Grand Cayman Island: Best Places to Visit

Navigation:

• Seven Mile Beach
• Mastic Trail 
• Eden Rock and Devil's Grotto
• Cayman Turtle Farm
• Barkers National Park

The largest of the three Cayman Islands, Grand Cayman measures about 75 miles and located at the southwest of Little Cayman and 90 miles southwest of Cayman Brac. It composes an estimated 76% of the entire peninsula. At its widest, the island is about 22 miles long and at its widest is around 8 miles. 

Over the years, Grand Cayman becomes one of the most popular Caribbean tourist spots because of its luscious green trails, perfect weather conditions for sailing, snorkeling, diving, and pristine beaches. Here are some of the most popular destinations in the beach haven of the Caribbean: 

Seven Mile Beach

The Seven Mile Beach is a public beach famous for its crystal clear waters. Many travel blogs and magazine awarded Seven Mile Beach as of the Caribbean’s best beaches. Located north of George Town, many of the tourists who visit the place would snorkel or dive to see the beautiful underwater spectacle up-close. Restaurants, beach bars, and a playground lined up along the Seven Mile Beach. Aside from its white sand, the crescent shape island also has perfect calm waves suitable for families with smaller children. Dogs are able to run free in the beach to enjoy all day of play. 

If you want to get temporarily away from the crowded beach and explore more of the island, then put Mastic trail on your itinerary. Bring out the nature lover in you and discover more of Grand Cayman Island. This 200-year-old trail has a gravel path that goes through a mangrove swamp and a woodland area which is about 2 million years old. Mastic Trail houses the most beautiful and rare plant life on the island. There are two trails for tourists; one is a flat trail for beginners and the other one is for the more adventurous spirit. Hikers would rate this trail as quite a challenge but the view will leave you breathless. 

Eden Rock and Devil's Grotto

If ever the surface water bore you, which seldom happens, head south of the Seven Mile Beach and you will find the Eden Rock and Devil’s Grotto. Two of the most famous diving spots on Grand Cayman, the two are filled with the underwater labyrinth. Colorful including parrot fish, silversides, tarpon, and barracuda take refuge in this diving spots. The great things about in these two diving spots are the areas designated for both beginner and intermediate snorkelers. 

Cayman Turtle Farm

When Christopher Columbus landed on the Cayman Islands, he saw thousands upon thousands of the green sea turtles. It was such a sight that he even named the islands as Las Tortugas. No less than 7,000 green sea turtles still are living today at the Cayman Turtle Farm along with other species of fish, birds, and sharks. However, in recent years, the green sea turtles population declined and now considered as an endangered species. One of the main goals of the Cayman Turtle Farm is to protect the Tortugas and to increase their population. The farm works diligently to protect the green sea turtles and other threatened animals on the island. People of all ages, especially families with little kids will enjoy a butterfly garden and a nature trail. There’s even a restaurant on-site so you don’t need to worry to bring that much food or water. The highlight of the tour is the up-close encounter at the green sea turtles and letting tourists hold the baby sea turtles. Booking a tour of the Cayman Turtle Farm is both fun and informative for everyone. 

Barkers National Park

While touring Grand Cayman Island, try to drop by at the Bakers National Park. It’s the first national park in the Cayman Island and a great place for cycling, kite surfing, cycling and horseback riding. Take note that the island does not have any kind of amenities, so be sure to bring snacks and lots of water while doing any activities on the beach. Bakers National Park is secluded and often deserted, it’s the best spots away from the usual touristy crowd and full packed beaches. To go to the national park just follow the road to Conch Point Rd, look for the Pappagallo restaurant to know you are on the right track. Then head east, gravel road and through the gate. There’s a sandy road that goes through the park and after a few minutes’ walk, you will be able to see the reef-protected shore.

The Most Unusual Tourist Spots in Italy

Navigation:

• Castello di Petoria
• Castel Savoia
• Matera, Basilicata
• Erice Castle
• Civita di Bagnoregio
• Grotte di Castellana
• Ponte del Diavolo

Most tourists sought out Florence, Milan, and Rome, but often missing great hidden gems across the country. There are so many places and events to go to Italy; from its fashion weeks to its magnificent exotic gardens. The top destination in Italy is often riddled with tourists leaving travelers with little appreciation of the place. Here are some of the most unusual tourist spots in Italy portraying the country’s rich culture and history.

