This article beautifully captures the sense of adventure and discovery that comes with exploring new places and possibilities. It's a testament to the allure of Mexico and the opportunities it offers to expats, all while painting a vivid picture of the picturesque landscapes and vibrant communities. 🏖️🇲🇽✨
Oh, this brings back memories. :-) I first drove to Tulum from Playa in 1994 before the 307 was even PAVED. What a nightmare! But I knew there was something waiting for me at the end of that highway. And I was right. I'm glad I saw it when I did...it was paradise. and I may not like what it has morphed into but after my recent escapades it all would be a respite hahahahaha. Love dining out in Puerto Morelos, last time there we hit some great Brazilian steak house and pizza place. We were almost carried away by mosquitos but the food was worth it. :-)
Love it. Yes, the 307. That was Supposed to be paved around 1994 but the enormous funds, well, let's just say, went missing. A year later Miguel Quintanaroo (great grandson to whom the state was named) owns Xcaret, an Epcot-style outdoor nature park which lies just south of Playa. To ensure Cancun tourists made their way at least to Xcaret, Miguel paid out of pocket for the paving. Yeah, called the Tulum Corridor then, it was drop dead gorgeous. Sigh, times change.
And now the Tren Maya! And an airport in Tulum! That's interesting history on Miguel Quintanaroo! Sometimes you gotta pay out of pocket if you want anything done. It's still a lovely area and I'll always cherish my fond memories.
It truly is beautiful. And his decision to 'pave paradise' (sorry couldn't resist) was what was needed. We always came up through Chetumal when we drove yearly back from US, and it was pretty bad roads from Chetumal to Playa before the paving.
Oh dear, my oh my. Truer words were never spoken. Here's the opening lines in my travel memoir, Where the Sky is Born: Living in the Land of the Maya, which I am condensed serializing on Substack: "Highway 307 on Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula stretched like an asphalt ribbon before us. The Maya named this place Sian K'an, or 'where the sky is born.' It was untouched, this open, desolate wilderness, except for the narrow strip of pavement beneath us." I hope you join me on future Substack posts, Liz, as I wind my way towards Puerto Morelos, building our house, and opening my bookstore. Salud! as is said in Mexico.
What a story. You always leave us wanting more.
Thank you, Carmen! It was quite a wild ride.
"Timing is everything" - sounds like you guys hit the beach at the right time! Nice introduction to your life in Mexico, thanks for sharing.
Thank you Mike! We thought so at first too. But the 'saga' continues.
Every time I read one of your pieces about Mexico I start yearning to go back! Thank you for the short visits.
You are so very welcome! Mil gracias!
Love hearing your story and remembering the way the Mexican Riviera used to be before it was "discovered."
Thank you Joyce. Oh yes. It’s impossible to imagine that now. Feel so fortunate to have seen it when it was pristine and off the beaten path.
This article beautifully captures the sense of adventure and discovery that comes with exploring new places and possibilities. It's a testament to the allure of Mexico and the opportunities it offers to expats, all while painting a vivid picture of the picturesque landscapes and vibrant communities. 🏖️🇲🇽✨
Thank you so much, Jonah. It was an adventure and yes, a time of discovery. And Mexico, the allure is potent! Appreciate your comments.
Oh, this brings back memories. :-) I first drove to Tulum from Playa in 1994 before the 307 was even PAVED. What a nightmare! But I knew there was something waiting for me at the end of that highway. And I was right. I'm glad I saw it when I did...it was paradise. and I may not like what it has morphed into but after my recent escapades it all would be a respite hahahahaha. Love dining out in Puerto Morelos, last time there we hit some great Brazilian steak house and pizza place. We were almost carried away by mosquitos but the food was worth it. :-)
Love it. Yes, the 307. That was Supposed to be paved around 1994 but the enormous funds, well, let's just say, went missing. A year later Miguel Quintanaroo (great grandson to whom the state was named) owns Xcaret, an Epcot-style outdoor nature park which lies just south of Playa. To ensure Cancun tourists made their way at least to Xcaret, Miguel paid out of pocket for the paving. Yeah, called the Tulum Corridor then, it was drop dead gorgeous. Sigh, times change.
And now the Tren Maya! And an airport in Tulum! That's interesting history on Miguel Quintanaroo! Sometimes you gotta pay out of pocket if you want anything done. It's still a lovely area and I'll always cherish my fond memories.
It truly is beautiful. And his decision to 'pave paradise' (sorry couldn't resist) was what was needed. We always came up through Chetumal when we drove yearly back from US, and it was pretty bad roads from Chetumal to Playa before the paving.
Sooo different now!
Oh dear, my oh my. Truer words were never spoken. Here's the opening lines in my travel memoir, Where the Sky is Born: Living in the Land of the Maya, which I am condensed serializing on Substack: "Highway 307 on Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula stretched like an asphalt ribbon before us. The Maya named this place Sian K'an, or 'where the sky is born.' It was untouched, this open, desolate wilderness, except for the narrow strip of pavement beneath us." I hope you join me on future Substack posts, Liz, as I wind my way towards Puerto Morelos, building our house, and opening my bookstore. Salud! as is said in Mexico.
What a good story. So much information and beautifully told. ...the stuff dreams are made of
Thank you! Mexico is a dreamy place, maybe that's why ):
I can hardly wait to hear the next "chapter"! Please tell us you'll pick up where you left off. I'm utterly intrigued.
Thank you, Lana! Yes I will! Much appreciate your comments