Experience plays a crucial role in determining an individual's earnings. The more experience someone has in their field, the higher their earning potential tends to be. This is because with experience comes expertise and a deeper understanding of the industry, which in turn allows for better performance and decision-making.
Employers often value employees with extensive experience as they bring a wealth of knowledge and skills to the table. This can lead to increased productivity, efficiency, and overall success within the organization. In many cases, employees who have been working in their field for a longer period of time are able to command higher salaries due to their proven track record of success.
Furthermore, individuals with more experience are typically able to take on more responsibilities and leadership roles within their company. This added level of responsibility often comes with increased compensation as well. Employers are willing to pay more for individuals who have demonstrated their ability to handle complex tasks and lead teams effectively.
In addition to earning potential, experience also plays a significant role in job stability and career advancement. Individuals who have built up years of experience in their field are less likely to be laid off during times of economic uncertainty. They also have a competitive edge when it comes to promotions and opportunities for career growth.
Overall, experience is a key factor in determining earnings as it directly impacts an individual's value within the workforce. As such, investing time and effort into gaining valuable experience in one's chosen field can lead to greater financial rewards and career opportunities in the long run.
Real Estate Agent Merida
The impact of geographic location on earnings potential is a vital aspect to consider when discussing factors that influence earnings. Where you live can greatly affect how much you are able to earn in your chosen career path.
Different regions have different costs of living, job markets, and industries, all of which play a role in determining how much money you can make. For example, someone working as a software engineer in Silicon Valley is likely to earn significantly more than someone with the same job title working in a smaller city with lower demand for tech talent.
Furthermore, certain locations offer more opportunities for career growth and advancement, which can also impact earning potential. Cities with thriving industries and high levels of competition often offer higher salaries and better benefits to attract top talent.
Specialization is another key factor that influences earnings potential, regardless of geographic location. Professionals who have specialized skills or expertise in a particular field often command higher salaries than those with general knowledge or experience.
Overall, while experience and specialization are important factors that contribute to one's earnings potential, geographic location should not be overlooked. It plays a significant role in determining how much money you can make and what opportunities are available to you in your chosen career path.
Merida, the center of Yucatán, is rapidly emerging as one of the hottest property markets in Mexico. With its vibrant colonial charm, expanding infrastructure, and a growing flow of international and domestic buyers, the city presents valuable investment opportunities. At TrustFirst Merida Real Estate, we take pride in being the most reliable Realtors in Merida, Mexico, providing top-tier knowledge, comprehensive market insights, and a client-first service to assist you in finding your dream home.
The real estate market in Merida has experienced a strong growth in demand, with home prices rising by an average of 8% to 12% each year. Property buyers and homebuyers as well are drawn to the city due to its low cost of living, high safety ratings, and cultural appeal. Unlike many popular cities in Mexico, Merida offers a balance between colonial charm and modern convenience, making it an perfect place for foreign investors, and real estate enthusiasts.
As expert Realtors in Merida, Mexico, we know the nuances of the local market and can assist you through every step of the purchase or selling process.
Understanding the property landscape requires accurate, up-to-date information. At TrustFirst Merida Real Estate, we leverage market analytics, property valuation reports, and local expertise to provide strategic investment strategies.
Every buyer has specific requirements, and we customize our services accordingly. From identifying prime locations to handling documents, our expert real estate advisors ensure a smooth transaction.
Many of the best properties in Merida are not publicly listed. Through our extensive network of home sellers, developers, and real estate professionals, we provide exclusive access to off-market deals.
No matter if you are buying, selling, or investing in Merida real estate, TrustFirst Merida Real Estate is your trusted advisor. Our group of experienced property experts is committed to ensuring you reach your property goals.
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Mérida, the historic heart of the Yucatán Peninsula, has emerged as a top-tier destination for international property investment.
With its colonial charm, high rental demand, and strong capital appreciation potential, Mérida provides a wealth of opportunities for investors.
Compared to other investment hotspots, Mérida remains highly affordable, creating opportunities for both small and large investors.
As more digital nomads and retirees choose Mérida as their home, has created a lucrative rental market for investors.
Real estate in Mérida continues to show consistent appreciation, making it an excellent choice for long-term investors.
