Merida: Best of Mexico In 2019.

My first time in Mexico and I was excited to explore authentic parts of this beautiful country. The norm is to head to Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Baja etc for Spring Break. I came up with another plan, to take my family and I to see the Yucatan, a mix of both Mayan and colonial heritage. Merida known as the “White City,” is not your typical Mexican beach holiday. Its close promixty to famous Cancun and its cuitural richness makes Merida the perfect add on to a beach holiday.

Merida is the perfect base for day trips to close by UNESCO-listed archaeological sites,and magical towns like Valladolid and Izamal.

Merida’s culture is a mix of ancient Maya civilization dating back to 2600 B.C. and customs brought by Spanish conquistadors, who began colonizing the territory in the 16th century.

We rented a gorgeous villa from Urbano Rentals in the heart of Merida. John the owner is awesome.

our fabulous villa from urbano rentals.

Our first big adventure in Merida, our amazing guide Roberto a resident took us to explore Uxamal, a UNESCO-listed Maya ruin located an hour and fifteen minutes south of Merida, it is known for its precise construction and ornate stone carvings. The towering Pyramid of the Magician is in very condition, as are the surrounding structures. A huge plus are less crowds than Chichén Itzá.

uxamal ruins

uxamal ruins with our guide Roberto

uxamal ruins

amazing details at uxamal ruins

A must in Mexico is to head to a Cenote for a swim in their healing waters. I chose the Three Cenotes of Cuzuma. We did not know it at the time but that day we went was free entrance for the locals. This made for a bit more crowds than we had planned for but it was fun to be around lots of families from Merida and their kids.

We also spent a wonderful afternoon walking around Hacienda Yaxcopoil.

Merida has become a culinary mecca for the Yucatan. Amazing local cusines and upcomi. notable chefs. We had some of the best gelato ever in the town.

we ate our breakfast at this amazing organic cafe Barrio

ranchero eggs

best gelato in Merida

We walked around the main town of Merida, there is stunning mix of old and modern architecture. One of our favorite spot for coffee and shopping was at Casa T’ho... A concept store on the Paseo Montejo. You can find a well curated selection of designers selling a lot of items made in the Yucatan.

casa t’ho

beautiful selections at casa t’ho

I was most excited about our dinner at a magical pink hotel called Rosas & Xocolate. It was literally like being in a Mexican pink dream.

the gorgeous pool at Rosas & Xocolate

Coqui Coqui Perfumeria

I have saved the best for last. The amazing, beautiful Mayan residents of Merida.

our guide Roberto

my son Jaden and a new friend.

even though she only spoke mayan. we chatted for an hour.