Tour of Merida Jan 10,2006

[bobthek]

Our ship (Costa Allegra) docked at Progresso pier - six miles long! Free shuttle buses take you to the "bus terminal" in Progresso near a small market. You can book local tours there.

 

We found an english-speaking guide (Ricki Ocana) and negotiated a price of 95$US to take four of us in an air conditioned van (with driver) for a 3-4 hour tour of Merida. Merida is about 1/2 hour from Progresso and is the capital of Yucatan province.

 

The city dates from the spanish colonial period (late 16th century) and there are buildings and sites from this time. The city is relatively clean and spacious and we did not feel unsafe at any time.

 

We saw the Monumento a la Patria, Catedral de Sal Ildefonso (oldest cathedral in N. America), Casa de Montejo, Palacia de Gobierno and the Museo de Antrolpologia. We also visited a market (Bazar Garcia Rejon) near the main plaza. Lots of local crafts, goods and food.

 

After this, we returned to the terminal. It is also possible to take another 1-2 hours to visit the ruins of Dzibilchitun, which are about half way back to Progresso.

 

A possibility for lunch is Los Almendros in Progresso at the beach. This is a local restaurant chain that features traditional Mexican and Yucatan food.

 

If you want to contact Ricki, you can call him at 01-2299-86-58-19 or e-mail him at rickybiz@hotmail.com and arrange for your own group.

 

Hope you enjoy your visit to this interesting and unique part of Mexico as much as we did.