"At the heart of the Yucatan region" Mérida by stamporama

After 3 days in Mexico City, we flew to Merida for the "main course" of our trip, i.e. to see the Mayan ruins of the Yucatan particularly Chichen Itza. Upon the advice of many VTers, we opted to use this city instead of Cancun to avoid the traffic, rowdy crowd and higher costs (hotel, food, etc.) that was the norm there. Besides, Merida was a bit nearer to Chich than Cancun.

Merida city hall and square

Being a Sunday, Merida had a whole day of festivities where the town square was sealed off, a stage put up in front of the city hall where performers, musicians and dancers entertained the crowd till sunset. The square was filled with stalls selling all sorts of food, clothes, handicraft, souvenirs, toys, etc.

Bailemos!

When in Mexico City, you'd notice that the people there had the common Latino characteristics you see in the US: tall, fair-skinned, and sharp facial features. In Merida and anywhere else in Yucatan state, you get to see those who are of Mayan ancestry: short, dark-skinned, and their heads are somewhat oval-shaped. They might be in the minority but remember that this race was the one who built Chichen Itza, Palenque and all the marvelous ruins that are on par with ancient Egyptian architecture.

• Pros:Quaint, laid-back and rural setting
• Cons:Hot & humid, lots of smoke-belching buses