Small city charm in the Yucatan

This isn't entirely chronological, but I have to say that I was taken by the charm of the small cities in the Yucatan - especially Merida and Valladolid. I hated Cancun and have mixed feelings about Tulum. On the other hand, Merida and Valladolid were very different in look and feel to any city I'd previously experienced.

The architecture was interesting; the houses washed in earth and pastel colours that reminded me a bit of Burano. It was aesthetically very pleasing. The old buildings held a lot of history; I just wish I had more time to immerse myself in the rhythms of the place, fully appreciate the food and the people and feel like more than just a passing stranger.

To see the movement at night.

To let myself be dazzled by the exuberant palette, an assault to the senses when mingled with the chaotic sounds, traffic and burning sun.

To believe in unicorns.

To fathom the stories etched in the peeling paint of church facades.

To understand the food.

To seek the divine in a quiet spot.

Or dance with the locals in the park, colours flashing with each sway like the flight of exotic birds.

The cities and towns have a palpable sense of community. We experienced this first hand while driving - we'd often make pit stops when we saw interesting things.

On our way to Rio Lagartos, in the north of the Peninsula, we noticed something of a thoroughfare in the city of Tizimin. The whole community had congregated around the ochre-coloured cathedral; bunting and lights adorned the place and women were stoking a fire, cooking food by the side. A procession bearing a statue - perhaps of the Virgin Mary - entered the cathedral and, to the delight of both children and adults in the crowd, balloons were poured from over the rampart.

The Yucatan isn't just hotels and touristy activities; I frankly would recommend spending a bit more time getting immersed into the community feel of these friendly towns.