Residential properties are a crucial component of the real estate market, catering to individuals and families looking for a place to call home. This category of properties includes single-family homes, apartments, and condominiums, each offering unique benefits and features.
Single-family homes are often sought after for their privacy and space. These standalone houses provide homeowners with a sense of independence and ownership over their property. Additionally, single-family homes typically come with outdoor space such as yards or gardens, perfect for those who enjoy spending time outdoors.
Apartments are another popular choice among individuals seeking residential properties. These units are typically located within multi-unit buildings or complexes and offer amenities such as communal spaces, fitness centers, and swimming pools. Apartments are ideal for renters looking for convenience and a sense of community within their living environment.
Condominiums combine elements of both single-family homes and apartments, offering residents the benefits of ownership while also providing shared amenities similar to apartment living. Condos are often managed by homeowner associations that oversee maintenance and upkeep of common areas, making them an attractive option for individuals seeking a low-maintenance lifestyle.
Overall, residential properties play a vital role in meeting the housing needs of individuals and families across the country. Whether it's the privacy of a single-family home, the convenience of an apartment, or the combination of both in a condominium, there is a wide range of options available to suit different preferences and lifestyles.
Commercial properties are a vital component of the real estate market, encompassing various types of buildings and spaces used for business purposes. These properties include office buildings, retail spaces, and industrial warehouses, each serving different functions and catering to distinct industries.
Office buildings are designed to provide a professional environment for businesses to operate. They typically feature multiple floors with individual offices or open workspaces, conference rooms, and common areas. These buildings are ideal for companies looking to establish a centralized location for their operations and create a cohesive work environment for employees.
Retail spaces, on the other hand, are designed to showcase products and services to consumers. These properties can range from standalone storefronts to shopping malls, offering businesses the opportunity to attract customers and drive sales. Retail spaces often have high foot traffic and visibility, making them an attractive option for companies in the retail sector.
Industrial warehouses serve as storage and distribution centers for goods and materials. These properties are characterized by large open spaces, high ceilings, and loading docks to accommodate trucks and machinery. Industrial warehouses play a critical role in supply chain management, providing businesses with the infrastructure needed to store inventory and fulfill orders efficiently.
Overall, commercial properties play a crucial role in supporting businesses across various industries. Whether it's providing office space for corporate headquarters or warehouse facilities for manufacturing operations, these properties serve as essential assets that enable businesses to thrive and grow.
Merida, the heart of Yucatán, is rapidly becoming one of the most sought-after property markets in Mexico. With its vibrant colonial charm, modern infrastructure, and a growing flow of international and domestic buyers, the city presents profitable real estate prospects. At TrustFirst Merida Real Estate, we pride ourselves in being the most reliable Realtors in Merida, Mexico, providing exceptional knowledge, comprehensive market insights, and a customer-focused service to help you find your perfect investment.
The real estate market in Merida has experienced a steady growth in demand, with property values rising by an average of 8% to 12% annually. Investors and residents as well are drawn to the city due to its low cost of living, excellent safety ratings, and rich heritage. Unlike other Mexican tourist destinations, Merida provides a blend between historic elegance and modern convenience, making it an ideal place for foreign investors, and real estate enthusiasts.
As expert Realtors in Merida, Mexico, we know the complexities of the regional market and can guide you through every step of the purchase or selling process.
Navigating the real estate market requires accurate, up-to-date data. At TrustFirst Merida Real Estate, we leverage market analytics, property valuation reports, and insider expertise to offer informed real estate advice.
Each client has unique requirements, and we tailor our approach accordingly. From selecting prime neighborhoods to managing documents, our expert property consultants ensure a smooth buying experience.
Some of the most desirable homes in Merida are not advertised online. Through our extensive network of home sellers, developers, and investors, we offer VIP entry to hidden listings.
Whether you're buying, listing, or seeking opportunities in Merida real estate, TrustFirst Merida Real Estate is your trusted partner. Our team of experienced property experts is committed to helping you achieve your property goals.
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Mérida, the culturally rich capital of Yucatán, has become known as one of Mexico’s most sought-after real estate markets. This colonial gem, rich in heritage, has been captivating homeowners from both domestic and international markets. Whether you're considering investment, Mérida presents a unbeatable combination of affordability, making it a prime destination.
