it comes to dance or sing, do not forget your camera and get someone to record the show because you on stage will be unforgettable! (Airport Shuttle to Xbalamque Hotel)

Acoustic Piano Bar & Karaoke

Acoustic Piano Bar and Karaoke is located in front of Plaza las Americas at Plaza Solare, it´s very easy to get there. Defined to be an elegant karaoke bar, but fun. You can reserve a table in advance to have your spot if you go on the weekend because it is the one that fulls the most of all Cancun! To me what I like about here is the sound when you sing, the music for dancing and sometimes that you can appreciate some piano artists with singers. You can also ask the waiters for its menú, they offer there nachos, fries, drinks, etc. or you can bring food from the restaurants around, I highly recommend you to get an order of sushi Chowa.

When going to Acoustic Bar & Karaoke, do not forget to bring your ID!

Show Time

Show Time is the ideal karaoke to go with all your friends or your family! Ask for the songs you want and you must be mentally and physically prepare to dress up in colorful wigs and hats while singing on stage, you definitely have to dance! It is a show you can not miss ..

While spending the night, we recommend ordering a large saucer botanero and drinks for all!

Pancho & Willys

If you want an elegant, exclusive and fun karaoke.. overlooking the lagoon and most importantly in the center of the tourist area of Cancun (Zona Hotelera) I would strongly advise to go to Pancho & Willy’s! It is the most famous for all international tourists. The setting of this place is very nice and elegant, not as Mexican as the others but if you want to enjoy with your partner classical, rock music and dancing a little rock & roll this is the place for you. (Airport Shuttle to Zona Hotelera in Cancun)

I hope this article is helpful to you! Do not forget to leave your comments below, I answer every question or doubt. Thank you!

Pancho & Willys Lagoon Sunset

September 2, 2015
What it feels to swim in a big hole of water: Grand Cenote in Riviera Maya

You wanna know what it feels to jump into a big hole of water? Here I wrote a little story that describes the day I decided to jump into Grand Cenote at Riviera Maya, Mexico.

The Riviera Maya is very recognize by the tourists who came for holidays to the beach, they have a lot of fun doing snorkel, shopping and parties, but there is a lot of things to do here.

For example, I live in Cancun, and once you be here you will see you got a lot of options to do; and this time it was for me to do something fun and adventurous, it was on Sunday, very close to cancun is Playa del Carmen, by car you will get there in 40 minutes, and is very popular go to the Routes of the Cenotes, here in the route there are almost 10 differents cenotes that you can met to have a lot of fun, the name is because directly on the avenue from Paya del Carmen to Tulum you will see the entrance for a lot of Cenotes, the one that i was looking for to learn calls Gran Cenote, this cenote is perfect to those ones who loves diving.

I was with my friends that day having a lot of fun after a good party last night at Palazzo that is on the 12 street in Playa del Carmen, we woke up early to start our day at 100% of energy and attitude! So I took my car and drived with my friends looking for the Gran Cenote, but no one of us go there before jaja wrond! I ask for the location and first of all the cenote is located in Tulum, its only at 2 km from the archaeological park, from Playa del Carmen to Tulum its on the right side of the road directly to Cobá.

When we finally arrived there we see a lot of tourist, for the entrance you have to pay 200 pesos; this Price is because the entrance includes the food, by the time you get into you see a natural place, its very quiet and calm, before we can go to swim we needed to use the showers to be more clean, that one is a rule of the place. After the shower we took the way downstairs to finally swim in the cenote. For our surprise the place was amazing, honestly i can’t describe it better, is beautiful. You can see all the nature and creation that God did for us for our entertainment. To enjoy more we rented a snorkel equipment for the Price of 30 pesos and for our stuffs a locker with the same Price, finally we were ready to jump for our enjoy!!

If you see the water is very clear, you can see everything almost without an snorkel, we tought it wasn’t to much deep, we tought that maybe it was like 5 meters, so then, we decide to jump from the stairs and start swimming, the first touch on the water was insane!! is supercold!!! Jajaja Omg! You almost get like an ice cube!! But we didn’t payed attention cause the feeling disappeared by the time we stayed on the water. We were swimming with the others tourists and local people in there having fun.

