13 . 01 . 2024
MÉRIDA, YUCATÁN, MÉXICO

We want to thank you for the love and effort you are putting into coming to share this special day with us. For us, the wedding is the beginning of a journey for a lifetime. With great joy and gratitude we are preparing for this big day. In México, weddings are a big celebration like no other. If you are invited, it means we hold you in a special place and it is a great gift to have you there on our big day.

Please find here useful information regarding the wedding feast itinerary, the week prior, travel and accommodation recommendations and more. If you have any questions, please let us know at: vanvulpenbolio@gmail.com

We can't wait to celebrate this event with you!

All our love,

María & Paul


Mass Livestream link: https://meet.google.com/npz-vzjx-nji

1800 Dutch / Spanish time and 1100 Mexican time

PROGRAMME

SATURDAY, JANUARY 13th

11.00 hrs

Catholic Mass & Celebration of the Sacrament of Marriage

Parroquia de Nuestra Señora del Perpetuo Socorro, Itzimná.

C. 18 92, Itzimná, 97100 Mérida, Yuc., Mexico

13.00 hrs

Reception and dinner

Hacienda Suytunchén

97302 Suytunchén, Yucatán, México


RSVP

First, help us organize by telling who is coming!

Please R.S.V.P. by December 1st, 2023. Send it by filling in the form below (it takes some time to load on mobile).

If it does not work, send us an email at vanvulpenbolio@gmail.com

ABOUT YUCATÁN

Yucatán is a captivating region located on the Yucatán Peninsula in southeastern Mexico. Renowned for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, it offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors. The region is steeped in Mayan history, boasting iconic archaeological sites such as Chichen Itzá, Uxmal or Ek Balam. Yucatán is also famous (even within Mexico) for its unique cuisine, with dishes like cochinita pibil and poc chuc that showcase a blend of Mayan and Spanish influences. The colonial city of Mérida, the capital of the state, serves as a vibrant cultural hub with its colorful architecture, lively markets, and numerous art galleries. Beyond the historical and culinary treasures, Yucatán is graced with natural wonders, including cenotes (sinkholes), low jungle, and beautiful beaches along the Riviera Maya. We cannot wait for you to see this special part of Mexico.


For us, it also has a special meaning, Maria’s family (on her dad’s side) is originally from this region. Mérida and its beautiful coast is an essential part of María and her sibling’s childhood and family life. Not to mention: her grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins live here.

WEATHER

Mexico is above the equator, that means January is winter. However, don’t be fooled(!), the weather forecast resembles more spring or summer in Europe. Daytime temperatures usually range from 24°C to 30°C , with plenty of sunshine and humidity. However, it's advisable to bring a light jacket or sweater for the evenings, as temperatures can drop to around 15°C after sunset. Rainfall is minimal during this month, but there is always a chance of some drizzle, so bring a light raincoat.

Check out this forecast for the month of January 2024 when packing your bags.


PRE-PARTY PROGRAMME

Tuesday, 09-01
VISIT SANTA BARBARA CENOTES
  • Time: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM aproximadamente

  • Location:

    https://maps.app.goo.gl/gPcaqTYym1Ez1Ehs6?g_st=i

  • Description: Visit more than one cenote, dip in, dive, swim and then bike around nature to another one. There is a nice restaurant to eat with very typical yucatecos food.

  • Ek Balam is inside he state of Yucatán but not close to Mérida, the city. (About 2.15hr drive)*

  • Price: 50 euros per person aprox. Includes transport, food, entrance to the park and bike rental.

  • More info: cenotessantabarbara.com

*The sooner we know how many people are interested, the better we can plan this. Please confirm in the link above.

Friday, 12-01
EUCHARISTIC ADORATION
  • Time: 16:00-18:00

  • Location: Capilla del Colegio Teresiano Enrique de Ossó
    Calle 58A No. 493 x, P.º de Montejo, Centro, 97050 Mérida, Yuc., Mexico

    https://maps.app.goo.gl/KDWeAQPphW6Htizj6?g_st=ic

  • Description: Join us for a time of prayer and reflection in front of the Blessed Sacrament. On Saturday, we will be receiving the Sacrament of Marriage, we want to prepare for it by spending an afternoon of prayer. You are more than welcome to join us. Confessions will be available in English and Spanish.

Thursday, 11-01
ENJOY PROGRESO BEACH
  • Daytime: 1.00 PM onwards

  • Location: Progreso beach. Exact place to be confirmed.

