Merida is the capital and largest city of the mexican state of Yucatan. It is located in the northwest part of the state. It was built on the site of the Maya city of “The five hills”, referring to five pyramids, which had been a center of Mayan culture and activity for centuries. Because of this, many historians consider Merida the oldest continually-occupied city in the Americas.

Merida has a nickname “The White city”, not only for the prominence of white limestone as a building material, but because of its streets, plazas and parks that are cleaned daily. Because of its tranquility and cleanliness Merida has become a popular place for families not only from the Mexican states but also from other parts of the world.

Merida is a cultural center, featuring multiple museums, art galleries, restaurants, movie theatres and shops. The famous avenue Paseo de Montejo is lined with original art culture. Each year, The Macay Museum in Merida mounts a new sculpture installation, featuring works from mexico and one other chosen country. Each exhibit remains for ten months of the year.

Yucatecan food has its own unique style and very different from what most people consider mexican food. It includes influences from the local Mayan culture, as well as Caribbean, Mexican, European, and Middle Eastern Cultures. There are many regional dishes. Some of them are:Poc chuc a mayan/yucateco version of barbacue pork, Pavo Relleno: is turkey meat stew cook with a black paste made from roasted chiles, Sopa de Lima:Lime and tortilla soup, and Cochinita Pibil: a marinated pork dish.

Merida has a place for every taste and budget, from wonderful Haciendas and luxury hotels to small hostels overlooking the main Plaza. So if you like visitring colonial style cities, Merida is the one you shouldn’t miss.