Mexico is as exotic and picturesque as it is convenient… Throw in white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, boutique hotels, some mouthwatering local cuisine and we are sold! Merida is located on the gulf side of the Yucatan peninsula 45 minutes inland from the coast with easy access to nearby beaches and Mayan ruins. It is the largest city in the Yucatan peninsula and offers visitors gourmet dining options, world class plays, and rich history! While there are some direct flights out of Miami, most other airports have a layover in Mexico City International Airport.

Best Times to Visit: Late September to May offer ideal temperatures and less rain – but it is best to avoid the crowds during January, February, and March.

Don’t Miss: 

• Discover the Cenotes – Cenotes are a natural pit, or sinkhole, resulting from the collapse of limestone bedrock that exposes groundwater underneath. There are over 5,000 cenotes located across the Yucatan peninsula. You can snorkel through these natural wonders or take in their beauty while lounging in the sun.

• Spend some time in the Plaza Grande – This is a hot spot for locals and tourists alike! Surrounded by beautiful Spanish architecture in the historical center , you can spend the day people watching in the square or try out some of the local food vendors. It also offers complimentary WiFi! ‘

• Experience a game of Pok Ta Pok – This reenactment of an authentic Mayan ball game involves players trying to score by hitting a ball with their hips into a post. Every Friday night, players and fans crowd the streets of Plaza Grande to watch the action being played out alongside a live orchestra!

• Explore the Mayan Ruins – There are countless Mayan Ruin sites throughout the Yucatan peninsula with plenty of history to explore! Chichen Itza are the most famous ruins near Merida and home to the largest Mayan archaeological site in the region. We recommend getting there in the early morning hours before the crowds! Uxmal is another amazing site to consider! Unlike Chicken Itza, you can climb to the top and inside of these ruins.

• Relax on the beaches near Merida – Merida offers a much less crowded and more local beach experience than the other popular Mexican destinations of Cancun and Riviera Maya. The beaches of Progreso and Celestun are a quick day trip from Merida with budget friendly restuarants and shops nearby.

Feature Hotels: Chable Resort, Hacienda San Jose

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• Get your negotiation skills ready because haggling is expected and encouraged at local markets!

• Don’t drink the water. It is best to buy bottled purified water rather than drinking from the tap.

• Be aware of scams – particularly around the resorts! Some of these may be legitimate while others are not.