(^28) Monday was appointment number one and we were photographed,
fingerprinted and all our papers checked. All seemed in order and we
were sent off with instructions on what not to take to the Embassy
the next day, including a lawyer, family members, food and
toothpaste! Have you ever!
Appointment number two was scheduled for the following day. I
arrived armed with armloads of supporting documents, albeit without
the attorney, supporting family members and snacks for the
anticipated long wait. Still, one had to wait outside the building until
called to enter. Entering Room 1, we were given a numbered ticket
and told to wait until called. Papers were re-checked before being
allowed to enter Room 2. Again, one waited until your number
appeared and had to stay behind a black line until the official (behind
thick glass) could see you. The biggest surprise was that all was in
order, and the visas were approved without glancing at my armload
of documents. The visas could be collected in a few days. What a
rigmarole! I was sure applying to become president was less
troublesome.
Ernest worked on his bicycle, and I rambled around town,
investigating the Iglesia de Jesus, built in the early 17th century from
stones scavenged from temples of the ancient Mayan city of T’ho.
Strolling the grounds, I met a chap who shared the church’s history
and pointed out old stones, that still had Mayan writing. In truth, his
intentions were most likely to sell me a hammock or a Panama hat,
two items famous in Merida. Nevertheless, he was knowledgeable,
and I learned much about the city and Mayan history.
leana
(Leana)
#1