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Merry Merida, Mexico tis merry indeed. Just a hop, skip and short-bus ride away from Mexico’s main tourist regions of Cancun and the Riviera Maya, Merida captures the tried-and-true Mexican spirit of colonialism, extremely warm and welcoming people, a thriving culture and regional cuisine that can easily be found on one of many of the city’s street corners.
Merida is not for travelers seeking a beach-resort getaway. To travel to Merida and stay indoors would be an absolute shame. There are just too many beautiful sites to see! From the city’s heart and soul, ‘el zocalo’, walk in any direction to take in the brightly colored-colonial architecture, stop in an antique shop, have a coffee in one of many boutique cafes or restaurants or simply sit and watch as Merida’s culturally-enriched society goes about its day. Fortunately, Merida is located close enough to the Mexico Caribbean that those vacationing there can plan Merida as an overnight trip. So what is there to do in a day in Merida? Lots
Traveler Recommendations
1) Have a seat in one of the cafes that line ‘el zocalo’ and have a traditional tea, hibiscus tea, or as its known in Latin America tea de Jamaica. It’s a great way to take in the local flavor while observing the city surroundings.
2) Brush up on Mexican history and visit the top floor of the municipal building. There is no need to know Spanish; here Mexico’s major historical events are depicted in paintings.
3) Go to an antique store. Mexico’s history dates long before the existence of the United States and Canada. Imagine the historical significance of some of the country’s antiques.
4) Support sustainability and buy a jipijapa (pronounced Hippy Hoppa) hat directly from Mayan vendors. If jipijapa isn’t your thing, there are many other purchasing options such as jewelry and hammocks.
5) Just walk or hop on a bike…you’re bound to find something that sparks your interest and people that will help you find your way.
Some of the things you’ll see
Have you been to Merida? What do you like most of the “White City”? Please share your thoughts below!
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About the Author
Kristin McCollum is a travel writer that has spent the past year traveling and working throughout Europe and Mexico. Now settled on the Yucatan Peninsula, she finds inspiration in every person she meets and in the natural beauty which surrounds her.
COMMENTS
9 Responses to “A Day in Merida | Visit Tips”
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Andrea
Dear Yucatan Holidays,
Thank you for helping us promote our beautiful “white city”… Merida is a wonderful complement to anyone’s trip to the Caribbean. You can immerse in the culture of a small colonial city here!
We have 2 articles we recommend your readers:
yucatantoday.com/en/topics/merida
yucatantoday.com/en/topics/things-do-merida
Andrea
Dianne Avery
We are currently in Merida. It is everything that was said, and more! My favorite thing is the friendly people! It is our second time here, so we are trying to do less “touristy” things….Getting to know the natives and speak spanish makes my days!
Mark E Tisdale
Have been to Mérida twice – in fact just there a couple of weeks ago. There’s just something about the vibe of Mérida that I really love!
Marilyn
Lots of places of interest in the area…..check out Telchac Puerto for an authentic Mexican experience.
Kristin McCollum
Hola!
I’m so glad you all enjoyed my post. I too really love Merida. I’ve always had an appreciation for colonial cities and their rich history. For those of you who don’t know, my picture of the black and white old photo is Casa Montejo, a home built by Francisco de Montejo, the son of the Spanish conqueror of the Yucatan. Unfortunately, the only thing remaining of the building is the façade but it is still worth a visit. I found that black and white photo the day before in a flea market. Has anyone found one of the chocolate cafes yet?
Eva Grodberg
I love Merida! If only it was a little cooler in the summer, Id be in the process of buying a home there. But, to call it a short bus ride from Cancun is all relative I guess. 4 hours isnt short to me! Although its a nice bus even if you go ADO instead of UNO
Eva Grodberg
oh and I have found a chocolate cafe – just off Santa Lucia park – forgot the name (my notes are home). Pretty expensive – like Paris prices.
Arianna Bañuelos
This city inspired my first poem. I was sitting at Centro Historico, watching the big Cathedral on the Plaza Mayor, the oldest in North America. Part of my family is from Merida. My grandma lives there. Hope to visit “Ciudad bella” soon. Thanks for your tips Kristin!