We woke up with minor exhaustion and utmost excitement. We would be visiting one of the New7Wonders of the world, Chichen Itza! :) It is one of the largest Mayan site located in the Peninsula of Yucatan, Mexico.
The day started a bit bumpy with high wind causing docking delays and last minute meeting relocation changes. Finally after we docked, we were rushed to exit the ship to catch a 45-mins ferry to Playa del Carmen. The area was busy and crowded. We were met by our tour guides and immediately led to board our bus.
During the two hours, the tour guide gave us an extensive review of the Mayan history and more. Staring out the window, we passed miles of grassland with the occasional cows and horses.
After two hours, we arrived at this place of peace and power. The widely recognized structure, El Castillo, the Pyramid of Kukulkan, stood boldly before my eyes . Indeed it is a true masterpiece of architectural genius.
Our tour guide explained, there are four staircases and each staircase consists of 91 steps. Adding all sides plus the top platform is 365, the number of days in a year.
He lined us up in front of the pyramid and asked us to madly clap our hands. The sound from our claps traveled to the top and produced an echo, a sound similar to a bird's chirp. It is just unbelievable! :)
The detailed cravings found on each structure.
We were given only limited amount of free time to roam freely. The entire site was so extensive. It was regrettable we couldn't stay longer to admire all the structures.
The tour guide also introduced us to a real life Mayan. For some odd cultural misunderstanding, Mayans were thought to be extinct. Well, myth busted. I have officially met one! :)
A Mayan woman who lives in the jungle
Vendors were posed on every corner ready to hawk at every tourist. Handmade wood craving, assortment of bowls and colorful tapestry covered every walkway. Couldn't help myself but to bring home a beautifully painted bowl. :)
Watching a trail of waves ripple as the ferry speed back to Cozumel. I must say experiencing Chichen Itza was one magnificent adventure to the past! The history and sights are definitely unforgettable! :) Thank you for the history lesson!
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