We just returned from a fabulous trip to Mexico – an opportunity to relax as a family, before plunging into preparations for this summer! We chose the Yucatan in Mexico, and spent several days in Merida. It was, quite honestly, one of the most cultural cities we have EVER visited, anywhere in the world. In addition the being really beautiful, the city teems with art of every description – so much so, that it’s difficult to avoid it. What’s more, nearly everything is completely free. On the first day, we attended a fantastic Salvador Dali exhibition – not the works you normally think of with Dali, but his lesser-known, early pieces. The State Government Building is adorned with enormous murals by the Yucatecan artist, Fernando Castro Pacheco, recounting the history of the Mayan people (their amazing pre-conquest cities, as well as the terrible injustices they suffered afterwards). Every night there are free concerts, performances and dances – everything from folk ballet to Mexican dance, jazz quartets to circus acts. In the restaurants, there is live music, and the works of local artists hanging from the walls. The people of Merida eat, drink, live and breathe the arts. Just a short drive from Merida, there are dozens of Mayan cities to explore – pyramids, murals, and other incredible structures. This city is a dream for anyone who loves culture. Have you visited anywhere in the world that has something comparable? If so, let us know!

Now we’re back, plans for the summer are in full swing. We have just 3 more staff to hire. Day trips to plan. Supplies to buy. Staff Training to design. The International Tour sights to book. A ton of exciting, creative stuff! And we’re not the only ones hard at work shaping this summer. All the Centauri staff are designing their workshops, evening programs and other camp activities throughout the next month, so we should have some very exciting news to reveal to you soon!

Julie