“…the Maya people did not disappear any more than the Italians when the Roman Empire fell.. ” Jeeni Criscenzo.
Not only are the Maya people alive and well so is their language. While it is more commonly heard in Yucatecan cities like Merida and small villages like Chemax, Maya is used daily here on the coast too. The words Cancun (snake pit), Tulum (wall) and Xel Ha (spring water) all hail from the ancient language. Here are some words and phrases to practice and use on your next visit to the Riviera Maya.
dios botik (dee os bo teek) – Thank you
bix a bel – (bish ah bel) – How are you?
in kanan te’ech (in kan an teh ek) – I love you.
te’kutz kin (teh koots kin) – Have a nice day.
amikoo – friend
ki’imak ool (kee eemahk ool) – happy