Earlier we had someone managed to back into the parking spot thinking it would make it easier to exit. It wasn't. Navigating was almost impossible especially with a larger SUV and a bike rack on the back. To make matters worse both exits we're blocked with signs placed by hotel staff. The only way out was the way we came in. Needless to say the twisting and turning required to maneuver the vehicle frontwards out of the spot and then backwards out of the lot was more than we wanted. Just then a security guard approached the car as we nervously commanded the dogs to "sit still and don't move". Luckily he was very helpful and actually moved one of the signs for us! We could exit forwards - what a gentleman.
After we departed the hotel premises, walked the dogs and returned to the inn, I parked in the same lot, backing up again into the spot without hitting one car! Actually, I've never hit anyone. Regardless, it's reassuring to know that I may be bad with directions, but at least I've never been in an accident...yet! Of course with the way the maniacs drive around here it's only a matter of time!We smuggled the dogs into the room, and then Allan and I dined at the hotel's restaurant, a Mexican style establishment with large glass windows overlooking an infinity pool set in front of a lovely little lake. With our bellies full we returned to the room for much needed rest! Driving 7+ hours/day can be very tiring.
The next morning we awoke early, and snuck the dogs back into the car. Mitzi almost managed to escape from the bag in the middle of the hotel. That morning I could see her and Rickey whispering in bed. When I approached they stopped taking, so I knew something was up. Sure enough halfway through the hotel just as Allan passed the maid she made her escape, managing to get 90% out. Luckily Allan caught her and somehow stuffed her back in without being noticed. Close call!
Back in the parking lot from hell, it was time to make our escape. This time backing out wasn't an option - after all we now thought it was OK to move the sign and drive out forwards. However, as I approached the blocked entrance a guard appeared from nowhere and informed us we were not allowed to move the sign. We would have to back out. But we saw two other cars move the sign this morning, and the guard moved the sign for us last night! He didn't care. He was God, and we were on his turf. My explanations were not helping so I began to argue - heatedly. That seemed to work. Not only did the sign get moved - he did it himself! He sulked off, ego bruised. Poor little security guard.
Now I've become the ignorant American I detest. Or have I? I've seen many Mexicans arguing in the same fashion. Am I not allowed to raise my voice and make demands because I'm a foreigner? As long as I am respectful and open to other cultures, can't I argue if I think I'm being wronged? Thoughts?
We had a long 9 hour, 400 mile drive from Villahermosa to Merida thanks to endless speed bumps, slow speed limits through small towns, torrential downpours, flooding, accidents and TRAFFIC. Ugh. Did I mention that we also passed through 6 checkpoints? All were secured by a multitude of military men brandishing loaded machine guns. Some even had small little tanks and armed lookouts. What is this - Iraq? Luckily we made it through all of them without any hassles.
The first stop was for food inspection. Did we have any consumables? Besides the dozen pig carcasses we picked up in Puebla? Nope. The other stops were military checkpoints. Don't ask me what they were looking for. Drugs, I guess. Mitzi and Rickey stop shooting up - NOW! Most of the time we were waived through without question. At others they were too busy chatting to even notice us. Mostly I tried to stay as close as possible to the bumper ahead of me and pass by unnoticed. At two checkpoints we were questioned: where had we come from and where were we going? They made cursory glances in our windows, and then let us go.
As we approached each one my stomach dropped and heart began to pound. So much for the freedom we knew in the US. In Mexico as much as I appreciate the presence of security in the streets it definitely takes some getting used to. On the one hand I'm sure Mexicans love the money visiting foreigners bring in. On the other, I'm sure eager security guards see quick dollars to be made from bribing nervous tourists. Pay me or else!By the time we arrived in Merida at 7pm, the Holiday Inn was booked. We proceeded to the Hyatt next door and made reservations. It was more expensive, but we had a nicer lobby, beautiful gym, tennis courts and prettier restaurants. In the end the extra cost was NOT worth it: the room didn't look any better than others we've stayed at recently. The Hyatt also nickeled and dimed us: $2US for in room coffee, $4US for bottled water and $15US for internet access. Our consensus after a night's stay: Hyatt, you can go stuff it! You overcharge us and then make us pay for amenities that other hotels offer for free?
Playa del Carmen Condo and Villa Vacation Rentals
Allan, Rickey and Mitzi wake up to yet another day of driving.
A family collects cans as traffic zips by at highway speeds.
A man collects wood along the busy highway.
School girls congregate on a corner.
Palapa (thatched) roofs are a welcome sight. The weather and architecture are getting more tropical.
Rickey takes it all in.
2 comments:
There are so many great places to stay in Mérida,but you were just passing through, and the Hyatt does seem so American.The Fiesta Americana across the street is where President Bush stayed when he came for a conference.
That photo you took is the Monument to the Flag. It shows the history of Mexico and is incrediable.
regards,
Theresa
You really made your trip come to life for me. Glad you made it without too much trouble.
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