An archaeological guide to Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula

There is nothing like this compact, easy-to-read guide to 91 sites and 8 archaeological museums on Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, a region known worldwide for its magnificent tropical forests and Maya ruins. All the major ruins are described in this easy-to-carry handbook - plus dozens not found in other guides. Clear photographs, drawings, maps, and site plans illustrate the text. This is the only book to list all these sites, how to get to them, and enough information. About each to know whether it is worth visiting and how much time a visit will require. Among the ruins not found in other guides are the spectacular and recently discovered Balamku and the lovely Sacbe (the location of which was lost for many years). Such famous tourist attractions as Chichen Itza, Uxmal, Tulum, and Labna are described in loving detail, as are all the sites. The sites and museums are rated from 0 to 4 stars so that readers will know at a glance how. Worthwhile a visit will be. Ratings are based on the site's relative importance, degree of preservation or restoration, and ease of access compared with the visual rewards of the ruin. The current name and original names (where known) are given with phonetic pronunciations. The sites are arranged in geographical sections, each coordinated with a map or maps. The general information about each area includes the availability of accommodations and restaurants, car rentals. And gas stations. The text for each site includes the history of the place and its archaeology and a description of the ruins. The author takes care to tell the road connections, exact mileages, and conditions. Where travelers must hire a guide, the text names local guides and tells how to get in touch with them. A "General Advice" section at the beginning of the book describes everything from proper clothing and footgear to where to acquire the best maps and other aids. Joyce Kelly has visited each site personally. Her purpose is to provide readers with up-to-date information presented as clearly, simply, and accurately as possible. Readers will easily find the exact information they need.