By Beth Carson
Escape the noise and congestion of Cancun and discover Colonial Mexico. Other than a heavy wooden door behind the decorative metal gate, there’s nothing to let you know what’s inside. Many homes are like that in Colonial Mexico, and Merida is no exception. Façades are often plain and the front door is right on the sidewalk, 2 or 3 steps from the street. Behind the doors could be a crumbling ruin, an ultra-sleek, minimalist remodel, or opulent 4 bedroom home. The only way to know is open the door…
Merida, the Yucatan state capital, is miles away from Cancun, easy to get to, but far from the maddening crowd. Seeking more than beaches, tourists, and t-shirt shops, I craved authentic city in a Mexican city. Santiago, a quiet, upscale neighborhood in Merida, was a perfect fit.
Such a Treat
Casa Merida is a treat. The centuries old, thick, stone walls are instantly cooling, and the red walls and low, modern seating in the front room are just the thing for those who appreciate design. Ceilings soar to 20 feet high, accented by wooden beams.
The house is long– you’ll pass two bedrooms and bathrooms on the left and go through a small outdoor courtyard before entering the kitchen with another small living area. The kitchen is fun and funky, with rustic, copper faucets, gorgeous talavera tile, and every amenity a hungry or thirsty person could want.
Out the backdoor to the courtyard. A thriving garden full of tropical beauties, and a crystal clear blue pool. Beyond the pool are architectural columns and relaxing hammocks. Two rooftop terraces and a master upstairs with an enormous, hand- crafted, polished cement soaking tub complete this 3 bedroom and 3 bath- room, affordable vacation rental.
Remixto, the property management company who oversees Casa Merida, is run by two partners- Brent Marsh and Stan Khang. Stan is an award winning architect and Brent is the numbers cruncher. Both have a passion for guest experience, which is carried throughout their company. Each guest is greeted personally and shown around, and they are happy to arrange tours, shows and spa treatments.
No buses rumble down this quiet, residential street. You are flat walk- ing distance to many of the city’s parks and plazas, including Santa Ana, Santiago and Santa Lucia. A taxi ride is generally a few dollars. For those longing to escape winters back home for an authentic, colonial Mexican city, consider Re- mixto’s hand-selected range of properties.
To Learn More
 Publisher and Editor – Vacation Rental Travels |
Read more about Mexico
For the Love of Travel – Cozumel, Shopping, ATV’s and Beaches
For the Love of Travel: How to Successfully Vacation with Family & Friends
House of Dreams – Pleasure abounds at Casa de los Suenos in Puerto Vallarta
Mexican Holiday Style: Celebrate Mexican Culture at Our Lady of Peace Festival in Bucerias
Puerto Morelos: Where travelers go for an authentic Mexican experience
Weekend Art in the Park — Mexico City’s San Angel Neighborhood puts on an Enchanting Show