The capital of Mexico's Yucatan state and the cultural capital of the Yucatan Peninsula, the colonial city of Merida was built on the site of an ancient Mayan city, T’ho. Called the ‘White City’ due to the use of white limestone and paint in the old city centre, exploring here offers a delightful blend of cosmopolitan and provincial, as well as the chance to discover a deep colonial history.

With its laid-back tempo, Merida is an excellent place to experience Mexican culture. Wander narrow streets lined with old mansions and elegant architecture, leading to vibrant plazas, stumbling in thriving markets and plenty of restaurants serving delicious regional cuisine. The main central plaza, flanked by the towering cathedral (which is partially built with stones from Mayan ruins), is surrounded by small shops, with music and entertainment regularly happening among its shady trees. An excellent base from which to explore the show-stopping Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza and Uxmal, after a day of discovery evenings in the city can be spent enjoying the lively nightlife.