I stayed at Las Arecas on 3 separate occasions through out Nov.2006. Each time I returned it was like coming home. Mauro and Raul are so friendly and helpfull. The house is well located and the rooms spacious, more like staying in a real Mexican home than an impersonal hotel. Terrific spot for an authentic experience.
KMD Brooklyn, NY

Travelling independently at the end of January 2007 I arrived in Merida after easily booking the Arecas room to be met by Raul who is very helpful and friendly intending to stay two nights but ended staying five nights. Las Arecas B & B is spotless with a lovely court yard with fountain court yard where you can have breakfast with Raul and Mauro the owner. The location is 10 minutes walk to the centre of the city centre Plaza where on Saturday and Sunday the streets are blocked to cars and which is taken over with people dancing, drinking and enjoying life which Meridan’s seem to do with great gusto. I overlapped with the arts festival so there were lots to do but could always go back home(felt like home) for a break. All in a very enjoyable place to stay in Merida.

Wonderful place. Mauro, the owner, was incredibly helpful to me when the airlines lost my bags, making numerous calls on my behalf. Morning coffee and fresh-orange juice are served by the ever-elegant Raul, who speaks beautiful English. Rooms are clean, simple, quiet. Lovely interior courtyard. I will most definitely go back.

We stayed with the guys at Las Arecas over New Years' week 2007 and have the highest regard for their operation -- if you can call it that. They run the place like you've all been invited to stay in guestrooms in their house. No swanky furniture, appliances, electronics, etc., just the basics for comfort in a handsome colonial style. Breakfast is prepared when you appear in the courtyard in the morning (or by prior arrangement). Friendliness is a given, but you can snag a quiet table in the front parlour if you like. Guests each get a front door key; be aware that there may be times when nobody's home (unless your initial arrival is anticipated).

The location is excellent for getting around in town and is not far from bus stations for getting out of town. The street can be busy during the day, but all the living quarters are in the rear, flanked by a well-tended garden (frequently decorated with your sheets drying in the sun). It's a fine old colonial house, colorfully and neatly maintained by a fine bunch of folks.