Travel Information
Your trip to Merida is going to be great. These are the basic considerations you should consider before arriving.
Visas
Visitors from many countries do not need a visa to enter Mexico. If you are from one of these countries, you may enter as a tourist with a simple “Forma Migratoria Múltiple” (FMM), which is issued at the airport or at land border crossings upon presenting your passport. The FMM is valid for up to 180 days, depending on the duration granted at entry. Be aware that a fine may be imposed if the FMM is not returned upon departure. For those from countries that do require a visa, please contact a Mexican consulate to learn about specific requirements based on your country of origin.
Arrival in Mérida
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From the Airport: There are two main ways to reach your hotel. You can take an airport taxi, which costs approximately $300 MXN (about $15 USD). Alternatively, the "Va y Ven" public bus service stops at the Fiesta Americana Hotel and costs $50 MXN (about $2.5 USD).
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From the Bus Terminal: Ride-sharing services like Uber and DiDi are available for your convenience, or you may also use the "Va y Ven" bus service, which also stops at the Fiesta Americana Hotel and costs $50 MXN (about $2.5 USD).
To download the "Va y Ven" public transportation app, use the following links:
Language
While Spanish is the primary language spoken in Mexico, most hotels and tourist services offer some level of English assistance.
Electricity
Mexico operates on 110V at 60Hz, with Type B plugs that feature flat pins, the same type used in the U.S., Canada, and parts of Latin America. It’s recommended to bring your own adapter, as these may not be readily available outside of larger airports.
Business Hours
Standard business hours in Mérida are Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with lunch breaks typically between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM.
Tipping
In Mérida, it’s customary to tip around 10% of the bill, with exceptional service warranting a 15% tip. Tipping is common in restaurants, bars, cafés, and among street vendors who offer prepared foods. Certain restaurants may include gratuity on the check. Service tips for waitstaff, valets, gas station attendants, and bellhops are also common and appreciated.
Paying in Mérida
Credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, and American Express) are widely accepted at most established businesses, restaurants, and convenience stores. However, smaller markets, shops, and street vendors primarily accept cash, and while both Mexican Pesos (MXN) and U.S. Dollars (USD) are often accepted, it's best to carry pesos. Public transportation only accepts Mexican Pesos. To ensure smooth transactions, it’s recommended to keep about $500 MXN ($30 USD) in cash per day. Currency exchange is available at the airport upon arrival, or at banks and ATMs within the city. Some reliable banks include Banorte, Citibanamex, HSBC, Santander, Scotiabank, and BBVA.
Maps & Transportation in Mérida
Google Maps is highly recommended for navigating Mérida. Many of the city’s landmarks, including the Monumento a la Patria and the picturesque Paseo de Montejo, are within walking distance of the conference venue, though please keep in mind that Mérida can be quite warm. The city’s bus system, managed by "Va y Ven," offers a one-time purchase smart card for $25 MXN ($1.5 USD) with each ride costing $12 MXN ($0.70 USD). Cards are available at Oxxo convenience stores throughout the city. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and DiDi are also convenient and popular choices, particularly for international visitors.
Weather & Environment in Mérida
Mérida’s climate in March is generally warm, with daytime temperatures often reaching 34°C (93°F). Humidity can make it feel warmer, so we recommend lightweight, breathable clothing and sun protection such as hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
Safety in Mérida
As the capital of Yucatán, Mérida is one of the safest cities in Mexico. The city center is known for its secure and welcoming atmosphere, even in the evening. Streets are well-lit, and there is an abundance of restaurants, bars, and cultural venues. Mérida's residents are known for their warmth and hospitality, making the city an inviting destination for all who visit.