Picturesque Merida

If I were to compare Merida to a district in Berlin, purely theoretically... although I can't think of a situation where I would seriously be forced to compare Mexican cities to the districts of our capital city... then I would choose Moabit. Merida is centrally located, without being too well connected. The city is charming and attracts mainly newcomers who travel through the country from Yucatan. Clear and easily accessible, the provincial capital offers a lot of variety without going too far. Despite its undeniable location advantages, Merida lags behind other cities of similar size, at least in my humble opinion.

To take a break, unpack and have laundry done, I planned for four days in Merida. I had decided on the 'Hostik' hostel, even though the pictures of the new facility did not convince me, two arguments spoke for the Hostik: a pool and breakfast. After arriving by night bus, I was looking forward to a well-equipped hostel. At check-in, I was presented with the house rules to sign. Strange. Quiet time, no drugs, hygiene rules, all normal so far, then it came: 500 pesos fine for bringing your own alcoholic beverages. Instead, small bottles were available for purchase at the reception at high prices. The communal gathering on the roof terrace or the campfire in San Cristobal was always part of the ritual to get to know each other. Not here.

The modern furnishings and the minimalist, somewhat conservative design also attracted a special type of traveler. Many couples, many young people, more groups than solo travelers - a group of people I didn't easily connect with. For my taste, it lacked that certain 'je ne sais quoi', character.

While in other hostels, a local lady lovingly and authentically prepared breakfast, at Hostik the volunteers (euphemistically referring to travelers who live and work in the hostel without pay) were responsible for it. The food was okay, there were pancakes, scrambled eggs, toast, and fruit.

I was in bed by 11 p.m. on the first evening.

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By the way, I don't want to miss the opportunity to assign my other destinations to Berlin districts as well, for comparison. Puerto Vallarta - Mitte (commercial and cosmopolitan), Guadalajara - Charlottenburg (traditional and confident, but somewhat boring), Oaxaca - Kreuzkölln (subcultural and touristy, left-liberal), Puerto Escondido - Prenzlauer Berg (pretty and self-absorbed), San Cristobal - Neukölln (a touch of rough charm - left-alternative).