Under $100: Merida, Mexico

The capital of the Yucatan province is a great place to spend a few days, and it doesn’t have to be expensive.

Start your day with breakfast at El Barrio, which has an extensive morning menu ($6–10). The breakfast sandwich comes highly recommended. Afterward, head to the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya to find out more about the history of the ancient Mayan culture ($8).

Then, it’s time to go to the Lucas de Galvez market, where you can take a wander around the labyrinthine halls before settling down at one of the taco stands for a filling lunch ($5). Make sure you don’t miss the shops selling religious icons, some of which have statues of the fascinating folk figure Saint Death.

In the afternoon, stroll around the historic center of town and dip into the Macay Museum of Contemporary Art. There are some great works on show, and the building itself is spectacular. Plus, it’s free.

For dinner, go to Plaza Santa Lucia and get a table at Rosa Sur 32 ($25). The menu features innovative twists on classic dishes, and there is a good wine selection.

If you feel like partying, the Fundacion Mezcaleria is the place to be. Drinks are cheap ($3 per beer) and there is a dance floor if you want to have a boogie.