In this article, we’ll dive into the key reasons why Mérida is currently Mexico’s most desirable real estate market and why this moment is the best time to capitalize on this opportunity.
Mérida’s real estate market has seen significant growth over the past ten years. Experts confirm, property values have increased by 8-12% annually, exceeding other major cities in Mexico.
Mérida’s rising popularity among travelers has boosted a high-demand rental market.
Even with its growing appeal, Mérida remains a budget-friendly real estate investment hubs in Mexico.
Mérida is recognized as a top choice for safety-conscious buyers.
Mérida has become a key economic center within the Yucatán Peninsula.
Beyond its booming property market, Mérida boasts an highly desirable quality of life.
Mexico has made easier the buying homes for foreign investors.
With its rising property values, strong rental market, and world-class infrastructure, Mérida stands out as an exceptional property market.
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Contact our team at TrustFirst Mérida Real Estate today, and let us help you acquire the best properties in this booming market! 🚀
Investment properties, such as rental properties or vacation homes, are popular choices for individuals looking to diversify their portfolios and generate passive income. These types of properties offer unique opportunities for investors to earn money through rental payments or by selling the property at a profit.
Rental properties are often seen as a stable investment option, as they provide a consistent source of income through monthly rent payments. Investors can also benefit from potential tax deductions and appreciation in property value over time. Additionally, owning rental properties allows investors to build equity in real estate while tenants help cover mortgage costs.
On the other hand, vacation homes can be lucrative investments for those looking to capitalize on the growing tourism industry. By renting out vacation homes when not in use, owners can offset expenses and potentially earn a substantial return on their investment. Vacation homes also offer the flexibility of being able to use the property for personal enjoyment while still generating income when not in use.
Overall, investment properties can be a smart addition to any financial portfolio, providing both short-term cash flow and long-term wealth-building opportunities. However, it is important for investors to carefully consider factors such as location, market conditions, and property management before diving into this type of investment. With proper research and planning, investment properties can be a rewarding venture for those seeking to grow their wealth through real estate.
Land and vacant lots are valuable assets that can be used for a variety of purposes, such as development or agriculture. These types of properties offer endless possibilities for those looking to invest in real estate or start a new project.
When it comes to development, land and vacant lots provide the perfect canvas for building homes, commercial spaces, or even entire communities. With the right vision and planning, these properties can be transformed into vibrant neighborhoods that cater to the needs of residents and businesses alike. Whether it's creating affordable housing options or constructing state-of-the-art office buildings, the potential for growth and innovation is limitless.
On the other hand, land and vacant lots also offer great opportunities for agricultural endeavors. From growing crops to raising livestock, these properties can serve as fertile ground for sustainable farming practices. Farmers and ranchers can take advantage of the open space to nurture their crops and animals, providing fresh produce and meat to local markets and communities.
In conclusion, land and vacant lots hold immense value for those looking to make a positive impact on their surroundings. Whether it's through development projects or agricultural initiatives, these properties have the power to shape the landscape and enrich the lives of those who interact with them. So next time you come across a piece of land or a vacant lot, remember the endless possibilities that lie within its boundaries.
When it comes to property types, there are specialized properties that cater to specific needs and preferences. Hotels, resorts, and healthcare facilities fall under this category, offering unique services and amenities tailored to their respective industries.
Hotels provide temporary accommodation for travelers looking for a comfortable place to stay during their trips. From budget-friendly options to luxurious five-star establishments, hotels offer a range of amenities such as room service, concierge assistance, and recreational facilities like pools and fitness centers. Whether you're on vacation or traveling for business, hotels provide a convenient and hospitable environment for guests.
Resorts take the hotel experience a step further by offering all-inclusive packages that cater to leisure travelers seeking relaxation and entertainment. Situated in scenic locations such as beaches or mountains, resorts provide a getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With activities like water sports, spa treatments, and fine dining options, resorts offer a luxurious escape for guests looking to unwind and rejuvenate.
Healthcare facilities focus on providing medical treatment and care for patients in need of professional assistance. Hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation centers are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and skilled healthcare professionals who work tirelessly to improve patients' health outcomes. Whether you're seeking emergency medical attention or undergoing elective surgery, healthcare facilities prioritize patient safety and well-being above all else.
In conclusion, specialized properties like hotels, resorts, and healthcare facilities play vital roles in meeting diverse needs within their respective industries. By offering tailored services and amenities that cater to specific preferences, these properties enhance the overall guest experience while promoting comfort, relaxation, and wellness.
