Mérida, Mexico

• Mérida consistently ranks as Mexico's safest major city. It's about 30 minutes inland from the Gulf Coast and stays hot all year. The city ramped up security investment in 2018 - you'll see regular police patrols and violent crime is rare.
• The historic center around Plaza Grande has colonial architecture - cathedral, old mansions, narrow streets. Families use the parks every evening. You'll hear Spanish and Mayan spoken. The Yucatecan culture here is more reserved and conservative than what you'll find in other parts of Mexico. Women eating alone in cafes is normal.
• Getting around is easy - Uber, Didi, and InDriver all work here. The new tram system needs a local card or Mexican phone number, so stick with rideshares. Tourist areas and upscale places usually have English speakers, but Spanish helps outside those zones.
• The city closes early - most restaurants shut by 11pm even on weekends. Catcalling is less common here than in other Mexican cities. The heat affects everything, especially midday.

Spanish is the main language, with Mayan also commonly spoken. English is available at tourist assistance (078), major hotels, upscale restaurants in Centro and Paseo de Montejo areas, and the U.S. Consulate. The emergency service (911) has some English-speaking operators.

• This is a conservative city compared to beach towns. Cover shoulders in churches. Tank tops and shorts work in tourist zones but you'll get looks in local neighborhoods. People dress more modestly here.
• Restaurants follow 'sobremesa' - people linger and chat after eating. Your server won't bring the check until you ask ('la cuenta, por favor'). Tip 10-15%. Keep small bills handy for tipping.
• Tourist police (078), major hotels, and upscale places in Centro and Paseo de Montejo have English speakers. Everywhere else, expect Spanish. Learn 'buenos días', 'gracias', 'por favor', and 'disculpe' at minimum.
• The LGBTQ+ scene is growing and the city is generally welcoming. Same-sex couples shouldn't have problems at hotels or restaurants. Mérida has attracted LGBTQ+ retirees and expats.

• Uber, Didi, and InDriver work throughout the city. Rides cost about 60-80 pesos in Centro, 140-200 pesos to the north. Rideshares can't pick up at the airport - walk 5-10 minutes outside the terminal to order one, or take an official airport taxi.
• Regular taxis don't have meters. Most rides run 100-200 pesos. Agree on the price before you get in. Tipping isn't expected unless they handle your bags.
• The IE tram and Va y Ven buses need either a Va y Ven card (sold at Parque la Plancha, Oxxo stores, Super Aki) or a Mexican phone number for the app. Too much hassle for short visits.
• Centro is walkable but the heat makes midday walking rough. Streets and sidewalks are in decent shape. Walking from Santiago to Santa Ana takes about 20-25 minutes.
• If you're planning day trips outside the city, consider renting a car.
• For peace of mind on arrival, book your airport pickup in advance.

Explore Mérida with local guides and curated experiences.