The whole Mayan Riviera overflows with the history of the Mayan culture. Isla Mujeres is a small island, a 15 minute ferry ride from Cancun, that shares this history. Isla Mujeres, Spanish for Island of Women, was once the sanctuary of the Mayan Goddess Ixchel, goddess of fertility, reason, medicine and the moon.

Francisco Hernandez Cordova "discovered" the Island in 1517. Spanish explorers found many female-shaped idols representing the Godess, thus Isla Mujeres got its name. For the next 300 years, the island was used by pirates and fisherman as a "hiding place" for their women while they sailed the Carribean and beyond! It is believed that many pirates buried their treasures on the Island, but the mystery remains.

With Cancun just across the bay, visitors to Isla can take advantage of all the hustle and bustle of that great tourist town and use it as a gateway for day trips along the Mayan Riviera, all from the refuge of this serene island filled with local colour. Isla Mujeres has the best of both worlds, quiet walks in Sac Bajo, white sandy beaches, warm turquoise water, and great food from all over the world. This is the perfect place to get away from it all without depriving yourself of luxury. You can cut yourself off completely here, or you can spend the evening downtown, laughing with friends and dancing to Latin or electronic music until sunrise!

And there's no shortage of activities for anyone who loves the ocean. Isla Mujeres sits on one of the world's most famous reefs, a snorkeler and diver's dream! North Beach is a center of activity during the hot afternoons. Whether you love to lie in the sun and soak up rays with the odd dip in the ocean, or you want to play beach volleyball by the ocean front bar, there is something for everyone on this large stretch of sandy white beach.

Getting married here is a special treat! Imagine the sun setting into the ocean in front of you as you take your vows. The colourful hibiscus flowers add a touch of red to the white sandy beach, so warm under your toes. This is the perfect place to do something different. Why not have a Mayan ceremony, or recommit after years together by renewing your vows? You can also work with me to create your own wedding borrowing any traditions you wish and even starting new ones.

There are many romantic places to stay on the island, from private houses, to luxury hotels. Papillon Weddings will take care of all the details of your accommodation, ceremony, reception and even plan your honeymoon. Just pack your bags and get ready to enjoy!

For more information on Isla see IslaMujeres.info or IslaMujeres.Net