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Summer on Isla Holbox
Brings Turtles, Flamingos and the Whale-SharkSummer brings a once a year convergence of three natural phenomena occurring on land, in the sea and in the skies at the 12 square-mile Isla Holbox, located at the extreme northern tip of the Yucatan Peninsula (gateway airport is Cancun, just under three hours away). This is when one can swim with the largest known fish, the Whale-shark, witness the migration of 40,000 pink flamingos and marvel at the arrival of several species of marine turtles. Justly designated as part of a 59,000 acre protected reserve, this is a spectacular natural paradise all year-round in the midst of which sits the rustic palapa-thatched casitas of Mexico Boutique Hotels' Xaloc Resort. Owners, Goncha Juan Sabater and Juan Felix Sanchez consider this, above all, to be the most exciting time to visit, pointing out that the best time to see these three migrations in most concentrated numbers is between mid-June and late September when, they venture to say, the encounter with whale-sharks is practically guaranteed...perfect for one of the most unique summer vacations! Obsessed with sharing these experiences with their visitors, Xaloc's owners have made exclusive arrangements with a qualified biologist dedicated to the preservation and understanding of the Whale-shark to accompany privately operated marine excursions which depart right from the beachfront at Xaloc Resort. Participants will also benefit from the biologist's knowledge of the turtles, the numerous native dolphins, and 150 species of birds that are there year round and the four classifications of mangrove, rivers and beaches that make up this complex eco-system. Filling the skies and waters with flames of pink colour, the flamingos are attracted to the nutrient-rich waters to feed on crill and other organisms that render their plumage vibrant pink. It's quite a picture to see huge flocks alternately wading, taking to the skies and landing. Even more exhilarating is to sight the whale-shark, the largest known of fishes. This is one of the few spots in the world where it can be easily seen and, their docile nature and the fact they are plankton feeders make snorkelling with it a possibility. The marine turtle migration commences with adult turtles lumbering onto the sandy shores to lay their eggs and, later in the season, up until September, one may witness the first hatchlings emerge.  Xaloc Resort is suited to couples who want to get lost in a tropical paradise far from the bustle and is also a real kid-pleaser as its casual style, direct beach access and even the simplest of nature activities, like shell collecting, will entrance the young and young-at-heart.
Summer rates run from US$70 to US$120 per room based on double occupancy including daily breakfast and taxes. The four-night Whale-Shark Package is an excellent value ranging from US$400 to $600 based on double occupancy (depending on room type) including a welcome cocktail, breakfast and dinner daily, a 15% discount on the Whale-Shark excursion and all taxes included. Four additional packages are also available offering a great deal of flexibility with meal plans, excursion discounts, transfers and other options to suit individual preferences. About the whale-shark: From the dictionary and the Atlas of the Oceans, the whale shark is described as a very large spotted shark of the Rhincodon typus (family Rhincodontidae) that reaches up to 59 feet and is considered to be the largest fish in the world. The local biologists on Holbox have known the upper limits to be generally in the 35 foot range so that would be the more realistic, say common, limit in their area. This particular shark is a filter feeder as opposed to feeding on large prey like others of the shark family and is easily identified by its huge size, many spots and flattish front end. Like all sharks it is cartaliginous rather than bony. The whale-shark starts appearing out at sea near Cabo Catoche in May and the experience is practically guaranteed at Isla Holbox from early June through September. They come to Isla Holbox following the cold currents of the water and the plankton and also filter small fish (anchovies and sardines) which are very abundant in this area in this season. They are normally at the surface so you can easily see them from the boat and snorkel with them. The tours leave the beach, in front of the Xaloc Resort, very early in the morning (6:00). Typically you need a few hours to find them and you are back to the hotel at mid-day. They are considered at risk and are sought after in some areas, but have not been hunted by the Holbox islanders whose interests lie in its protection and, as they turn to developing tourism, realize it is a particularly unique attraction. (The islanders' history of generations on the water as fishermen is a great asset as they turn to using their skills and knowledge to share the ecological aspects of their island with visitors.) This is a unique experience because Isla Holbox is one of the very few places in the world that you can observe and actually snorkel) with this extraordinary fish. Xaloc Hotel
www.mexicoboutiquehotels.com/xaloc For personal assistance from bilingual reservations agents, Mexico Boutique Hotels can also be contacted by toll-free telephone at: US 1-877-278-8018, Canada 1-866-818-8342 or Mexico 01-800-508-7923. Callers from other international points may dial +52 (322) 221-2277. Based in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Boutique Hotels is the only company of its kind exclusively dedicated to offering boutique-category lodging throughout the Mexican Republic. It is a diverse collection of over 30 intimate hotels of character. Affiliation is by invitation only, based on careful assessment of specific criteria. The company provides efficient and economical access to this niche of hotels through its integrated reservations systems, guaranteeing an assured booking method and a high standard of accommodation. Edited by Dave Shultz Back to TravelLady Magazine |