Merida

This colonial Mexican city, with its popsicle-colored buildings and friendly vibe, is just 30 minutes from the beach and a short drive from world class Mayan ruins. Add flavourful Yucatanean cuisine and cocktails, and you have the perfect holiday spot

- Kristin Hanes

8AM

Start your day with breakfast along the famed Paseo de Montejo, named after the Spanish explorer Francisco de Montejo who founded the city in 1542. This iconic street is lined with mansions influenced by European architecture, Merida’s attempt to create a boulevard similar to Paseo de la Reforma in Mexico or the Champs-Élysées in Paris. Nibble on fresh fruit and French toast in the courtyard of Rosas y Xocolate, a colonial-era boutique hotel renovated with pink hues and modern artwork, a testament to the revitalisation efforts along this stunning boulevard.

9AM

Head over to the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya, a modern building on the edge of Merida that houses more than 1,100 well-preserved Mayan artefacts. One notable piece of art is a reclining chac-mool sculpture from Chichen Itza. This museum is a great place to learn about Mayan history and culture before heading out to visit one of the archeological sites in the area.

11AM