Tropical flowers in fuchsia, yellow and orange. The dark green leaves of almond and tamarind trees. Couples dressed all in white, sitting on ornate stone benches ringing the central plaza or "xocolo". The capital of the state of Yucatán, this sunny city is also the perfect base for excursions to the ancient Mayan Empire. But check out the city's sites first: Your tour director will take you to the Cathedral of San Il defonso, located on the central Plaza de Armas. Begun in 1563, the Cathedral is the oldest on the American mainland, with the oldest true dome in Mexico. See what many consider Mexico's most "dignified" church interior, complete with thick Tuscan columns, a coffered nave and high altar. Walk across the sunny plaza to the Government Palace to see huge murals depicting scenes of the Spanish conquest of the Yucatán Peninsula and aspects of the Mayan culture that still flourish.

What did this region look like before the Spaniards arrived? Set off to Uxmal, one of the largest and most powerful of the former Mayan cities, to see. A licensed, local guide will lead you through the wooded valley to the wide, uncrowded plazas, where you'll find some of the best-proportioned Mayan buildings known. See the restored Magician's Pyramid, a three-tiered structure built between the 6th and 10th centuries, the grand Governor's Palace, and the Nunnery Quadrangle, four buildings surrounding a central courtyard, resembling a monastery or nunnery.

Just south of Merida, is Tekit, a traditional Yucatecan town whose daily life revolves around its beautiful church, the market and some small shops. Spend the day with a local cooperative and join in on their daily activities. Prepare and taste local bread made in a stone oven at a local bakery, meet Ana and Manuel who will introduce you to agro-ecological production systems. Learn about the production of melipon bees (bees without a sting) and try different varieties of honey. Stop at Ana's house for a traditional Yucatecan lunch. Visit a guayabera factory to learn about the manufacturing process and explore some local stores where it is possible to buy typical and quality clothing directly from the producers. Finally, cool off with a dip in a lush cenote.

Visit the small city of Valladolid where the townspeople still dress in traditional Mayan clothing, the buildings in the main plaza are painted in brilliant pastel colors, and the local women sell their home-made arts and crafts in the central square. Wander through the main plaza and browse through the embroidered blouses and shawls for sale, explore the historic neighborhoods, the seven local churches and visit the impressive San Bernardino Convent for a true feel of this Yucatan city.

See the melding of Mayan and Catholic culture at Izamal, where the enormous 16th-century Convent of St. Anthony stands atop the ruins of an ancient Mayan pyramid. The church's atrium, almost as large as St. Peter's in Rome, holds newly discovered frescoes. The ruins of other Mayan temples surround the site, giving Izamal the nickname "City of the Hills."

Ruins, ruins everywhere. Join a licensed, local guide for a visit to Chichén Itzá, one of the country's most famous Mayan sites. The city dates from around the 7th century AD (though there is evidence of farmers living here as early as the 4th century BC). A major trade and ceremonial center, Chichén Itzá is known for its huge, 365-stepped, four-sided, pyramid El Castillo, as well as other buildings, sculptures and carved murals.

Learn more about the Mayan culture with a sound and light show - a visual blast from the past.

Add to the record books—Playa del Carmen is now, according to the Guinness Book of World Records, the fastest growing town in the world. Attracted by the gorgeous white-sand beach and stunning blue water, the town's newcomers maintain Playa's friendliness and vibrancy. Check out the beach or shop for souvenirs along the bustling main strip.

It’s not just exposure to new places that brings growth, it’s participation and personal engagement that challenge travelers to make an impact. We work hand-in-hand with trusted organizations and charities around the world to coordinate volunteer projects that meet the needs of local communities, so when it’s time for your group to travel, you may participate in activities like: Helping the community plant Aloe Vera plants which is used for the production of soap and shampoo. Maintaining lagoon paths and eco trails to promote tourism in the area.

Spend an afternoon soaking up some vitamin D on the fine white sands of Playa del Carmen, named for the patron saint of Cancún. The turquoise waters offer ample opportunity to explore the marine life and reefs in the Caribbean Sea. So pack your snorkel and fins!

See the Mayan idea of a beach town. Tulum is the largest Mayan coastal city and one of Cancún’s favorite daytrips. Survey the limestone ruins, the surrounding lush jungle, and the super-blue ocean with your Tour Director.