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I’d like to submit a roundup story about the peaceful, undiscovered Mexican island of Isla Holbox. This serene island (population less than 2,000), just two hours from Cancun, plus a 25-minute ferry crossing from the tiny port of Chiquila on the Yucatan Peninsula’s north coast, offers a look at a Mexico that most of us thought was long gone. Most Americans know of Tijuana, Puerto Vallarta, and Playa del Carmen, but ask them about Isla Holbox, and you’ll receive puzzling looks. They’ll ask you to pronounce the name again. Well under the tourist trap radar, Isla Holbox is not equipped with high-rise hotels, luxurious concierge services, or chain restaurants. Isla Holbox (pronounced “oll-bosh”) between October and April, is a quiet, peaceful, island town where you can stay at a room fronting the beach, dine on freshly caught seafood, and swing on a hammock posted on the ocean front. Here, there are no deadlines, no overbearing bosses, and no daily grind. Iguanas hang out at the poolside, long-legged pink flamingoes strut along the beaches, and raccoons meander through dusty or muddy paths, not caring if they disturb somebody’s bike ride. Isla Holbox’s “island casual” is felt everywhere on the island as families, couples, and solo travelers wander through the town square, just minutes away from their casas, bungalows, or hostels. Even more interesting, Isla Holbox is a melting pot of European expats and South American adventurers. Many dialects of Spanish are spoken here, and you’ll hear Portuguese, Sicilian, and British, downtown, in the restaurants, by the markets, or while you hang out at the bars. The only Americans wandering through the streets are backpackers and travelers, searching for the next “epic” place. European restaurateurs and entrepreneurs have established their spot in this tiny island. Some of the most memorable restaurants include: Viva Zapta, Casa Nostra Roof Restaurant and Basico. On every downtown corner, trekkers can find a bar, a restaurant, and simple market stalls that sell local artisanal wares. Thatched-roof bungalows and James Bond villain-style villas on stilts are visible on every block. If it rains in Isla Holbox, muddy roads and huge puddles form, but they dry off in less than a day. Colorful, Spanish murals are found everywhere on the island, on decrepit buildings and the newest diners. My story will also cover the island’s main claim to fame; once a year, in May through September, migrating 40-foot whale sharks bring aqua enthusiasts, marine biologists, and sea animal lovers to Isla Holbox. Hotels are packed to their limits. Crowds descend on the restaurants and tour companies offer boat rides to see the whale sharks up close. If you prefer, my article can include a sidebar about Isla Holbox home rentals such as Air Bnb and VRBO. Prices range from low end $39 up to $400 a night for larger family parties of eight and more. To explore the island, squeaky golf carts and rusted bikes are available for rent. Walking on the beach by the warm waters of the Gulf is also a perfect way to keep the weight down after eating the island’s scrumptious seafood. It’s easy to be the only person on the beach, enjoying the solitude of nirvana.