Undiscovered Places – Bacalar and Southern Quintana Roo

Nature has been generous to Southern Quintana Roo. It's a fascinating mix of jungles, wetlands, lagoons, white sand beaches, and coral reefs. Ancient cities and historical settlements dot the landscape, giving a glimpse at a vanished way of life. The clear water of the Caribbean Sea offers innumerable opportunities for snorkeling, sailing, and diving.

History buffs, nature lovers, and water sports fans alike can find something to love about this Mexican paradise.

History of Bacalar

Bacalar figures prominently in the history of Quintana Roo. Known to the Maya as "Bak'Halal" or "place of the reeds," it was the most important community in the ancient principality of Uaymil, and the region most warred against during the Spanish Conquest. The Maya put up terrific resistance, but conquistador Gaspar Pacheco was cruel and determined enough to win a victory of sorts, and the Spanish founded Villa de Salamanca de Bacalar in 1545.

The settlement was never a success nor at all productive during the Colonial period. The Indians were hostile and refused to work, and the colonists feared them. However, historians believe that the first Mexican mestizo (half-European and half-Mayan) was born in Southern Quintana Roo.

While the settlement survived, it operated as a port for goods bound for Europe, its location giving it access to the sea via Chetumal Bay. Merchandise from as far away as Honduras and Guatemala filled the warehouses of Villa de Salamanca de Bacalar. Exports included palo de tinte or dyewood, and rumor of the city's wealth soon made it the target of every pirate in the Caribbean.

Bacalar and Southern Quintana Roo today

Chetumal, capital of Quintana and border town par excellence, lies on the shores of the bay of the same name. Chetumal Bay is also the mouth of the Hondo River, the only river in Quintana Roo and the natural border between Mexico and Belize. Bacalar is an ideal home base for exploring Southern Quintana Roo and the neighboring areas, such as Campeche, Belize and northern Guatemala.

In less than 45 minutes, you can discover the Costa Maya (Mayan Coast), a remote stretch of untouched Caribbean shoreline, which has been earmarked for low-impact ecodevelopment on account of its lovely beaches. A boat ride from Majahual or Xcalak will bring you to Chinchorro, the largest coral atoll in Mexico, home to countless marine creatures.

The development that began in Cancún 30 years ago has spread to Southern Quintana Roo in recent years. Infrastructure has been upgraded in the area and new roads, cruise ship docks, and airstrips have been installed.

The government is promoting tourism as an alternative to the traditional farming and forestry activities. Planners hope that it will create jobs and boost living standards and revenue. The local tourism industry is growing, particularly along the Costa Maya, and hotels, restaurants, and other related services are on the rise.

Discover a Mexican paradise

With rich history and a gorgeous landscape, Bacalar and Southern Quintana Roo offer something for both travelers and expatriates looking for somewhere to settle down. Visit Bacalar today, and see a whole new side of Mexico.

About the Author
Who wants beautiful lakefront property in idyllic Bacalar? Call International Holdings at (785) 783-4790 today to discuss a lakefront property that fits your needs.

James Greene is the director of marketing for International Holdings & Trust. Do you need answers to your questions regarding the benefits of foreign real estate ownership in Mexico? Visit them online at www.bacalarviews.com or call them at (785) 783-4790.