Castello di Petoria

A castle located the very center of Italy in the city of Gubbio is the Castello di Petoria. Built during the Middle Ages, it has not changed much throughout the year. Until in 1909 when it was converted to a prestigious hotel and has been hosting thousands of tourists since then. The castle is a perfect place to get away from the outside world and just indulged in the most picturesque view in the world.

Castel Savoia

Overlooking the amazing view of the astonishing view of the nearby Aosta Valley in the north-western part of Italy, Castel Savoia is home to a royal for many years. Queen Margarita made Savoia her official royal home during the 9th century. She fell in love with the beautiful scenery and the privacy she needed. The castle has magnificent gardens filled with different species of beautiful plants. 

Matera, Basilicata

Matera is one of the poorest towns in Italy, if not in the whole Europe about 50 years ago. The place comprises of Sassi or honeycomb cave dwellings that used to house around 20,000 people. But during the 60s, the government cleared the area and had remained derelict ever since. Because it attracts worldwide attention, the once-abandoned place is now filled with hotels, café’s, restaurants and art galleries. 

Erice Castle

Built in the 12th century, Erice Castle would remind you of Rapunzel’s tower because of its location and different levels of towers. Some would often say that Venus, the Roman goddess of beauty inspired the construction of the castle. Nevertheless, its beauty is quite unique and one of the finest fortress built during the era. 

Civita di Bagnoregio

Civita di Bagnoregio which translates as “the dying town” was built some 2,500 years ago. “A Jewel on the Hill”, as what travelers would describe the place overlooks a very scenic valley. Because of the extreme weather condition is Italy, the town is closed to visitors for most of the year. However, if visiting Italy during the summertime, list this under your itinerary as Civita di Bagnoregio is one of the most unusual tourist spots. Be one of the privileged to see the beautiful side of this town.

Grotte di Castellana

In the southern part of Italy lays one of the most captivating destinations in the country. Over 90 million years old, the Grotte di Castellana has amazing cave systems and rock formations. Gear yourself for 2 miles of walking the hiking trails that will leave you both breathless and in awe. 

Ponte del Diavolo

Ponte del Diavolo or the “Devil’s Bridge” is a very charming stone bridge in the town of Cividale del Friuli. Constructed during the medieval times, it crosses the town over a river. Most locals believed that the bridge contains mystical power and named the bridge after an ancient Tuscan folklore. The bridge stands out from its amazing natural view of Mother Nature, showing its great masonry works. 

Top Tourist Destinations in Italy

Navigation:

• Colosseum
• Pompeii
• Leaning Tower of Pisa
• Vatican City
• Venice Canals
• St. Mark's Basilica
• Pantheon

A country located in south-central Europe, Italy has the most scenic and varied landscapes on the planet. Such magnificent views inspired famous artists to draw masterpieces that would marvel the world for hundreds of years. Most people dubbed Italy as the “boot country” because of its shape.

Italy is the birthplace of the Roman Empire and the Renaissance. Their influence is still visible today and tourists flock the area to get a glimpse of the rich cultural heritage of the country. Blessed with so many UNESCO World Heritage sites, Italy is full of art and architecture masterpieces. Although many of its tourist spots feature these masterpieces, the country also boasts of scenic lakes, majestic mountains, and crystal clear sea waters. Here are some top destinations in Italy, the list the beginning of your wonderful adventure in Italy, as there are many to choose from.

Colosseum

Visiting the world-renowned Colosseum is a must for every traveler visiting Italy. Even though the Romans constructed the Colosseum thousands of years ago, many modern times arena are modeled from it. It’s an enormous amphitheater and the largest of its kind despite not having advance machinery. The Colosseum hosted countless shows and even mock sea battles. The wooden floor measured 83 by 48 meters and under the arena are two stories of rooms, cells, passages, and tunnels. This colossal storage area is used to housed animals, workers, and gladiators. Presently, the Colosseum stands out from the modern buildings that surround it but remains as one of the prominent marks of the Roman Empire. 

