The Travel Gallery

Here’s our monthly gallery showcasing some of the region’s many natural and historical attractions. How many have you visited?  Which ones would you like to explore on future visits to Grand Residences?

Punta Maroma

Stroll along this perfect crescent of white sand between Puerto Morelos and Playa del Carmen, Punta Maroma is one of the Riviera Maya’s most beautiful beaches. Spend the day relaxing on the sand, swimming and trying your hand at water sports.

Playa Norte, Isla Mujeres

Hop over the bay to Isla Mujeres for an afternoon of relaxation, fresh seafood and incredible views on Playa Norte, the island’s jewel in the crown. You’ll want to go swimming or snorkeling on the offshore reef, laze under the palms and watch the yachts sail past. Stay on for the sunset, it is spectacular.

Quinta Montes Molina, Merida

One of the grand old casonas that line the Paseo de Montejo, Merida’s famous boulevard, the elegant French-style mansion Quinta Montes Molina dates from 1902. In 1915, it was purchased by Avelino Montes Linaje and is still owned by the Montes Molina family to this day. Guided tours of the house show visitors rooms full of original furniture and art, Baccarat crystal chandeliers, Murano glass, and the family china. Porcelain and alabaster statues grace the halls and corridors.  Sepia photos, art deco pieces, clothing, musical instruments, clocks and even old telephones give visitors a glimpse of family life over the years. Downstairs in the basement are the kitchen, the wine cellar, laundry and the rooms that were once the servant’s quarters.

Open Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Mayapan Distillery, Valladolid

You wouldn’t expect to see blue agave, the plant that gave rise to tequila, in the Yucatan, but you would be wrong. On the outskirts of the colonial town of Valladolid, fields of blue agave surround the Mayapan Distillery. If you are bound for Chichen Itza, and are stopping in Valladolid on the way, it is worth a visit to see the artisanal production process that uses techniques that are over 400 years old. Learn how the piñas or hearts of the plants are harvested, roasted and crushed to extract the juice which is then fermented and distilled to produce a spirit that resembles tequila.

Mayapan cannot be called tequila because the denomination of origin trademark is only reserved for spirits produced in Jalisco, where Mexico’s iconic spirit originated, however it does have a characteristic smoky taste and is available in blanco, reposado and añejado.

Explore the Yucatan

Your Concierge can help you arrange trips to these spots and to all the natural and historical wonders in the Mexican Caribbean and Yucatan.