Sunday June 3, 2012, and the one of the main days that the British Commonwealth celebrated Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee. Far from London, a very British celebration took place at Hacienda Dzibikak, about 20km outside the city of Merida, in Yucatan, Mexico.
Summer in Yucatan is hot, no question about it, and attendees were thankful for the light covering of cloud, which kept temperatures at a comfortable level for picnics on the lawn, croquet, strolls in the garden, and other such 'traditional' activities.
The grand finale was a splendid afternoon tea on the veranda, provided by the British owners of the hacienda, Richard and Lena, consisting of sandwiches and rolls, cakes, scones, and pots of tea.
It would not have been authentic without the rain, and Chac did not fail us. Promptly at 5pm, the heavens opened, giving the Yucatan a taste of the weather that had prevailed earlier in the day in London.
It was a fitting way for the British and Canadian communities, and interested local friends to celebrate HM The Queen's 60 years on the throne.
The Union Jack flies over Hacienda Dzibikak, Yucatan, Mexico
Article written: June 2012