Weddingbee

Here’s how the tents came out:

In order to console myself, I insisted on getting a fancy umbrella and some rain boots, just in case. That way I would go out in style! Though there was some frenzy on getting my umbrella on time, the amazing Bella Umbrella shipped it to me and saved the day.

My beautiful umbrella:

My rain boots stand proudly next to my shoes for the ceremony & reception:

As luck would have it, the weather was beautiful! The sun came out early in the morning and the rain didn’t come until 11pm (and it was really just mist). Nevertheless, I had to take a few shots with my lovely umbrella. Whenever I see these photos it reminds me of what a beautiful day (in every way) it was–and how silly it was to get so caught up in the forecast!

(All photos credited to Michael Graham)
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The plan went as follows. A while ago Todd had bought Emily one of the commemorative tiles at the entrance of the park. He offers to show us their tile at which point we get out our cameras to snap a picture of them by their tile (I was to bring our camcorder and Todd would sneak Mr. Peppermint his camera)… and then, well, Todd would ask Emily to marry him. It was so special for Todd to include us Peppermints in this special moment for them. I can’t even express how much it meant to me and Mr. P. to be a part of the special occasion…

The tile where it all happened….

The day prior, I drove down to the park and picked up the Bride/Groom Mouse Ears (a must!):

The happy couple:

The requisite ring shot:

Todd had arranged for their families to all celebrate that night over dinner (with the exception of Emily’s mom who will be visiting them next month)…

p.s. As you may have deduced, she said “yes”.
p.p.s. Congrats, Em & Todd!! We’re so excited for you!
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When we had arrived we were a bit overwhelmed. We arrived on a Sunday, which is when many of the main streets are closed for their weekly festival. The plus side was that the streets were bustling, but the down side was that we were in a car in search of our hotel. Fortunately, we were able to navigate the many one way streets and arrive to our charming hotel, Hotel Casa Lucia.
This was my favorite of our hotels that we stayed at! It had a lovely courtyard (with pool!), a cozy Italian restaurant and beautiful rooms. It felt very quaint and small, yet was within walking distance to the downtown area–we barely had to use our car!In the downtown area, there are plenty of shops, museums and restaurants to keep you busy. Mr. Peppermint was especially happy to find how many vegetarian options were available (many restaurants billed themselves as vegetarian and most others were very accommodating). Among the amazing restaurants we went to, we especially enjoyed Alberto’s Continental Restaurant (built on using columns from Mayan ruins) & Casa de Frida (for unique Yucatanean dishes in a stylish atmosphere).

In our time in Merida, we managed to visit the museum of Contemporary Art, the Governor’s Palace (a must see just for the murals depicting the history–really helped us understand the culture and the city), the Cathedral of Saint Ildefonso & Temple of the Company of Jesus of the Third Order. Between museums we also made plenty of time for shopping–the area is renowned for their hammocks and offered many beautiful homemade crafts. On a funny note, we kept meeting locals who were really kind and took a liking to us (or so we thought). They would continue to talk to us for half an hour or so, and then would segue into how we should visit one of the Mayan-run collective stores. We were never quite sure if they worked for these places or had a lot of Mayan pride!

The interior of the Temple:

Mr. Peppermint approves of the Cathedral:

We managed to take a half day excursion to the nearby beach town of Progresso. It’s a favorite amongst locals to escape to the beach. Many of the locals who had recommended it, suggested we avoid visiting on days where cruise ships came in because the atmosphere changes from relaxed, sleepy beach town to a touristy sort of town. We wound up going on a cruise day and were actually happy about the decision. If not for the cruise ship, half the stores and restaurants would be closed. And, in a weird way, after almost two weeks in Mexico and far away from home, it was kind of interesting to have other Americans around.

Our last night we made sure to take a calesa (horse-drawn carriage) from the downtown area up to Paseo Montejo. Paseo Montejo is the Rodeo Drive of Merida and is home to many of the richest Meridians. The architecture is beautiful and the streets are wide. I really recommend the calesa (perhaps at the start of your trip) to give you a feel of the layout of the town as well as a chance to kick back and take it all in…

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Nearby on our way to Tulum was Aktun-Chen, one of the many cenotes the region is famous for. Definitely a worthwhile stop, we got to see the complex underground caves that weave underneath the Yucatan penninsula. We were required to wear hard-hats and the guide lectured in English & Spanish. Although it’s known as a more kid & senior-friendly stop, it should be noted that there are some narrow pathways and steep inclines.

Here’s our “Survivor” shot (it was dark down there…and there were some bats!) :

We managed to make good time down to Tulum and checked in during daylight at our hotel, Azulik. Known as an eco-resort, this hotel has no electricity so it really is important to get there during daylight hours & bring some flashlights–ours came in handy. We stayed in the honeymoon suite which is right on the ocean. The rooms have a sort-of Swiss Family Robinson chic:
By far the best part of the room is the outdoor soak tub. As you can see it’s right over the ocean. And don’t worry, you can get hot water!

The next day we took in the Tulum ruins. While not the most impressive, the location on the coast makes it among the most beautiful:

While in Tulum, we ate at the INCREDIBLE Posada Margarita. By far the best food on the trip, they make homemade pastas daily and offer fresh seafood. Instead of bread, they bring a tray of various goodies–steamed cauliflower, cured olives, foccaccia, cheeses. Great service and a beautiful spot on the beach. I can’t recommend it enough!

Our leisurely time taking in Tulum (the beautiful beaches, the outdoor tub and nights by candlelight!) was just what we needed to truly relax. Our next stop was to Chichen Itza. On our way inland we made a point of stopping at Coba, a lesser known ruin that is in the heart of the jungle and home to one of the tallest Mayan pyramids…

We climbed to the top of the pyramid. It was an amazing experience, even though the way down seemed a bit daunting…

Our next stop was the colonial town of Valladolid. It had been recommended by a few guidebooks as a good place to stop on the way to Chichen Itza. While we did enjoy the restaurant El Meson de Marques, if you’re pressed for time, this is a stop you can miss.

Here is the Cathedral in Valladolid:
We made it to Chichen Itza that evening and checked in to the wonderful Mayaland hotel. I had heard that it was a favorite of tour groups and was a bit nervous. That being said, I can see why it’s so popular! It hosts its own entrance to the ruins, well-maintained grounds with wildlife happily co-existing (including a peacock who stole a roll off Mr. Peppermint’s plate at breakfast!), a number of restaurants and well-kept rooms.

Here is the view of the ruins from the hotel:
At night we watched the evening light show which (while not entirely informative, was a fun way to get a sense of the ruins). We also scheduled for a private tour at the ruins the next day (thanks, honeyfund!). I highly recommend getting a guide because it really made the ruins come to life…

Keep watching for the last leg of the trip: Merida!

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