When I decide to use the snorkel and try to touch with my hand the rocks down to us, in fact i try to do it with my feet cause i thougt it was like one meter from me, but i just put the snorkel and I discovered that the rock was at almost 12 meters from me!! O.o (that was my face after seeing that) i was scared!!

After that i knew that the most deepest part in that cenote was 20 meters!! You felt like if you were flying, and in the same moment I saw a light deep with my eyes behind me, there were some people diving down there! they were biologists looking for another connection between more cenotes, and another more were tourists.

After a lot of time swimming and having fun we went out and went for some food. I can tell the water was delicious, nothing bad for a new experience. Believe me if you are looking for more fun apart the parties here, if you want to disconnect yourself from all the noise and get relax for one day and if you want a new experience you have to try this! It’s a beautiful memory that you will never forget, and like i said is not the only one, you have a lot!! This was my experience in this cenote, so…imagine how are you gonna feel when you try this? You have a lot of options here and experiences to meet, try!!!.

Manuel Hernández

August 15, 2015
Getting to know Madagascar

Madagascar is the 4th largest island in the world after Australia, Greenland, New Guinea.

Since 2005 the official currency of Madagascar is the Malagasy ariary, which replaced the Malagasy franc 1 USD is equivalent to 2.941.83 Malagasy ariary today. I’m not pretty sure about what can you buy with 2.900 Malagasy Ariary

Its capital is Antananarivo, the country has about 22 million inhabitants, here is a picture of Antananarivo, seems like a nice place to visit. I read about Madagascar for an University work and it looks amazing not only because there is a movie called like this country, this island have many different environments.

The official language is Malagasy and French, if you want to say “hello”, “good morning” or good afternoon” in the Malagasy language you should say “Salama” and “how much does this cost?” Serious “ohatrinona ity”.

The animal is the symbol of Madagascar is the Lemur, an animal which is endemic of this island and is considered as the closest animal to man, closer than the Monkeys or Chimps. In Madagascar there are 33 species of lemur, the Striped Tail Lemur is the most studied and performed most of his activities in the day and afternoon with the sunlight, there are other species of Lemur that only come out at night which are considered unlucky and when people find one of this Black Night Lemurs they often kill them.

Lemur name comes from the lost continent of Lemuria was considered as the South Atlantis.

It was given the name of Lemur from the Latin meaning “Spirit of the Dead” as they are considered strange halfway between animals and spirit creatures.

All these animals come from the continent known as Gondwana millions of years before, which left in the island reptiles and other animals, Platypuses are a great example of prehistoric animals in Madagascar.

There are carnivorous mammals like the Fossa and there are also reptiles like chameleons, snakes and birds.

In Madagascar there are several tourist attractions mostly nature entered for example the Avenue of the Baobabs where along this route you can find trees up to 30 meters this species are known as Adansonia Grandieri, endemic to Madagascar .

The Zahamena National Park, which is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, has about 13 species of lemur.

I believe Madagascar is one of those mysterious places in the world that someone should visit before dying, I hope we can go there soon.

August 15, 2015
10 Safest Places for Female Solo Travelers

ICELAND

Iceland’s nickname is ”The land of Fire & Ice”, sounds a little crazy but this is one of the safest and comfortable places to travel. There is one city called Reykjavik known for its art, music and nightlife, you will have the chance to meet lots of friends and other travelers around. There are a lot of reasons to visit Iceland but you will be suprised by the natural wonders.

SCANDINAVIA

All of Scandinavia is ideal for female travelers, it has some other names such as Denmark, Norway and Sweden, famous for its architecture and beautiful landscapes. You maybe didn’t hear this before but, Scandinavia has been ranked as the top happiest place in the world!

NEW ZEALAND

Glaciers, beaches and fiors are full of adventure. New Zealand is a place where you will meet the most beautiful landscape in the world. Ask any traveler and you will get this answer. Many travelers love here so much that they made New Zealand its new home.

THAILAND

Traveling solo by your own to Thailand will give you awesome plenty of things and opportunities to do. Beautiful beaches, delicious food streets and espectacular views. This is a destination for all kind of budget and you can enjoy the best hotels to a very good price.

CANADA

Every little corner in Canada is amazing, surrounded by the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. People in Canada have a reputation for being the friendlist people in the world!