Merida Real Estate
Mixed-use properties have become increasingly popular in recent years as developers and city planners seek to create vibrant, diverse communities. These properties typically combine residential units with commercial and retail spaces, allowing residents to live, work, and shop all within the same building or complex.
One of the main benefits of mixed-use properties is the convenience they offer to residents. Instead of having to commute to work or drive to the store, residents can simply walk downstairs or down the block to access everything they need. This not only saves time and money but also reduces traffic congestion and promotes a more sustainable way of living.
In addition to convenience, mixed-use properties help create a sense of community by bringing people together in shared spaces. Residents can interact with their neighbors at local shops or restaurants, fostering a sense of belonging and connection. This social aspect is especially valuable in urban areas where traditional neighborhood bonds may be weaker.
From a developer's perspective, mixed-use properties can also be financially advantageous. By diversifying revenue streams through multiple uses, developers can spread out risk and potentially increase profits. Retail and commercial tenants can help offset the costs of maintaining residential units, creating a more stable investment opportunity.
Overall, mixed-use properties offer a holistic approach to urban development that prioritizes efficiency, sustainability, and community-building. By combining residential, commercial, and retail spaces in one location, these properties are well-positioned to meet the needs of modern city dwellers while enhancing the overall quality of life in urban environments.
When it comes to choosing a property type, there are several factors that should be taken into consideration. The first factor to consider is your budget. Different types of properties come with different price tags, so it's important to determine how much you are willing and able to spend before making a decision.
Another important factor to consider is the location of the property. You should think about factors such as proximity to work, schools, shopping centers, and public transportation when deciding on a property type. The location can have a big impact on your day-to-day life, so it's crucial to choose a property in an area that suits your needs.
You should also think about the size of the property and how much space you need. If you have a large family or entertain frequently, you may need a larger property with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms. On the other hand, if you are single or have a small family, a smaller property may be more suitable.
Additionally, you should consider the amenities that come with the property type. Some properties come with features such as swimming pools, gyms, and security systems, while others may not have these amenities. Think about what amenities are important to you and choose a property type that aligns with your preferences.
Lastly, it's important to think about the long-term investment potential of the property type. Consider factors such as market trends, resale value, and potential for appreciation when making your decision.
In conclusion, there are many factors to consider when choosing a property type. By carefully weighing factors such as budget, location, size, amenities, and investment potential, you can make an informed decision that meets your needs and preferences.
Mérida Municipality is one of the 106 municipalities in the Mexican state of Yucatán containing (858.41 km2) of land with the head or seat being the city of Mérida. Because the archaeological remains of the Maya reminded the Spaniards of the ancient city of Mérida, Spain, which was marked by Roman archaeological sites, they renamed the site of T-hó after the Spanish city.[1]
What now constitutes the head of the municipality of Mérida, was a pre-Hispanic Itza Mayan town called T-hó (Yucatec Maya language meaning "five hills"), which was founded around the 12th century AD.[1] By the time of the Spanish arrival, the city was virtually abandoned, though still used as a ceremonial center and its remnant buildings were of impressive monumental scale. Francisco de Montejo the Younger established the city of Mérida on the site on 6 January 1542.[3] In the first year of the conquest, Montejo ordered the establishment of 54 encomiendas in favor of his soldiers and confirmed the three principal municipalities to be Mérida, Valladolid, and San Francisco de Campeche.[4]
Overlapping jurisdictions occurred for the area at various times with the administration being under the Audiencia de Guatemala in 1549, but also the Viceroyalty of New Spain from 1549-1552. Then between 1552 and 1561 the area returned to the Audiencia de Guatemala and between 1561 and 1565 was again administered under the Viceroyalty of New Spain.[5] In 1617, Yucatán became a Captaincy General in its own stead.[6]
