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Puerto Vallarta News NetworkTravel & Outdoors | November 2008 

Experience Real Beauty Under the Sea
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Ever thought of swimming under extremely crystal clear waters while observing the most incredible and beautiful marine species that inhabit the second largest reef on Earth?

We have good news for scuba diving and snorkeling fans. Stop dreaming and visit the spectacular paradise that awaits you in Cancun, considered one of the top places in the world for scuba diving. Whether you are an amateur or a professional diver, Cancun and its surroundings, offer some of the best natural landscapes and the highest quality in resources to ensure an unforgettable experience.

Visitors can admire the amazing wildlife including brightly colored fish found only under the radiant surface of the Caribbean Sea. Cancun’s coastline is found directly in front of the Great Mesoamerican Reef, an amazing system extending 450 miles all the way from Punta Nizuc to the Bay of Islands in Honduras and is the largest reef in the Western Hemisphere. This reef system is home to 100 coral species, 350 mollusks, and 164 species of reef dwelling fish, sea turtles, crocodiles, lemon sharks, dolphins and manatees, among other exotic creatures that are unlikely to be seen elsewhere. The best news is that you don’t have to travel many hours to dive since there are between ten to 12 coral reefs, some of which are located at only 45 minutes from the shore.

Cancun offers a wide variety of scuba diving venues offering the best in training-including the PADI certification- and equipment for both novice and experienced divers. Professional trainers and guides ensure visitors’ safety by arranging diving sessions for small groups of people at a time. There are more than 25 fully-equipped water sports centers and marinas that operate under strict environmental standards to avoid any harm to marine life. Under the supervision of certified guides, vacationers will have a fulfilling experience. Also, several hotels and resorts offer hour long scuba diving courses in areas of extremely shallow waters for guests who are interested in getting a taste of Cancun’s diving offer. One of the greatest advantages in Cancun is that water depth reaches a maximum of 100ft., which makes it the ideal and safest spot for both, beginners and pros.

In Cancun, variety is the norm. Tourists can choose between open water diving along the reef where they have the opportunity to explore sunken vessels- like the famous C58- or dive along natural caverns and cenotes (sink holes), some are so deep that are beyond the reach of sunlight. Cenote diving is characteristic of the state of Quintana Roo which has one of the longest cenotes route in the world. A complete cavern diving course lasts one week and includes a series of 14 diving sessions.

For those who prefer to go snorkeling, Punta Cancun, Isla Mujeres and Puerto Morelos offer the possibility to experience the marine wonders of the Mexican Caribbean, allowing tourists to have a close encounter with marine creatures such as tropical fish, sea monkeys, grouper fish, parrotfish, as well as invertebrates like jelly fish, crabs, lobsters and octopus. Snorkeling in Puerto Morelos is particularly attractive because the coral reef is located very close to the shore, keeping the waters calm and shallow- the perfect conditions to have a safe and enjoyable snorkeling trip.

Those who want to experience the peaceful mood of a fishing village can take day trips to Holbox Island, Contoy and Isla Mujeres conveniently located a few miles from Cancun. These islands combine tropical life with the charm of virgin white sand beaches and the Mayan heritage. While being popular destinations for snorkeling and scuba diving, visitors also have the opportunity to interact with nature above the ocean’s surface through activities such as bird, crocodile and turtle watching. Also, these places offer the opportunity to swim with magnificent creatures such as whale sharks (locally known as Domino whales), dolphins and manatees. Better yet, you can be a part of an expedition to discover the mysteries of the sleeping sharks cave.

We invite you to live an unforgettable experience that’s only possible in Cancun. For more information go to http://cancun.travel/en/



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the included information for research and educational purposes • m3 © 2008 BanderasNews ® all rights reserved • carpe aestus