Pompeii

A place that inspired a number of films, Pompeii is a city devastated by Mt. Vesuvius eruption in 79 AD. However, the eruption did not destroy the entire city; instead, it preserved Pompeii’s art treasures deep in its ruins. Some of the art relics include sculptures, mosaics, and frescoes. 

There are several excavation sites in the area that revealed human remains, houses, markets, temple, theaters, and baths. The marks of the chariots used by the Roman Empire 2,000 years ago are still visible in some of the ancient streets in Pompeii.

Leaning Tower of Pisa

Search the internet about the Leaning Tower of Pisa and you’ll be able to browse it has the most artistic poses made by the tourists. The tower is one of the many tourist spots in Pisa but the because of its architectural flaw, it became world renown. A very delicate medieval stone carving circulates the whole tower which astounds visitors and experts alike. Also known as La Torre Pendente, the Leaning Tower of Pisa sits on the Piazza dei Miracoli. Two other top destinations in the area include the Romanesque Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and a freestanding baptistery. Construction began during the 1100s but when workers reached the third story, it began to lean due to its weak foundation. It was predicted to collapse by the year 2000 but the restoration of the 1990s made it stand still. 

For devotees and artistic minds, a stop by the Vatican City is a must. The Vatican is home to the most valued art collections in the world. The outside of St. Peter’s square is where the Pope gives speeches to the crowd. The heart of the Vatican lays the tomb of St. Peter and the Pieta, one of Michelangelo’s most recognized work. After looking at the amazing artworks, visit the Vatican Museum where you can see other magnificent works of Italy’s finest artists.

Venice Canals

Another iconic tourist destination, the Venice Canals is a century old tradition that left travelers with a lasting impression of Italy. Venice comprises of islands and the canals have been the city’s main streets. A labyrinth of narrow canals connected streets inside the city lined with shops, cafes, and famous restaurants. Buildings left untouched for hundreds of years, making you think you step back in time with an exception of modern times comfort. Make sure to have your picture taken at the Grand Canal, the most photographed place in Venice. A tip from the locals is to visit Vaporetto which is the best place to see most of the grand palaces in the city.

St. Mark's Basilica

St. Mark’s Basilica is one of the top destinations in Venice. Some tourists would come here to highlight their journey throughout the country. The Piazza San Marco, a marvelous work of art that contains mixtures of architectural styles is a sight by itself. The famous square facing the basilica shows the influence of the Byzantine Empire showing the city’s multicultural connections to the East. Its interior is filled with mosaics and a high altar covered in jewels and lined with gold.

Another well-preserved remnant of the Roman Empire, the Pantheon shows how the Romans master the art of architecture. To this day, experts marvel at the precise proportions of the building, with the height is equally proportional to the diameter. The world-famous Italian painter, Raphael is buried in its abode along with Italian Kings and other famous people that founded the modern day Italy.

Best Places in Antigua

Navigation:

• Things to do in Antigua
• Museum of Antigua and Barbuda
• Shirley Heights
• Galleon Beach
• Stingray City Antigua
• Nelson's Dockyard

Antigua or what the locals call Waladli or Wadadli is an island located in the West Indies. The name came from the Spanish language which means “ancient” after the iconic Seville Cathedral or St. Mary of the Old Cathedral. Waladli came from the word of the indigenous people that translates to “our own”. The island belongs to the Leeward Islands in the Caribbean region and the main island of Antigua and Barbuda. 

It breeds mainly on tourism because of its pristine beaches, and diverse culture. Antigua also has its own agricultural sector that caters to its domestic market. Measuring about 108 sq miles with a circumference of 87 km, Antigua is home to 80,000 residents. 

The island becomes a sanctuary for Barbuda residents when the Category 5 Hurricane Irma hit the island on September 6, 2017, that destroyed 90% of the buildings. 