Yucatán declared its independence from the Spanish Crown in 1821[1] and in 1825, the area was distributed into 15 administrative partitions including Bacalar, Campeche, Hecelchakán, Hunucmá, Ichmul, Isla del Carmen, Izamal, Lerma, Mama, Mérida, Oxkutzcab, Seibaplaya, Sotuta, Tizimín and Valladolid. In 1840, Yucatán declared itself to be a free, independent nation[7] with its capital located in Mérida. The following year treaties were signed for the peninsula to rejoin Mexico, but by 1842, independence was again declared. In 1843, a new treaty of reinstatement was signed, but in 1845 the peninsula withdrew because Mexico had not complied with the terms of the 1843 agreement. Finally in 1846 the peninsula agreed to reintegrate into Mexico[8] but the outbreak of the Caste War, in 1847, an indigenous rebellion that took place throughout the Yucatán, delayed the full implementation until 1849.[9]
The Constitution of 1850, redrafted the administrative divisions and made headquarters for the 17 partitions at: Bacalar, Bolonchenticul, Campeche, Espita, Hequelchakan, Isla del Carmen, Izamal, Maxcanú, Mérida, Motul, Peto, Seibaplaya, Sotuta, Tekax, Ticul, Tizimin, and Valladolid.[10] In 1918, the modern municipality of Mérida was confirmed as the seat of the municipio and capital of the State.[1]
The municipal president is elected for a three-year term. The town council has seventeen councilpersons, who serve as Secretary and councilors of Markets, Utilities and Public Safety; Administration; Social Development; Public Security; Entertainment; Urban Development and Ecology; Public Works; Youth And Sports; Women; Health and Disability; Economic Development; Tourism; Heritage; Education; and Culture.[11]
The Municipal Council administers the business of the municipality. It is responsible for budgeting and expenditures and producing all required reports for all branches of the municipal administration. Annually it determines educational standards for schools.[11]
The Police Commissioners ensure public order and safety. They are tasked with enforcing regulations, distributing materials and administering rulings of general compliance issued by the council.[11]
The land throughout the municipality is virtually flat, without any areas of the elevation, and like much of the Yucatan Peninsula has no surface water streams. There are cenotes both underground and at the surface (collapsed caverns). The climate is semi-humid, with temperature range between a maximum of 40 °C and minimum 14 °C.[11]
The head of the municipality is Mérida, Yucatán. There are 158 populated areas of the municipality.[11] The most notable include Caucel, Chablekal, Cholul, Chuburná de Hidalgo, Cosgaya, Dzityá, Dzununcán, Komchén, Molas, San José Tzal, Sierra Papacal and Sitpach.[1] Communities of 50 people or more (as of 2005)[12] are listed below, along with numerous smaller ones (not listed).
Every year on 6 January the founding of the city is acknowledged in a citywide festival. Also annually from 27 September to 14 October is a celebration in honor of Santo Cristo de las Ampollas.[1]
Coordinates: 20°58′N 89°37′W / 20.967°N 89.617°W / 20.967; -89.617CountryMexicoStateYucatánMunicipalityMéridaCity foundedJanuary 6, 1542Government
• Mayor Cecilia Patrón Laviada (2024–2027) (PAN)Elevation
10 m (30 ft)Population
1,210,000 (Metro) • Rank34th in North America 12th in MexicoDemonymMeridianoGDP (PPP, constant 2015 values)
• Year2023 • Total$26.1 billion[2] • Per capita$21,400Time zoneUTC−6 (CST)Postal code
Area code999Major airportMérida International AirportIATA CodeMIDICAO CodeMMMDINEGI Code310500001[3]ClimateAw
Mérida ( Spanish pronunciation: [ˈmeɾiða] ⓘ, Yucatec Maya: Joꞌ)[4] is the capital of the Mexican state of Yucatán, and the largest city in southeastern Mexico. The city is also the seat of the eponymous municipality. It is located slightly inland from the northwest corner of the Yucatán Peninsula, about 35 km (22 mi) inland from the coast of the Gulf of Mexico. In 2020, it had a population of 921,770 while its metropolitan area, which also includes the cities of Kanasín and Umán, had a population of 1,316,090.[5]
Mérida is also the cultural and financial capital of the Yucatán Peninsula. The city's rich cultural heritage is a product of the syncretism of the Maya and Spanish cultures during the colonial era. The Cathedral of Mérida, Yucatán was built in the late 16th century with stones from nearby Maya ruins and is the oldest cathedral in the mainland Americas.[6] The city has the third largest old town district on the continent.[7] It was the first city to be named American Capital of Culture, and the only city that has received the title twice.[8]
Mérida is among the safest cities of Mexico as well as in the Americas.[9] In 2015, the city was certified as an International Safe Community by the Karolinska Institute of Sweden for its high level of public security.[10] Forbes has ranked Mérida three times as one of the three best cities in Mexico to live, invest and do business.[11] In 2022, the UN-Habitat's City Prosperity Index recognized Mérida as the city with the highest quality of life in Mexico.[12]
