Guest Post: Exploring Mexico Landmarks with a Camera

Holidays to Mexico offer a unique blend of ancient culture and innovative modern comforts. From Aztec ruins to exciting beach resorts, this country really does have something to offer everyone. Above all else, it is the vibrant colours and dramatic scenery which are likely to stay with you the longest, making Mexico the perfect destination for anyone with an interest in photography.

Hotel Be Live Riviera Maya Beach

Creative Commons Flickr Satyrvs

Mexico has been a home to some of the world’s greatest civilizations, and they have all left behind their mark. Visitors to Mexico can admire cities and temples built by the Olmecs, Zapotecs, Aztecs and Mayans, where ancient stonework and pyramids have been lost for centuries beneath the dense jungle foliage.

Mexico sign

Creative Commons Flickr grassvalleylarry

Make sure you take your camera with you, as you visit important Mexico historical sites such as the Mayan ruins on the Yucatan Peninsula – including Chichen Itza, which has been named as one of the seven wonders of the world! Other breathtaking sights you’ll want to preserve on film include the Aztec Templo Mayor, and the magnificent remains of the city of Teotihuacan.

Stepping forward in time to the arrival of the Spanish, visitors to Mexico can admire a number of striking colonial towns. While this era brought great destruction to the people of Mexico, it did leave in its wake a new wave of art and architecture, which remains to be seen today. Some of the more beautiful colonial towns and cities include Guadalajara and Puebla, both rich in cultural attractions such as museums and ancient landmarks.  Merida in the Yucatan state is known as the ‘white city’ and boasts a number of natural attractions; Morelia on the other hand is famous for its beautiful plazas, gardens and colonial houses built from pink quarry stone. Other cities worth visiting with a camera include Oaxaca, Taxco, and of course, Mexico City.

One of the more exciting things to do in Mexico, is to take a trip into the extensive nature reserves inland. Photographers will love these areas of unspoiled natural beauty, which boast canyons, waterfalls and an impressive range of flora and fauna. From exotic birds to rare butterflies, the country is rich in vibrant, colourful wildlife.

Mexico flamingos

Creative Commons Flickr armandolobos

Mexico fire dancer

Creative Commons Flickr darcym

Finally, Mexico boasts a range of exciting festivals throughout the year, many of which deserve an entire photo album to themselves! Perhaps the best known, are the celebrations that surround the Day of the Dead. This festival is celebrated in towns and cities across the country, as the locals take to the streets with carnival processions. You can expect to see massive floats adorned with candles, sweets, flowers and confetti. The performers often wear full costumes and masks, and this unforgettable spectacle will be an experience that stays with you for a long time.

So, for professional photographers and amateur snappers alike, there are plenty of reasons to choose a holiday in Mexico this year. From rare butterflies to ancient temples, the colourful sights of Mexico are something that you will want to remember forever.

Richard Morten is a freelance writer and musician based in Bristol. He regularly contributes to a number of local newspapers, online journals and reference sites, as well as taking editorial roles on two regular publications. Richard’s work reflects strong interests in travel, culture, music and philosophy.

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