The definition of plasaj is complex…To place oneself means to establish both a household and agricultural cultivation. But whatever the relationship, the unions are expected to last.
—Colin Dayan, Haiti History and the Gods
We didn’t get married,
but we did celebrate the place of this union in our lives, and by extension, the place you all hold in our lives. Here’s a look back at our adventures.
Dates
| Arrivals | Thursday, July 4 |
| Hunker down for Hurricane Beryl! | Friday, July 5 |
| Ceremony & Reception | Saturday, July 6, 6pm |
| Breakfast buffet Departures | Sunday, July 7, 9am |
Once You’ve Landed
Mérida International Airport is only about 25 minutes from Centro. Please note, you cannot get an Uber FROM the airport. You will be able to get an Uber TO the airport on your way back home. Two ways to get to your accommodations are:
- Va y Ven Bus. This is a blue city bus that leaves the airport and stops at the ADO bus station in Centro (the first stop). From there you’ll be able to take an Uber or Didi to wherever you’re staying. You can use a credit card or pesos to purchase a ticket at the ADO kiosk just before the airport exit. For just 45 pesos you can get a very cheap (and air conditioned) ride to Centro! When you exit the airport, the Va y Ven Bus stop will be a few steps to your right.
- Taxi. You’ll need to pay in pesos. There are ATMS at the airport (they actually work). Don’t worry about an upcharge. Transport to/from the airport is inexpensive; less than 500 pesos (about $30USD). You can write down the address of where you’re staying or display it on your phone (if it’s a hotel, feel free to include the name) and your cab driver will be able to find it. They’ll ask if you’re going to Centro. Say yes…or sí!
You should know…
Temperature
Mérida can get really, really hot! Most places have air conditioning and/or fans. For your own comfort (and safety), make sure to drink lots of water, wear sunscreen, and avoid extended time in the sun during peak daytime heat (12 – 3pm). Mornings before noon are a great time to walk around and explore. Evenings cool down significantly. Most houses/hotels stay relatively cool due to their design (yes, architecture!).
Mosquitoes
With tropical heat also comes mosquitoes! You’ll want to have some bug spray on hand. Plenty of restaurants usually have bottles on hand for customers who are dining outside. We’ll have repellant at the ceremony.
Getting Around
There’s Uber in Mérida. Another ride share app is Didi. These are easy and inexpensive ways to get around without worrying about translating or getting lost. If your Spanish is on point, there are plenty of street taxis available. Mérida is a very walkable city, so that is always an option!
Where to Stay
Choosing between a hotel or an Airbnb? Mérida has some great hotels (including a few we’ve included here). Mérida also has some amazing Airbnbs. If you’re traveling with a small group or with children, you might find an Airbnb is the way to go. You’ll get more space and (usually) a pool! Most Airbnbs supply enough drinking water for your entire stay and have well stocked kitchens for cooking. All hotels and Airbnbs are in walking distance to various restaurants and attractions. It’s a win-win either way!
Where to Go
We’ve been working an amazing team of event planners to make sure everyone has a wonderful time in Mérida. Check out their recommendations for places to visit around the Yucatán: from beaches to archeological sites to Pueblos Mágicos.
What to Do
Our event planners also have great recommendations for things to do around the Yucatán: from strolls down Paseo de Montejo to munching on Mérida’s famous snack, the marquesita.
What to Eat
Of course, there are so many restaurants to enjoy! Whether you’re on the hunt for traditional Yucateca food or in the mood for cocktails, check out these recommendations.
A Few More Things!
Making Sense of $$$
You might want to download a currency converter app (like Currency) to give yourself of an idea of what you’re spending.
Staying Connected
If T-Mobile is your phone carrier, you should be able to use your phone without issue. Please check for other carriers like Verizon, etc. If you would like, you can also buy an e-sim for use in Mérida that will give you data. Find out more at airalo.com. Japoneza Retreat has wifi, which you will be able to access on site.
Listen to This
We love listening to podcasts! Fun fact: we don’t even speak at home—we just play podcasts back and forth. Here is a list of podcast episodes (in no particular order) from over the years (as far back to when we first started dating!) that have made us laugh, think, and reflect on life.
Get Inked Up
Richard loves tattoos and Diane finds Richard’s love of tattoos very funny. You might love tattoos! Or you might just find the idea of getting one at this non-wedding very funny. In any case, we’re going to have a tattoo artist at Plasaj who will be offering a selection of flash tattoos free of charge. Take a look at the offerings and use the signup sheet to select the tattoo(s) you want!