A guide to nightlife for tourists who hate being tourists
Partying in a city that is not your own allows you to experience a different culture; the culture of the night. This is where you discover other facets of a community you are visiting. At the same time, we realize that things may be different than what we are used to.
As a way to avoid feeling like a tourist, and instead partying like a local, here are some tips you should know when heading out on the town to enjoy Mérida’s nightlife.
Mérida has certain limitations for the sale of alcohol in stores or supermarkets. Monday to Saturday from 11 am until 10 pm, and on Sundays sales end at 5 pm.
Keep in mind that most places have a cover charge. The cover varies from $30 pesos to $200 pesos, depending on the place you visit.
The busiest areas at night are divided into two parts of the city. Although they aren't separated by a wall, there's about a 30-minute drive between them. You’ll have the option of choosing between the traditional and picturesque bars of Centro, and the more contemporary clubs in the north part of town
Remember that Mérida’s weather is like Zac Efron... hot. So dress in cool clothing. If you're planning to go to the city center, your outfit may be more casual. But if you plan to go to one of the clubs in the north, people tend to dress up a bit more.
Because of the hot weather, people usually get together a little later than normal. The appointment is usually made at 8 pm and 9 pm. However, punctuality is not a trait of most Mexicans...so don't worry if the bar or club is more deserted than the Sahara. In fact, the punctuality of a Mexican is like the space for your legs in an airplane seat...it doesn’t exist. Therefore, in Mérida, the party won’t really start until around 12 am.
Although the party officially ends at 3 am, there are certain places around town where after-parties are held. So if the tequila left you in a festive mood, ask the locals where to go to keep the party going.
According to the locals, you didn’t experience Mérida nightlife if you didn’t visit “La Mezca” after going to “La Negrita.” Don't forget to do this traditional tour.
If you had drinks, don't even think about driving. The city is full of roadblocks to avoid accidents caused by alcohol. In this case, your best option will be to travel by taxi or Uber. Keep in mind that on weekends Uber's peak time is between 3 am and 4 am. Due to the high demand, it is very likely that you will be charged the dynamic rate.
With these tips, you are more than ready to enjoy the nightlife as a local.
Editorial by Teresa Siqueira Jiménez
Photography taken from each business Facebook fan page.
Read more about having fun in Mérida:
Download tour Nightlife and Cantinas Map:
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