Throughout my study abroad journey in Mexico, I’ve cherished every opportunity to delve into serious and cultural topics, enjoying the chance to analyze my experiences and organize my thoughts and everything I learned through my blogs. But as I write my final blog (before the reflection) about the end of my adventure in Mexico, I want to conclude on a more sweet note, one that will leave taste buds dancing with delight. And so, it’s time to reveal a quirky tradition of mine – a tradition dedicated to the world of sweet ice treats. You see, I have a sweet tradition that I’ve upheld in every country I’ve studied in– on the last days of my study abroad, I indulge in ice cream. It’s a small but cherished ritual that encapsulates the joy of discovery and hides the bitterness of farewells with its sweetness.
In Rome, my previous study abroad destination, I embarked on a memorable final gelato escapade with my roommate the night before we had to leave Rome, who inadvertently dropped her cone – something we laugh about to this day. In Japan, the morning before my flight, I treated myself to a delightful custard pudding-flavored ice cream, savoring every spoonful. And in Merida, Mexico, my current study abroad location, on my last day, I strolled down Paseo Motejo, the main street of Merida, heading toward my favorite gelateria, Dulcería y Sorbetería Colón, where the finest gelato and sorbet in the world awaited me. Yes, you heard that right—surpassing even the revered Italian gelato. (Please, gelato enthusiasts, spare me the wrath; it’s just my humble opinion.) So, in my grand finale, I’ve decided to dedicate it to my sweet tradition and the kaleidoscope of flavors that adorned my time in Merida. In the simple act of savoring each scoop, I’ve not only discovered the diverse flavors of Merida but also the richness of cultural experiences that make this journey so remarkable. So, grab a spoon, let your taste buds wander, and indulge with me in the world of frozen delights, where each flavor tells its own tale.
Strawberry: A Festive Fusion
I remember my first gelato in Merida vividly. It was during a Corn Festival in Merida, dedicated to the cherished staple of Mexican cuisine—corn. Now, I’ve had my fair share of unique ice cream flavors, from the soy sauce ice cream I savored in Japan to the exotic gelato flavors of Rome. But the idea of red wine-infused strawberry gelato was a first for me. Intrigued, I ordered a scoop, and to my surprise, it was served on a corn plant leaf, connecting back to the theme of the festival. With each spoonful, the sweetness of strawberries merged gracefully with the subtle notes of red wine, creating a harmonious union of flavors. As I savored the gelato, the corn leaf became a symbolic link to the land’s rich agricultural history and the ancient Mayan traditions that honored corn as a sacred crop.
Also, on a small note, strawberry is my favorite flavor, and I couldn’t have been more delighted when I discovered the best strawberry sorbet here in Merida at Dulcería y Sorbetería Colón, my favorite place. I have had my fair share of strawberry ice cream and sorbets across Italy, Japan, the United States, South Korea, and beyond. Who would have thought that amidst my globe-trotting pursuits, the most unforgettable and exquisite taste would await me in the heart of Merida?
Pineapple: A Tropical Delight
As my gelato escapade in Merida continued, I couldn’t resist the allure of pineapple gelato—a flavor that perfectly embodied the essence of Mexico’s tropical paradise. Like a burst of sunshine in every spoonful, the pineapple gelato transported me to the beautiful beaches of Merida. As I savored the pineapple gelato, memories of enjoying this succulent fruit across Mexico flooded my mind. My fondness for pineapples had grown during my stay in Mexico, especially when I ate them for breakfast each morning. This tropical fruit symbolized more than just a delicious treat—it represented the warmth of Mexican hospitality and the vibrant spirit of the country’s people. As I savored the pineapple gelato, I felt a sense of gratitude for the unforgettable moments shared with friends and the experiences that enriched my study abroad journey. The first fruit that comes to my mind when I think of Mexico and Merida is pineapples now.
Lemon: A Zesty Surprise
One hot day at Plaza Grande in Merida, I sought refuge in the tangy refreshment of a lemon-flavored slush. Though not a gelato or ice cream, it’s still a sweet ice treat. This delightful treat was a zesty surprise that offered much-needed relief on a very, very hot day. I was literally melting. The experience at the bustling weekend market was an adventure in itself, highlighting the spontaneity of discovery during my time in Merida.
As a fan of lemon-flavored desserts, I had tasted lemon gelato in various countries, each offering a unique twist on this timeless flavor. While I cherished the lemon sorbet in Italy, the Merida sorbet held its own appeal, perfectly complementing the scorching weather and adding a zest of excitement to my culinary journey. It was also my last gelato flavor in Merida, marking the end of my sweet and unforgettable journey.
Mango: A Flavorful Farewell
As my time in Mexico drew close, I shared my last gelato with a friend at Dulcería y Sorbetería Colón. While I opted for lemon sorbet, my friend chose mango—a flavor that symbolized the sweet taste of our friendship. Mangos had also accompanied me throughout my trip, along with pineapples, not only as a popular fruit in Mexico but also as a constant presence in the vibrant markets and streets of the city. The spicy mangos with tajin seasoning were a delightful reminder of Mexico’s diverse and flavorful culinary offerings. As I got to have a taste of my friend’s mango sorbet, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the memories we had created together during our study abroad journey. Our last gelato served as a sweet farewell to Merida, a culmination of cherished moments and the promise of continued friendship beyond borders.
Symphony of Sweet Memories
In the sweetness of each scoop, I found a taste of Merida’s heart—the warmth, the hospitality, and the cherished memories shared with its people and friends. As my study abroad journey drew to a close, I embraced the bittersweet farewells, knowing that the flavors of Merida would forever linger in my heart—a culinary symphony that I would carry with me on every adventure yet to come. From the unexpected harmony of strawberry and red wine to the tropical delights of pineapple, lemon, and mango, Merida’s gelato scene provided a sensory journey like no other. As I bid farewell to this charming city and reflect on my time in Merida, I carry with me the tastes and stories that will forever make my time in Merida unforgettable. I find solace in knowing this sweet farewell is just the beginning of a lifelong appreciation for the world’s frozen delights and the remarkable journeys they lead us on. So, here’s to the joys of exploration, the beauty of cultural exchange, and the sweetness of a journey that had come full circle in the world of frozen delights. Until we meet again, Merida!
