A Photo Journey: Students Studying Abroad in Mérida

Throughout the summer programs at CIEE Yucatán, there's plenty of free time to explore the city of Mérida with friends from the program. Here are some photos taken by students of their favorite activities during their program.

1. Visiting the beach

Mérida is less than half an hour away from the beach! Students can visit the port of Progresso, located directly north of the city with their friends and host families. Some students even get to spend the whole weekend at the beach with their host families, swimming in the ocean and relaxing in the sun.

2. Video Mapping

Learn about Mérida's history through stunning video projection on historic buildings. Mérida offers a unique video mapping experience on certain nights where students can watch a colorful visual and audio display that recounts important events that have shaped the Yucatán Peninsula's unique culture over time. 

3. Swimming in the pool

Mérida is very hot in the summer, which makes cooling off in the pool one of the highlights! Some of the families that host high schoolers here in Mérida have pools in their backyards, which is a great place to invite friends and spend some hours playing Marco Polo and Volleyball. 

4. Visiting local restaurants

If you are a foodie, you've come to the right place. Mérida is known for its vibrant food scene. Students have been trying different restaurants that serve traditional Yucatecan dishes, which is a great way to dive deeper into the culture of this remarkable city.

5. Escape rooms

Craving a bit of adventure? The Euphoria escape rooms are one of many escape room companies in Mérida and are a great option to visit with a group of friends after classes end. 

6. Ice skating at Galerías Mall

Show off your skills on the ice! After long days in the sun, students spend an afternoon ice skating at the rink. It is a great way to exercise and cool off from the heat, and is located in Galerías Mall, a popular hotspot for shopping and socializing.

7. Getting Ice Cream

Sometimes a sweet and refreshing ice cream is the perfect way to end the day. Mérida has a wide selection of delicious new flavors to try including guava, mamey, and dragon fruit. If your feeling more classic, you can opt for Oreo, chocolate, vanilla, or any other flavor that catches your eye. 

8. Cenotes!

One of the most exciting things to see here in the Yucatán Peninsula is the cenotes. These naturally formed pools are enchanting to explore and and absolute must-visit during your time in Mérida. Jump into the refreshing blue water and admire the lush tropical vegetation all around you.

Look like a fun time? Check out CIEE's list of high school summer abroad locations around the world!