  • Description: Spend a relaxing day at Progreso Beach. Enjoy the sun, sea, and sand at your leisure.

PRE-WEDDING PARTY AT THE BEACH
  • Time: 3PM onwards.

  • Location: Progreso beach. Exact place to be confirmed,

  • Description: Join us for a festive pre-wedding party by the beach. Dance, dine, and celebrate the upcoming wedding and get to know each other already.

Wednesday, 10-01
CHICHÉN ITZÁ ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE
  • Time: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

  • Location: Chichén Itzá Archaeological Site

  • Description: Explore the iconic Chichén Itzá, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at its breathtaking pyramids and immerse yourself in Mayan history. Chichén Itzá is in the state of Yucatán but not close to Mérida, the city. (About 2hrs drive)* (If there are enough people interested, we might arrange transportation for everyone. Please confirm your assistance in the RSVP link above.)

  • https://maps.app.goo.gl/91KxrQcMN8cAeHwRA

  • Price: THE ENTRANCE TO CHICHEN ITZA IF YOU ARE A FOREIGN VISITOR IS $614 PESOS MXN PER PERSON. If you are a Mexican citizen and have an INE credential or passport, the price is $272 pesos per person from Monday to Saturday. Children: $90MXN. Payments only accepted in national currency

  • More info: https://www.chichen-itzatours.com/how-much-does-the-entry-to-chichen-itza-2023-prices-cost.html

Monday, 08-01
VISIT MÉRIDA HISTORICAL CENTER
  • Time: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

  • Location: Mérida Center

  • Description: Explore the historical Mérida Center, immerse yourself in its local culture, and discover its charming streets and landmarks. There are multiple places to have lunch in the center of the city where you can try regional food. You can walk around the streets, visit the Cathedral and other Baroque Churches built during the “Virreinato” Period (Colonial period). We also recommend the museum “Casa de Montejo” for the historical context of the city.

VISIT GRAN MUSEO DEL MUNDO MAYA
  • Time: 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM

  • Location: Gran Museo del Mundo Maya.

  • Address: C60 299 E, Unidad Revolución, 97110 Mérida, Yuc., Mexico https://maps.app.goo.gl/n8ztzT2DpsGnZepR6

  • Description: Immerse yourself in the world of Maya culture and history at the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya. Explore its fascinating exhibits and artifacts.

  • Price: Non- Mexicans: $150MXN, Mexicans: $100MXN, Yucatecos: $50MXN, Children (4 to 13 yo): $25MXN, Elderly, teachers or students (showing ID) $25MXN

  • More info: https://www.granmuseodelmundomaya.com.mx/planea-tu-visita

Since we know it is a long trip for most of you, we planned a few activities the week prior to the wedding day, so you can sightsee and explore this wonderful region. The format is flexible. These are the activities we suggest per day. We will later suggest transportation and other regards. Here you can find the plan. Feel free to join the events you would like, but you can also make your own plan.

Please, fill in the RSVP link above where you tell us which days you are coming to the general activities, so we can better plan for each day.

Enjoy your time in Mérida and we hope to see you at the pre-wedding celebration!

In charge of the pre-party: Santiago Bolio and Jimena Colomé

If you have questions, please contact on WhatsApp at

+52 1 55 5410 9343 and +52 999 458 2165

More Information

If you wish to be informed “live” on the days prior to the wedding you can join this WhatsApp group.


Wedding Mass

The Sacrament of Marriage is a supernatural event where we join each other’s lives in front of God and our friends and family. You are an important part of this day and we are delighted to have you here. Please join us in this moment with recollection and solemnity.

TIME

11.00 hrs

*The Mass will start 11 sharp. We suggest arriving 10.45am.

LOCATION

C. 18 92, Itzimná, 97100 Mérida, Yuc., Mexico

PARKING

There will be plenty of parking around the Church in the Itzimná Park. The streets are safe to park, no “parquímetro”. No Valet Parking available.

DRESSCODE

MEN: Suit with long tie, No Guayabera

WOMEN*: Semi-long dress (midi dress, daytime style). High heels are appropriate, but not required!

*Please remember a church is a sacred place and therefore, our attire should reflect this. If your outfit has a low neckline, it's advisable to consider wearing something to cover up during the mass.

CHILDREN

Children are most welcome for the wedding mass! Please come and sit as far in the front as you want, so that your children are able to see everything well!

LIVESTREAM

If you cannot join us, there will be a livestream available. We would love it if you can participate in the Mass from the distance.

