The fascinating colonial town of Valladolid, tucked between Cancun and Merida, has been Mexico’s best-kept secret for the past several years.
But it’s fast drawing attention due to its unique mix of attractions.
Discovering one of Mexico’s best kept secrets
Founded in the 1500s, this well-preserved town features hundreds of cenotes (underground sinkholes) for snorkeling, a wealth of archaeological sites for exploring, a rich Mayan culture to experience and plenty of history to discover. Whether you study Spanish, sip a coffee at an outdoor café, browse an art gallery, or enjoy a leisurely meal of Yucatan cuisine with friends… it’s all part of the laid-back way of life in this small, yet welcoming city of 50,000 people.
Cenote Zaci in Valladolid, Mexico (Credit: Michele Peterson)
Perfect to visit or stay longer
It’s also super affordable. With a MXN Peso to USD exchange rate of 19 to 1 ( as at March 2017), the cost of living in Mexico is remarkably low. Not only is Valladolid a fantastic place to visit, but it could very well be your next place to enjoy retirement as an ex-pat.
So whether you’re looking for an easy day trip from Cancun or a winter destination for a long-stay snowbird escape, it’s worth finding out why our team at A Taste for Travel is joining Vogue, The New York Times and The Guardian in choosing Valladolid as one of Mexico’s best cities to visit – and the best city for retirees in Mexico.
Church of Valladolid (Credit: Jessica Torres)
What’s appealing to the over-50 luxury traveler?
- Valladolid is rich in history, natural beauty and culture yet small, safe and welcoming enough to be relaxing.
- The town was chosen as a “Pueblo Magico,” a designation by the Mexican government that recognizes the country’s most unique and special cities.
- Valladolid is relatively low-cost with few crowds.
Take note
- The weather can be hot and humid so do as the locals do: Take a siesta in the middle of the day and venture out to enjoy an evening promenade when temperatures are cooler.
IF YOU GO
Be sure to get the whole scoop on Valladolid on A Taste for Travel!