Thank you for not scaring away the bee that ate from your glass. Mexico is the friendliest country for bees. They can eat directly from the artisan sweets from the markets. Because they know that nobody will hurt them
Great video. I choose Oaxaca for the climate and happy feel. I found the vibe in Merida to be trying to be Mexican happy, Oaxaca is the happiest city in the world. And Merida is HOT. It was over 100 F on Christmas! Love both to visit, Oaxaca to live. I agree on walkability. I walk 5-10 miles a day and love it.
Well said! Oaxaca has so much soul and I love how there is never a dull moment. They're both amazing cities in their own way! We're so much more active in Mexico. The number of daily steps we get is double the amount of when we lived full-time in the U.S. 😄
Oaxaca city is cool to cold in the morning due to it's 5000 foot elevation. It's warm/hot for a few hours in the afternoon. But the humidity is very, very low in Oaxaca. Humidity in Merida is extremely oppressive as there is hot ocean and inland jungle heat in the summer! It's May 10, 2022 and it's 89 degrees F in Oaxaca mid afternoon but the humidity is 17% (dew point of 39 deg F). It's usually upper 50s in the summer mornings in Oaxaca, colder in "winter" mornings. That's much more comfortable than Merida!! Just adding some perspective to the climate issue. One wouldn't need air conditioning in Oaxaca since the average daily temp is low 70s with VERY low humidity!
Great video! Difficult to compare as both cities have their own culture. They are like small different countries. Both cuisines are in the top five cuisines in Mexico with Oaxaca with slight edge but in terms of security Merida is way in another level. In terms of politics Yucatan is a leading state as Oaxaca has always been a conflicting state. Just as an example the governor of Yucatan has been n. 1 or n 2 of the best governors in Mexico. As in Oaxaca protests never end. Enjoy Puerto Escondido
Dont forget a new direct highway is being built from Oaxaca to the beaches of Puerto Escondido and Huatulco. Its like another world within Oaxaca.... 2.5 hour drive time from Oaxaxa City to the coast.
Thanks for the video...we have already decided that when we move it will be to San Crisanto, which is about 50 minutes from Merida. So we will be close enough to Merida and many of the pyramids, but on the ocean as well. We think it’s a win, win. 😃
Any place with hot humid weather...we’re out ! We lived in Sarasota and Naples Florida for many years...both great places but except for being at the beach or pool, you live your life running from a/c to a/c. Too many great cool weather cities in Mexico to live in a sauna. 😃
I am from Guanajuato, Mexico and Merida has my heart for sure!!! Santa Barbara Cenotes, Celestun, Sisal, Campeche and Progreso were amazing.Thank you hoping to visit Oaxaca soon. great video keep it up.
Thank you this was a great analysis of the two places. Clear, concise and well articulated. I've watched other people's videos and they never get to the point. This was excellent to watch.
Hi there . I've been to Oaxaca but not Merida. Merida sounds close to perfect except for the weather but for many including me the weather is likely a deal killer. So I'd like to see you guys check out Queretaro and evaluate that place. Why? It's highly walkable in certain neighborhoods. It's one of the safest cities in Mexico. Amazing food. Mild weather all year. Being a big city it has all the modern conveniences available of course. Reasonably close to Mexico City
Great comparison guys. I'm Australian who hopes to spend 1 yr in Mexico with my family before moving to Spain. Haven't been to Merida (but it's top of the list of where we will live) but I have been to Oaxaca and you got it spot on. With a young family I would choose Merida over Oaxaca due to safety, amenities, food, shopping, schooling options, beaches, etc but if I was older without the kids I'd choose Oaxaca due to the gorgeous city, architecture, artistic scene, cultural scene, the mountains, the weather, walkability, etc. Great video, subscribed.
I love this video! I think this is the most extensive comparison I've seen so far and that's saying a lot. I was closing my Merida option due to weather and BUGS 😭, heard HORROR stories! But after this video, I realize paradise is what you make it. Looks like Merida is back to the #1spot. Thanks guys! 😀👍🏽
Thank you for this! We have moved from Mazatlan and now in Merida. Oaxaca city was next, but needing the a/c is scary. Now Merida does require 3 months of rent upfront. Can’t do that.
Oaxaca city is unique! Plenty of culture, traditions, food, nature and above all, friendly people. A few days ago I visited "barrio Jalatlaco" and I had the sensation of being in San Cristobal de las Casas or San Miguel de Allende.
If it’s culture, for me , Oaxaca . So much so that around you will find signs translated into English, Spanish and that of its indigenous people who still live and work there. San Miquel is a beautiful city, but it’s been Americanized since the end of WWII. I spent a month there , consuming all types of meals including jambalaya from New Orleans chain, HANKS.
Great comparison! Truly a tough choice, as both locations are incredible. I personally have to go with Merida for that laid back vibe “island time” you all mentioned. Keep up the great videos, you all do an awesome job!
We are leaving in March 2022 for europe with no return trip in sight,: the length will depend on money and Covid, but I am really glad that I saw this today. We need to look at going to both places and since I speak spanish it's a no brainer.
