text:
Merrickville

Merrickville is a village of 1200 people on the Rideau Canal in eastern Ontario. It is a village of picturesque Victorian-era stone houses and modestly claims to be Canada’s prettiest village, a claim not without merit. (It isn't a self-granted title; the national non-profit organization "Communities in Bloom" called them that in 1998.) As Merrickville is half an hour from the edge of urban Ottawa, it is a popular destination for summer day trips.

Get in
The nearest passenger rail is in Smiths Falls, about away by car, or Brockville,  away. The nearest airport is Ottawa-Macdonald-Cartier International Airport, at the southern edge of that city. Merrickville itself is reachable from Ottawa by car or (seasonally) by boat.

By car
From Ottawa, take Highway 416 to Kemptville, then old Highway 43 one town westward to Merrickville.

From Brockville, take Highway 401 east to Maitland (exit 705) then head about half an hour straight north.

By boat
The Rideau Canal passes through the heart of Merrickville on its way from Kingston to Ottawa. Small craft can dock at the canal locks. The lock are approximately from Ottawa, or  from Kingston.

Get around
The village is small and easily covered by bicycle or on foot; a canoe permits exploration of the local shore and the canal.

See
The best way to see Merrickville is by walking, popping into shops and admiring the heritage houses.

Do
Paddlers may follow the Rideau Canal from Kingston to Ottawa (taking advantage of prevailing winds - going the opposite direction means paddling into the wind), either going through each lock or portaging around them.

Walking trails:

Spa:

Buy
Merrickville is filled with small boutiques operated by local artists, artisans and craftspeople.

Sleep
Merrickville has many small, charming bed and breakfast establishments. Two -- Millisle and Wolford -- are among the top 5% of Ontario B&Bs as reviewed by Janette Higgins, author of “Best Places to Bed and Breakfast in Ontario”.

Stay healthy
The closest hospitals are the Perth and Smiths Falls District Hospital in Smiths Falls to the west and the Kemptville District Hospital in Kemptville to the east. Each is slightly over a quarter-hour drive from Merrickville at the posted speed limits.

Kemptville
An unincorporated village of 4000 people on the Kemptville Creek, a few kilometres south of the Rideau River, Kemptville is the only town on the Highway 416 freeway between Prescott and Ottawa. (It's closer to Prescott than it is to Ottawa.)

Go next

 * Ottawa (downtown), north 75 km (45 mi)
 * Kemptville, east 20 km (12 mi)
 * Brockville, south 45 km (29 mi)
 * Smiths Falls, west 22 km (14 mi)

title: Merrickville


text:
Merrillville

Merrillville is a city of 36,000 people (2020) in Lake County, Indiana. Merrillville is a hub for retail trade in Northwest Indiana. The US 30 corridor between Taft Street and Colorado Street has a large concentration of big-box retailers, hotels, restaurants, and automobile dealerships.

Get in
The town is centered on the intersection of U.S. Route 30 (the Lincoln Highway) and Interstate 65.

Barons Bus Lines services Merrillville seven days per week as part of schedule 0025, westbound, with local service between Cleveland, Ohio and Chicago, Illinois.

The closest South Shore Line station is in downtown Gary and can be reached using GPTC Route 17 or Barons Bus schedule 0025. The closest Amtrak station is in Dyer, Indiana. It cannot be directly reached by public transit.

Merrillville's nearest commercial airports are Griffith-Merrillville Airport in Griffith and Gary/Chicago International Airport in Gary.

Get around
The original alignment of Lincoln Highway is known as 73rd Avenue (also called Old Lincoln Highway) in Merrillville, while the current Lincoln Highway (US 30) is known as 81st Avenue. State Road 53 (Broadway) and State Road 55 (Taft Street) traverse the town from north to south.

Gary Public Transportation Corporation provides bus service along the Broadway Avenue Corridor and within the US 30 retail/office corridor.

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Merrillville


text:
Merrimac

There is more than one place called Merrimac:

Australia

 * Merrimac (Queensland) — A town in Queensland.

United States of America

 * Merrimac (California) — A town in California.
 * Merrimac (Illinois) — A town in Illinois.
 * Merrimac (Kentucky) — A town in Kentucky.
 * Merrimac (Massachusetts) — A town in Massachusetts.
 * Merrimac (Wisconsin) — A town in Wisconsin.
 * Merrimac (Virginia) — A town in Virginia.

title: Merrimac


text:
Merrimack

Merrimack is a city in the Merrimack Valley of New Hampshire.

Understand
Merrimack is located in the southern part of New Hampshire in Hillsboro County. The town is made up of four villages: Reeds Ferry in the north, Souhegan Village near the mouth of the river of that name, Thorntons Ferry and South Merrimack in the southern section. Each had its own Post Office, schools, stores and social life. The rivers were the main source of travel. Reeds Ferry and Thornton Ferry were named for the ferries which operated between Merrimack and Litchfield. There were taverns near the ferries to accommodate the travelers. Later there were taverns along what is now Route 3. The stagecoaches stopped at some of these. Souhegan Village, which was the center village, was named for the river. Later it was changed to Merrimack. South Merrimack Village was sometimes called "Hard Scrabble" because of the difficulty of tilling the soil.