COSTA RICA

If you are looking for beautiful beaches with big forests, Costa Rica is the perfect place. Whether you like have a yoga therapy or going into the ocean, this place will fill your soul.

IRELAND

Ireland does not have a good expected weather, but it´s famous for being the place of beer and joy. Watch a game, go to a local restaurant or bar or talking a walk to the countryside will make your vacations unforgettable.

BALI

The place for connecting yourself to the nature with temples, yoga, relaxing beaches, good food and accomodation. Bali is the ultimate solo traveler place. Great culture and amazing young people to meet, you will always find someone to hang out with.

AMSTERDAM

Amsterdam is very known worldwide for its relaxing culture, very active and good vibes. You can rent a bike and ride meeting new people and preparing for the nightlife!

A CRUISE

Of course this is not a country, but going into a cruise is one of the most amazing experiences you will ever have. Perfect for female solo travelers. A lot of activities and good accommodation will make your perfect adventure! Also you can enjoy the views of the beautiful sunsets and dawns or even dolphins while you are on the cruise.

August 13, 2015
Los mejores lugares para comer en Miami

Siempre que viajamos a un lugar queremos tener una lista de recomendaciones de dónde comer, a donde ir, etc.

Hice una lista de los mejores lugares para comer en Miami basado a varias opiniones de diferentes viajeros, dependiendo del presupuesto que tengas pensado hay diferentes lugares que se acomodan a tu bolsillo. Desde las mejores carnes y ensaladas, a un platillo playero o un postre acompañado de tu bebida favorita.

1. Oak Tavern

Pub moderno con un elegante comedor, amplio patio y menú de deliciosos platos y pizzas al horno en leña.

2. Fiorito

Los Hermanos Maximiliano, Cristian Álvarez y Sebastián Cardona abrieron este restaurante en el año 2012. El nombre es en honor a Villa Fiorito, un barrio de Buenos Aires famoso por ser el hogar de la infancia de Diego Armando Maradona, uno de los mejores futbolistas de todos los tiempos.

3. Tongue & Cheek.

Bistro moderno con asientos al aire libre y un menú con gran variedad de comida americana y cócteles de diferentes gustos.

4. Bar Crudo

Ceviche, carpaccio y otros platillos, además de la variedad de cócteles en tarros de cristal, aprovechando un local con estilo.

5. Swine Southern Table & Wine.

Deliciosa comida para los carnivoros! Con cortes de carne ahumados aprovechando un toque ambiental elegante y divertido.

6. Box Park

Este tipo de comida es muy natural, digamoslo así.. ofrece platillos como cocodrilo frito, cerdo, gato amarillo cítrico y la pizza con un toque de jamón de pavo… cambiará tu enfoque completamente si pruebas uno de estos platillos.

7. PB Steak

Un restaurante de carnes con una variedad de acompañamientos para tu platillo y un estilo country.

8. Lucali

Las mejores pizzas al horno en Miami, ensaladas de lujo y un restaurante con estilo rústico definen éste lugar.

9. Sumi Yakitori

Un lugar peculiar, amueblado con una cocina abierta y adornada con botellas de alcohol. A veces, una multitud de jóvenes se pasea por las puertas de cristal, se queda mirando a los chefs caminando con sus camisetas negras, y permanecen en la entrada. Un camarero les entrega un menú, y leen detenidamente la enorme y deliciosa variedad de comidas.

10. MC Kitchen

MC KITCHEN está enfocado en la cocina italiana moderna. A través del uso de la sensibilidad ofrecen platos de temporada con ingredientes seleccionados sobre la base de la calidad, la madurez de la cosecha y la integridad de agricultura.

11. The Cypress Room

Un restaurante retro que sirve comida y bebidas de Estados Unidos en un pequeño espacio adornado con cabezas de ciervo montados.

12. Gabose

Un espacio realmente agradable con una enorme variedad de platillos coreanos por elegir y parrillas servidas directamente en tu mesa.

13. Khong River House

Tradicional curry y fideos del norte de Tailandia se sirven en las excavaciones de madera con un ambiente granja.

August 5, 2015
Best Hotels in Cancun and Riviera Maya

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Best hotels in Cancun and Riviera Maya.

