Liz Achanta
(In the center, Ricardo Contreras, owner of MeridaTours.gay)
The following morning, Ricardo Contreras, owner and tour guide from MeridaTours.gay joined our group for a fun adventure to the Mayan ruins of Uxmal. The architecture and magnitude of this place were enough to make my jaw drop! And the more we learned about the history of this place, the more I fell in love with it.
Just a heads up, Uxmal isn't the spot to flaunt your cutest outfit — unless you want to be a pool of sweat like yours truly! Opt for breathable fabrics to beat the heat and comfy sneakers to be able to explore the whole complex.
Fortunately, our next stop was Cenotes Hacienda Mucuyche. The hacienda dates back to the 17th century, but most of its remaining architecture dates from the 19th century. This hidden paradise is also home to two Cenotes, Carlota and Azul Maya, ideal for cooling off after Uxmal. The first one is named in honor of Empress Carlota of Mexico, who, in 1865, on a trip from Yucatan to Merida, arrived at the hacienda and became the first person to ever swim in the cenote.
(Cenote Carlota at Hacienda Mucuyche)
Mucuyché's second cenote, known as the Cenote Azul Maya, is entirely underground and beautifully lit by blue lights, giving it a mystical vibe. Enter at your own risk; it's totally safe but can feel very scary for some people.
(Left - Cenote Azul Maya, Right Jorge Gallegos with MeridaTours.gay)
The highlight of our trip? The Cantina Tour with the fabulous Ricardo Contreras! We hit up all the best queer hotspots in Merida, from Jorge's Imperial to Papis. The go-go boys kept us entertained all night long, and let's just say everybody had a good time.
(At Papis, in order to tip the dancers, you need to exchange your money for “papis dollars”)
Unfortunately, the weather had other plans for us, and on our last day, our flight got delayed for twelve hours. But the silver lining? I spent one more wild night soaking up Merida's epic queer scene.
I checked in at the Courtyard by Marriott Merida Downtown - a slick spot just a quick ride to DixBar.gay (which we missed the night before). The queer gods must have been looking after me because, at Dix, we stumbled upon a rad surprise – a full-blown Muppets vs. Plaza Sesamo drag show! It rocked my socks off and made the flight delay totally worth it.
(Drag show at DixBar.gay)
Without a doubt, my trip to the Yucatan peninsula was absolutely epic! As a Mexican, I was totally blown away by the friendly and welcoming vibe of the locals. And let's talk about the natural wonders - STUNNING! Plus, the history and culture of the area are totally fascinating.
(Jorge Gallegos in Merida, Yucatan)
As an LGBTQIA+ traveler, I felt utterly safe and respected throughout the whole thing. Seriously, I can't recommend yucantantravel.gay and meridatours.gay enough to anyone eager to discover this gorgeous part of Mexico. Trust me, you're in for a treat.
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.
