Mérida is the capital city of Yucatan, Mexico and is gaining popularity as a tourist destination. The city is receiving increased attention in large part due to its location on the Yucatan Peninsula - close to the beaches of the Gulf of Mexico and archeological wonders like that of Chichén Itzá - along with its delicious food, colonial architecture, and history.
Mérida also offers visitors to the city the opportunity to stay in restored homes - most dating back to the 1880s. Many of these houses were built during an economic boom in the region, brought on by the sale of henequen, a natural fibre used in ropes and clothing that was later replaced by plastics. Only recently has Mérida experienced a sort of rebirth now in the tourism industry.
Nowadays, investors - national and foreign - have taken to restoring these often abandoned and subdivided homes, and turning them into comfortable, modern living spaces, while still respecting the original facades.
Since many of these homes have been subdivided, due to parents leaving equal portions to their children, the facade of one of these houses could be as few as 4 metres wide. Looking at the front door of each home, you truly would have no idea what might lie beyond the entrance, as the land could go on for 20 meters, 40 metres, or more.
When possible, many builders attempt to salvage the original, and often very colourful hand-painted tile floors, along with saving any old wooden doors and hammock hangers. Creative architects add pools and patios, and sometimes new construction is erected at the back of the long properties, converting these old homes into modern oases in the middle of the historic city centre.
The homes in the city centre are often listed on AirBnB or VRBO for short or even long-term rentals and offer a unique way to experience Mérida. Days are hot in Mérida, and there is nothing quite like taking a dip in your private pool to cool off.
Many AirBnB owners also offer additional services like daily housekeeping and you can even hire a personal chef if you don't want to lift a finger. Of course, with all the fantastic restaurants in Mérida just steps away, you could also avoid any kitchen duties that way as well.
It is important to note that many of these homes can host more than 4 people and often cost less than a hotel room for two. While I generally do enjoy the hotel experience, in Mérida, the restored homes are a treasure and can't be missed!
'Casa Almita' - Private Pool and View of New Construction