Arrive at Merida Airport, transfer to the Villa @ Merida. Stroll through Merida’s colonial centre. Tomorrow morning, we begin a journey into the wonders of Yucateca cooking.
Welcome dinner is
at La Villa for an
evening of tropical stars and Mayan serenades
Day 2
Breakfast at the Villa, then the first cooking classes with David Sterling at “Los Dos”
Los Dos is a unique cooking school owned and operated by Chef David Sterling that is located in a magnificent colonial mansion. What makes cooking at Los Dos such a delightful experience is that you learn directly with Chef Sterling in his own kitchen. Personal attention is a feature at Los Dos – chatting with Chef Sterling over morning coffee and accompanying him to the market makes spending a day at Los Dos truly memorable. Each class at Los Dos begins with coffee and pastries and ends with a fabulous meal that you and Chef Sterling have prepared together.
The Yucatecan culinary tradition is an amazingly rich blend of ancient Mayan and Spanish techniques and ingredients, with just a soupçon of French and Caribbean influence, it was/is, quite possibly, the first “Fusion Cuisine”. Enter Los Dos and you are charmed by a glimpse into the lyrical elegance of life as it was once lived in colonial Mérida. Soaring 18-foot ceilings, sumptuous surroundings, the pool patio and garden, a formal dining room and parlor and the gorgeous Mexican kitchen are yours to enjoy. You learn to cook traditional Yucatecan dishes in an environment much like that in which they were originally prepared.
Highlights of our meal with David will be tamales in three flavors: bean, pit-smoked pork and chocolate, chilled consommé scented with lime, pit-smoked crown rib of pork served with a confit of local vegetables and con helado de chocolate a French-fried bread pudding "soufflé" in cinnamon syrup served with criollo (homemade) chocolate ice cream
Day 3
Breakfast at the Villa and then we journey south into the Puuk Region - Located about 1½ hours south of Merida; the Puuc is one of the most important of Mayan regions and the road that follows this Mayan trail is dotted with pyramids, breath-taking structures often hidden behind simple, sometimes unmarked, entrances.
Lunch at the town of Mani and restaurant El Príncipe, under a palapa we will find, absolutely the world's best Poc Chuc (pork cutlet marinated in sour orange juice and quickly grilled over a wood fire), people come from miles around for this signature dish.
We’ll explore the rarely visited but impressive fortress church of Santa Elena, located in the Puuc hills between Uxmal and the bustling town of Ticul.
Oxcutzcab, is a village of markets and bustling Indian life. Shopping for embroidery, ceramics and their famous Panama Hats, there are exotic fruits aplenty and stalls offering Mayan herbs and spices.
We finish the day back at Uxmal and the evenings, Light and Sound show at the Great Pyramid at Uxmal.
Day 4
Breakfast at the Villa and then off to Los Dos and the 2nd day of cooking with chocolate.
Your second day at “Los Dos begins with a walk to the now familiar central market - an early morning stroll through Merida’s Colonial streets.
With David we learn how cacao become chocolate never more delicious than in chocolate ice cream. The art of the tamal, tortilla making, salsas, panuchos and salbutes which are traditional Yucatecan open-faced tacos topped with Mayan spice-marinated grilled chicken and pickled red onions and crema de cilantro is a lunch we can’t wait to devour
Other specialties of David’s include learning the unique spice blends so important to Yucatan cuisine so necessary for making mucbilpollo con mole Poblano the giant black bean tamal filled with chicken and a rich chocolate, chile, nut sauce.
After a day reveling in the secrets of chocolate, it’s a perfect time to catch a local Calesa; very special horse drawn coaches that amble along through, the charm and magic of Merida’s Historical Center. Linked by wide, tree-lined streets, your carriage takes you, from the parish of St. Christopher in the east, to Santiago in the west; from La Ermita de San Sebastian and including the Hermitage of St. Sebastian in the north, to Santa Ana in the south. Your man at the reins is a skilled narrator, sharing different stories of his town, making the tour a unique experience.
Dinner and Marimbas, by the pool at the Villa.
Day 5
Today is the day for discovering the haciendas of the Yucatan. The 19th century brought unprecedented wealth to the Yucatan Peninsular, via the fiber Henequen. We start our journey of discovery with Hacienda Stout de Peon and a visit to the henequén fields via mule-drawn carts, the same as are used to transport the leaves of the plant to the hacienda's headquarters. This beautiful hacienda has been completely restored, including a working henequen plant (circa 1900). The restaurant is excellent with fine regional dishes and they produce some pretty mean liquor, in house.
Temozon, a superb residence in the Heart of the Yucatan Peninsula recreates the belle époque of the Mexican southeast, with exquisite details located in the main 16th century building and surrounded by beautiful gardens. Originally built in 1655, Temozón Sur was known as an "estancia" and belonged to Don Diego de Mendoza.; it became one of the most important live stock estancias in the area, into the first half of the 18th century.
