In addition to my husband's comments, I'd like to add that we were intending to visit Merida again this fall and we are no longer considering Las Arecas--in spite of everyone else's glowing comments and the fact that it seems to fit exactly what we look for in a hotel/B&B. In the future, when someone requests prepayment via Western Union, we will not proceed, as we have no recourse in the event of cancellation--in spite of kindliness and promises given. Each time I spoke with Mauro, he assured me that he would send the money the next day--the next day always came and passed with no notification that the money had been sent. If he had told us up front that the deposit was non-refundable, I would not feel so disappointed; it's the broken promises and the time wasted chasing money that he apparently never intended to send anyway that is so disappointing. Most unfortunate. I feel others should be aware of this no-return of deposit in the event a trip is cancelled. We surely would have liked to have known this in advance.

Clearly everyone loves this establishment. I wanted to stay during my visit to Merida and so made a reservation with Mauro, the owner, and forwarded him a 50% cash deposit (no credit cards) for the room via Western Union. One week prior to my visit I was informed that I was to have surgery and must cancel my trip. I immediately contacted Mauro requesting at least a partial refund of the deposit. He said he could only refund 50% and I agreed (interesting policy). Over the next 2 weeks numerous emails and phone calls (at least 6 of each) were made where he promised, absolutely, that he would send the money
– it never happened. My wife and I finally gave up. Too bad that Mauro feels he can treat his clientele this way.

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.