[Aztlan] Trip to Mexico (Chiapas)

[David Hixson]

Dear "Wolfhawk"

Within San Cristobal, you should certainly check out "Casa Na Bolom" (formerly the estate of famous archaeologist Frans Blom).  It is now a cultural center.

http://www.nabolom.org/index_en.html

Around San Cristobal are the traditional Maya communities of Chamula and Zinacantan.  Go there for the experience, but be respectful as these communities are not eager for western tourism (although they are very polite and accommodating).  General rule, no photographs.  I would suggest going to one of these towns on Market day.

http://www.mexperience.com/guide/colonial/sjchamula.htm

http://www.mexperience.com/guide/colonial/zinacatan.htm

Here's the parent directory for the "Mexperience.com" guide to San Cristobal:

http://www.mexperience.com/guide/colonial/sancristobal.htm

Between San Cristobal and Palenque, there's the wonderful Maya archaeological site of Tonina.  It's a late to terminal Classic site with amazing stucco work and carved monuments - built into a hillside / hilltop.  It's not the easiest site to get to, because it's not on the main highway between Palenque and San Cristobal, but it's well worth it.

http://www.delange.org/Tonina/Tonina.htm

And closer to Palenque there are some amazing water falls to swim around and cool off.  My favorite is Misol Ha.  The pool at the bottom of the falls is very refreshing.  If you have some aquasocks or other footwear that you can use in water (or tough calluses), climb behind the falls and go inside the cave.

http://www.mexperience.com/guide/mexicophotos/misolha.htm

Another very popular set of low water falls is Agua Azul:

http://www.thresholds.net/aguazul/

While you're in Palenque, consider staying a the Hotel Xibalba.  The owners are well versed in the archaeology of Palenque, and have been long-time friends of this listserv.  Ask them about the replica stone carvings that can be purchased - they are museum quality and made by the family.  Plus, it's just a really cool little hotel.  [I have no association with this hotel.  As a Maya archaeologist, I can simply promise you that I and other archaeologists like this hotel and its management].

http://www.hotelxibalba.com/

ENJOY!!  I'm very jealous!

-Dave