Things to do in Antigua

Museum of Antigua and Barbuda

Built in 1747, the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda used to be a colonial Court House. To date, it is the oldest building in the city. Many would come here to marvel at the infrastructure of the historic building. It exhibits various items and memorabilia from the early beginnings of the island. It’s an interesting place to visit to learn about the rich culture of the country. Located at the first city market, there are several side trips along the way to visit some of the local spots. 

Shirley Heights

One of the most breathtaking views you can go is right here at Shirley Heights. It’s a restored military lookout and gun battery with a perfect view of most of the entire island. There is a hiking trail that leads to a bar which features reggae music at night. They have a kind of island party every Sunday and serves good food, beers, and a lot of music. Try to stay to see the full glory of one of the most beautiful sunsets in the world. 

Galleon Beach

A trip to Antigua is not complete without hitting the beach. Galleon Beach is known for its peaceful, pristine, and picture-perfect beach on the island. The beach is well-known for their hillside villas, accommodations with great amenities. Most tourists like their modern theme accommodations, while enjoying a laid-back country seaside lifestyle. Even though it attracts people, Galleon Beach is almost not too crowded. Both the locals and tourists would go to Galleon Beach because of its snorkeling sites and turtle sightings. It also has access to the very famous “Pillars of Hercules” and other three best beaches in Antigua. 

Stingray City Antigua

Every tourist thinks of a fun and epic way to end their vacation. In Antigua everyone goes to Stingray City – it’s the most valued adventure on the island. The experience will definitely leave a mark and stories to tell on your way home. The Stingray City features Southern Rays which are the brightest rays in the Caribbean. Don’t be afraid to mingle with them as they are gentle and friendly creatures of the deep blue sea. It’s a fun excursion for the whole family to enjoy. The staffs are very friendly, knowledgeable, and accommodating to all their guests. It’s a great opportunity to snap an epic picture while holding the stingray in the pristine waters of the Caribbean. 

Nelson's Dockyard

Nelson’s Dockyard is a restored British colonial naval station named after Captain Horatio Nelson. Located in English Harbour on the south-eastern coast of the island, it’s well-known for yachting and boating destination. It’s a cultural heritage site situated in Saint Paul Parish in Antigua. The area serves as a shelter during violent storms that often hit the island. Many businesses stretch along the dock including restaurants, museums, bakeries, yacht supply stores and bars. The Antigua Sailing Week, the most anticipated sailing event of the year occur every end of April and beginning of May. It attracts hundreds of sailing enthusiasts both in and out of the country, as sailors would raise their flags and sail across the pristine ocean of Antigua.

What to Do in Baja Peninsula

Navigation:

• Rock Paintings of Sierra de San Francisco
• Mulegé
• Cabo Pulmo
• Isla Espíritu Santo
• Laguna de San Ignacio
• Todos santos

The Baja Peninsula is located in the northwestern part of Mexico and it separates the Gulf of California and the Pacific Ocean. It has an approximate 65 islands that stretch 1,900 miles of coastline with a total land area of 55,360 mi. 

It is separated from Mexico by the Colorado River and the Gulf of California. The peninsula has four main desert areas – the Central Coast Desert, San Felipe Desert, the Vizcaino Desert and the Magdalena Plain Desert. It boasts a staggering 775 miles of natural wilderness, world-class wine, and best diving spots on the planet. Tourists come to Baja Peninsula because of its 

Pristine beaches, migratory whales, and prehistoric cave paintings are some of the reason why the peninsula is so famous tourist destination.

Rock Paintings of Sierra de San Francisco

The Rock Paintings of Sierra de San Francisco in the municipality of Mulege is listed under UNESCO world heritage site. The historic pictographs of Sierra de San Francisco date back about a thousand years old. The indigenous people of Cochimi people thought to drawn these images in the caves. Experts even carbon dated some silhouettes over 7,000 years ago. These drawings are written in red but in some instances combined with black depict images of early human rituals, tools, and animals. 

Mulegé

Mulege is an evident marvel of one of earth’s greatest miracle – an oasis. The town enjoys an abundant harvest of fruits and vegetables for the peninsula. Located at the foot of the river valley, it has a scenic view of the landscape. Bask under the sun while enjoying a breathtaking view of the wine valleys below. The old prison is worth a visit to glimpse the early settlement of the island, a land where the prison was constructed without bars or traditional defenses. 