Livestream link: https://meet.google.com/npz-vzjx-nji

PHOTOS & VIDEOS

There will be a photographer present during the day. We love it if you make photos during the Mass, but we ask you to please beware of not obstructing the photographer.


SATURDAY 13-01

Reception & Dinner

LOCATION

Hacienda Suytunchén

97302 Suytunchén, Yucatán, México

HOW TO GET THERE?

To get to Suytunchén, from the Mass, you must drive. It aprox a 40 mins drive.

In Mérida a trusted driving service is UBER or DIDI(Uber-like service). You can reserve an Uber or Taxi with a day notice to make sure you get it.

Alternative: trusted Taxi Site:

9999 23 23 04

PARKING

There will be plenty of parking around the Hacienda. The streets are safe to park, no “parquímetro”.

No Valet Parking available.

DRESSCODE

Same as for the Mass! No need to change.

MEN: Suit with long tie, No Guayabera

WOMEN*: Semi-long dress (midi dress, daytime style). High heels are appropriate, but not required!

SPEECHES OR ACTS

Dutch weddings hold the beautiful tradition of presenting speeches, poems, songs or any other type of surprise act. We would love to have this too. If you want to have one at the wedding (and keep it secret for us!) please inform our good friend Jan-Willem van Ittersum, who is in charge of arranging this.

(WhatsApp: +31 6 81075733, email: janwillemvanittersum@gmail.com)

MUSIC AND DANCE

Mexican culture is full of music and dance. After the opening dance, the dance floor is opened for everyone to celebrate. Everyone in Mexico comes together to celebrate at the wedding. Please join the dancefloor, whether you are eight or eighty!

We are already very delighted that you have come to our wedding

and there is no need to give us a gift.

If you want to give us more than that, please help us build our new family household. Anything useful for our house will make a great gift. Note to our Dutch guests: Please do not take gifts to the wedding from the Netherlands. It is difficult for us to take them back ;-) Instead, send them to

Street name: Sinjeur Semeynstraat

Number: 34

City: Amstelveen

Country: The Netherlands (Países Bajos)

Postal code: 1183 LE.

WEDDING GIFT LIST / MESA DE REGALOS

In México, the custom is to have an online gift list. This can give you ideas as to what our style is. You can also order online the things and send them to the address above.

How to do it?

Click in the orange button. Where it asks you for a name, enter "van Vulpen". Select the item. It will send you to the site where the product is sold.

It asks for an email: you can use mariaboliobenitez@gmail.com

If it asks for a number, use: +31 6 43 80 80 97

IMPORTANT: After the purchase you need to go back to the "mesa de regalos / gift list site" and mark the product as purchased. Otherwise it remains and more than one person could get the same thing.

Any questions on how this works please ask Maria or our friend Paola (+52 55 5073 3363)

Thank you for your generosity (and patience with this unconventional wedding gift site)!


WEDDING GIFTS

Accommodation & Transportation

HOTELS

In México a 5-star or 4-star hotel is the best option. Try to avoid 3-star or less, unless it is a well known chain/group. We recommend that you stay within the city and not by the beach due to distance.

The best locations in the city are:

  1. In the historic center. (from the Cathedral to the North. The south of the city is not ideal)

  2. Along Paseo de Montejo (the main avenue)

  3. Around the Convention Center


Here are some recommendations for you:

CHAIN HOTELS:

Reliable and very close to the wedding church and the city historic center:

Fiesta Americana Mérida

Website:https://www.fiestamericana.com/fiesta-americana-merida

Location:

Paseo Montejo No. 451, esq, Av. Colón, Centro, 97000 Mérida, Yuc., Mexico

https://maps.app.goo.gl/WZTawMQXtu6rJe549

Holiday Inn

Website:https://bit.ly/holidayinnmerida

Location:

Av. Colón 498, entre Paseo Montejo Y Calle 60, Zona Paseo Montejo, Centro, 97000 Mérida, Yuc., Mexico

https://maps.app.goo.gl/2MSgXWTeHd2GHaHw5


Hotel Ibis Mérida

Website: https://bit.ly/3Q7M2uT

Location: Av Carlos Torre Repetto 495, Centro, 97050 Mérida, Yuc., Mexico

https://maps.app.goo.gl/9zjidM8ZpKsUhiHm6

BOUTIQUE HOTELS:

Also in the center of the city, close to the church:

