Often overlooked by its glitzy neighbors in The Mayan Riveria (Tulum, Cancun, Playa del Carmen), Merida is charming its way into the spotlight. Queer travelers are flocking to the Yucatan's most cosmopolitan city where renovated boutique hacienda hotels are more prevalent than large all-inclusive resorts. Merida's center is filled with brightly painted colonial buildings where lush courtyard restaurants combine traditional Mexican and Mayan cuisines. Stroll down Paseo de Motejo to soak u...
Often overlooked by its glitzy neighbors in The Mayan Riveria (Tulum, Cancun, Playa del Carmen), Merida is charming its way into the spotlight. Queer travelers are flocking to the Yucatan's most cosmopolitan city where renovated boutique hacienda hotels are more prevalent than large all-inclusive resorts. Merida's center is filled with brightly painted colonial buildings where lush courtyard restaurants combine traditional Mexican and Mayan cuisines. Stroll down Paseo de Motejo to soak up the quant bistro culture, artisanal markets, and local luxury shopping in historic buildings. After dark explore the city's vibrant gay cantina and drag culture or dance into the night at one of Merida's many clubs. Although Merida is not a beach town there are many places to cool down such as the thousands of freshwater cenotes in the jungles that surround the city such as the indigenous-owned Yokdzonot Cenote. History buffs will rejoice as some of the best-preserved Mayan ruins in Central America are within driving distance such as Chichen Itza and Uxmal. To the north, you'll find white sands and palm tree-laden beaches without the crowds. A note on safety: Merida is regarded as one of the safest cities in Mexico and recently legalized Gay Marriage. With that said, it is always important to use precautions as you would in any large city. Exercise caution at night in secluded areas, travel in groups, look after your values in crowded areas, and take a car service when in doubt.