Mulege was a place where few roads exist and treacherous to travel on foot. An attempt to escape the island would mean death for an inmate. As dark as it may seem, Mulege was a place where prisoners can freely move in and out of town and raise their own families.

Cabo Pulmo

Located about 60 miles north of Baja Peninsula lies Cabo Pulmo; one of the three oldest reefs off the coast of North America. During the 20th Century, the area experiences the worst overfishing and exploitation in the area. Fortunately, Cabo Pulmo National Park is finally receiving the proper ecological resurgence that paved the way for its recovery. Experts believed that the reefs are about 20,000 years old and home to thousands of marine life. Scuba diving enthusiasts and environmentalists marvel at its beauty and wide ecological diversity.

Isla Espíritu Santo

Many would testify that Isla Espiritu Santo, another UNESCO World Heritage Bioreserves is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Baja Islands. It’s a place where miles of pristine beaches left untouched by the modern world. Isla Espiritu Santo us the 12th largest island of Mexico, there are sea lions, tropical fish, and beautiful sunsets to look forward to when visiting this part. Activities on the island are limitless but most tourists enjoy the beautiful surrounding of the sea by foot, boat, or in a kayak.

Laguna de San Ignacio

Another nod to the humanitarian effort of the peninsula is the Laguna de San Ignacio. This is a place where locals changed their vocations from hunting wildlife to protecting them from near extinction. It is considered as one of the nurseries on the planet for the gray whale. Throughout winter, seals, turtles, blue whales and dolphins can be seen frolicking in its waters. 

A small town on the Pacific coast of the peninsula, Todos Santos has been recognized as a magical town of the Mexican government. Missionaries founded the town in 18the century which become a vital place for arts and crafts in Baja Peninsula. Many artists gather around town to showcase their masterpieces, making it as their home. Indeed, Todos Santos charisma and artistic vibe attract the attention of tourists from around the world.

Where to Go When in Cuba

Navigation:

University of Havana
Try Cuba’s famous street food
Do the Salsa at 1830
Plaza Vieja
Pico Turquino
Museo de la Revolución
La Guarida

The Republic of Cuba is a country composes of several small archipelagos. It’s a country located in the south of Florida State and the Bahamas, west of Haiti and north of Jamaica. Cuba is situated right where the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico, and the Atlantic Ocean meet. The capital of Cuba is Havana which is also the largest city. The other cities of the country include Camaguey and Santiago de Cuba. With an area of 109, 884 square kilometers, Cuba is the largest island in the Caribbean with a population of more than 11 million residents. 

In the statistics of the Caribbean Tourism Organization, around 2.9 million people visit the country every year. In the entire Caribbean island, Cuba is among the top destinations for tourists in 2014. With the recent opens relations of the US to Cuba, it’s more likely that the numbers will go up. Americans will surely take advantage of the opportunity to explore Cuba after five decades of the political gap.

Traveling to Cuba entails consideration of their different political opinions and ethical views. Before heading to there, it’s would be better to read about Cuba’s rich history, to understand the locals better and to scout the best places to visit.

University of Havana

The University of Havana occupies a large area of central Havana that teaches 60,000 students. Founded in 1728, Castro’s own brother used to study in the university during the 1950s. To this day, it serves as a vital point of anti-government protests and has a reputation for cuddling political and social organization of today’s generation.

Try Cuba’s famous street food

As a traveler, one must try the many gastronomical delights of Cuba’s street food. Many small entrepreneurs put their businesses accessible to tourists which offer the best of country’s cuisine. The most common street food includes fruit milkshakes, hamburgers, and different pies. But the must-try beloved street food that Cuba offers are Pizza Hawaiana (Individual Hawaiian Pizzas), Coconut Pie, Fricasse de Carnero (Goat Platter), Batidos de Guayaba (Guava Milkshake) and Pork Burgers (Hamburguesa de Cerdo).

