Opichen, Mérida hotel rooms at the Independent

"The staff and service is exceptional, from a cold towelette and welcome drink on arrival to setting a small bonfire in front of our evening dining table for ambience. This was our second stay. The converted old hacienda is a delight. It is small and tranquil, located in a rather remote area in a small pueblo which is safe but doesn't have any activities. There are all two pools, a garden with a demonstration of Mayan indigenous medicinals and herbs (if you are lucky to be there at the right time), a spa (which I haven't used), a wonderful restaurant (dining on the veranda), and a library with books and games located in the 1909 administration building of the hacienda (which looks like a church). Exceptionally clean and staff is so attentive that the bottled water we had consumed upon arrival at 4pm was replaced by 6 pm while we were strolling the grounds. Rooms are comfortable and serene, but not lavishly appointed or modern, keeping with the atmosphere of the hacienda. Mattresses and pillows are very comfortable and with crisp, high-end sheets. Rooms have good A/C. We had a hiccup with our hot water and the management quickly attended to it. Can't wait to return to this special place."

"We found the location to be loud at night with the traffic noise. The grounds were nice though. Pool area has a need for upkeep, painting, etc.."

"Just as we remember it but under new ownership. I missed the personalization of the founder Valerie Pickles. She would stop by at breakfast and greet the visitors. I heard the new owner wasn’t feeling well so we didn’t get to meet her. The wonderful included breakfast did not include the signature pickle on the Ham, cheese and egg burrito. Now it was scrambled eggs but just as good. Jamaica juice, some fruit and good strong coffee too! The grounds are lush and so well established. Always a good nights sleep in the thatched roof bungalows! I miss the binder of recommendations that also included history on the place. We miss you Valerie but send good wishes to the new owner. What a gem the Pickled Onion is! We ate dinner there twice- margaritas were a bit sour for my liking, and the empanada appetizer was cold both nights. But the food is good and worth stopping by for! "

"Lovely place, clean and quiet, with nice amenities. Great location near Uxmal — we could see the tops of the pyramids from our balcony! The pool area was terrific, with lots of chairs and hammocks to relax."

"It was wonderful ~ staff, beautiful setting, nice comfortable room. We were traveling and it was the perfect location to stay one night before our Ruta Puuc road trip! "

"Excellent! Room spotless. Staff very polite. Thank you Lodge staff, 😊 "

"Nice place with great food."

"Beautiful and historic property, lovely rooms and huge bathrooms. The grounds are amazing but seem 50% inactive and it was eerily empty for our visit in late January. Also, few staff speak English. Location is 30 minutes from center of Merida. Still, we loved it and recommend it. "

"Room has windows on all sides, and mine had other rooms all around. Folks were walking around at night and early in the morning with lights. I didn’t sleep well. Breakfast was fine, but not great. "