You guys have done it again! SO much useful information 🤩 Would absolutely love to visit Mexico! 🇲🇽 We have probably said that after watching every one of your Mexico videos 😂 such a tough call to choose between the mountain or the sea though! Didn't realise that Merida was so safe and love the fact that the streets are so well lit up at night 🌙 love that Merida is so friendly and laid back. So unfortunate that the locals went benefiting from the tourist attractions in Oaxaca, hope that a mutually benefitial agreement can be reached. Both cities honestly sound amazing just in their own way ❤️🇲🇽 You can literally tell how amazing BOTH cities are because you guys literally picked one of each as your personal favourite 😂❤️
Watching travel videos is so contagious! Even if you’re currently traveling it still makes you want to hop on a plane 😂 I keep saying I want to go to Georgia after watching all of your videos lol. Yes! Each place has their perks and it’s such an extremely hard decision to make lol. I can’t believe we picked differently. I’m sure Seth thought I would have picked Oaxaca as well haha 😆
I was going to say. Never been to Merida but my sisters have and they said it was very hot and humid. Oaxaca City I have been there and I really liked it. Very nice city and to me it looked safe, the food was great. At night the city is lit.
@@ZaBuZaMoMoChi86 Usually 32-37 Celsius. And it feels even hotter due to the humidity. Even when it's in the high 20's it can be miserable. But from September through March, it's not nearly as humid, and after about 4 or 5 in the afternoon the weather turns beautifull. If you live closer to Progreso it's even nicer because you get that great ocean breeze.
We all know it comes down to personal preference, but this video offers a great in-depth analysis for digital nomads. Otherwise, it would be very difficult to choose between these two amazing cities. Thank you.
I am a Mexican who accidentally ran I to your channel. I know Merida well, and even though the climate is hot all year round, that is a city I could live in if there were sufficient reasonably well paid job opportunities. Merida is the most important city in Southern Mexico from an economic standpoint. Some services, like health care are better in Merida than in any other Southern city, including Cancun. Mérida is more urban than Oaxaca, and it is also considered the safest city in Mexico. For that reason, Merida has seen lately an influx of Mexicans from other parts of the country moving to Merida. Also, lots of American expats have been buying property in Merida recently, especially in downtown Merida. For thar reason, property prices have been increasing steadily from the past 5 years. Oaxaca probably is more artsy than Merida. The food is awesome, as well as the cultural scene, but the state of Oaxaca is one of the poorest regions in Mexico, job opportunities are scarce and low paid. Maybe for that reason prices are more affordable there than in Merida. Also, it is important to note that social unrest occurs periodically in Oaxaca. It is common that some social groups (e.g school teachers) take to the streets, close avenues and even highways to put pressure on the state or federal authorities. Small businesses are forced to close because it is practically impossible to walk around downtown Oaxaca. You do not see such scenes in Merida. So, in conclusion, for making tourism both cities are great destinations, but for relocation, I would go with Merida.
Both of these cities seem awesome as we are hearing you talk about them. Would love to check both out in person one day. Thanks for sharing your informative videos with us!
If you hate the heat, yeah you'll definitely like Oaxaca better. Puerto Escondido is super hot during the mid day but way better than Merida. Check out San Cristobal and more cities in Central Mexico with high elevation, much cooler. We spent two weeks in San Cristobal and it was typically 40-50s at night and in the mornings and 70s during the day. Really nice break from Yucatan! :)
Wonderful video! Thanks so much. I have not been to Oaxaca yet but many trips to Merida and just love it. Happy and safe travels. You two are adorable!!!!
I enjoyed your video! It was very educational and fun to watch, based on your opinion. Would you compare Puerto Vallarta to Merida in a future video! I would like to to get your opinion. Thanks… 😊✌️
Would Oaxaca be more ideal for hiking? Easy access to hiking is one of my must haves, close proximity to beach is even better. Love your channel! Thanks very much 🙏💜
Oaxaca has some of the best hiking options in all Mexico, just to mention Sierra Norte, Pueblos Mancomunados, look for Celestino Mendez and his company: Hiking with Celestino, truly amazing guy and knowledge, a pure Zapotec man!
A good comparison. I am very happy for having chosen Portugal but I always keep an eye on Mexico, a country that I lived in a lot in younger days. I think the hot and humid weather would put a lot of people off on Mérida but proximity to the ocean gives it an advantage over Oaxaca, which is about six hours from either Puerto Ángel or Puerto Escondido.
Thank you for this awesome video! Absolutely love it ❤️. Your pros and cons are very well put together. I think I will choose Merida to live half of the time and the other in Oaxaca. Seems both places are great. You helped a lot to find out necessary details.👍 Your videos are getting better each time and totally worth watching. You guys are one of my favorite TH-camrs. Hope you get tons of views and lots of subs. Stay healthy and safe!! ❤️😊👍
Both cities have a lot going for them, but I´d go with Merida as it is super safe. Merida will soon be getting a high speed train, which I gather will get people to Cancun Airport in about 2 hours.
Very cool video! Thanks for sharing. We were in Mexico a couple months ago. These areas look really nice though. Excited to follow you along on more adventures! -Tawnie & Wayne
Right now we don't want to live anywhere. We want to continue traveling. However, when we are reading to settle down we are thinking about settle down in St. Vincent and the Grendines. Mexico is not a bad option. Good video.
Thanks so much for this. The only place I’ve been in MX is Oaxaca and surrounding towns. (5 weeks) but my husband needs to swim so I have been looking at Merida as a base and then riding to the beach. This video really helped me solidify Merida as the next place to experience in Mexico.