I’ve list the top hotels in Riviera Maya. Based on research, Riviera Maya counts with more than 128 luxury hotels. Here I choose the most relaxing & private but fun with all kinds of activities to spend one of the best times of our life with your couple or family!

1. Rosewood Mayakoba in Riviera Maya

Rosewood Mayakoba is a unique, relaxing and recognized resort in the Riviera Maya with a mile of pure sand and cristaline beach. It offers a variation of children activities for all ages, but this resort is just a perfect vacations for couples looking for upscale restaurants and many spas. Its decoration is very rich , you can see in the pictures; as well the luxury private outdoor pools.

2. Iberostar Grand Hotel Paraiso in Cancun

The Iberostar Gran Hotel Paraiso, as winner of the World’s 1 Traveler’s Choice Award and part of the Grand Collection set of Iberostar, is one of the favorites hotels in the Riviera Maya. A luxury combination of nature and fun makes you enjoy the perfect vacation. Its offers unlimited activities for fun, entertainment, relaxation, nightlife, great restaurants and beaches!

3. Grand Velas in Riviera Maya.

A hotel with acres of white cristaline beaches and just next to the Mayan Jungle of the Caribbean Sea. This is a Luxury all inclusive hotel resort, chosen by many many travelers around the world for the perfect vacation; spas, mayan rituals, international restaurants and plenty activities.

4. Zoëtry Paraiso de la Bonita in Riviera Maya

Ok, I can say this is one of my favorite hotels. Just the perfect choice to escape, re-energise and enrich your body & soul. Surrounded by lots of beaches and forest, there will be a majestic healing temple full of treatments for yourself: spas, temazcal, baths and a lot more. Find out! I really recommend it.

5. Fairmont Mayakoba in Riviera Maya.

Known as the Venice of the Caribbean. Fairmont Mayakoba is where you have a luxury fun experience. It offer guests the opportunity to experience nature: Mangroves, tropical forests, lagoons, water canals and coastal dunes are all on the property.

6. The Ritz-Carlton in Cancun

The Ritz Carlton in Cancun, offers the unique tropical vacation for a couple, friends or family. Memorable things to do will full your wishlist.. international buffets, spas, children activities, sports & entertainment! The most blue and clear beaches will be at this area.

7. Banyan Tree Mayakoba in Riviera Maya

A relaxing and peaceful touch of nature describes this luxury hotel. You can find the first all-pool villa resorts on Mexico Riviera Maya. One of the most recommended and exclusive resorts for a romantic look..

8. Belmond Maroma Resort & Spa

Perfectly located in the middle of the sea and the jungle. Belmond Maroma Resort & Spa is a recognized site for its local mezcals at the beachfront cantina with its mayan healing techniques at different spas. Delicious restaurants close to the beach will make your relaxing vacations perfect.

9. Hacienda Uayamon, Luxury Hotel in Riviera Maya.

Guests of Hacienda Uayamon say that this hotel transport them back in time. Nestled between azure waters and archaeological treasures, Uayamon reflects the sophistication of a luxury resort with attention to surrounding mayan natural beauty.

10. Hacienda Temozon, Luxury Hotel in Riviera Maya.

This is the most luxury and largest sisal you will find. Hacienda Temozon counts with visible ruins and artisans that have been making history for this area. The 17th architevture still being almost the same, UNIQUE.

July 17, 2015
Best 10 places to visit in the city of Guanajuato

Alleyway of the Kiss

A romantic alcove created by two balconies separated only by 27 inches, this famous landmark owes its name to a popular legend of two lovers. Nice place to take your girl!

Funicular Tram to the Pípila Monument

It´s a ride where you can observe the city from a unique panoramic perspective. Continuous rides from behind the Teatro Juárez to the Pípila Monument and return.

Jardín de la Unión

A beautiful triangular-shaped park located in the center of the city, this is one of the places where locals gather. On Thursdays from 6:00 p.m. and Sundays from 12:00 p.m., the State Band plays for the enjoyment of everyone. Everyone dances and listen to the bands, if you want to have a relaxing, happy and enjoyable time give this a try!

