EAT AND DRINK
TRY THE LOCAL FLAVOR
Mérida has great local food and drink, resulting from
the fusion of European, Mexican, and Mayan cultures. Mayan dishes
such as pollo pibil, poc chuc, and papadzules are a great introduction
to the spices and cooking techniques of the region. Botanas,
free appetizers somehat like the Spanish tapas, go great with
a michelada, a spicy concoction of beer with lime and peppery
seasoning.
EAT IN THE MARKET
Mérida has terrific markets. ‘Merida en Domingo’
features outdoor handcraft markets and food festivals in the
Main Plaza, Hidalgo Park, and Santa Lucia Park.
VISIT A CITY PARK
Every evening the city sponsors cultural activities in the public
plazas and parks. Thursdays, for example, you can listen to
traditional Yucatecan serenades in Santa Lucia Park. On Mondays
regional dances are performed at the City Hall.
CULTURE
VISIT A MUSEUM
Mérida has numerous cultural attractions that spotlight
regional history and culture. The Regional Museum of Anthropology
is housed in a giant white mansion on the corner of Paseo de
Montejo and Calle 43.
WALK
The English
Library, #524 Calle 53, sponsors walking tours of homes
and gardens. Take a free walking tour of the Historical Center
- Tours are in English and Spanish and leave from the tourism
office of the Municipal Building in the main plaza, 9:30 AM
weekdays. Along the beautiful Paseo de Montejo -- the 'Champs
Elysees of Mexico' -- a free sculpture show can be enjoyed.
The exhibits change each year.
DIAMOND NOTES
The Leones play baseball in Kukulcán Stadium.
FOLK ART
The Casa de las Artesanías, Calle 63 #503 (between 64
and 66, offers a great introduction to local handicrafts, including
palm hats and hammocks. Check out our regional
craft guide.
LEARN
LEARN SPANISH
Mérida is a great center for learning. There are at least
a dozen schools. For tips, consult our Language
School FAQ.
INSIDER TIPS
CHANGE THE WORLD
When making a purchase that involves change, bring a few coins
and small bills.
CHANGE THE WORLD, PART 2
Left over change? Take it downtown and give it to the musicians.
Support the arts!
WIRELESS
Looking for wireless internet? There are plenty of cybercafes. |