Awesome! Merida would make a great base for sure. It's close to so many beaches and cenotes for swimming and it's hard to beat it's charm and lifestyle! Good luck and have fun! :)
Beaches are way nicer in Oaxaca than Yucatán. I've been at beaches near Mérida and there are none!!!! There are none. People there don't know how to share nature and beaches. Why i say this? Because they build houses almost right over the water of the beach. So that there are no beaches to walk along or lay down to take a sun bath and relax. On the other hand in Oaxacan beach towns people are way more inteligent and they do give chance and space for beaches to exist and thus to really enjoy the beach.
@@rafaelgrajales8251 Depends. There used to be more room but good old global warming took care of it, the sea rise in Yucatan is awful. If the worse occurs the Peninsula would end as ocean floor. Oaxacan beaches, as a matter of fact most beaches in the pacific are "anchored" to a cove or have in some form a higher elevation. If you would have gone to Chuburna or Chelem in the 1980s you would have seen a huge sandy beach and it wasn't as constructed. But crooked politics and demand by foreigners and even well-to-do people from Mexico City wanting a cheaper option than Cancun ended up filling it all up. And when I mean crooked politics I would like to pose an example, there is a lighthouse in the end of a cove to the east of Chuburna with a huge open beach access since its mostly communal land and by federal law the shore is open to all, and the beach, even today, is huge, one of the few. Well one of many with connections with the State Govt. and the Municipio put razor wire and began to illegally (since the zone used to be a coconut farm ejido until lethal yellowing killed the palms in the late 1980s) sell plots. Ruining what is pristine beach land that doesn't even belong to him. I'll just add my grandfather, may he R.I.P., has a stroke after a farm in Campeche he invested his modest fortune into got invaded by "communal farmers" and magically ended in the hands of the governor of the State. He survived but he was ruined. And this occurred in the early 70s when Echeverria was in power who just like the current President of Mexico decided to "invest" in the Peninsula, which meant wealth for his cronnies who went into every piece of land or business they could, legally or otherwise, and left the local investors ruined and the poor poorer. And they never left, the same Marabunta of the Echeverria and Portillo years or their descendants are the politicians and bureaucrats of Southeast Mexico. Cancun looks like a success but it's the worst thing that could have happened: ejido farmers evicted from their lands, Mayans displaced and anyone who didn't want to sell or even wanted to negotiate a fair price ended up dead or in jail under odd legal accusations. And it stole tourists from Merida and Campeche. Merida airport was one of Mexico's busiest and boasted flights to Europe, South America and even Quantas had a flight from Australia to Europe stop there. Now if a new flight to Miami or Houston opens up its in the newspaper. I just hope Oaxaca is not in Fonatur's future plans, since it will be just another fiefdom of government cronnies, bureaucrats and their corrupt clientele.
@@roverworld7218 unfortunately either thanks to climate change or corruption there are no beautiful beaches near Mérida... I went there and that was very disappointing to me. Same thing with food.... Oaxacan beaches are much nicer also food is much better. Corruption has always been our problem that is very sad to aknowledge.
I hear that in 2022 the highway will be finished from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido so the trip will he only 2.5 hrs. For me, being near mountains but close enough to ocean for weekend trip is perfect. Can't handle the heat of the coastal cities.
That’ll be incredible! Total game changer. True, being in the mountains but close enough to the coast is a win win! It did get really hot in Puerto Escondido where as Oaxaca City we didn’t even use AC at night.
Another nice video guys. I’ll be in the Yucatán at the start of the year. I’m scouting out places to live half the year. I really like Nayarit, having been there before. I see most of your videos are a year or two old. Where are you at now. I hope you’re doing well, your videos are so informative. TU always.
hey guy great to compare to cities!! they seem kinda similar is alot of ways but also very diffrent!!! its a close call!!! i think id prefer oaxoca but saftey would be a big concern ... ! defo hoping to visit one day!! and cool to see you guys talking about other cities other then the popular ones cancun and stuff! :)
As Florida natives the no AC situation would be a challenge! We'd love to visit both Merida and Oaxaca though! Y'all have taught us so much. -Ben and Ang
Fl here also. Merida is up over 100° now. When our a/c goes out, we either stand all night in pool, leave, or drag out the generators. It is unbearable when 95° .
Y'all are blowing up and all this information is SOOOO HELPFUL! We love Mexico and we always have so many nice experiences when we are there. Now that you are talking about Oaxaca and Merida, we must go to both places! You guys have fully become the experts and we love it! It's very helpful that you put this together. We would probably choose the beaches over the mountains and probably city center if we could choose. Must always keep your camera equipment tightly secured! Can't believe you have not been able to have any AC! We would not survive.
Thanks for your feedback!! I think you guys would like both places but Merida does win big time for having AC and the close proximity to the beach 😄 Yes!! We are always making sure our camera equipment is safe... that would be a devastating loss no doubt 😬
The weather in Oaxaca sounds much better to me that's more of my speed. It's too bad the weather wasn't like that in Merida. I'm from the north East here in America I don't think I could take that tropical humidity all year round but Merida really sounds like a good place though at this point I'm leaning more towards Oaxaca I'm basically a laid-back type of person
loved the comparison! we definitely want to explore mexico since neither of us have ever been! we hear so much about merida being a good digital nomad capital and we're DOWN with AC hahah.
