Location

Our journey took us to two captivating locations in the Yucatán peninsula. We spent the first half of our trip in the tranquil beach town of Chelem and the second half in the vibrant colonial city of Mérida.

Time of Year: March

Duration: One Transformative month

Experiences and Excursions

Our non-working hours were filled with incredible experiences, blending relaxation, exploration, and cultural immersion. Here are some highlights:

Uxmal Ruins: Venturing to the ancient Mayan city of Uxmal was like stepping back in time, with its majestic pyramids and intricate stone carvings.

Cenotes: We delved into the crystal-clear cenotes for refreshing swims, discovering the natural beauty and geological wonders of the Yucatán.

Scuba Diving: Embarking on scuba diving adventures allowed us to explore the vibrant marine life and underwater landscapes.

Karaoke Nights: Showcasing our vocal talents through lively karaoke sessions created unforgettable memories.

Mayan Cuisine: Savoring an authentic Mexican meal prepared by a local Mayan chef was a culinary delight.

Cocoa Beans: Learning about the journey of cocoa beans from growth to consumption deepened our appreciation for chocolate.

In-Home Massages: Indulging in relaxing in-home massages was the perfect way to unwind.

Mezcal Tastings: Expanding our knowledge and palate with mezcal tastings introduced us to the rich flavors of this traditional Mexican spirit.

Accommodations

Chelem

Town Overview: The small, peaceful town of Chelem provided a perfect beachside retreat.

Living Arrangements: Each member booked their own accommodations, all within one block of the beach and featuring private pools. Bedrooms had private bathrooms, creating a hotel-like experience while sharing communal kitchen and living areas.

Pet-Friendly: The accommodations were pet-friendly, welcoming a member’s registered service dog, Tiny, with open arms in restaurants and cafes.

Mérida

Town Overview: Mérida, the colonial capital, offered a contrasting experience with its rich history and bustling atmosphere.

Living Arrangements: Comfortable and centrally located accommodations allowed us to immerse ourselves in the vibrant city life.

Connectivity and Infrastructure

Chelem

Internet Setup: Our Airbnb hosts provided sufficient internet through a special modem using Telcel cellular service.

Challenges: We experienced a couple of power outages lasting 5-6 and 3-4 hours, respectively. These outages didn’t coincide with critical work times, but we learned that such occurrences are common in beach towns, with locals often keeping generators as a backup.

Mérida

Internet Setup: Reliable internet and cellular service supported our work needs.

Challenges: A power outage on our last night affected fans and air conditioning, making it a hot, sleepless night. We also lost food due to the outage.

Workspace Options

Our accommodations provided various workspaces, both inside and out:

Indoor Spaces: Each bedroom had a desk, and communal areas were conducive to productivity.

Outdoor Spaces: Private pools and patios offered serene environments for working.

Typical Days

Each day followed a delightful routine:

Early Morning: We enjoyed freshly made breakfasts and coffee, with some exploring local cafes.

Mid to Late Morning: Engaging in water activities or starting work from our accommodations.

Afternoon: Rotating between work, play, and socializing, with some exploring local attractions.

Evening: Group dinners, enjoying local cuisine and drinks, and sometimes a night out for gelato or a local event.