Mérida Mexico: History, Heat, Charm

We flew from the enchanting city of Oaxaca to Mérida, nestled in the Yucatán Peninsula. Upon arrival, we checked into our Airbnb, a charmingly refurbished Mexican casa. This property was a true delight, featuring a blend of traditional and modern elements, including a “western” kitchen that made our stay comfortable. However, the highlight was undoubtedly the fabulous pool, providing a refreshing retreat from the sweltering Mérida heat.

Mérida, a large and bustling city, is popular with expats and is known for being one of the safest towns in Mexico. Despite its many attractions, we found the city a bit overwhelming due to its size and the extreme heat. The climate made exploring on foot nearly unbearable, and the city’s sprawling nature meant taxis or Uber rides were essential for getting around.

One of the standout experiences of our stay was a day trip to the archaeological site of Uxmal. We set off early to beat the crowds and were rewarded with a nearly private exploration of the site. Uxmal, recommended to us by locals as a superior alternative to Chichen Itza, lived up to its reputation. This ancient city, a marvel of Maya architecture, offered a less touristy and more immersive experience than its more famous counterpart. The Pyramid of the Magician, with its unique elliptical shape, and the Governor’s Palace, adorned with intricate stone carvings, showcased the grandeur of Maya civilization. Wandering through Uxmal, we marveled at the intricate mosaics and the impressive size of the structures, all set against a backdrop of lush jungle.

Back in Mérida, we took time to explore the grand promenade, known locally as Paseo de Montejo. This broad boulevard, lined with majestic colonial-era mansions and historical buildings, provided a glimpse into the city’s affluent past. Walking along the promenade, we admired the opulent architecture and learned about Mérida’s history as a major hub during the henequen boom. The avenue, with its elegant façades and grandiose monuments, is a testament to the city’s rich heritage and its transformation over the years.

We also visited a fascinating cocoa museum, where we delved into the history and significance of cacao in the region. The museum offered an engaging exploration of how cacao has been integral to Maya culture and its journey from ancient rituals to modern chocolate production. We learned about traditional cultivation methods and the role of cacao in local cuisine, and even sampled some exquisite chocolate treats.

Mérida’s extreme heat was a constant challenge, but we found solace in a fantastic coffee store that quickly became a favorite spot. The café, with its cool interiors and expertly brewed coffee, provided a welcome break from the relentless sun. Each visit to the café was a refreshing experience, offering not just great coffee but also a chance to relax and recharge.

Our Airbnb had a charming back garden, where we enjoyed feeding a family of cats and a kitten that frequented the area. Watching these friendly felines play and nap in the garden added a touch of warmth and homeliness to our stay.

Despite our enjoyment of the house and the many experiences Mérida had to offer, the city’s size and heat made it challenging to fully appreciate. We loved the vibrant culture and historical richness but felt that, given our preferences, we might not return in the near future. However, our month-long stay in Mérida was rich with diverse experiences, from exploring ancient ruins to enjoying local flavors and culture.