AliceMiami

Thinking about planning a last minute trip to Merida, Mexico with another couple March 17-20. Do we have to worry about college Spring Breakers being there at that time? Not sure if Merida is a spring break destination. Aside from that, I very much appreciate all your recommendations for top restaurants, destinations and things to do for a weekend trip!

kja

Merida is delightful, particularly on a weekend!

If you have any interest in archeology, it's main archeological museum is excellent.

I strongly recommend the Moon Guide or Rough Guide -- you'll learn all sorts of things you don't even know you ought to ask. ;-)

Here's my OLD (2008) review of La Casa de Frida, which still gets good reviews:
Merida – La Casa de Frida: Delicious Yucatan cuisine in a memorable setting

I chose to dine at La Casa de Frida specifically because I had read a review that praised its chiles en nogada, a dish that I wanted to taste, and I found it praiseworthy indeed! I began with an appetizer of crepes with cuitlachoche that was so delicious that I couldn’t bring myself to stop eating even when I realized that I might become too full if I continued. And unfortunately, I was too full to do proper justice to the chiles en nogada. Even so, just thinking of that evening brings back memories of that entrée and its intensely flavorful and rich walnut sauce – wow! My server always seemed to appear out of nowhere at exactly the right time and made me feel very welcome even as closing time approached. I also loved the setting of this restaurant: Vibrant colors, interesting artwork, thriving plants, and creative lighting all made for a setting that I found pleasing and comfortable - and intriguing because these elements could so easily have instead created jarring contrasts. Instead, it was pleasantly and distinctly memorable.

Enjoy!

cybor

You shouldn't find many spring breakers here in Merida.
Tell us what kind of foods you want and I can try to point you in the right direction.
For now, here's a few bits of info for you to peruse.

http://yucatantoday.com/eventos/
http://yucatanliving.com/calendar/march-2017/
http://yucatanexpatlife.com/calendar...t_display=list

november_moon

Yeah, Merida isn't a spring break type of place. They will mostly be on the Mayan Riviera at AI hotels where the alcohol is unlimited Merida is great in March. And I secone the recommendation for the Chiles en nogada at Casa de Frida.

SusanInToronto

I am in Merida right now (3 week trip after spending 2 weeks here last year). It doesn't seem like a spring break destination at all. I posted a long trip report last year so you could take a look at for food recommendations. This year we've also eaten at Oliva (both of them). Excellent. Also Peruano for very good ceviche. Plus the places we enjoyed last year. So many good restaurants!

AliceMiami

Thanks everyone! Our tickets are booked and we cant wait to try the spots you have recommended.

Weekender

Cybor:

I am going to Merida next month with a friend who is thinking of relocating there. She and I have been to P.V., Guanajuato, San Miguel and Ajijic a number of times looking. She is leaning towards Ajijic because of the low cost of living. I am not crazy about the town at all but the one advantage is the proximity to Guadalajara and the airport.

At any rate, she is planning on renting on a long term basis. Any hints as to which neighborhoods, realtors etc. that you would suggest. I suspect she would like to keep the rent at no more than $1,000 US per month.

Any guidance will be appreciated...I have noted your info provided above as well.

cybor

Hi Weekender,
I wish I could help but Lake Chapala isn't a place on my radar.
Your friend can start by asking to join a private FB group like;
https://www.facebook.com/groups/expa...?hc_ref=SEARCH

Weekender

Cybor:

We are going to Merida not Lake Chapala...

Weekender

Cybor:

"I am going to Merida next month with a friend who is thinking of relocating there."

cybor

Whoops, misread.
Yes, you can most definitely find a place for 1000 USD or less in the historical center. Less for long term and even less if there is no pool. You may need a pool, though from spring to fall.
You'll also do better than that if you move out of the historical areas and find Spanish ads. You can find very nice modern Mexican owned homes for 350 USD. You will need transport.
As for neighborhoods, it really depends on what you like or want to be near. I'm in the oldest neighborhood in Centro but on a quiet non bused street. I can walk to everything. I also have a car.

Another FB page for Merida rentals;
Merida casitas for rent

Weekender

Cybor:

Thanks much.

cybor

Weekender,
Take a look at that site and keep in mind that there are lots of snowbirds who will very willingly rent or give amazing deals off season to someone willing to stay in, over see, or even pet sit while they're away.
You can find some very posh places in the heart of the city this way.
I'm also very easy to find on FB if you need more info. You really don't need a realtor.

Weekender

Cybor:

Thanks for the info. We are going to be there in late April and will be staying in Centro.