Casa Encanto

This part of the city is the heart of the expat community and world renowned for its lively social calendar and friendly folks. Over the years, many American and Canadian ex-pats - often retirees - have purchased and renovated homes in this area, giving it the name “Gringo Gulch”.

With a vibrant social life, centered around the Mérida English Library on Calle 53, as well as parties and events most nights in the homes of the various neighborhood locals, you’ll be surprised how full your dance card can get. If this sound like you, this is the place to be.

Santiago is very walkable.  One of the main attractions is Parque de Santiago, which is in the heart of this barrio. This square is the venue of “Remembranzas musicales” event that happens every Tuesday night. Dance with locals and visitors alike to some live big-band tunes and danzón music. The same park contains a local market, where food stands serve up delicious tortas and other Yucatecan dishes morning through night. Add a small supermarket, old-time movie theater and loads of galleries to visit and you’ve got loads to do right at your doorstep.

Right next door to Santiago is Santa Ana, another lively square with a great food market that is often filled with various festivals and events.  One popular one is the Biciruta each Sunday, where the streets are closed to cars and everyone comes out on their bikes for a great day out.

Santa Ana is perfect for those that can’t commit.  Situated at the base of Paseo de Montejo, Santa Ana is a great pivot point between the newness of north Mérida and the historic charm south towards the main square.

In the mood for some history? Santiago and Santa Ana are a short walk from all the sights of historic Merida - the Plaza Principal, the Governor's palace, and some of the oldest cathedrals in Latin America.