Why Yucatán?
The Yucatan is known for the generousity, creativity, pride, bright colors, big smiles, friendly faces, strong heritage, and long history of its Mayan people. With its fascinating mixture of rich Mayan history and current Mayan life, the Yucatan allows visitors to not only experience fascinating historical sites, but also interact and learn from the Mayan people of today.
And if you want to explore outside of the Yucatan while you are here, there are millions of places to go and the transportation system in Merida is easy and affordable. For example, you could go see the beautiful mountains, waterfalls, and ruins of Chiapas (and explore the political scene and Zapotista culture). Or head right next door to Quintana Roo and visit the cenotes, Maya Ruins, fascinating small pueblos and the stunningly georgous beaches and coral reefs of the Caribbean. Belize and Guatemala are located directly to the south, while Campeche, Tabasco, Oaxaca, and so much more are to the west. Location in the Yucatan places you right in the middle of some of the most fascinating places to explore in the world! Come and see for yourself - we promise you won't regret it.
Art
Merida is well known as the Culture Capital of the world. From the moment you arrive you will be amazed by the assortment of cultural activities available for your pleasure. From organized events to casual experiences, visitors are provided with opportunities to enjoy the city through activities like viewing a play or dance show, going to local author book readings or hilarious regional theatre shows, listening to a concert in one of the city's three beautiful theatres, visiting one of the many art and cultural museums that dot the gorgeous city streets, or strolling around the beautiful central park or many of parks and churches that can be found throughout Merida. Visitors also have the option to dance the night away to the music one of the many free live bands that specialize in Salsa, Merengue, Cumbia or the world famous Yucatecan Trova.
Every Saturday and Sunday night, central city streets are blocked off from traffic to make room for chairs, tables, and lots of dancing locals and tourists from all over the world. And that's just the start of it! Note: The majority of all the cultural activities in Merida are FREE to the public!)
Natural wonders
In Yucatan there is no shortage of breathtakingly gorgeous natural wonders to be visited and explored. From the sink holes called cenotes, to the long beautiful stretches of white sand beaches, to the biospheres, reserve areas and national parks in the coastal lands and deep and elaborate underground cave systems, the only challenge facing visitors is choosing where to go first!
Food
Rich in flavors, colors, spices and variety, it is nearly impossible to not enjoy the traditional foods of the Yucatan. Panuchos, Salbutes, Mole, Sopa de Lima, Cochinita Pibil, always accompanied by a plate of fresh tortillas. Yum! It's all so delicious that, if you don't watch yourself, you are sure to go home with a little yucatecan belly. :-)
Lots of fun
There is so much to do here that we can barely begin to tell you about it all. Aside from all of the learning adventures you will have as you meet new people and visit new places in the Yucatan, you will undoubtedly also enjoy yourself just by relaxing under a shady tree in the park or laughing out loud with some of your old and new friends while talking about your experiences in the Yucatan.