Merida

Merida has open markets, street festivals and live music and entertainment at different neighbourhood parks every night of the week. On weekends, visitors can try salsa dancing or enjoy their dinner and music right on the streets, where some areas of el centro are blocked off from local traffic. For the romantics, there are horse and buggy rides down the beautiful and historic Paseo Montejo, or for those who choose to enjoy the sights on their own steam, bicycle rentals. Merida has excellent restaurants, theatres, museums, and art galleries, all within walking distance in el centro.

Merida is located just 30 kilometers south of the Gulf Coast. Day trips are easily possible both to the Yucatan Gulf Coast or into the center of the Yucatan Peninsula to explore other colonial cities, cenotes or ancient Mayan ruins.

Consider visiting:

• Celestun, a fishing village with boat tours to see the flamingos
• Progreso, for an afternoon on the beach drinking beer and eating fresh fish
• Izamal, for it's beautiful yellow-painted colonial architecture and cobblestone streets
• Uxmal, for its amazing Mayan architecture and mysterious past
• Haciendas Temozon and Ochil, restored haciendas for relaxing meals under the trees