Chichen Itza ........I don't know how any vender made enough money to survive. There were hundreds of venders and I really didn't see that many purchases from the thousands of visiters. I know I didn't buy anything. The only thing I really liked were the wooden masks that I actually saw one of the craftsmen making. I was certain it wasn't made in China, like I heard one of the guides explain on his tour.

But, if you liked colorful plates, embroidered blouses, hammocks and an endless supply of trinkets, this was the place to shop. And, since it was in the shade and away from the blistering heat, I also looked. My souvenirs are photographs.

Lesson learned: You really don't need to take a tour to get to Chichen Itza. There are ADO buses, and others, that run on regular schedules from Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Merida. They take you directly to the historical site. Once you arrive, you can still get a guided tour from a local expert. I can't tell you a price because I didn't opt for that, but it has to be much cheaper than a full package tour from another city.