Mérida was named after Mérida, Spain because the Maya ruins that the Spanish conquistadors found in the settlement of Ti'ho reminded them of the Roman ruins of Augusta Emerita. Over time, the city acquired the nickname "La Ciudad Blanca" (The White City).[citation needed] This nickname may be due to the white color of the limestone used to paint the façades of the city's colonial buildings. This hypothesis is reinforced by the fact that the city can be seen from outer space as a large whitish area in the middle of the immense green forest that covers the Yucatán Peninsula.[13] Other cities in Hispanic America share the same nickname for this reason, like Arequipa[14] and Popayan.[15] Folktale says that the name go back to the founding of the city when the Spanish conquistadors – motivated by security reasons and given the persistent rebellion of the indigenous Maya people – decided to allow only white-skinned Europeans to live in the city. Old arches at the entrance to the city would have been built for this reason, and beyond these were the Indian communities.[16] However, the first arches were not commissioned until 1690, almost 150 years after the city's foundation. The arch of San Juan and the one on 59th street marked the beginning of roads to Campeche and Izamal, respectively. Other arches served only decorative purposes, like the one Juan Quijano had erected in 1760 in front of his house at the intersection of 65th and 56th streets, which has since been demolished.[17] Additionally, the Nahua indigenous troops who accompanied Montejo's troops in the conquest of Yucatán settled in the neighborhoods of San Cristóbal, Santiago, and San Román, where they enjoyed the privilege of exemption from taxes for their military assistance.[18]
Mérida was founded in 1542 by the Spanish conquistadors, including Francisco de Montejo the Younger and Juan de la Cámara, and named after the town of Mérida in Extremadura, Spain. It was built on the site of the Maya city of Ti'ho (/tʼχoʼ/), which was also called Ichkanzihóo or Ichcaanzihó (/iʃkan'siχo/; "City of Five Hills") in reference to its pyramids. Many of the carved stones of the ruins of ancient Ti'ho were used in the construction of the early Spanish buildings of Mérida. These stones are visible, for instance, in the walls of the main cathedral. From colonial times through the mid-19th century, Mérida was a walled city designed to protect the peninsulares and criollos from periodic revolts by the indigenous Maya people.
In the late 19th century, the area surrounding Mérida prospered from the cultivation of henequen, the fiber of which was used in the production of rope and twine, as well as for the production of licor del henequén, a traditional Mexican alcoholic drink. By the beginning of the 20th century, manufacturing focused mainly on tobacco, molasses, rum, soap, and leather products.[19] Korean immigration to Mexico began in 1905 when more than a thousand people arrived in Yucatán from the city of Jemulpo. These first Korean immigrants settled around Mérida as workers in henequen plantations.
In August 1993, Pope John Paul II visited the city on his third trip to Mexico.[20] The city has been host to two bilateral United States – Mexico conferences, the first in 1999 (Bill Clinton – Ernesto Zedillo) and the second in 2007 (George W. Bush – Felipe Calderón, which resulted in the creation of the Mérida Initiative). Mérida hosted the VI Summit of Association of Caribbean States in April 2014. In recent years, important sports competitions have been held in Mérida, such as the World Cup of the World Archery Federation. The city has also hosted important scientific meetings such as the International Cosmic Ray Conference.
Mérida is located in the northwest part of the state of Yucatán, which occupies the northern portion of the Yucatán Peninsula. To the north is Progreso and the Gulf of Mexico. Valladolid and Tizimín are to the east, Celestún is to the west, and the city of Campeche is located to the southwest. There are many important Maya archae sites in the area, including Chichen Itza, Uxmal, Oxkintok, Sayil and Kabah.
The city is located near the center of the Chicxulub Crater. It has a very flat topography and is only 9 metres (30 ft) above sea level. The land outside of Mérida is covered with smaller scrub trees and former henequen fields. Almost no surface water exists, but several cenotes (sinkholes that provide access to underground springs and rivers) are found in the area.
Mérida has a centro histórico typical of colonial Spanish cities. The street grid is based on odd-numbered streets running east–west and even-numbered streets running north–south, with Calles 60 and 61 bounding the "Plaza Grande" in the heart of the city. The more affluent neighborhoods are located to the north and the most densely populated areas are to the south.
