A traveler recently called me for some advice on a trip to Mérida. Common questions such as where to stay, what are the “Must-Do’s”, and which beach should I go to? All of those are good questions, and then the big question, where should I workout? Does the hotel have a gym? What about yoga? So, I sat down with a local IIN health coach and entrepreneur, Antonio Tellez, to discuss healthy lifestyle options in this city. “Merida’s position on the map offers unique places to for body, mind, and spirit wellness,” Antonio reflected. Between my personal experience and his insight, we came up with some wellness tips, and ideas to help work off the delicious food and drinks.
For runners and walkers – If you are a runner or walker, consider putting on my Nike’s and hitting the pavement of Paseo de Montejo. The beautiful, tree-lined street offers wide sidewalks and is a fun way to see the architecture. If you are looking for a longer run, you can venture into Centro, however the sidewalks are extremely narrow and uneven, and not always the best option, and in the morning you may come across the buses gathering workers. Paseo de Montejo offers many photo opportunities and coffee shops if you decide to stroll vs. run. Running tips: Run early in the morning. Nights in Mérida are very active, and mid-day can be extremely warm. And if a half marathon is on your bucket list, the Mérida Rock n’ Roll half marathon is a blast. On Sunday mornings, the Paseo is a pedestrian/bicycle zone for La Bici Ruta, and that is the best time of all to run or walk there.
For gym lovers – If you are staying in Centro or near Paseo de Montejo, you have a couple of options for hotels that offer fitness facilities, The Hyatt, Rosas & Xocolate, and Intercontinental. One of the many things I love about Rosas & Xocolate, is that they offer a membership. This is great for expats that live in and around Centro that want access to a beautiful facility that is within walking distance. You can also ask your concierge about “local” gyms if you are looking for an authentic experience.
For outdoor adventurers – Spend a day kayaking or biking in the nearby beach town of Sisal. Walk and hike the pyramids of Uxmal. Or, take a cenote tour and spend some time swimming and exploring the magical underground caverns of the Yucatán. If you want to stroll on a beach, spend a day at walking and splashing in the waves. The closest beach is Progresso offering restaurants, and pop-up shops for the cruise visitors.
For yoga/meditation lovers – Find yoga classes at La Cúpula Cultural Center, every Tuesday and Thursday morning at 9am for 125 pesos, and includes juice/herbal tea after class. If you have transportation, Antonio highly recommends Claudia Guerrero at Semilla Yoga in North Mérida. Prefer a private yoga class? Coqui Coqui offers private sessions at their spa. There is also a yoga retreat coming to Hacienda Dzibikak, October 9-14, which will offer yoga instructors from the United States and India. (Email for information).
For the foodie – Visit the new Slow Food Farmer’s Market, known as the Mercado Fresco de Slow Food, held every Saturday from 9:00 am until 1:00 pm, offering organic options, regional produce, artisanal goods, fresh baked items, fresh fish from Celestun, and locally grown cashews. The market is located at Avenida Reforma (Calle 72) por Av. Colón, Centro Comercial Colón. Or visit one of the many health conscious restaurants, including Ku’uk and Rosa Sur.
By Miranda Allfrey for TYT
Miranda Allfrey is a travel, health & lifestyle writer, cancer survivor, and speaker. Her captivating storytelling adds magic to destinations, cuisine, experiences, products, culture, and health. With a global awareness and passion for life & cloudsurfing (aka flying), she is the perfect brand ambassador. To learn how she can help your company surf to the top, click here: Work with Miranda.