Non-Mexican buyers cannot directly own property within 50 kilometers of the coastline or 100 kilometers from the borders.
To bypass this restriction, foreign buyers use a fideicomiso, a bank trust that grants full ownership rights.
Because Mérida is not in a restricted zone, foreign investors can own property outright, eliminating the need for a trust.
A common issue in Mexican real estate involves ejido land, unless it undergoes a legal conversion process.
Offering a mix of cultural charm and modern conveniences, Centro Histórico is a prime area for real estate investors.
North Mérida is home to modern gated communities, making it a preferred location for families and retirees.
3. Conduct due diligence and verify property titles.
5. Sign a purchase agreement and place a deposit.
Mérida’s real estate market is on an upward trajectory, a top choice for international buyers.
If you’re considering investing in Mérida, TrustFirst Mérida Real Estate is here to guide you.
Reach out to us to start your property search.
Specialization can have a significant impact on earning potential in various industries. When individuals focus on a specific area of expertise, they are able to develop specialized skills and knowledge that can set them apart from others in their field. This can lead to higher demand for their services and ultimately result in higher earnings.
One of the key factors that influence earnings is experience. As professionals gain more experience in their specialized area, they become more valuable to employers or clients. Their expertise becomes more sought after, allowing them to command higher rates for their services. Additionally, experienced specialists often have a proven track record of success, which can further enhance their earning potential.
Location is another important factor that can affect how much individuals earn in a specialized field. In some regions or cities, there may be high demand for certain types of specialized skills, leading to increased opportunities and higher pay rates. Conversely, in areas where there is less demand for specific specializations, individuals may find it more challenging to secure well-paying jobs.
Finally, the level of specialization itself can also impact earning potential. Some niche areas of expertise are highly sought after and command premium rates, while more general specializations may face greater competition and lower pay rates. By focusing on a specialized skill set that is in high demand, individuals can position themselves for greater earning potential.
In conclusion, specialization can play a crucial role in determining how much individuals earn in their chosen field. Factors such as experience, location, and the level of specialization all contribute to an individual's earning potential. By honing their skills in a specific area and staying abreast of industry trends, professionals can maximize their earning potential and achieve success in their careers.
When it comes to factors that influence earnings, there are often several key elements that come to mind, such as experience, location, and specialization. However, there are other important factors that can also play a significant role in determining one's earnings.
One factor that may influence earnings beyond the usual suspects is education level. Individuals with higher levels of education tend to earn more than those with lower levels of education. This is because higher education often leads to greater job opportunities and the ability to secure positions with higher salaries.
Another factor that can impact earnings is industry demand. Certain industries may have higher demand for skilled workers, leading to increased salaries for those in high-demand fields. Additionally, individuals who possess specialized skills or certifications within their industry may also command higher salaries due to their unique expertise.
Networking and connections can also play a role in influencing earnings. Building strong professional relationships and networking within your industry can lead to new job opportunities, promotions, and salary increases. Individuals who have a strong network of contacts may be more likely to land lucrative job offers or advance their careers more quickly.
Lastly, company size and reputation can also impact earnings. Larger companies or well-known organizations may offer higher salaries and better benefits compared to smaller or lesser-known companies. Employees at reputable companies may also have access to more resources and opportunities for career advancement.
In conclusion, while experience, location, and specialization are important factors that influence earnings, there are additional elements such as education level, industry demand, networking, and company size that can also play a significant role in determining one's earning potential. By considering all of these factors and actively working towards improving them, individuals can increase their chances of achieving higher earnings in their chosen field.
Mérida International Airport (Spanish: Aeropuerto Internacional de Mérida), officially Aeropuerto Internacional Manuel Crescencio Rejón (Manuel Crescencio Rejón International Airport) (IATA: MID, ICAO: MMMD), is an international airport located in the Mexican city of Mérida. It serves as the primary international gateway to Mérida and the State of Yucatán, a popular tourist destination, offering flights to and from Mexico, the United States, Canada, Central America, and the Caribbean. The airport also accommodates facilities for the Mexican Airspace Navigation Services, and the Mexican Army, and supports various tourism, flight training, and general aviation activities. Additionally, it serves as a focus city for Viva.
