The city of Merida is located in the Yucatan Peninsula, a 3 hour drive west of Cancun. Merida is the perfect blend of colonial Mexico, delightfully mixed with contemporary art, culture and architecture. How to Get There: Rent a car from the Cancun airport, make sure to fuel up at a nearby gas station, as they will be few to none with the coming miles ahead. Best offers are booked online. Pit stop: Valladolid, is the halfway point between Cancun and Merida. This quaint little