This was a really great comparison! So much great info. I was thinking the same Lauren, I'm a mountain girl at heart but Merida just sounds like the winner, maybe it's just the way you described how friendly everyone is ☺️
Hola guys!!!! Oh yea, I love vs. episodes!!! Oh no, no AC would be rough. Uber is so easy and I have had better experience with them. Didn’t realize they get hail over there also.
Wow. This is something really interesting. Comparing these 2 cities for both travel and living perspective is indeed a great idea. I believe both the cities have their own charm so it actually depends what an individual prefers. Loved the content and the way you guys have covered all possible details in this video. Personally for me the safety and local vibes of the city is very important. Apart from cost the aspect which makes the place livable is that how far is the local attractions which can provide constant engagement and that we should not run out of options after a while 😄
Oaxaca is getting a bit more expensive because it’s successful. Listening to you it seems like you enjoyed Oaxaca but you liked Merida a bit more. Muchas gracias amigos, Adios.
Great information. Funny that you ended up divided on location. Sure that summer heat might change some things, but it really seems like you can't go wrong either way. We both love the mountains, but also need time in the ocean. Any good dive locations down there? I've alway seen images of underwater sculptures in Mexico
![🎤 จับฉลากร้องเพลง x P’ #XXSIVK [EP.1] (2/2) เพื่อนจับได้คำไหน..ต้องร้องคำนั้น เริ่ม! 💓🎶 #MXFRUIT](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/1bJvMJXmeS4/mqdefault.jpg)
I'm team merida
Thank you for not scaring away the bee that ate from your glass. Mexico is the friendliest country for bees. They can eat directly from the artisan sweets from the markets. Because they know that nobody will hurt them
That’s awesome! Yet another reason to love Mexico!! We all gotta learn to love and respect the bees 🐝 😊
Great video. I choose Oaxaca for the climate and happy feel. I found the vibe in Merida to be trying to be Mexican happy, Oaxaca is the happiest city in the world. And Merida is HOT. It was over 100 F on Christmas! Love both to visit, Oaxaca to live. I agree on walkability. I walk 5-10 miles a day and love it.
Well said! Oaxaca has so much soul and I love how there is never a dull moment. They're both amazing cities in their own way! We're so much more active in Mexico. The number of daily steps we get is double the amount of when we lived full-time in the U.S. 😄
Oaxaca! Hands down just for the weather and the food. Thank you. Great comparison.❤
The weather and food are two really great reasons to choose Oaxaca! Glad you liked the video 😊
Oaxaca city is cool to cold in the morning due to it's 5000 foot elevation. It's warm/hot for a few hours in the afternoon. But the humidity is very, very low in Oaxaca. Humidity in Merida is extremely oppressive as there is hot ocean and inland jungle heat in the summer!
It's May 10, 2022 and it's 89 degrees F in Oaxaca mid afternoon but the humidity is 17% (dew point of 39 deg F).
It's usually upper 50s in the summer mornings in Oaxaca, colder in "winter" mornings. That's much more comfortable than Merida!!
Just adding some perspective to the climate issue. One wouldn't need air conditioning in Oaxaca since the average daily temp is low 70s with VERY low humidity!
Great video! Difficult to compare as both cities have their own culture. They are like small different countries. Both cuisines are in the top five cuisines in Mexico with Oaxaca with slight edge but in terms of security Merida is way in another level. In terms of politics Yucatan is a leading state as Oaxaca has always been a conflicting state. Just as an example the governor of Yucatan has been n. 1 or n 2 of the best governors in Mexico. As in Oaxaca protests never end. Enjoy Puerto Escondido
Thank you for the insight on this! Good to know. We are already loving Puerto Escondido! :D
Dont forget a new direct highway is being built from Oaxaca to the beaches of Puerto Escondido and Huatulco. Its like another world within Oaxaca.... 2.5 hour drive time from Oaxaxa City to the coast.
You will like Oaxaca even more when the new highway to the coast is completed making it just over 2 hours to Puerto Escondido...
Thanks for the video...we have already decided that when we move it will be to San Crisanto, which is about 50 minutes from Merida. So we will be close enough to Merida and many of the pyramids, but on the ocean as well. We think it’s a win, win. 😃
Awesome! Great choice, that area looks perfect! 👌
Very Bad choice.
Also, in the begining of the next year Merida will have Amazon Storage, so the delivery time for most items will be same day.
Nice! I feel like overall Merida is way more convenient for sure. Bigger city convenience.
Any place with hot humid weather...we’re out !
We lived in Sarasota and Naples Florida for many years...both great places but except for being at the beach or pool, you live your life running from a/c to a/c.
Too many great cool weather cities in Mexico to live in a sauna. 😃
i agree. weather is a HUGE factor for me.
I totally get that! It's hard to beat that eternal Spring/Fall weather!
Northern pacific Mexico/Baja Pacific would be your cup of tea
I am from Guanajuato, Mexico and Merida has my heart for sure!!! Santa Barbara Cenotes, Celestun, Sisal, Campeche and Progreso were amazing.Thank you hoping to visit Oaxaca soon. great video keep it up.
I immediately fell in love with Guanajuato. What a beautiful city with a great vibe.
The rain is seasonal is both locations , Humidity & heat is the game changer… beach breezes are awesome!
Yes! Heat is one thing, humidity another 😅 I love a good beach breeze though!
As soon as you said “it’s poppin’” I had to subscribe 🤣
😂😂😂 thanks for subscribing!
