Isla Holbox, just north of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, is located within a protected nature reserve and so far, has remained unspoiled by mass tourism. There are no chain stores and no big resorts. The streets are paved with sand and so are many of the shops and cafes. The architecture is frequently open walled huts with thatched roofs made of dried palm leaves lashed to a wood frame. Kitchens are frequently outdoors. For convenience, there is a taxi-like system of golf carts and bikes. There is also a spectacular beach, kitesurfing, kayaking in mangroves, boat tours, and whale-watching. It is also one of the most famous places in the Caribbean to snorkel with massive (but friendly and plankton-eating) whale sharks. While the main activity is really just being, Holbox is a natural paradise. And the people who live there are working very hard to keep it that way.