In the 19th vast areas of henequen were planted and Temozon became one of the richest and most important of the Henequen haciendas.
We return to Merida and dinner with Laura at The Villa.
Day 6
The back roads are dotted with small, charming towns, citrus orchards and colorful markets but it is the lure of Chichen Itza that draws us along this route.
On the way, there is time to stop at Izamal, which is a gorgeous colonial city with a strong Indian presence and beautiful old houses painted in white and ochre, making the entire city look like a movie set. Cobblestone streets and colonial lamp posts complete this majestic scenery, making it a great town to take lunch.
Along the way we meet Mayan women who show us the art of making tortillas by hand and Izamal's famous sopa de lima, as well as, parchment-wrapped chicken, pork empanadas and a traditional atole called tanchucuá, made with fresh corn, chocolate, allspice and sugar. After lunch, we will visit the brand new and proudly Yucatecan sisal distillery, where we will learn about the process of making a liquor very much like tequila (tasting is encouraged!).
The great Mayan city of Chichen Itza belonging to Maya and Toltec cultures is a fascinating world to behold: the immense Palace of the Soldiers with the thousand columns, the Well of Sacrifice, the Temple of Venus…… history at its most exotic.
Day 7
After breakfast we tag along with David who knows the best nooks and crannies for tasty treats. Street food is an important and delicious part of the city’s culinary heritage, so we’ll be happy to indulge as we shop for all the essential ingredients for the evening’s farewell dinner.
Back at the Villa we are joined by another local chef whose cuisine celebrates a fusion of Hispanic culinary culture featuring tapas-style home-cooked recipes of Spanish, Mexican and Yucatecan origins. Another candle light dinner before we leave this mystical land with a culinary history as colorful as the people, past and present.
*One evening we'll dine at one of Merida's top restaurants Hacienda Xcanatún, a beautifully restored hacienda with a Yucatecan menu that is modern. Most of the dishes are International with Yucatecan flair, such as their sublime roast duck with Xtabentún glaze-
Day 8: Hasta luego!
Our Yucatan Kitchen
At Los Dos we will learn how the cacao bean is turned into chocolate, and we will make one of the most famous sauces in the world - mole Poblano, a thick, rich sauce of chiles, peanuts and chocolate. Elsewhere, we will have a demonstration by a local chocolate maker on traditional methods of preparing the Mayan chocolate beverage. Yucatecan food is little known outside the area, so you are taking with you a real secret. It has even been said that Yucatecan cooking the first "fusion" cuisine. True or not, this culinary tradition is a blend of ancient Mayan and Spanish techniques and ingredients, with just a soupçon of French and Caribbean influence. Like much of Mexico, Yucatecan cuisine has its native ingredients and its indigenous population to thank for the core of its cuisine. Items like epazote, oregano Yucateco, and one of the world's hottest chiles, the habanero, are found in many recipes. Cooking techniques are also regionalized and here, the pib, a hand-dug pit lined with stones and fiery coals, in which banana-leaf-wrapped meats are cooked, are typical of Mayan cooking.
More about Merida
The Yucatan is one of Mexico's most tranquil and safest states, with a climate resembles that of Florida or Cuba. Yucatecans are good, tranquil and hospitable people who have strong roots and traditions. They take pride in their city, known as "The White City", not only for the predominance of white limestone as a building material, but because of its streets, plazas and parks that are cleaned daily.
In the early 20th Century, as a result of the henequen or sisal trade, Merida was the home for numerous millionaires who built their lavish homes on Paseo Montejo, and their impressive haciendas throughout the jungle surrounding Merida. A walk down Paseo Montejo is a wonderful way to view some of these mansions, many of which are completely restored, or have a romantic shabby chic charm to them.
The main plaza is always alive with handicrafts made from local artisans, food festivals and bustling indoor and outdoor markets.
The newly opened Museo del Arte Popular de Yucatan, the Museum of Popular Art of the Yucatan is in an elegant renovated colonial home near Mejorada Park. The impressive Mayan collection includes ceramics, jewelry, wooden works, and carved stones, which are part of a huge collection of popular, regional and national art.
Several other city museums highlight everything from paintings, coins, sculpture music and historical exhibits from the city of T'ho and the Spanish Conquest
Art in Merida is not just for museums. Along the Paseo de Montejo, there are a growing number of art galleries springing up all over town. Merida’s vibrant art scene is the perfect paring for enjoying all the many exciting culinary and cultural activities.
The Villa @ Merida
Calle 59 #615A x 80 y 82
Colonia Centro, Merida, 97000
Yucatán, Mexico
Toll (USA/Canada): 1 (888) 737-2124
Tel: +52 (999) 928-8466
Fax: +52 (999) 928-8467
Travel
Merida International
Airport (MID)
Carretera Mérida a Uman Km 14.5,
Mérida, Edo. de Yucatán
Telephone: (52) 99 - 9946-1530
Website: www.asur.com.mx
Cancun is an option if you choose to spend additional time in Mexico. Transport to the Villa is from the Merida Airport on tour arrival day however.
