X is for Xel-Ha on the Mexican Riviera Maya.

I really thought I would have to blame poor Mr Ben for eating my homework when it came to the letter X assignment for Mrs Matlock's Alphabe-Thurday class.
I hadn't a clue what to write about this week.
Then............a couple of days ago whilst sipping early morning tea in bed and chatting with DH we started to brainstorm words beginning with X.
Xanadu (bad film starring Olivia Newton John).
Xenophobe (what does that mean?).
Xylophone (We digressed a little here reminiscing about the small tinny metal xylophones we both had as small children growing up in 1950's England. Bashing on the brightly coloured metal strips with a wooden stick with a rubber tip, we were easily pleased! Mrs M has a great image of one of these on her post today.)
and then..............
my eyes fell on a framed photograph standing on a nearby chest of drawers, and bingo!
Xel-Ha!
In 1998 we made the first of many very enjoyable trips to Cancun, Mexico and whilst there spent a day enjoying the delights of Xel-Ha, situated on the Mayan Riviera.
The official Xel-Ha website describes it perfectly:
Hidden 30 miles south of Playa del Carmen, 60 from Cancun, or 8 miles north of Tulum, is an inlet of heavenly design, a sanctuary of amazing biological wealth within the Riviera Maya, the scenario of Xel-Há, Natural Wonder.
Renowned as one of the most important Natural Wonders of Mexico, its rich underwater life and luscious jungle are complemented with unforgettable activities, world-class service, and an award-winning philosophy for its constant commitment to nature and social development.
You can spend hours just floating along in a rubber raft just like this happy couple did.

Mrs B wears a new canvas & straw hat and T shirt to combat the sun's heavy rays. As a non swimmer she also sports a fetching blue & black life jacket.
Despite appearances to the contrary Mr B is wearing swim shorts and did not "go commando" that day.

There are so many wonderful things to experience at Xel-Ha, colourful parrots and butterflies abound, you can go snorkling through the cenotes, swim with dolphins, shop, dine in super restaurants and listen to fabulous music provided by a strolling mariachi band.

Click on the link to see an excellent Xel-Ha YouTube video from JcVdude, and click on this link for dansobrino's YouTube video, the Mariachi Cobre band to get you in the mood before dancing over to Jenny's place to see plenty of Xciting blogs from around the world.