Merida was once the sprawling capital of the Mayan empire and the center of their universe. Merida is now the center of a cosmopolitan universe, built on Mayan heritage, and given a unique twist by French and Mediterranean immigrants. Days are spent exploring the city's many museums and equally fascinating shopping districts. At night, local music can be heard from just about every park in the city, inviting newcomers to enjoy a romantic and fun-filled evening.

Downtown, you'll find the Zocalo, the town square and historical center of the city. Here ancient Mayan and Spanish colonial structures compete for space in a timeless struggle that recalls Merida's past. Shoppers will enjoy the Mercado, Merida's shopping district, with its colorful bottle-cap street and bargains on crafts from all over Eastern Mexico. Romantic music and native dances welcome the warm evenings. At night, Merida's nightlife swings into action, Cantinas become dance clubs and the energy displayed by the city during the day swings into an action packed night!

Merida is the perfect launching pad for expeditions to Chichen Itza. This 4000 year old city is packed with dozens of awe-inspiring sights, including El Castillo, an ominous pyramid that marks out the days, months and years of the Mayan calendar. Archaeologists are still working at Chichen-Itza to unravel its mysteries.