“El Pípila” monument

Monument built in honor of Juan Jose de los Reyes Martinez, nick-named “El Pípila”, who heroically burned down the door of the Spanish stronghold Alhóndiga de Granaditas on September 28th 1810, during the first major battle in the Mexican War of Independence. The Monument offers a spectacular view of Guanajuato, that is the best part. At night you can see all the city lights, it is beautiful!!

University of Guanajuato

The University was a school/hospice in 1732. This beautiful neoclassic building of green limestone has an impressive outdoor staircase. The University is the most important center of academic activity in the State, as well as promoter of artistic and cultural activities. The building has an amazing architecture, it is beautiful!

The Experimental Mine El Nopal

Exploratory work began on this mine before 1868. During this year the “Nopal Mining and Company” was formed with the goal of exploring and exploiting the silver veins at “El Nopal” and other mines. Today, the mine is dedicated to educating residents and visitors and providing guided tours. It has trained guides and accident insurance.

The Mummies Museum

The construction of the Santa Paula Municipal cemetery was begun by the City council on August 30 of 1853. The mummification in Guanajuato is a spontaneous and natural phenomenon caused by the lack of oxygen in the wooden burial niches or drawers and the absorption of the fluids that come from the body when it begins to decompose. This, in addition of the microclimates inside the drawers, promotes the dehydration of the human tissues and inhibits the process of rot. The first exhumed mummy was the French Doctor Remigio Leroy and was found on June 9 of 1865. The Mummies museum of Guanajuato has in exhibition 57 bodies including adults and infants that can be observed in 10 rooms. The rooms have been renovated for the visitors comfort. However, the museum’s total collection is 111 mummified bodies and three skulls.

This is really incredible, this is a museum you can´t miss if your traveling to Guanajuato!

Alhóndiga de Granaditas Museum

The construction of Alhóndiga de Granaditas began in 1797 and it was concluded in 1809. This imposing work of neoclassical architecture, with a simple design but an impeccable technique, reflects Guanajuato ́s peacefulness toward the end of the XVIII century. This was used initially as warehouse in 1810. Also, it was scenario of the heroic act from the “Pípila”, burning down the door and allowing the entrance of the rebels on September 28 of 1810. This was one of the initial battles of the Independence movement and its victory motivated the rebels to continue the fight. The wealth of the Regional Museum of Guanajuato is renowned for cultural goods of the national archaeological, historical and artistic patrimony. The permanent exhibitions are organized in four main sections: archaeology, history, ethnography and art. Besides the rooms of permanent exhibitions, there are many temporary exhibitions. The main collections include: Pre-Hispanic stamps, paintings by of Hermenegildo Bustos, and Meso-American Art.

“Teatro Juárez”

This famous theater was officially opened on October 27, 1903, by President Porfirio Díaz, with a performance of the opera “Aida”. It is without a doubt one of the most attractive theaters in the country and known worldwide for its architecture and for being the scene of diverse and important international cultural events.

It is a building that the eclecticism of architecture of that time. It was built in a Doric style of Roman inspiration.

The facade is formed by twelve columns of green stone, finished off by capitals of brass. On the roofline are sculptures of eight of the nine muses.

The interior of the theatre is in Moorish style, with arabesque balconies, boxes and panels.

The first stone was placed on May 5, 1873 on the site of the former Temple of San Pedro, which itself later became the hotel Emporium.

Its is a georgous theater that everyone should see if you have the opportunity!

Diego Rivera Museum

The Diego Rivera Museum is in the Historical Center of the city. It was founded in 1975, in the house where Diego María Rivera Barrientos, one of the most famous Mexican painters of all time, was born. Rivera was born on December 8 of 1886, in one of the rooms of the ground floor where he inhabited the first six years of his life; this time marked the development of his creative personality.

In the year of 1971, the project to transform the house into museum began. This was a tribute to the illustrious Mexican muralist in his native city. In 1975, the Federal Government started the restoration work.

The museum exhibits around 175 original works of Diego Rivera, primarily from a collection of the generous donor, Marte R. Gómez. This collection is one of the most important of the country because it represents the artist’s diverse creative stages, such as the years of his formation and his cubist period, among others. Portraits, landscapes, nudes, allegories, and sketches of murals can be enjoyed in the museum. They are made in diverse techniques such as oil,

drawing, tints, lithographs, and watercolor.. Absolutly beautiful, something you can´t miss.