Mérida features a tropical savanna climate (Köppen: Aw).[21] The city lies in the trade wind belt close to the Tropic of Cancer, with the prevailing wind from the east. Mérida's climate is hot and its humidity is moderate to high, depending on the time of year. The average annual high temperature is 33.5 °C (92.3 °F), ranging from 30.6 °C (87.1 °F) in December to 36.3 °C (97.3 °F) in May, but temperatures often rise above 38 °C (100.4 °F) in the afternoon during this period. Low temperatures range between 17.2 °C (63.0 °F) in January to 21.7 °C (71.1 °F) in May. It is most often a few degrees hotter in Mérida than in coastal areas due to its inland location and low elevation. The rainy season runs from June through October, associated with the Mexican monsoon which draws warm, moist air landward. Easterly waves and tropical storms also affect the area during this season.
Mérida is the capital of the state of Yucatán. The offices of the governor of Yucatán, the Congress of Yucatán, and the Superior Court of Justice of Yucatán are all located within the city.
The municipal government is invested under the authority of a City Council (Ayuntamiento) which it is seated at the Municipal Palace of Merida, located in the historic center of the city. The City Council is presided by a municipal president or mayor, and an assembly conformed by a number of regents (regidores) and trustees (síndicos). Renán Barrera Concha became Mayor on September 1, 2018.
The Yucatán Peninsula, in particular the capital city Mérida, is in a prime coastal location which allows for economic growth. Mérida has been a popular location for investment.[25] This, in turn, has allowed the Yucatán economy to grow at three times the rate of the national average.[25]
In addition, the World Bank Group's Ease of Doing Business Index ranked Mérida fourth nationally in the category of ease of starting a business.[26]
The city is home to important national and local research institutes, like the Yucatan Scientific Research Center (Centro de Investigación Científica de Yucatán, CICY) of the National Council of Science and Technology (Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología, Conacyt), a unit of the Center for Research and Advanced Studies of the National Polytechnic Institute (Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados, CINVESTAV Unidad Mérida), the Dr. Hideyo Noguchi Regional Research Center (Centro de Investigaciones Regionales Dr. Hideyo Noguchi) of the Autonomous University of Yucatan (CIR-UADY), the Yucatán Science and Technology Park (Parque Científico Tecnológico de Yucatán, PCYTY) and the Peninsular Center for Humanities and Social Sciences (Centro Peninsular en Humanidades y Ciencias Sociales, CEPHCIS) of the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM).
Mérida has served as the American Capital of Culture in the years 2000 and 2017.[27]
As the state and regional capital, Mérida is a cultural center, featuring multiple museums, art galleries, restaurants, movie theatres, and shops. Mérida retains an abundance of colonial buildings and is a cultural center with music and dancing playing an important part in day-to-day life. At the same time it is a modern city with a range of shopping malls, auto dealerships, hotels, restaurants, and leisure facilities. The famous avenue Paseo de Montejo is lined with original sculpture. Each year, the MACAY Museum in Mérida mounts a new sculpture installation, featuring works from Mexico and one other chosen country. Each exhibit remains for 10 months of the year. In 2007, sculptures on Paseo de Montejo featured works by artists from Mexico and Japan.
Mérida and the state of Yucatán have traditionally been isolated from the rest of the country by geography, creating a unique culture. The conquistadors found the Maya culture to be incredibly resilient, and their attempts to eradicate Maya tradition, religion, and culture had only moderate success. The surviving remnants of the Maya culture can be seen every day, in speech, dress, and in both written and oral histories. It is especially apparent in holidays like Hanal Pixan, a Maya/Catholic Day of the Dead celebration. It falls on November 1 and 2 (one day for adults, and one for children) and is commemorated by elaborate altars dedicated to dead relatives. It is a compromise between the two religions with crucifixes mingled with skull decorations and food sacrifices/offerings. Múkbil pollo (pronounced/'mykβil pÊ°oÊŽoË€/) is the Maya tamal pie offered to the dead on All Saints' Day, traditionally accompanied by a cup of hot chocolate. Many Yucatecans enjoy eating this on and around the Day of the Dead. And, while complicated to make, they can be purchased and even shipped via air. (Muk-bil literally means "to put in the ground" or to cook in a pib, an underground oven).