Cancun International
Airport (CUN)
Major international airlines as well as charter airlines have direct or connecting flights to Cancun every day. Now more than ever Cancun Airport International is easy accessible from almost every major city in the world.
US , and Canadian Citizens will need passports.
Accommodations
Like all our tours, your home away from home will be as memorable as the meals you will eat, and they will be memorable. The delightful La Villa Merida is our hacienda for seven days. The 7-room auberge is located in the heart of Merida. An oasis of urban tranquility, the original buildings date back to a 19th century nobleman's estate and have been restored with modern touches to create a sense of luxury and grace typical of the palatial haciendas of the Yucatan.
Every room has been luxuriously appointed with handmade furniture and decor by local craftsmen, and uses only the highest quality, imported bathroom and bedding linens.
The Villa walls are adorned with original art from local artists while the rooms host the owners own personal collection In the reception area, there is a small library in which to exchange books with fellow travelers and a selection of books available to you where you can read about the Yucatan, its history, people, culture and environment.
The courtyard rooms and garden rooms face a beautiful tropical garden with a secluded poolside for lounging around, having your breakfast, lunch or afternoon cocktail & snack or for catching up on your sun tanning.
Walking to Centro Attractions
The Villa is located 5 blocks from Colonia Santiago, one of the oldest historical zones in Merida. We are 2 blocks from Parque Centenario which attracts Merida’s families on weekends to enjoy the park's zoo and train ride; and 10 blocks from the central zocolo, location of the oldest cathedral in Latin America, as well as the Casa de Montejo, the Palacio de Gobierno, the Palacio Municipal and the Galeria Macay. Eight blocks north of the zocolo is the Museo Anropologico. From the Villa to the central Zocolo is a 5 minute taxi ride or a colorful 20 minute walk. We recommend you bring a wide brimmed hat and plenty of sun block.
Weather
The climate on the Yucatan Peninsula is semi-tropical, cooler on the coastline because of the sea breezes. In Merida, the day temperatures range from highs of 25C to 40C (winter to summer). We recommend that you travel with your choice of sun block, insect repellent for the evenings in the rainy season, a light jacket or sweater for the cooler months and a hat; although all of these items can be purchased in Merida if need be.
Auto Rental & GPS
Transportation for this tour is included with transfer on arrival and departure day from the Merida airport. You do not need a car but in you choose to drive directions are below.
Directions by Car from Merida International & Private
Terminal Airport
TURN RIGHT when you reach the first main street off the airport road (you will be going north) - continue NORTH past the airport for 5 km – TURN RIGHT on Calle 59 (Parque Centenario will be on your right) & go 0.4km – we are 3 blocks past the corner on the LEFT HAND SIDE. A large colonial blue building is on your right, directly opposite this building is The Villa which is RED
The drive from Merida International Airport is approximately 15 minutes, depending on traffic. Watch for disappearing lanes on the left!
Directions by Car from Cancun International Airport
From Cancun airport exit to highway 307 toward Chetumal (right turn going south). After a short distance you will see a sign for the MERIDA CUOTA road (toll highway to Merida, Yucatan). We recommend that you get some gas if your tank is low and have at least $300 pesos in cash before entering the cuota road (cost of toll Cancun/Merida: $250 pesos at the present time. We recommend you have adequate pesos with you because the attendants there only grudgingly accept other currency. Take the Cuota west toward Mérida. As you approach Mérida, you will cross the ring road that encircles the city, called the "Periférico". Once you hit the PERIFERICO, TURN LEFT (you will be going south) - at the AIRPORT SIGN, TURN RIGHT (you will be going north) – continue NORTH past the airport for 5 km – TURN RIGHT on Calle 59 (Parque Centenario will be on your right) & go 0.4km – we are 3 blocks past the corner on the LEFT HAND SIDE (a large colonial blue building is on your right, directly opposite is The Villa which is RED. The drive from Cancun is approximately 3.5 to 4 hours.
GPS navigational equipment is available from several car rental companies which are inexpensive and great amenities.
Travel Insurance Inquire about travel insurance from your airline ticket provider or Expedia or Travelocity. Or www.travelguard.com
Cell Phones
International cell phones can be rented from www.worldcell.com and will be delivered to your home prior to departure with the number. The cost is reasonable. We carry phones with us and there is a phone at the residence.
Emergencies
The property is equipped with detailed instructions for all types of emergencies and the property manager speaks fluent English
Recommended Gear List
The weather at this time of year should be ideal. However, we have found that some things can be unpredictable. Be prepared for possible cool to cold weather and possibly rain.
When dining out we dress casually but not too casual.
Meeting/Departure Location
Vagabond Gourmet
Cancellation Information
Cancellations 61 days prior to departure will require no further payments. Cancellations 60 days or less before departure will receive a 50% refund. All deposits may be applicable to future Vagabond Gourmet tours.
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