Hotel Boutique La Misión de Fray Diego

Website: https://www.lamisiondefraydiego.com/en

C. 61 #524, entre 64 y 66, Parque Santiago, Centro, 97000 Mérida, Yuc., Mexico

https://maps.app.goo.gl/t7aUvnBLZBfQZ3fH7

Gran Hotel de Mérida

Website: https://www.granhoteldemerida.com/en

Location: C. 60 496, Centro, 97000 Mérida, Yuc., Mexico

https://maps.app.goo.gl/MjSVEw2imnQUavUG9


Hotel Casa del Balam

Website: https://www.casadelbalam.com/en/

Location: C. 60 No. 488, Parque Santa Lucia, Centro, 97000 Mérida, Yuc., Mexico

https://maps.app.goo.gl/ucWDa6LAQGPV8EAY6

If you want to stay at the beach the most recommendable is to find an Airbnb in Progreso, Uaymitún or Chicxulub (from Progreso to the east along the shore).


AIRBNB
We also highly recommend booking an Airbnb, there are many beautiful ones in the area!

TRANSPORTATION

It is difficult to rely on public transport around Mérida. We recommend the following:

  • UPON ARRIVAL TO MÉRIDA: Taxis from the airport can be a little expensive. If you want to order an Uber you can, but need to walk out of the airport and order it there.

There is a bus option. Ideal for moving from the Airport – the city. VA-Y-VEN (blue bus)

The recommended route is AIRPORT- PASEO 60.

Info on how to use it: https://www.poresto.net/yucatan/2023/7/5/va-ven-como-usar-la-ruta-del-aeropuerto-de-merida-390763.html

  • TO MOVE AROUND THE CITY: In Mérida a trusted driving service is UBER or DIDI(Uber-like service). When taking a taxi, make sure it is from a Taxi site. Always preferable to one you find driving around. Alternative: trusted Taxi Site: 9999 23 23 04

If you have any questions, you can reach out to us or Santiago Bolio (+52 55 54109343) or Jimena Colomé (+52 999 458 2165)

Our recommendation, if possible, is to rent a car for the days you will be there.


SIGHTSEEING

Plaza Grande (Main Square)

The heart of Mérida, Plaza Grande, is a vibrant and historic square surrounded by colonial buildings. You can find the impressive Mérida Cathedral, the Government Palace, and the Casa de Montejo (a historic mansion) here. The square often hosts events, markets, and performances, giving you a taste of local culture.

This grand avenue is lined with beautiful mansions from the 19th and early 20th centuries, displaying elegant architecture. It's a great place for a leisurely stroll, and you can also find museums, galleries, and cafes along the way. Don't miss the Monumento a la Bandera (Flag Monument) and the Palacio Cantón, which houses the Anthropology and History Museum.

pink and brown domed building
pink and brown domed building

This ancient Maya city features impressive pyramids, intricate carvings, and well-preserved structures. The Pyramid of the Magician is a standout feature, and the site offers insights into Maya architecture and history.

Paseo de Montejo

Uxmal

CELESTÚN

SISAL

LAS COLORADAS

More information about Mexico


Other places we highly recommend to visit in México, outside of Yucatán:
Campeche, San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, Querétaro, Puebla, Mexico City

Security: Dear travelers, if you're planning to visit more of Mexico, we'd like to emphasize that while the state of Yucatán, is generally safe for tourists, other parts of Mexico may have certain safety risks. We want you to have a great time and not travel in fear, but if you venture outside of the Yucatán, it's important to be cautious. Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas at night, and make sure to stay informed about the local situation. By remaining aware and taking simple safety precautions, you can enjoy all the beauty that Mexico has to offer. Within the peninsula, Cancún, Tulum and Playa del Carmen might be really nice places to visit but they can be less safe than Mérida.

Currency: Mexican Pesos (MXN) In certain places or businesses, cards are not accepted.

It is always handy to have some cash.

Visa and access to Mexico: If you hold a passport of any of these countries you do not need any special permission to access Mexico as a tourist for Canada, the United States of America, Japan, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, any of the countries that are part of the Schengen Area, as well as the member countries of the Pacific Alliance (Chile, Colombia, and Peru), a limit of 180 days.

More info on visas and access to Mexico:

https://www.inm.gob.mx/gobmx/word/index.php/paises-requieren-visa-para-mexico/

Language spoken: Spanish. Most people understand english, but not always


We want to thank you for the effort and love you are putting into coming to this wedding.

Don’t forget to pray for us as we prepare for marriage.
See you in México,

All our love,

María & Paul