Thank you this was a great analysis of the two places. Clear, concise and well articulated. I've watched other people's videos and they never get to the point. This was excellent to watch.
Thanks so much! Glad you enjoyed it and found it helpful! :)
Hi there .
I've been to Oaxaca but not Merida.
Merida sounds close to perfect except for the weather but for many including me the weather is likely a deal killer.
So I'd like to see you guys check out Queretaro and evaluate that place.
Why?
It's highly walkable in certain neighborhoods.
It's one of the safest cities in Mexico.
Amazing food.
Mild weather all year.
Being a big city it has all the modern conveniences available of course.
Reasonably close to Mexico City
Great comparison guys. I'm Australian who hopes to spend 1 yr in Mexico with my family before moving to Spain. Haven't been to Merida (but it's top of the list of where we will live) but I have been to Oaxaca and you got it spot on. With a young family I would choose Merida over Oaxaca due to safety, amenities, food, shopping, schooling options, beaches, etc but if I was older without the kids I'd choose Oaxaca due to the gorgeous city, architecture, artistic scene, cultural scene, the mountains, the weather, walkability, etc. Great video, subscribed.
One year in Mexico and one in Spain, you wont end up moving to Spain, Lol
Cute video you 2!! Oaxaca in 6 weeks from today for me! Looking forward to seeing you at Puerto Escondido! Love from Utah. Ama 🇺🇲🇲🇽
Awesome! That's coming so soon!!! :D
I love this video! I think this is the most extensive comparison I've seen so far and that's saying a lot.
I was closing my Merida option due to weather and BUGS 😭, heard HORROR stories! But after this video, I realize paradise is what you make it. Looks like Merida is back to the #1spot.
Thanks guys! 😀👍🏽
Thank you for this! We have moved from Mazatlan and now in Merida. Oaxaca city was next, but needing the a/c is scary. Now Merida does require 3 months of rent upfront. Can’t do that.
Oaxaca city is unique! Plenty of culture, traditions, food, nature and above all, friendly people.
A few days ago I visited "barrio Jalatlaco" and I had the sensation of being in San Cristobal de las Casas or San Miguel de Allende.
If it’s culture, for me , Oaxaca . So much so that around you will find signs translated into English, Spanish and that of its indigenous people who still live and work there. San Miquel is a beautiful city, but it’s been Americanized since the end of WWII. I spent a month there , consuming all types of meals including jambalaya from New Orleans chain, HANKS.
Si es mejor Oaxaca que todos se vallan pa ahí
Hello! Saw you on Cash's vlog! You make very nice videos! Greetings from Poland
Thank you!! 😁 We love your country! 🇵🇱
Great comparison! Truly a tough choice, as both locations are incredible. I personally have to go with Merida for that laid back vibe “island time” you all mentioned. Keep up the great videos, you all do an awesome job!
Thanks a ton! Merida’s vibes and atmosphere are hard to beat for sure!
i love how mexican people care so much about the people 🙏❤️ appreciate it!
Thank you for this. What a fantastic job you did. I'm going in a month. Helped me a lot to decide on EITHER one.
Thank you! Awesome, have fun in Mexico. Glad it helped. :)
We are leaving in March 2022 for europe with no return trip in sight,: the length will depend on money and Covid, but I am really glad that I saw this today. We need to look at going to both places and since I speak spanish it's a no brainer.
This was quite useful and informative.
Thanks for the feedback! So glad you found it useful! :)
Really great breakdown and comparison! I haven't been to Mexico yet so this info really helps me out, thank you!
Both cities seem really amazing in their own way. It would be a very tough call to make!
Hi.. Thank you ♥️ This is very helpful for me... I love Oaxaca I'm here rigth now.. loving the the weather and city 😍
Thank you 🙏 Oaxaca is amazing, glad you’re enjoying life there.
Oh, forgot to say: great video!! I really enjoyed it. Look forward to more.
You guys have done it again! SO much useful information 🤩 Would absolutely love to visit Mexico! 🇲🇽 We have probably said that after watching every one of your Mexico videos 😂 such a tough call to choose between the mountain or the sea though! Didn't realise that Merida was so safe and love the fact that the streets are so well lit up at night 🌙 love that Merida is so friendly and laid back. So unfortunate that the locals went benefiting from the tourist attractions in Oaxaca, hope that a mutually benefitial agreement can be reached. Both cities honestly sound amazing just in their own way ❤️🇲🇽 You can literally tell how amazing BOTH cities are because you guys literally picked one of each as your personal favourite 😂❤️
Watching travel videos is so contagious! Even if you’re currently traveling it still makes you want to hop on a plane 😂 I keep saying I want to go to Georgia after watching all of your videos lol. Yes! Each place has their perks and it’s such an extremely hard decision to make lol. I can’t believe we picked differently. I’m sure Seth thought I would have picked Oaxaca as well haha 😆
As a Mexico City native I say Mérida would be the perfect place if not for the weather. Too warm.
Agreed, it’s pretty much the only downside I can think of! We thought it was too hot in February so I know it’s way worse right now! 🥵
@@laurenandseth what's the average temperature in Celsius in may/June?
I was going to say. Never been to Merida but my sisters have and they said it was very hot and humid. Oaxaca City I have been there and I really liked it. Very nice city and to me it looked safe, the food was great. At night the city is lit.
