[Aztlan] Martha Stewart in Yucatan

[David Hixson]

Listeros,

I would normally NEVER suggest watching Martha Stewart (for any reason).  However, one of my colleagues pointed out that this broadcast (URL below) includes a tour of Ek Balam led by noted archaeologist Rafael Cobos, a surprisingly well-done tour of a traditional Maya home and garden with anthropologist James Calahan, as well as tours of historic architecture and modern markets.

Martha Stewart would not be my first choice when suggesting a "tour of Yucatan" video (not even close), but this particular video is certainly one to check out if you are curious about the region - or at least how the region is portrayed in an overly cleansed Martha Stewart production.

Of course, for Martha's cameras, everything is idyllic - which is rarely the case in any location around the globe.  Her visit to the restored Hacienda, for instance, has no discussion of Maya slavery / indentured servitude.  However, such Haciendas have become high-priced hotels for Mexican and foreign elites (like Martha).  And her visit to the market in Merida seems to have avoided the meat, fish and poultry section(!).

http://www.marthastewart.com/show/the-martha-stewart-show/martha-in-mexico

P.S. You might note from the images that the "twin" temples at Ek Balam are getting new vaults (appearing freshly quarried, not from archaeological remains).  Very "Martha Stewart" of INAH.

-Dave