July 14, 2015
Spectacular Weekend in Cuenca, Ecuador!

Knowing Cuenca, it is possible with wit and patience. Cuenca, a World Heritage Site, is one of the most tourist cities of Ecuador. The basic recommendation for any visitor who wants to have a Spectacular Weekend in Cuenca, Ecuador! Is being informed about the things to do in Cuenca and the main attractions and be clear about what to do in Cuenca.

Cuenca offers a multitude of options for a good weekend: art, history, nightlife, adventure sports and incredible contact with nature … and more!

On the way to Cuenca one of the main attractions is the Cajas National Park, 30 minutes from Cuenca. There’s the Toreadora lagoon, is one of busiest in the area, ease of access, it is entered by the kilometer 31 of the Sayausí-Molleturo route. In that place there is a shelter with laundry service ranger, information point and an interpretive center that guide visitors on this journey of three hours, with two paths:
– The first runs through a forest of Polylepis (paper tree) through the San Luis to the United Nations and the Toreadora gaps.
– The second Totoras gaps and Potoquinuas. Both spots show their natural beauty and is home to deer.



CUENCA, ECUADOR, Laguna La Toreadora in the National Park of Cajas in Cuenca, Azuay.

On the way you will find 15 restaurants serving trout. The signature dish is the ceviche of trout, whose preparation is bittersweet and is accompanied by fried plantains. Worth USD 4.50. The park has 235 lakes, 152 birds and 145 species of flora. Access is free. You’ll find hostels, restaurants, bars and cabins. You can camp and go fishing, make bird watching, extreme sports, among other things.

The road to Cuenca are many curves in mountains with mist if it is cold, with a beautiful landscape. The average trip lasts about 3 hours.

To explore the city on your arrival, I recommend you visit:
– The impressive Cathedral of the Immaculate (New Cathedral)

– The Rio Tomebamba, great place to walk, run and enjoy.

– The Plaza Abdon Calderon, is located in the center of the city.

– Del Sagrario (Old Cathedral Beautiful), I really like the paintings of the Old Cathedral. Outside the cathedral you can take a double floor bus Where can you do see the Most Important places of the city of Cuenca.

– Mirador de Turi, a place that can not miss on your visit to Cuenca, allows a panoramic view of the whole city, its churches and its colonial beauty! Also you can enjoy different adventure activities, only for $1 dollar per person.


– The ruins of All Saints, is a very interesting place to visit as it is by the river where you can stroll and enjoy the story. A highly recommended place!

I recommend you to try, some delicious typical ice cream of Cuenca (Mixx Gourmet Ice Cream), located in a place near the central park in San Blas. The park itself is worth visiting, right, is where this traditional ice cream parlor is located. The ice creams are prepared in a gourmet – handmade, very original and quirky flavors; flavored liqueurs and great cocktails. The place is a bit small, lacking tables and the service a little slow, but very good!
Also, you get options to add more ingredients such as nuts, chocolate, etc … of course with an additional cost of 0.50 cents each extra ingredient, ice cream start at $ 1.50 a simple cone, increasing in cost if you want to cup or want more flavors.



If you like dancing, the night life in Cuenca starts at 10pm and ends at 2am, early compared to other places. On my visit, I went with some friends to a place called LAOS. The music is super good, with a drink and entry into full pay $ 15, you can order something else clear, it depends on you. I highly recommend to conclude your Spectacular Weekend in Cuenca, Ecuador!

Tips if you travel to Cuenca:
– Take your camera with you at all times, the best of Cuenca are the beautiful scenery!

– A tourist map of the city, can be useful to get safely to the different attractions. There are areas like Long Street and the La Merced, where cheaper accommodation centers are located. These spaces are located near the historic center.

– To reach the tourist sites, which are at the center of the city, you can do it by bus. If you prefer a taxi, tell the driver to use the meter. The minimum fare is worth USD 1.14.

– Be sure to wear comfortable and warm clothes. Also comfortable for walking shoes. The climate in Cuenca variates: sunny days and cool night. If you’re planning on camping, be sure to bring everything you need for the trip, extra money and remembers going early in the mist.

July 10, 2015