@@ZaBuZaMoMoChi86 Usually 32-37 Celsius. And it feels even hotter due to the humidity. Even when it's in the high 20's it can be miserable. But from September through March, it's not nearly as humid, and after about 4 or 5 in the afternoon the weather turns beautifull. If you live closer to Progreso it's even nicer because you get that great ocean breeze.
@@josephsmith961 after living in Merida for almost one year I'd say it's not as bad as in my country... So for mi liking it's not bad at all.
This looks like it would be a difficult choice for me because I love mountains but I also love food! :D
We all know it comes down to personal preference, but this video offers a great in-depth analysis for digital nomads. Otherwise, it would be very difficult to choose between these two amazing cities. Thank you.
Thank you for the great feedback! :) Cheers!
I am a Mexican who accidentally ran I to your channel. I know Merida well, and even though the climate is hot all year round, that is a city I could live in if there were sufficient reasonably well paid job opportunities. Merida is the most important city in Southern Mexico from an economic standpoint. Some services, like health care are better in Merida than in any other Southern city, including Cancun. Mérida is more urban than Oaxaca, and it is also considered the safest city in Mexico. For that reason, Merida has seen lately an influx of Mexicans from other parts of the country moving to Merida. Also, lots of American expats have been buying property in Merida recently, especially in downtown Merida. For thar reason, property prices have been increasing steadily from the past 5 years. Oaxaca probably is more artsy than Merida. The food is awesome, as well as the cultural scene, but the state of Oaxaca is one of the poorest regions in Mexico, job opportunities are scarce and low paid. Maybe for that reason prices are more affordable there than in Merida. Also, it is important to note that social unrest occurs periodically in Oaxaca. It is common that some social groups (e.g school teachers) take to the streets, close avenues and even highways to put pressure on the state or federal authorities. Small businesses are forced to close because it is practically impossible to walk around downtown Oaxaca. You do not see such scenes in Merida. So, in conclusion, for making tourism both cities are great destinations, but for relocation, I would go with Merida.
good info brother.. mucha GRacias
You are so generous in your information. Blessings unto you.
Thanks dude
Both of these cities seem awesome as we are hearing you talk about them. Would love to check both out in person one day. Thanks for sharing your informative videos with us!
I live in Merida now and am thinking about Oaxaca. So glad I found this video. No A/C and no Uber? Ugh, Those could be a dealbreaker.
This was a wonderful video. You both gave great explanations of both cities. Keep making videos, this was very helpful. :)
Great content & useful info! Subscribed :)
Thank you! Glad to have you along! :)
Great video. I had similar thoughts about both Cities. I’m team Merida.
Los extrañaba!!!!
Sus videos son increíbles!!!
Muchas gracias mi amigo!
I would definately pick OAX...went to both in July.
Nice, yeah OAX is really fantastic!!
I have been in Merida for one week and can't stand the heat. Oaxaca has to be better.
If you hate the heat, yeah you'll definitely like Oaxaca better. Puerto Escondido is super hot during the mid day but way better than Merida. Check out San Cristobal and more cities in Central Mexico with high elevation, much cooler. We spent two weeks in San Cristobal and it was typically 40-50s at night and in the mornings and 70s during the day. Really nice break from Yucatan! :)
@Belltown Daisy Deal
Wonderful video! Thanks so much. I have not been to Oaxaca yet but many trips to Merida and just love it. Happy and safe travels. You two are adorable!!!!
Thank you!! Yeah we love Merida too! It's amazing. I hope you enjoy Oaxaca when you make it out there. Safe travels to you as well 😊
Having traveled both extensively and having a preference for not bland food, Oaxaca hands down.
Thank you so much for your excellent reviews on Merida and Oaxaca. I've watched a few of your videos and they've been the best so far.
That's great to hear, thanks for the feedback! :)
I had to re-watch this, lol.
Thanks again
Mountains lol makes me chuckle
2 Canadians living in Mexico, Merida, sending support Cheers J&D
You all give great video content! I enjoy and appreciate it! 😊
I enjoyed your video! It was very educational and fun to watch, based on your opinion. Would you compare Puerto Vallarta to Merida in a future video! I would like to to get your opinion. Thanks… 😊✌️
Thank you! For sure, we're looking forward to visiting Puerto Vallarta! In Puerto Escondido now and LOVING it!
This was so useful, flying to Merida in July!!! ❤️
That’s great! I hope you have a great trip here :)
MERIDA is the best! People, food, security, beaches, city!!! The only thing is not the best is that is too hot, but if you love that is heaven!!!
Couldn't agree more! Merida has so much to offer 😄
Nice job guys, I appreciate your input and efforts!!
Thanks 😊 We’re happy to hear that!!
Merida area for us
Thanks for sharing 👍😊
Great content! I feel like there aren't a ton of good Mexico travel channels and I love yall's useful info/genuine vibe combo! 😋
Thanks a ton! 😊
Great observations guys...awesome!
Would Oaxaca be more ideal for hiking? Easy access to hiking is one of my must haves, close proximity to beach is even better. Love your channel! Thanks very much 🙏💜
Oaxaca has some of the best hiking options in all Mexico, just to mention Sierra Norte, Pueblos Mancomunados, look for Celestino Mendez and his company: Hiking with Celestino, truly amazing guy and knowledge, a pure Zapotec man!
