JM Butterfly B&B: A B&B With A Hostel-Type Vibe
There is nothing like staying in a B&B, hotel or home-share where you feel special. Because, even when we travel far, we are always searching for the feeling of “home.” That is the feeling you get with JM Butterfly B&B. Not only are you traveling sustainably, but you feel like family. Here is how they set themselves apart.
- Location
- Hospitality
- Sustainable Tourism
Location
JM Butterfly B&B is located in Macheros, Mexico, a mere 2.5 hours from Mexico City. Macheros is at the foot of the Cerro Pelon butterfly reserve, which is one of the best places to witness the monarch migration. The proximity to Mexico City makes getting to the B&B easy by either Uber, bus, or car. And it’s even possible to visit in a day trip if you are strapped for time.
The Cerro Pelon is one of the least touristy destinations when chasing monarch butterflies. Aside from our group and guides, there were maybe 15 other people on the mountain. Further, the B&B is not far from the other two main butterfly sanctuaries, Rosario Sanctuary and the Sierra Chincua. Therefore staying several nights in the area allows you several chances to see these amazing butterflies in many different ways.
Hospitality
Photo by Sarah Jacques
Immediately upon arriving, Joel and Ellen made us feel at home. From conversations on the rooftop as the sun set, to story telling on the trail, they were amazing. We spoke not only with them, but with all the patrons of the B&B, and some of Joel’s family that live in the town. Meeting them only enhanced my belief that there are generally good people all over the world.
As an example, the trail to get up to the butterfly colony was very steep and you are almost 10,000 feet above sea level by the time you get there. Of course, my unfit accounting self was struggling. But, Joel or his brother stayed by my side and gave me a plant to smell to help open my lungs. No judgement, no rushing, just quiet unwavering support. Afterward, we would sit and talk with Ellen over everything from family history to the highly complex property rights in Mexico. And it’s this interaction and connection that helps you feel as if you are part of the family.
Sustainable Tourism
Photo by Sarah Jacques
Bar none the most interesting and pleasing aspect of staying at JM Butterfly B&B is engaging in sustainable tourism. During our stay we learned how much the town of Macheros has grown and changed since the B&B. The horses are all locally owned by the guides, and are employed on a rotating system. This employment helps shift the economy to tourism, and eliminates the need to illegally cut down trees. Considering they are more valuable left alone for butterflies to land on.
Travel Tip: The horses on our tour all looked healthy and well cared for. However, the care of each horse depends on the economic situation of the family. Alternatively, you can do tours without the horse, and you don’t need a horse at Rosario Sanctuary or Sierra Chincua.
During my stay I learned how much work has gone into changing the mental models of the people in the town. That is how Ellen and Joel came up with the idea to start their NGO Butterflies and Their People. Joel and Ellen are still working to convince local farmers to stop using pesticides. But staying at the B&B made me hopeful for the future of the monarchs.
To learn more about the B&B visit jmbutterflybnb.com. I highly recommend staying with them on your visit to chase the monarchs and support their cause!
