National Geographic Traveler Showcases Riviera Maya, Mexico in Cover Story

Catching up on some (good old-fashioned) magazine reading yesterday, this cover story from the January/February 2012 issue of National Geographic Traveler caught my eye — “The Buzz in Mexico” –

A feature by writer Melina Gerosa Bellows on the endangered, stingless Melipona beecheii bee, found in Riviera Maya, Mexico and sacred to the Maya for its spiritual benefits.

The spread showcases the Riviera Maya including the area of Tulum and the writer’s personal quest to learn more about the healing properties produced from the bees. Here’s a snippet, but be sure to visit the article with link below.

This is a personal quest. My name, Melina—which has Italian roots—means Little Honey. I find myself surprisingly undone by the state of these vulnerable bees. I want to see them, and the fact that they are found in Mexico, a short flight from my D.C. home, offers me the perfect excuse to slip my chronically overscheduled life and just go. With my very namesake in peril, how could I not hightail it to the Riviera Maya?

Bees have symbolized the soul to many ancient cultures since the Stone Age. To the Maya, bees are imbued with mystical power, said to appear as messengers between the living world and the underworld.

When I learn that local honey is used in Amansala’s Maya clay-and-honey wrap meditation, I join a dozen women of all ages on the beach for the experience.

“Clay is one of the oldest healing remedies,” says Melissa Perlman, the hotel’s proprietor. “It acts like a sponge, detoxifying anything you’re ready to let go of—spiritually as well as physically. Honey acts as a natural moisturizer.”

Read full article here.

Susie Albin-Najera

Susie Albin-Najera is the creator and editor of The Mexico Report, an award winning travel blog showcasing news, deals and resources for the modern traveler. Najera is a writer, author, travel blogger, marketing and public relations specialist and producer. Najera serves on the host committee for Maestro Cares, founded by singer Marc Anthony and producer Henry Cardenas; and on the advisory board for Corazon de Vida, providing aid to children in Mexico. She is also the creator of 'The Real Heroes of Mexico' showcasing community heroes in Mexico and producer of Latino Thought Makers. Najera has been recognized by the Mexican Consulate and Mexico Tourism Board for fostering positive relations between countries and her dedication to showcasing Mexico as a premiere destination. She can be reached at info@themexicoreport.com