Thursday, December 30, 2010

Overnighting in Oxcutzcab

Oxcutzcab (osh coots cob) is a major hub in the Yucatan. It is a central distribution point for fruits and vegetables heading out to points all over the state and the entire Yucatan peninsula. I have always been fascinated by this bustling market and community.





The entrance to the market building features this hand painted mural depicting Yucatecan market life.





Another section features these ladies in the traditional dress of the Yucatan. The huipil.





For those of you keeping track, we stayed at the Hotel Puuc, an easy walk from the market and central square. We paid 330 pesos for the night ($27.50) and on a scale of 1-10, Steve and I gave it an 11! It's that good.


The church in Oxcutzcab is the standard mission style church that is found in almost every village of the Yucatan. The difference here is that it has been maintained beautifully.







I would have loved to go inside and to show that to you too. Unfortunately, this church, like most of the ones we encountered on this trip, was locked tight. We didn't understand how or why a church would lock out it's congregation. Weird, if you ask me.




The town square is a pleasant place to sit, eat an ice cream cone, maybe some french fries or a marquisita while watching village life transpire. Including loud teenagers intent on establishing their social pecking order.








If you are touring the Yucatan, make time for an overnight in Oxcutzcab. It is well worth the time.

4 comments:

lisa said...

I like how the buildings are so colorful! Boy, do I wish you could stay at a place that cheaply here and have it be a nice place to stay.

Anonymous said...

WHERE IS THIS IN THE YUCATAN? SOMEONE TOLD ME OF A TOWN ABOUT 4 HRS AWAY FROM CANCUN THAT IS ON THE BORDER OF BELIZE WHERE THERE ARE MARKETS LIKE THIS.. IS THIS THE PLACE?

Islagringo said...

Anon: Oxcutzcab is about 1.5 hours SE of Merida, in the heart of the Yucatan state. You are probably thinking of the Free Zone, which is a duty free area just before you cross the border from Quintana Roo into Belize. It would be closer to Chetumal.

Steve Cotton said...

Time is having its effect on me. I looked at the photographs and said, "I've been there." It must be time for another trip.