A good comparison. I am very happy for having chosen Portugal but I always keep an eye on Mexico, a country that I lived in a lot in younger days. I think the hot and humid weather would put a lot of people off on Mérida but proximity to the ocean gives it an advantage over Oaxaca, which is about six hours from either Puerto Ángel or Puerto Escondido.
Love your comparisons of the 2 cities. We have been to Merida but not Oaxaca. Both look great. Would love to visit Oaxaca one day. -S
Brilliant review guys. Mérida is my home.
Awesome!
Merida is perfect for december and january!!
Agreed!
Merida for living.
Oaxaca for vacations and holidays.
That makes sense!
The humidity and the heat in Merida are brutal 🥵
Oh yeah, no doubt! :D
wonderful! Thanks!
Glad you enjoyed it! :)
you deserve and got my sub, looking forward to following you both, enjoy your travels, enjoy
Thank you for this awesome video! Absolutely love it ❤️. Your pros and cons are very well put together. I think I will choose Merida to live half of the time and the other in Oaxaca. Seems both places are great. You helped a lot to find out necessary details.👍
Your videos are getting better each time and totally worth watching. You guys are one of my favorite TH-camrs. Hope you get tons of views and lots of subs. Stay healthy and safe!! ❤️😊👍
I thought both of you would choose Merida! We would probably prefer Merida since we are beach people ourselves. But.... Oaxaca seems amazing!
Both cities have a lot going for them, but I´d go with Merida as it is super safe. Merida will soon be getting a high speed train, which I gather will get people to Cancun Airport in about 2 hours.
Very cool video! Thanks for sharing. We were in Mexico a couple months ago. These areas look really nice though. Excited to follow you along on more adventures! -Tawnie & Wayne
Right now we don't want to live anywhere. We want to continue traveling. However, when we are reading to settle down we are thinking about settle down in St. Vincent and the Grendines. Mexico is not a bad option. Good video.
Nice, haven't visited St. Vincent and the Grenadines yet, looks awesome there!
Excellent comparison guys!
New Subbie! You guys gave a lot of great info, great video too.
Thank you!
Thanks so much for this. The only place I’ve been in MX is Oaxaca and surrounding towns. (5 weeks) but my husband needs to swim so I have been looking at Merida as a base and then riding to the beach. This video really helped me solidify Merida as the next place to experience in Mexico.
Awesome! Merida would make a great base for sure. It's close to so many beaches and cenotes for swimming and it's hard to beat it's charm and lifestyle! Good luck and have fun! :)
Beaches are way nicer in Oaxaca than Yucatán. I've been at beaches near Mérida and there are none!!!! There are none. People there don't know how to share nature and beaches. Why i say this? Because they build houses almost right over the water of the beach. So that there are no beaches to walk along or lay down to take a sun bath and relax.
On the other hand in Oaxacan beach towns people are way more inteligent and they do give chance and space for beaches to exist and thus to really enjoy the beach.
@@rafaelgrajales8251 Thanks for clarifying this
@@rafaelgrajales8251 Depends. There used to be more room but good old global warming took care of it, the sea rise in Yucatan is awful. If the worse occurs the Peninsula would end as ocean floor. Oaxacan beaches, as a matter of fact most beaches in the pacific are "anchored" to a cove or have in some form a higher elevation.
If you would have gone to Chuburna or Chelem in the 1980s you would have seen a huge sandy beach and it wasn't as constructed. But crooked politics and demand by foreigners and even well-to-do people from Mexico City wanting a cheaper option than Cancun ended up filling it all up. And when I mean crooked politics I would like to pose an example, there is a lighthouse in the end of a cove to the east of Chuburna with a huge open beach access since its mostly communal land and by federal law the shore is open to all, and the beach, even today, is huge, one of the few. Well one of many with connections with the State Govt. and the Municipio put razor wire and began to illegally (since the zone used to be a coconut farm ejido until lethal yellowing killed the palms in the late 1980s) sell plots. Ruining what is pristine beach land that doesn't even belong to him.
I'll just add my grandfather, may he R.I.P., has a stroke after a farm in Campeche he invested his modest fortune into got invaded by "communal farmers" and magically ended in the hands of the governor of the State. He survived but he was ruined. And this occurred in the early 70s when Echeverria was in power who just like the current President of Mexico decided to "invest" in the Peninsula, which meant wealth for his cronnies who went into every piece of land or business they could, legally or otherwise, and left the local investors ruined and the poor poorer. And they never left, the same Marabunta of the Echeverria and Portillo years or their descendants are the politicians and bureaucrats of Southeast Mexico. Cancun looks like a success but it's the worst thing that could have happened: ejido farmers evicted from their lands, Mayans displaced and anyone who didn't want to sell or even wanted to negotiate a fair price ended up dead or in jail under odd legal accusations. And it stole tourists from Merida and Campeche. Merida airport was one of Mexico's busiest and boasted flights to Europe, South America and even Quantas had a flight from Australia to Europe stop there. Now if a new flight to Miami or Houston opens up its in the newspaper.
I just hope Oaxaca is not in Fonatur's future plans, since it will be just another fiefdom of government cronnies, bureaucrats and their corrupt clientele.
@@roverworld7218 unfortunately either thanks to climate change or corruption there are no beautiful beaches near Mérida... I went there and that was very disappointing to me. Same thing with food.... Oaxacan beaches are much nicer also food is much better.