For English speakers or would-be speakers, Mérida has the Mérida English Library,[28] a lending library with an extensive collection of English books, videos, tapes, and children's books. The library is also the site for expatriate meetings, children's storytelling hours, and other cultural events.
Mérida is also home to the Yucatán Symphony Orchestra, which plays regular seasons at the José Peón Contreras Theatre on Calle 60 and features classical music, jazz, and opera.[29]
Yucatán food is its own unique style and is very different from what most people consider "Mexican" food. It includes influences from the local Maya cuisine, as well as Caribbean, Mexican, European and Middle Eastern foods. Tropical fruit, such as coconut, pineapple, plum, tamarind and mamey are often used in Yucatán cuisine.
There are many regional dishes. Some of them are:
Achiote is a popular spice in the area. It is derived from the hard annatto seed found in the region. The whole seed is ground together with other spices and formed into a reddish seasoning paste, called recado rojo. The other ingredients in the paste include cinnamon, allspice berries, cloves, Mexican oregano, cumin seed, sea salt, mild black peppercorns, apple cider vinegar, and garlic.
Hot sauce in Mérida is usually made from the indigenous chiles in the area which include: Chile Xcatik, Chile Seco de Yucatán, and Chile Habanero.
The Spanish language spoken in the Yucatán is readily identifiable as different in comparison to the Spanish spoken all over the country, and even to non-native ears. It is heavily influenced by the Yucatec Maya language, which is spoken by a third of the population of the State of Yucatán. The Mayan language is melodic, filled with ejective consonants (p', k', and t') and "sh" sounds (represented by the letter "x" in the Mayan language). Even though many people speak Mayan, there is much stigma associated with it. It can be seen that elders were associated with higher status with knowledge of the language, but the younger generation saw more negative attitudes with knowledge of the language[30] This was also in direct correlation with the socioeconomic status and their overall placement in society. There is also the idea that one is not speaking in the "correct" manner of legitimate Mayan dialect, which also causes for more differences in the accent and overall language of the area.[30]
Due to being enclosed by the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico, and being somewhat isolated from the rest of Mexico, Yucatecan Spanish has also preserved many words that are no longer used in many other Spanish-speaking areas of the world. However, over the years with the improvement of transportation and technology with the presence of radio, internet, and TV, many elements of the culture and language of the rest of Mexico are now slowly but consistently permeating the culture.
Apart from the Mayan language, which is the mother-tongue of many Yucatecans, students now choose to learn a foreign language such as English, which is taught in most schools.
Modern Mérida has expanded far beyond its original city walls, but many old Spanish colonial buildings and several old city gates can still be seen in the centro histórico, which is among the largest in the Americas. Many large and elaborate homes from the early 20th century still line the main avenue called Paseo de Montejo. For example, "Las Casas Gemelas" (The Twin Houses) are two side-by-side French and Spanish style mansions completed in 1911 by Camilo and Ernesto Cámara Zavala. Owned by the Barbachano and Molina Méndez families, they are two of only a few houses that are still used as residences on Paseo Montejo from that era. During the Porfiriato, the Barbachano house held cultural events that hosted artists, poets, and writers. In the mid-1900s, the Barbachanos hosted aristocrats including Princess Grace and Prince Ranier, as well as first lady of the U.S., Jacqueline Kennedy.[31]
The historical center of Mérida is currently undergoing a renaissance, as people and businesses move into these old buildings and restore them.[32] Many of these restored buildings now serve as office buildings for banks and insurance companies. Other important historic sites in the city include:
Several facilities can be found where to practice sports:
The city is home to the Mérida Marathon, held each year since 1986.[33]
City service is mostly provided by four local transportation companies: Unión de Camioneros de Yucatán (UCY), Alianza de Camioneros de Yucatán (ACY), Rápidos de Mérida, and Minis 2000. Bus transportation is at the same level or better than that of bigger cities like Guadalajara or Mexico City. Climate-controlled buses and micro-buses (smaller in size) are not uncommon.
As of 2024 the privately owned city bus system is being replaced by a new municipal system called "Va y Ven".[34]
Ie-Tram Yucatán is a bus rapid transit (BRT) system opening in December 2023.[35]
The main bus terminal (CAME) offers first-class (ADO) and luxury services (ADO PLATINO, ADO GL) to most southern Mexico cities outside Yucatán with a fleet consisting of Mercedes Benz and Volvo buses. Shorter intrastate routes are serviced by many smaller terminals around the city, mainly in downtown.
