Merida, the capital of Yucatan state has arisen great interest for the surprising Maya treasures guarded by its coasts. It is located 30 km east to the western coast of the Gulf of Mexico, was founded and baptized in 1542 by Francisco de Montejo y León. Since that time, a Spanish-like city emerged guarded by a wall that protected the inhabitants from the rebel native population and from pirates' harassment. The architecture which dates back from colonial times and excellent samples of indigenous culture are one of the main attractions. A sample of this is the beautiful Plaza Mayor (Main Square) made by rocks that was first used for the construction of Maya temples.

GETTING THERE The main airlines heading out for Merida are: Aviacsa. Phone: 800-735.5396 and Mexicana Airlines. Phone: 800-531.7921. Airport: Miguel Crescencio Rejón, located at 12 Km from the southeast of the city, from this site travelers may take a sort of vehicles termed "Combis," that transfer tourists from the airport to their final destination: The rate is from US$8 to US$10.

TRAVELING AROUND THE CITY Taxis, buses and the urban train go across Merida city and are very economical. Once in the city, the best form to see it is just walking around or enjoying the experience of getting on a horse-driven carriage. The rate is US$10. Mayland Tours offers a special pass for buses, allowing tourists makes a whole tour of Yucatan without limitation. The pass lasts 30 days and its rate is US$99 per person, for more information, please call 99-246290.

INTERESTING PLACES PROGRESO: It is the main port of the city. Located some 30 minutes from Merida via 261 route and by the road travelers may be tempted also to pass by the archeological magnificent site of Dzibilchaltun. COLONIAL CITY: Izamal, a picturesque village located at 73 km from Merida. Has some of the most incredible monasteries of the world: San Antonio de Padua Convent, an enormous space leading to the Izamal Virgin Sanctuary. Valladolid: Located at 162 km and half the way from Cancun. The most important areas that can be visited in this city are: Plaza de San Juan (San Juan Square) opposite San Gervasio Cathedral, Sisal Convent, in addition to other sacred sites as Cenote Zací and Cenote Dzitnup.

NOT-TO BE MISSED: 1. In the heart of the Merida city: Its Plaza Mayor in the heart of the city is the center of a colonial architecture as shown in the following buildings: San Idelfonso Cathedral: Fortress built in 1561 and regarded as one of the oldest churches of Mexico. Palacio de Gobierno (Government Palace): The most celebrated decoration sample is offered by artist Fernando Pacheco. Other outstanding places are: the Municipal Palace, Montejo House, Yucatan University, Santa Isabel Hermitage, Pesn Contreras Theater, Popular Art Museum and Parque Centenario (Centennial Park) 2. Montejo Ride: This impressive ride was inspired in the Elysian fields, the most celebrated is Cantón Palace, an old renascent residence of the state governors which at is currently the Museum of Anthropology and History. 3. Archeology and Ruins: Dzilbilchaltzn: Recent excavations located 16 km to the north of Merida. Its main attractions are a long sacbi (paved way with limestone), a cenote and some great temples as that of Templo de Siete Muñecas (Seven Dolls Temple) that excels for having an interior chamber designed to track sun and planetary rotation from which the proper seasons for cultivation are known by this method. 4. Ecotourism Tour: Celestzn River Biosphere reservation. A famous bird sanctuary, just 92 km away from Merida. Pink flamingos and other exotic birds are some of the species that can be watched in this shelter of 3,645 hectares Accommodation: EcoParaíso Ximin. Phone: 916-2100. Fax: 916-2111.

SHOPS: The most famous items there found are their hammocks and some which are so special that have been woven with silk threads. The typical outfits as well for every sex: huipiles (embroidered blouses for women) and guayaberas (traditional men shirts) are also found. The main markets in the cities are: García Rejón Market, a craft Yucatan market and the Municipal Market, a labyrinth of kiosks with incredible spots and curiosities.

WHERE TO SLEEP Five Stars: Holiday Inn Mirida: Phone: 925-6877. Fax: 925-7755. Four Stars: Hotel Colonial: Phone: 923-6444. Fax: 928-3961. Montejo Palace: Phone: 924-7290.Fax: 924-7644/ 928-0388. Three Stars: Hotel Caribe: Phone: 924-9022. Fax: 924-8733. Hotel Colón: Phone: 923-4355. Fax: 924-4919.

WHERE TO EAT: Alberto´s Continental: Calle 64. Phone: 529-928-5257. Colonial mansion of the 18th century where travelers can taste regional dishes. Los Almendros: Located in the Mejorada Park. Phone: 529-928-5459; traditional dishes are served here. Pancho´s: Calle 59. Phone: 529-923-0942. Genuine Mexican food. ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Two basic documents are required for tourists visiting Merida: The migratory tourist way free of charge and available at all airlines and a valid passport. Spanish and Portuguese citizens do not need visa. For more information you can see previous issues of this magazine: Nº. 4 (Mexico) and Nº. 15 (Chiapas).