Corruption has always been our problem that is very sad to aknowledge.
I hear that in 2022 the highway will be finished from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido so the trip will he only 2.5 hrs. For me, being near mountains but close enough to ocean for weekend trip is perfect. Can't handle the heat of the coastal cities.
That’ll be incredible! Total game changer. True, being in the mountains but close enough to the coast is a win win! It did get really hot in Puerto Escondido where as Oaxaca City we didn’t even use AC at night.
OAXACA
Summer & Fall
MERIDA
Winter & Spring
Another nice video guys. I’ll be in the Yucatán at the start of the year. I’m scouting out places to live half the year. I really like Nayarit, having been there before. I see most of your videos are a year or two old. Where are you at now. I hope you’re doing well, your videos are so informative. TU always.
hey guy great to compare to cities!! they seem kinda similar is alot of ways but also very diffrent!!! its a close call!!! i think id prefer oaxoca but saftey would be a big concern ... ! defo hoping to visit one day!! and cool to see you guys talking about other cities other then the popular ones cancun and stuff! :)
Super interesting comparison! Do more videos like this please.
Thank you, will do! 😊
I live in Oaxaca and it's a little dangerous but also live in the central
Hi guys. A few other things to consider are stores = electronics, Costco’s, Sams Club, Malls, Movie theaters even bowling, etc.. Merida hands down ☝️
Great points!
But what is the point of all that? Aren't you trying to get away from that and live in a different place? Is like going from Taco Bell to Del Taco.
@@carrasco2011sc Agree
@@tracywalker244 Right. Right now I live in the city but if I want a change I would move in the countryside.
Great informative vid 👍🏼 looking forward to your Mexico City vid 😁
Love the diversity also. Pro and cons!!! Can’t go wrong with each area.
I know right!! I wouldn’t mind either place 😄
Great to see the comparison between the two.
Excellent!!
Thank you! :)
As Florida natives the no AC situation would be a challenge! We'd love to visit both Merida and Oaxaca though! Y'all have taught us so much. -Ben and Ang
Fl here also. Merida is up over 100° now. When our a/c goes out, we either stand all night in pool, leave, or drag out the generators. It is unbearable when 95° .
Y'all are blowing up and all this information is SOOOO HELPFUL! We love Mexico and we always have so many nice experiences when we are there. Now that you are talking about Oaxaca and Merida, we must go to both places! You guys have fully become the experts and we love it! It's very helpful that you put this together. We would probably choose the beaches over the mountains and probably city center if we could choose.
Must always keep your camera equipment tightly secured! Can't believe you have not been able to have any AC! We would not survive.
Thanks for your feedback!! I think you guys would like both places but Merida does win big time for having AC and the close proximity to the beach 😄
Yes!! We are always making sure our camera equipment is safe... that would be a devastating loss no doubt 😬
Great video guys. We have been thinking for the past few years between these two.
I think we are team Merida.
The weather in Oaxaca sounds much better to me that's more of my speed. It's too bad the weather wasn't like that in Merida. I'm from the north East here in America I don't think I could take that tropical humidity all year round but Merida really sounds like a good place though at this point I'm leaning more towards Oaxaca I'm basically a laid-back type of person
loved the comparison! we definitely want to explore mexico since neither of us have ever been! we hear so much about merida being a good digital nomad capital and we're DOWN with AC hahah.
Thanks!! Yeah Merida is definitely a great spot for digital nomads + you gotta love the AC 😌😌
This was a really great comparison! So much great info. I was thinking the same Lauren, I'm a mountain girl at heart but Merida just sounds like the winner, maybe it's just the way you described how friendly everyone is ☺️
True, friendly people and great vibes can make all the difference in the world! Even without the mountains! :D Thanks!
@@laurenandseth my pleasure
I'm looking forward to your reviews of more cities. Are you planning to go to Baja California Sur? Thanks for another great video.
It's on the list for sure! Have you been, what areas there are you interested in or would recommend? We're excited to go. Thank you!
Hola guys!!!! Oh yea, I love vs. episodes!!! Oh no, no AC would be rough. Uber is so easy and I have had better experience with them. Didn’t realize they get hail over there also.
Yeah Merida gets a big win for having Uber and AC lol! Two things that are really convenient to have around 😄😄
Wow. This is something really interesting. Comparing these 2 cities for both travel and living perspective is indeed a great idea. I believe both the cities have their own charm so it actually depends what an individual prefers. Loved the content and the way you guys have covered all possible details in this video. Personally for me the safety and local vibes of the city is very important. Apart from cost the aspect which makes the place livable is that how far is the local attractions which can provide constant engagement and that we should not run out of options after a while 😄
I am going to check out Merida in Feburary 2023. Can't wat!!!!!!!!
Oaxaca is getting a bit more expensive because it’s successful. Listening to you it seems like you enjoyed Oaxaca but you liked Merida a bit more. Muchas gracias amigos, Adios.
Thanks guy!! Great hob.
Thank you! :)
Been to both , agree with you both, but the Merida heat destroys the spirit of this “ outdoors “ girl.
Very informative, thanks
Thank you! :)
Great information. Funny that you ended up divided on location. Sure that summer heat might change some things, but it really seems like you can't go wrong either way. We both love the mountains, but also need time in the ocean. Any good dive locations down there? I've alway seen images of underwater sculptures in Mexico
Thank you!