Merida, Mexico
Population: About 1 million
Weather: Warm and mild in winter; hot and humid in late spring and summer. Vulnerable to hurricanes.
Getting there: No direct flights from Los Angeles. Travel time is 6 1/2 hours from L.A., with a plane change.
Healthcare: Excellent; Merida is a medical hub for the region and has one of Mexico’s best medical schools.
What $250,000 will buy: A restored, three-bed, two-bath home in the historic core with pool and roof deck.
Pros
* A historic yet cosmopolitan city with languid charm that won’t be easily “gringo-ized”* Close to the beach, Mayan ruins
* Rich indigenous culture
* Vibrant arts scene
* Many old homes to restore
* Good support network for expats; gay-friendly
Cons
* Too big, urban and hot for some* Lots of insects, mold
* Historic center is noisy, traffic-choked and lacks parking
* Old homes need perpetual upkeep
Resources
* Yucatan Living, online magazine: www.yucatanliving.com* Merida Insider, online forum for expats: www.meridainsider.com
* Yucatan Today, online tourist guide: www.yucatantoday.com
* Merida English Library: www.meridaenglishlibrary.com
* “Casa Yucatan,” by Joe P. Carr and Karen Witynski, a design book with photos of restorations