Several groups and unions offer taxi transportation: Frente Único de los Trabajadores del Volante (FUTV) (white taxis), Unión de Taxistas Independientes (UTI), and Radiotaxímetros de Yucatán, among others. Some of them offer metered service, but most work based on a flat rate depending on destination. Competition has made it of more common use than it was years ago.
Taxis can be either found at one of many predefined places around the city (Taxi de Sitio), waved down along the road, or called in by radio. Unlike the sophisticated RF counterparts in the US, a Civil Band radio is used and is equally effective. Usually a taxi will respond and arrive within 5 minutes.
Another type of taxi service is called "Colectivo". Colectivo taxis work like small buses on a predefined route and for a small fare. Usually accommodating 8 to 10 people.
Uber, DiDi, and inDrive also offer services in Mérida.
Mérida (IATA: MID, ICAO: MMMD) is serviced by Manuel Crescencio Rejón International Airport with daily non-stop services to major cities in Mexico including Mexico City, Monterrey, Villahermosa, Cancún, Guadalajara, Tuxtla Gutierrez, and Toluca. The airport has international flights to Miami, Houston, La Havana and Toronto. As of 2006[update] more than 1 million passengers were using this airport every year, (1.3 in 2007).[36] The airport is under ASUR administration.
Mérida was the hub of an extensive narrow gauge railway network that operated in the states of Yucatán and Campeche beginning in 1902. This system was merged into Ferrocarriles Unidos del Sureste in 1975, and later merged into Ferrocarriles Chiapas-Mayab. In 2016, The Secretary of Communications and Transportation revoked the concession.[37]
Current passenger train service to Mérida is provided by Tren Maya which runs from Palenque, Chiapas to Cancún, Quintana Roo, continuing on to Playa del Carmen. It stops at Teya Mérida railway station, 8 km (5.0 mi) east of the city.[38]
Main roads in and out of Mérida:
Mérida has many regional hospitals and medical centers. All of them offer full services for the city, and in case of the regional hospitals, for the whole Yucatán peninsula and neighboring states.
The city has one of the more prestigious medical faculties in Mexico (UADY). Proximity to American cities like Houston allow local doctors to crosstrain and practice in both countries making Mérida one of the best cities in Mexico in terms of health services availability.
Hospitals:
In 2000, the Mérida municipality had 244 preschool institutions, 395 elementary, 136 Jr. high school (2 years middle school, 1 high), 97 High Schools and 16 Universities/Higher Education schools. Mérida has consistently held the status of having the best performing public schools in Mexico since 1996. The public school system is regulated by the Secretariat of Public Instruction.[39] Attendance is required for all students in the educational system from age 6 up to age 15.[39] Once students reach high school, they are given the option of continuing their education or not; if they chose to do so they are given two tracks in which they can graduate.[39]
Nevertheless, education in Merida has a variety of quality throughout the city. This mainly has to do with the different social strata and where they reside. Mayan indigenous population are at the bottom of the spectrum and this can be represented in the type of education that the children are receiving. Upper class is usually located in the north, as it is less populated and has higher living costs.[40] For the most part, private schools are located in the northern part of the city. The only students who attend these schools are those of high class and of non-Maya descent.[41] A distressing statistic of how this affects the indigenous communities can be noted, "In Yucatan only 8.9 % of the Mayans have achieved junior high and solely the 6.6% have studied beyond that point. The 83.4% of the Mayans 15 years old and older dropped out of school before finishing junior high."[42]
Many laws have been set in place to avoid discrimination between the Spanish speakers and the Mayan speakers as the "Law says that it is a duty of the Mexican State to guarantee – guarantee, not just try, not just attempt – that the indigenous population has access to the obligatory education, bilingual and intercultural in their methods and contents."[42] Despite this having been set into law, there is no bilingual or cultural accepting program after elementary school.[42] The system for indigenous education only serves about one third of the Mayan speaking population of the area.[42] Many Maya[43] children are forced to learn Spanish and cease using their native tongue, which may be challenging for them to do. This in turn causes many of the students to feel that learning at school is not their strong suit and may even end up dropping out early in their education.[42]
There are several state institutions offering higher education:
Among several private institutions:
Mérida has several national research centers. Among them
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