Cancun

Mexico's Ecological Playground

By Donna Smith

Don't let the term "all-inclusive" keep you from venturing away and trying local restaurants. La Destileria honors the famous Mexican drink, tequila. Learn everything there is to know about tequila and then enjoy a fabulous meal in a festive atmosphere. The open kitchen displays traditional cookware, fresh produce and energetic chefs.

Experience authentic Yucatan cuisine at Labna, which means "old house," located in downtown Cancun. As it states on the menu, this restaurant has "re-created a small space in which to render homage to the grandeur of our ancestors." Dine on traditional foods like Papadzules, tortillas stuffed with boiled eggs bathed in pumpkin red sauce; Fajitas Labna, spicy shredded chicken, beef or pork; Filete Mignon Mestizo, made with goat cheese and regional spices; Salpicon de Res, slivers of tender beef garnished with onion, tomato, cilantro, radishes, sour Yucatecan oranges and guacamole; or Pollo Pibil, local chicken with achiote and other spices wrapped in banana leaves and baked. Try the chaya water, a refreshing green drink made with the large glossy leaves of the chaya plant. For dessert, you can't beat the tres leches cake, flamed strawberries or flamed bananas. Adventurous diners may want to try the baked suckling pig.

Cancun is a tropical paradise brimming with fun, educational and exciting activities for the whole family. Enjoy the beach, but also be sure to learn more about the Mayan history, food and culture by visiting an attraction off the beaten path.

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