Liz Achanta
The Yucatan region of Mexico is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. And with the help of YucatanTravel.gay and MeridaTours.gay I embarked on a five-day epic adventure to uncover the secrets of LGBTQIA+ tourism in the Yucatan peninsula. Let me tell you, it was an experience of a lifetime.
(Jorge Gallegos in Chichen Itza)
Day one was nothing short of extraordinary. After being picked up from Cancun International Airport, we drove for about two hours until we reached Valladolid – where we were welcomed with open arms and a frozen margarita by the friendly Hotel Real Hispano staff.
(Beautiful rainbow in Valladolid, Mexico)
That evening, we hit the streets to explore this enchanting, Magical Town. From small galleries selling handmade art to countless Instagram-worthy restaurants, this little Mexican town has something for everyone. The cherry on top? A bright rainbow was shining proudly in the sky. How apropos!
(Las Coloradas is the best spot for pictures)
Next on the agenda was a visit to "Las Coloradas." You might have seen these picture-perfect pink lakes all over social media, but did you know they're not Mother Nature's masterpiece? These beauties are part of the salt production process, which a Mexican family started in the 1940s. Wild, right?
(Sea salt crystal from Las Coloradas)
Interestingly, their eco-friendly methods and advanced technology have made them the leading producer of pure and natural sea salt, and I can attest to that because I was able to taste it, directly from the ground, and it is, without a doubt, the perfect option for adding flavor to the rim of your margarita glass.
(Jorge Gallegos in Chichen Itza, photo and edit by Abel Padilla)
But the best part of that day was Chichen Itza! That's right, the biggest, baddest, most mind-blowing Mayan site ever built. We had the ultimate tour guide/photographer — Abel Padilla — who brought these ancient ruins to life right before our eyes. No dusty old history books needed here!
(Another wonderful photo from Chichen Itza)
And guess what? This magnificent Mayan complex was declared one of the World's new Seven Wonders in 2000. Pro-tip, if you want to get the most out of your visit, wear comfortable shoes and a hat, and bring a bottle of water because Chichen Itza is home to several architectural and natural wonders, including El Castillo, the Great Ball Court, the Temple of the Warriors and more that you don't want to miss.
(The Mayan people believe that the Pich tree has the healing power of transforming negative energy into positive through a hug that connects us with the earth.)
When we finally wrapped up a day of intense exploration, we desperately needed a chill pill. Luckily, Cenote Tsukan was our next and last stop for the day. We got rid of our negative vibes with a sacred ritual by a Mayan guide and then snuggled up to a ginormous tree to complete the blessing. The entire experience left me revitalized and with a peaceful mind.
(Swimming in a cenote is a surreal experience)
We left Tsukan and went straight to Merida, where we checked into the swanky Camino Real Hotel. This place was relatively new and had an epic rooftop pool with insane views. Holoch was our dinner destination, and damn, the flavors and textures of their food were off the chain.
(“Holoch” is Mayan for the husk of the corn)
Elizabeth Achanta
A Pride campaign celebrating LGBTQIA+ communities through live experiences, digital storytelling, and queer identity online.
Liz Achanta
While Pride Month brings visibility and celebration to the LGBTQIA+ community with parades and events worldwide, authentic pride isn't limited to just 30 days a year. In our digital world, there are countless creative ways to celebrate, support, and express LGBTQIA+ pride every day of the year. This article explores how individuals can cultivate meaningful digital pride experiences that transcend the calendar and create lasting impact.
Liz Achanta
Every time you send an email, you're making a statement. Hidden in plain sight, your email address whispers (or sometimes boldly declares) aspects of your identity to everyone who sees it. Welcome to the power of purposeful digital identity: where something as seemingly mundane as your email address becomes a meaningful extension of who you are and what you stand for.
Liz Achanta
Imagine a digital world where everyone truly feels welcome. Not just tolerated or accommodated as an afterthought, but genuinely invited in, celebrated, and considered from the very first line of code.