The airport is named in honor of the jurist and politician Manuel Crescencio García Rejón, who was originally from Yucatán. It is operated by the Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste (ASUR).[2] The airport has become one of the fastest-growing airports in the country. In 2022, it handled 3,079,618 passengers, surpassing three million passengers in a calendar year for the first time; in 2024, the number increased to 3,699,877 passengers.[1] It also ranked as the ninth-busiest airport in terms of passengers, and tenth for cargo and aircraft movements.[3]
The airport's history traces back to its inauguration in 1929 when Mexicana de Aviación introduced the Mérida-Campeche-Ciudad del Carmen-Minatitlán-Veracruz-Mexico City route, operated with a Ford Trimotor aircraft. In 1964, Mexicana de Aviación sold the airport to the Mexican government. A significant reconstruction of the airport was completed in 1968, replacing the previous facilities. During the 1960s, American Airlines provided service to the airport, making it one of the few airports, apart from Mexico City and Acapulco, to be served by a major airline.
During the 1990s, the airport became part of the Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, marking an important instance of a private concession within this group. This consortium encompasses various airports, including Cancún, Cozumel, Huatulco, Mérida, Minatitlán, Oaxaca, Tapachula, Villahermosa, and Veracruz. Throughout the years, it underwent several modifications and modernizations, notably in 1999, 2011, and 2021. The airport has welcomed distinguished political and religious figures, such as Pope John Paul II, as well as U.S. Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, and President of China, Xi Jinping.
Throughout its history, the airport has been serviced by a range of airlines, including Aero California, Aeromar, Aviateca, Blue Panorama Airlines, Cubana, Delta, Interjet, Mexicana, Neos, Pan Am, Lufthansa, TAR, and Tropic Air. From 1972 to 2005, it functioned as the primary hub for Aerocaribe and Aerocozumel, both subsidiaries of the former Mexicana. Between 1992 and 1995 it served as a hub for Aviacsa, and more recently, it was home to the regional airline Mayair.[4]
The airport is situated in the Mérida urban area, less than 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) southwest of the city centre, at an elevation of 12 metres (39 ft) above sea level. It features two runways: Runway 10/28, which is 3,200 metres (10,500 ft) long, and Runway 18/36, which spans 2,300 metres (7,500 ft). Adjacent to the terminal, there is a commercial aviation apron capable of accommodating up to 11 narrow-body aircraft or a combination of 3 narrow-body and 3 wide-body aircraft. Additionally, a remote stand is available for 2 narrow-body aircraft. The airport has the capacity to service airplanes as large as Boeing 747s and 777s, although most daily flights involve smaller aircraft, with the most common being the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320. The airport can handle up to 30 operations per hour and operates around the clock.[5]
The passenger terminal is a two-story structure. The ground floor comprises the main entrance, a check-in area, and the arrivals section, which includes customs and immigration facilities, along with baggage claim services. Additionally, car rental services, taxi stands, snack bars, and souvenir shops are available. The upper terminal floor hosts a security checkpoint and departure area, featuring a 260 metres (850 ft) long departures concourse. Within this section, there are restaurants, food stands, duty-free shops, VIP lounges, and eleven gates (C1-11), with seven of them equipped with jet bridges.[6][7]
In the vicinity of the terminal, various facilities are located, including civil aviation hangars, cargo and logistics companies, and cargo services. There is also a dedicated general aviation terminal that supports a range of activities, such as tourism, flight training, executive aviation, and general aviation.
The airport is home to the Mérida Area Control Center (ACC), one of four such centers in Mexico, alongside the Mexico City ACC, Monterrey ACC, and Mazatlán ACC.[8] Operated by the Mexican Airspace Navigation Services (Spanish: Servicios a la Navegación en el Espacio Aéreo Mexicano), Mérida ACC provides air traffic control services for aircraft operating within the Mérida Flight Data Region (FDRG), which encompasses the southeastern region of Mexico. This region shares its boundaries with six other Area Control Centers. To the west, it borders the Monterrey ACC and Mexico ACC, while to the north, it shares borders with the Houston ARTCC (KZHU), and to the east and south, it connects with the Havana ACC (MUFH) and the Central American ACC (MHTG), respectively.[9][10]
Air Force Base No. 8 (Spanish: Base Aérea Militar No. 8 Mérida, Yucatán) (BAM-8) is located on the airport grounds, north of Runway 10/28. It serves as the home for Air Squadron 114, responsible for operating Cessna 182 aircraft. BAM-8 features two aprons, one spanning 11,775 square metres (126,750 sq ft) and another covering 4,000 square metres (43,000 sq ft). In addition to these, it includes three hangars and various other facilities for accommodating Air Force personnel.[11]
^1 Viva flight to Tijuana makes a stopover in León/El Bajío.
