7 Secrets of the Yucatán Peninsula
Dear passengers, welcome aboard!
Before we board on our new trip to the Yucatán Peninsula, which inspired our Summer 2021 scent Yucatan Secret, let's familiarize ourself with the terrain we are about to explore.
1. The name Yucatán may be a misunderstanding
As per Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés, an explorer asked a native what the area was called, who responded, “Uma’anaatik ka t’ann,” which means “I do not understand you” in Mayan. Thereafter, the Spanish named the area Yucatán.
2. Partially on Earth, Partially Underwater
Sea divers rejoice! The Yucatán Platform is a large chunk of land that is partially underwater. The Yucatán Peninsula is the part that is above it, with pristine beaches and waterfalls.
3. The Asteroid Attack
The Yucatán Peninsula is has a large Chicxulub crater, which was formed by an asteroid about 6mi to 9mi (10km to 15km) in diameter. It is believed that this 65 million year old attack triggered the extinction of dinosaurs!
4. The Culture of the Mayan Civilization
The most famous Mayan archaeological sites are Chichen Itza and Uxmal, and the area is still home to native Maya people. The only Mayan site listed as a New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichén Itzá is well-preserved, and comprises of a grand stepped pyramid bordered by temples and Mayan ball courts.
5. The Elements: Climate, Nature and Water
The tropical climate gives the region both wet and dry seasons. The dominant rock is limestone bedrock, leaving little surface water that is unsuitable for drinking. This is why there are many sinkholes and caves in the region. The Peninsula is also home to many tropical rainforests and jungles in the area between Guatemala, Mexico, and Belize. The northern town of Puerto Progreso also has the longest pier in the world.
6. A Trio of Mexican States
The states of Yucatán, Campeche and Quintana Roo are all found in the Peninsula, alongside northern sections of Belize and Guatemala. It is also within the Atlantic Hurricane Belt, the area is vulnerable to hurricanes from June to November.
7. Spice Addicts, Beware and Be Alive
The native habanero chili peppers are the biggest regional exports of the world, and are classified as very hot, ranked 100,000 to 350,000 on the Scoville scale.
Welcome aboard to the Yucatán as you come to discover Yucatán Secret.
Try Yucatán Secret in a customizable Sample Set.
