Go Away Vacations

Merida. Haven’t heard of this city? You are not alone. Most people who think of Mexico, think of the beaches, sun and surf, and that’s great if you are not looking for a cultural experience. For those of us who like immerse ourselves in the local population, Merida, the capital of the Yucatan, is an experience not to be missed. With a population of over a million people, this is authentic, urban Mexico. Very few people speak English, though they willingly and extremely good-naturedly try to help you with whatever it is you need help with. I highly recommend at least a rudimentary understanding of Latin American Spanish before going here.

Every where you go in Merida, there is something to see. From the many, many churches (the Cathedral of Merida is the oldest cathedral in the Americas with construction having started in 1561), to the beautiful buildings downtown (The Governor’s Palace is a beautiful museum with many original paintings from very old, to very modern), one can lose oneself just simply wandering with no agenda. Markets are everywhere and festivals are constant- there is always a dance going on, or a band playing. The morning markets thrive with fruit and vegetable sellers, with fruit smoothies being a huge hit.

Branching out from the city gives you an enormous list of options, from visiting Haciendas (Yaxcopoil is a beautiful example of what is largely a lost lifestyle. It dates back to the 17th century and was, in its prime, one of the most important rural estates in the Yucatan. Today it is a well-preserved showpiece in a very small little village), to the various ruins close by, (Uxmal is highly underrated being in the metaphoric shadow of Chichen Itza, but is well worth going to see, as is Coba- and you can still climb the pyramid there). Having said that, you really shouldn’t miss Chichen Itza either. It is splendidly preserved and well worth working your way through the crowds.

Izamal is a town that I would have liked to spend more time in. We really just kind of fell on it on our way elsewhere and only spent a few hours there. Would have liked to have stayed longer!

If a Mexican vacation is in your near future, we can help you!