The Mérida Cathedral in Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico, is one of the oldest cathedrals in the Americas.[1][2]
Construction of the cathedral of Mérida began in 1561, and it was completed in 1598. It was the second cathedral to be completed in the Americas (the Cathedral of Santo Domingo, completed in 1550, was the first). It is a unique monument with clear antecedents in Andalusia. The seat of the bishopric of Yucatán, the cathedral was built on the site of Mayan ruins T'ho.[1][3][4]
The bishopric of Yucatán had an uncertain start. The Yucatán peninsula was explored by Francisco Hernandez de Córdoba and Juan de Grijalva on behalf of Diego Velazquez de Cuellar, the adelantado of Cuba, in 1517 and 1518.[5] The creation of a diocese in the recently discovered country was urged by Velazquez, who presumed to have jurisdiction over the region and hoped to colonize it. An episcopal see known as "Carolense" was indeed created by Pope Leo X in 1519 (later renamed "Our Lady of Remedies" by Clement VII). But said diocese was not implemented in the territory of Yucatán but in that of Tlaxcala instead and later on was moved to Puebla. It cannot therefore be considered the predecessor of the diocese of Yucatán.
The diocese of Yucatán proper, named "Yucatan and Cozumel," was created by Pius IV in 1561. St. Ildephonsus of Toledo was invoked as the patron.[6] Two prelates for the new see were nominated in succession by the Spanish Crown but neither could be consecrated for entirely accidental reasons. A third candidate, fray Francisco Toral, was eventually consecrated and took possession on August 14, 1562. He was the first of a long line of bishops, later archbishops, of Yucatán.
The system of vaulting used throughout the building was based on the ideas of Andres de Vandelvira, first applied to the building of the cathedral of Jaen. Indeed, there is every possibility that Vandelvira's schemes were brought to the Mérida project by the first bishop of Yucatán, fray Francisco Toral, who hailed from Ubeda, a town in the Jaen province.[7]
References to the cathedral can be found in the Books of Chilam Balam.[5][8]
Land had been set aside for the cathedral at Mérida, the place recycled by the Spanish under Francisco de Montejo as the capital of the new colony.[6] The colonial city was set amidst the ruins of the Maya settlement of Ichcansiho (T'ho for short), and work for the church was begun shortly after Toral's arrival.[6] The church was to be built on the eastern side on the main town square, where a temporary building with a roof of palms was erected. It was not until 1562 that construction of the cathedral began. Labor for this construction came from Mayans, some of who still practiced their own religion.[2][3] Laborers used stones from the Mayan temple of Yajam Cumu to build the cathedral.[6][9] Two known Mayan workers were Francisco Pool, and Diego Can.[9] Although architect Juan Miguel de Agüero completed the cathedral, it was Don Pedro de Aulestia who led the initial construction.[9]
The coat of arms on the cathedral facade was originally designed to reflect the Spanish royal coat of arms.[9] The original royal coat consisted of four sections containing symbols of gold castles and crowned lions. At the very top of the coat was a representation of the royal crown of Spain. After Mexico's independence, the shield was partially destroyed due to anti-Spanish sentiment. The central piece of the shield containing the castles and lions were removed using a pickaxes and chisels. In 1824, the empty shield was filled with a Mexican eagle wearing the imperial crown of Iturbide.[10][9] After the redesign of the shield, a second wave of anti-Spanish sentiment led to the entire coat of arms being buried beneath a slab on cement. The cement was later removed to reveal the coat of arms as can be seen today.
On the cathedral facade there are statues of St. Peter and St. Paul. The statue of St. Paul is distinguished by the sword and the book he is holding. St. Peter is depicted holding the keys to the Church.[9]
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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