Do the Salsa at 1830

What will be a better way to highlight a vacation but to learn a few dance moves? Cuba is known for their lively music and the dance culture in the country is everything in the country. At 1830, one can learn salsa in a professional level in a crash course. It’s a great opportunity to mingle with the locals and maybe discover some off the beaten path tourist spots. 

Plaza Vieja

One of the main tourist spots in Cuba is their Old Town Square “Old Plaza” or known to locals as Plaza Vieja. Be amazed at the architectural marvel of Cuba’s most visited place. There are a number of cafes and bars throughout the plaza to just sit and to experience the multicultural facets of Cuba. Check some of the art galleries in town or discovery something new in the beer museum. 

Pico Turquino

For a memorable trip in Cuba, try Pico Turquino, the highest point on the island. Standing at 1,974 meters high it’s a bit of a challenging climbing its peak. If you are more of the adventurous spirit and want to stay away from the crowd, then this trip is worth a try – it has an amazing view from the top.

Museo de la Revolución

Marvel at Cuba’s political past, the Museum of the Revolution or what the locals call “Museo de la Revolución” is a historic site always worth a visit. It is one of the most visited places on Cuba, mainly because it attracts tourists to get to know more of Cuba’s politics. The building used to house former presidents of Cuba and shows their fascinating history.

La Guarida

“Welcome to my hideaway (La Guarida)… not everybody is welcome here” tells Diego to David on the movie. If you can’t get enough of Cuba’s political period that gave birth to the Academy Award-nominated film, “Fresa y Chocolate” then book a dinner at La Guarida. Once you step inside the restaurant, you will definitely feel the vibe of the movie. It’s a top-rated destination for movie buffs and the like.

Eleuthera Places to Visit

Navigation:

• Haynes Library, Governor's Harbour
• Eleuthera Island Farm
• Eleuthera Hill-Top Farms
• Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve
• Lighthouse Beach

The very beautiful island of Eleuthera belongs to the archipelagic state of The Commonwealth of Bahama. Derived from the Greek word eleutheros which means “free” forms a part of the Great Bahama Bank. Eleuthera former name was Cigateo back in the 17th century and was always known for its picture-perfect beaches. The eastern part of the island faces the Atlantic Ocean while the western side looks out to the Great Bahama Bank. Famous for its geographical shape that is long and thin, Eleuthera boasts the best pink sand beaches in the world and ancient reefs. Around 11,000 residents call the island their home and its tourism serves as its primary economy.

Haynes Library, Governor's Harbour

For travelers who can’t beat to part with books, or for anyone looking for an off the beaten path destination, make sure to visit Haynes Library. Despite its size, it really amazing to find the library fully and well stocked with great books. With a strong support from the community along with two heroic ladies saved this building from its ruin. The library also offers weekly show discussing the Bahamian history. It’s a quiet place to stop by and just get away from the touristy crowd. They also sell different tourist books and make sure to buy their Eleuthera Jazz souvenir shirts.

Eleuthera Island Farm

Get a full paradise experience and visit Eleuthera Island Farm. The farm is a perfect getaway covered with abundant tropical bushes. It’s a hidden gem in Eleuthera that serves great pasta sauces, jams, jellies, vegetables, fruits, and mouthwatering dips. It’s great for families with little children in tow while getting their famous fresh bread and cinnamon rolls. Be there early as people line up to get their fresh bread. The paradise-like atmosphere makes it even more attractive as one can indulge in this tasty treat while feeling the sand under their feet.

Eleuthera Hill-Top Farms

Another recommended tourist spot on the island is the Eleuthera Hill-Top Farms. Families with smaller children would love to see their fresh produce right from their farm. Just along the Queens highway, they sell quality fresh organic eggs. And yes, it is a real farm that sells their eggs right under the chickens. It’s a nice side trip for families and a good source of freshly made jellies. Tourists are raving about their very juicy and fresh pineapples. The owner can even help you out planning your trip in the island and would love to let the children see their animals. 

Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve

Another hidden paradise in Eleuthera, Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve houses more than 300 species in its 10.1 hectares of land. Walk around the 3 km trails around its freshwater wetlands, medicinal plant collection, a weather station and even poisonous plants collections. If the information floods you, don’t fret, there are locals who will accompany you to explain the different flora and fauna of the plant preserve. Tour guides are well informed about the different herbs and plants to the many tourists who in this place. This place is a good change from the usual beach hoping in the island. The well-manicured and mapped trail serves as a natural habitat for over 34 species of birds. 

Lighthouse Beach

The Lighthouse Beach in Eleuthera will feed your inner adventurous buff. Most of the people who visited Eleuthera dubbed the Lighthouse Beach as the most beautiful beach on the island. The drive to this place is really quite a challenge and is only accessible using 4-wheel drive vehicle as smaller SUV can’t make it all the way there. Be ready for a rocky and bumpy ride as there are rocks, potholes, and a lot of mud puddles. But the trip will be worth it, the vast stretches of pink sand will greet you as the lighthouse towers over the amazing view. Be sure to bring plenty of water and food as the place is secluded from the usual touristy spots.

Gulf of Mexico Carved Wood Maps for Sale

Navigation:

• Early Beginning of the Gulf of Mexico
• Bioecological Diversity

Surrounded by the North American continent, the Gulf of Mexico is an ocean basin that splits the Atlantic Ocean. The Gulf of Mexico has a very strategic location; it’s on the north and northwest of the US Gulf Coast, southeast of Cuba, south, and southwest of Mexico. 

The five US states, Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Texas, and Mississippi surrounds the Gulf of Mexico on the north. It’s often referred as the “Third Coast”, “South Coast” and even the “North Coast” in association with the Great Lakes.

Scientists and geographical experts believed that the Gulf of Mexico formed about 300 million years ago because of tectonic plate movements in the northern hemisphere. It holds around 2,500 quadrillion liters of waters, in a surface area of 1.6 million km2 of the shallow continental shelf waters. One of the most important characteristics of the gulf is the Gulf Stream. It’s known for its warm Atlantic current that starts in the area and flows outward into the Atlantic Ocean. Due to its temperature, the water temperature in the Gulf feeds the hurricanes that form in the Atlantic Ocean and giving them more intensity. Hurricanes are the most common natural phenomenon that occurs along the Gulf Coast. 

Scientists can’t help but marvel at the gulf’s amazing history and rich biological diversity. Here are some of the facts about the gulf.

Early Beginning of the Gulf of Mexico 

The Gulf of Mexico is the 9th largest body of water on Earth, stretching around 600,000 square miles it borders five US states in the north, five Mexican states in the west and the country of Cuba in its southern part. 

About 30 million years ago, colliding continental plates and with the sea, floor sinking created the gulf during the Late Triassic period. The gulf is partially landlocked ocean basin with a very narrow connection to the Atlantic Ocean that surrounds North America and Cuba. One of the main features of the gulf is its shallow waters and a trough that measures a plunge as deep as over 14,000 feet. 

Bioecological Diversity

The gulf serves as a home to 29 marine mammal species including humpback whales, minke whales, sperm whales, bottlenose dolphins, and the West Indian manatee. Most of these species are protected by the government which is either threatened or endangered. Five species of endangered sea turtles including Hawksbill sea turtles, Green sea turtles, Kemp's ridley sea turtles, Leatherback sea turtles and Loggerhead sea turtles live deep in its waters. Because of this, the Gulf of Mexico is one of the most highly priced bio ecological locations on the planet. 

With over 5 million acres of wetlands, the gulf also has a wide range of habitats that include submerged vegetation, marine areas, and vital upland areas for different species of animals. Its coastal wetlands are the equivalent 28% of the total wetlands in the US. While the gulf’s open sea water represents 41% of the US total. In order to protect the very diverse ecological life in the Gulf, the government put 31 major estuarine watersheds. As many as 2.5 million birds each day travel the Gulf of Mexico during seasonal migrations and landing on Louisiana to rest. 

The sea waters in the Gulf have a big contribution to the fishing industry that surrounds its area. It has one of the four largest fishing ports in the US. The gulf is one of the largest shrimp and oysters producers in the world.