Tropic Air’s First Flight from Belize City to Merida, Mexico, The White City
Merida, Mexico is one amazing city. And now, the trip from Belize City to Merida, Mexico is fast, direct and easy. Yesterday, I was lucky enough to be on board the very first commercial flight to Merida with Tropic Air. And I have the certificate (and the gorgeous photos) to prove it. Super exciting.
Somewhat geographically separated from the rest of Mexico, Merida developed a very different, very beautiful culture HEAVILY influenced by the Maya who ruled this area for many centuries.
There are some of the world’s MOST amazing sites just outside the city. Like Uxmal and Chichen Itza.
Here are a few of the things that I find particularly interesting about Merida.
It has the largest cathedral on the American continents. The only larger one is in Santo Domingo in the Dominican. (Here is a glimpse last night…I will be spending lots more time in this plaza.)
Merida has many prestigous hospitals and is well known in the area for medical tourism. It is often used by those in Belize for medical treatment (both elective and non-elective.) The city of Merida has a population of about one million people – about three times the population of Belize. In the 18th century, Merida was one of the richest cities in the world…mainly from the sisal industry. A plant used for making rope.
AND for about 10 years now, there has been an amazing resurgence – a renaissance. Merida is beautiful and HIP. Boutique hotels, shops and spas abound. The city has recently been featured in some of the most chic publications. Like W Magazine, Conde Nast Traveler and now SanPedroScoop.com.
OH! And perhaps the most important fact. Merida is the safest city in Mexico. What’s not to love?
Yesterday, I took the flight from San Pedro to Belize City to wait for the 11:15am flight to Merida.
The view over Caye Caulker. This flight is amazing each and every time. A gorgeous day.
And then the flight to Merida.
The view is amazing. This is just north of Belize City.
Up to 8000 feet. A few towns scattered about but most of the Yucatan is unpopulated.
A very smooth hour and a half later we started our descent into Merida.
The airport is JUST on the outskirts of the city. It’s a pretty quick ride right to the Centro.
Hungry we headed to a restaurant for typical Yucatan fare. Familiar to those who live in San Pedro. Things like pibil and eschabeche.
I am so excited to be here. And based on what I saw just yesterday evening, I’m not sure 4 nights is going to be enough.
Art, music, crafts, HISTORY, hospitals, malls HUGE MALLS, a country club, we have a VERY full day planned today and I’ll certainly be reporting back.
For more information on the Merida flight and the introductory special offer…
check out Tropic Air Belize’s website.
Viva Mexico!
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