Mérida

History

As the sun goes down, the city of Mérida slowly transforms into a very different space to that which captivates us during the day. The temperature starts to fall thanks to a gentle breeze which blows over from the Caribbean as it crosses the peninsula towards the Gulf of Mexico, bringing a reprise from the tropical heat. The violet tones of the night sky, the calling of the birds as they return to the nest and the soft breeze announcing the sunset are an invitation to loose yourself in one of the old parts of town, sit on the terrace of an open-air café, go to the theater or perhaps take a pleasant ride in a colorful, horse-drawn carriage around the avenues and streets of the most romantic and bohemian of Mexico’s cities.

The reality is, the best time in Yucatán is the night. Under a blanket of stars a whole new range of activities spring to life which the heat of the day just doesn’t allow. The magnificent light and sound spectacles at the Mayan cities of Uxmal and Chichén Itzá revive all the mysticism of the ancient inhabitants under the moonlight. The beaches and antique haciendas, far from the lights and sounds of the city, caressed by the light sea air and perfumed by the flowers, are also transformed at night, offering an unforgettable experience. Can there be anything better than a romantic, candlelit dinner shared with someone special in such a fascinating place?

For lovers of music and dance, Mérida offers a wide range of rhythms and places, from classic to modern. Romantics will be enraptured by the bohemian boleros of the Yucatecan trios which await them in every plaza and corner of the city; dance-lovers won’t miss a beat as live music from the best bands fills the air with the rhythms of salsa, merengue, cumbia, mambo, reggae, danzón, rock or pop until daybreak. And those looking for something a little less lively and for all the family will find many options along the elegant Paseo de Montejo Avenue, in the historic downtown area and on the dynamic Calle 60. The choice is wide and the great traditional establishments like “La Reina (the queen) de Montejo”, the “Sorbetería Colón” for delicious sorbets or the legendary cafe “Express” give customers a great view for watching people come and go while savoring an iced drink, dessert or regional dish.

In addition, Nocturnal Mérida has the custom of offering at least one free show every night in any one of several locations around the city. The traditional Regional Rodeo, Vaquería, is performed every Monday night in front of the Municipal Palace by the Folklore Ballet of the Council of Mérida. On Tuesdays, the Olimpo Cultural Center presents romantic trova music, and on Wednesdays international selections. At 9pm on Thursdays the Yucatán Serenade can be heard in Santa Lucia park: a mosaic of music, art and folklore taken from the plethora of history and legend which characterize Mérida, in one of the oldest traditional spectacles of the city. On Fridays the fiesta moves to the central courtyard of the Autonomous University of Yucatán where the traditional University Serenade is performed. As well as theater and other events, Saturday night can be spent at the Mexican Night which every week transforms the entrance to Paseo de Montejo Avenue. From 7pm live Mariachi music, dances and the sale of all manner of Mexican street food and craftwork is guaranteed entertainment for young and old.

There is no doubt that the variety of entertainment options available in Mérida is vast: fabulous open-air cafes, restaurants, theaters, discotheques, bars and night clubs which provide music and dancing until the early hours. But a stroll around the well-kept and safe streets at any time of the day or night is a luxury few cities can offer. This enviable characteristic coupled with the unparalleled spirit and warmth of its people, has brought international fame to Mérida and visitors are received with kindness and welcoming smiles making it the ideal spot for fun, healthy vacations.