My Merida, an unexpected beauty

by Beth Dubois (United States of America)

I didn't expect to find Mexico

My Merida, an unexpected beauty Merida, Mexico; just another cruise stop to fill in time. Well…not for me. I had this spot saved on my phone for several years as a bucket list spot. After sitting several years, the opportunity came for me to drag my husband to this beautiful Mayan town. Surrounded by jungle on one side and the waters of the Gulf of Mexico on another, this city is a cocoon of history trying to survive in a modern world. Arriving in its small airport you feel the mix of old and new, poor and wealthy, dirty and clean. The drive into the main square was quick, through streets of worn and tired houses, strewn with rubble and discarded filth. Approaching the main square, you begin seeing buildings of vivid colors, greenery reaching toward the sky, and men smartly dressed in Yucatan shirts. I delight in the feel of being in another world where the culture is palatable and the smell of food is lofting in the air. Staying at a small, local hotel in the heart of the town affords us walkability. We unpack and quickly hit the streets to explore. As a true lover of Spanish Colonial architecture this city is breathtaking. It’s everywhere. From soothing courtyards filled with ivy crawling to the treetops to the heat filled streets; this town is incredible. We walk through the streets to the main square. We pass churches that call you in to see the arches, the stonework and the hand carved statues created with love and reverence for the faith that inspired them. Lining the main square, massive government buildings of majestic color and colonial style stand proudly with honor as church steeples soar to the heavens. Historical buildings open worlds with the telling of stories of proud, faith filled, hard-working people who carved out a world of their own. The bustle of people fills the sidewalks. Carts with food, jewelry, clothing spill onto the street creating a splendid chaos that seems to have a rhythm. But not all is at a rampant pace. Enter the inner park of the square and benches await a weary walker, men and women sit lazily enjoying the shade as groves of pigeon peck at the ground. The balance of motion creates a pleasant experience, energizing while relaxing at the same time. Away from the main square, shops that lure tourist wait. Local markets with colors and smells invite the brave to sample a slice of daily routine for many. Vendors peddle trinkets to carry home for a memory. Music flows as you walk the streets. The plucking of guitars serenade as colorfully dressed Mayan dancers allow glimpses into festive traditions. Old and young tap to the music and sights so beautifully performed to celebrate the culture and past of the people. All create an experience to value. Food is another joy in this city. Not only traditional fares are here, wonderful restaurants offer stunning meals with young chefs making their name. Traditional takes on new twists with the creative spirit of cooks stepping into new blends to honor the past with a modern flare. All come with a side of friendly warmth. As we awaken on our last morning, the usual sounds are missing. No cars just bikes flowing by with children followed by their moms and dads. A tradition allowing families to slow down and enjoy their city. It is truly a beautiful city by sight, sound, smell and the hearts of people that fill it. My Merida, a wonderful memory and a place to visit again and again. Beth Dubois