A magnificent 19th-century mansion in the heart of Mérida, lovingly restored and filled with contemporary Mexican art, antiques and treasures collected from around the world.
The house was brought back to life by Mérida-born businessman Jabib Chapur, who enlisted local architect Guiomar Peniche to restore its faded grandeur and turn it into a private retreat for family and friends. Its restoration preserves the building’s original character while introducing a playful mix of contemporary art and design. The name Xodó, a Portuguese term of endearment, feels fitting for a house that is clearly a labour of love.
There are six individually-designed suites, a central courtyard and swimming pool surrounded by tropical greenery, and plenty of inviting corners for entertaining. A private chef and house team look after every detail, and Mérida’s colourful streets, markets, galleries and restaurants are just beyond the front door.
What we love about Mansión Xodó
- Incredible restoration by local architect Guiomar Peniche of Utópica Estudio, who has preserved the original patterned cement tiles, exposed stone walls and soaring six-metre ceilings, filling the rooms with natural light.
- Each of the six suites has its own personality, with influences ranging from Japanese wabi-sabi to Yucatecan Art Deco; the principal suite has its own private courtyard and sauna.
- The beautiful central swimming pool is inspired by a Sevillian cloister and framed by Tuscan columns and tropical plants, great for escaping Merida’s midday heat.
- A subterranean wine cellar, private cinema, and a hidden speakeasy for late-night cocktails.
- An extraordinary art collection, with works by Pedro Reyes, Dr. Lakra, Sofía Táboas, Carlos Amorales and Gonzalo Lebrija among others displayed throughout the house.
- The attentive house team includes a dedicated private chef with daily breakfast, daily housekeeping, a villa manager, and 24/7 concierge service.
Mérida is one of Mexico’s most beguiling cities, a place of grand colonial architecture, leafy squares, lively cantinas and a thriving contemporary arts scene.
It’s also the cultural heart of the Yucatán Peninsula, with extraordinary Maya archaeological sites, traditional villages and freshwater cenotes scattered across the surrounding countryside. From Casa Xodo, spend the morning wandering the historic centre, stopping for coffee in a courtyard or browsing the galleries and independent boutiques around Santa Lucía. Visit the magnificent cathedral and colourful markets, then head to one of the city’s excellent restaurants for a long lunch of Yucatecan specialities.
Further afield, explore the pyramids of the ancient Maya city of Uxmal or head into the countryside to swim in the Yucatán’s crystalline cenotes. The region’s old henequen haciendas offer a fascinating glimpse into its history, and the coastal town of Celestún is known for its mangroves, birdlife and flamingos.
By night, catch live music in one of the plazas, visit a traditional cantina for a cold beer and a plate of botanas, or let us arrange a private dinner at Casa Xodó, followed by cocktails in the hidden bar.
Mandla is located in the quiet beach town of El Transito, on the Pacific Coast of Nicaragua. Located just an hour’s drive from Managua, Nicaragua’s capital, Mandla is extremely accessible.
There are direct flights from Managua to Costa Rica, Cuba, Mexico, and Panama, meaning that a stay at Mandla can be easily combined with another Central American country.
When to Travel
Mérida is warm throughout the year, with the most comfortable weather generally falling between November and March, when days are sunny and evenings pleasantly cooler. December to February is particularly good for exploring the city and archaeological sites. April and May can be fiercely hot, while June to October brings higher humidity and tropical showers, often followed by clear skies.
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