History
The town of Merrimack was originally part of the 1673 Dunstable grant. In 1734, Massachusetts granted the town organization as Naticook, which was made up of Litchfield and part of Merrimack. In 1746 the boundary line between Massachusetts and New Hampshire was revised and the land which was originally part of Massachusetts now became part of New Hampshire. April 2nd, 1746 Governor Benning Wentworth signed a charter establishing that the land from Pennichuck Brook to the Souhegan River became the Town of Merrymac. At that time less than 50 families lived here. Pawtucket, Nashuaway and Penacook Indians camped along the banks of the Merrimack and Souhegan Rivers. The Penacooks were greatest in numbers and their chief, Passaconaway, was the ruler of all the tribes in the Merrimack Valley. June 5th, 1750 the towns charter was ratified giving the town an additional three miles to the north. The added a portion called Souhegan East was made up of the land north of the Souhegan River. Merrimack has the distinction of having two birthdays, April 2, 1746 when it was first incorporated and June 5, 1750 when it was expanded. Just prior to incorporation it was part of two states and four townships: Dunstable, Massachusetts, and Litchfield, Bedford, and Amherst, New Hampshire. In the beginning, stores were few and there were no schools. Industry consisted of saw and grist mills. Most of the residents were farmers. The original meetinghouse was built at the exact center of town. There were two cemeteries. Turkey Hill on Meetinghouse Road is the first mentioned in the town records, but Thornton Cemetery on Route 3 has the oldest gravestone. The Nineteenth century saw much growth in Merrimack. The meetinghouse was too small and too far from what had become the center of town. The church and government became separate and two new churches were built in more convenient locations, one in South Merrimack and the one on Baboosic Lake Road. A new town hall was built to replace the meetinghouse. The need for schools was seen and soon Merrimack had eight one room schoolhouses. That number later increased to twelve. Near the end of the century, a form of higher education came to Merrimack. McGaw Normal Institute, a teachers college was built in Reeds Ferry. It later became the high school, only to be torn down when a new high school was built on Baboosic Lake Road. This school is now the Mastricola Middle School. Industry changed to brick yards and bricks were floated down the Merrimack River to be sold in Lowell Mass. In Reeds Ferry, a cooper shop was built by Fesseden and Lowell Company. The Old White Mill, on Main Street, saw many changes over the years. Built as a woolen mill, it became a tannery shoe shop and then several small businesses occupied the building. It is now a chemical company. The railroads came to Town and stopped in four locations. The depot on Railroad Avenue is still standing. Merrimack Flourished in the twentieth century. The population increased. The small neighborhood school closed and three elementary, a middle and a high school were built. Farms were replaced with developments, apartments and condominiums. Industry changed once again, modern facilities housed manufacturers of paper products, furniture and electronics. The brewery and hamlet were opened and the famous Budweiser Clydesdales moved to Merrimack. Many larger stores and shopping malls were built along Route 3 and on Route 101A in South Merrimack. The one time volunteer fire department grew to a full-time force with three fire stations. The police department increased and got its own facilities. Town Hall, the library and the schools all had additions built. The existing roads were improved and more were built, making it necessary to form a Highway Department. The Everett Turnpike and toll booths were constructed, changing much of the landscape of the town. Merrimack has seen many changes since its incorporation in 1746.

By car
Merrimack is located on Exit 11 right of Route 3. Continure North on this highway and it will bring you all the way to the tip of NH. Or if you take this South it will take you to 95 which can either take you to Boston or to Florida.

 * Silver Chariot Limousine- 20 Powers Circle, Merrimack - (603) 424-2181
 * Satisfaction Transport- 83 Daniel Webster Highway, Merrimack - (603) 889-6572

Eat
Fast food options include Wendy's, Burger King, McDonalds and Taco Bell/ KFC.

Connect
Merrimack Fire Department Headquarters 432 Daniel Webster Highway Merrimack New Hampshire 03054 Fire Department: 603.424.3690

title: Merrimack


text:
Merrimack Valley (Massachusetts)

Merrimack Valley is a region northwest of Boston in Massachusetts. It consists of several towns in Middlesex County.

Cities

 * — This former industrial milltown is experiencing a renaissance of sorts.
 * — A bustling majority Spanish city with strong ties to the labor movement.
 * — This gentrifying mill town skillfully combines museums and galleries with an infusion of Cambodian culture. Its many historic mills, canals, and factory buildings have been preserved within Lowell National Historical Park.

Towns

 * — Sleepy residential community along the Merrimack river.
 * — Just outside of Lawrence, Andover features a nice art museum and a variety of other options.
 * — One of many commuter suburbs.
 * — Nature abounds and amenities are scarce in this quiet area.
 * — A rural expanse running along Interstate 95.
 * — There's not much going on here to be perfectly honest.
 * — A few quiet suburbs offer commuter rail connections with Boston.
 * — You'll find more trees than people at the far western end of Merrimack Valley.
 * — More options for forests and commuter suburbs.
 * — Commuter suburbs on the Interstate 495 ring road, Nashoba Valley Ski Area is a popular attraction.
 * — Another sleepy commuter suburb.

Get in
Take the commuter rail from Boston's North Station, or travel along I-93 or Route 3. Traffic can be quite heavy on the highways, especially during rush hour, so consider the commuter rail.

Get around
You'll need a car for travel, especially the case on weekends.

By bicycle
Merrimack Valley has a variety of high quality cycling options. The fantastic Bruce Freeman Rail Trail connects Concord with Lowell, and is probably the most popular. The beautiful Nashua River Rail Trail connects through Groton on its way into New Hampshire. A section of the East Coast Greenway (or US Bicycle Route 1) passes through Groveland on its way to Newburyport. Finally, the Methuen Rail Trail starts in Lawrence and continues north to the outskirts of Manchester (New Hampshire). There's also tons of great mountain bike trails within the region's several State Forests.

Events

 * Lowell Folk Festival — Last full weekend of July, Lowell. The oldest and second-largest folk festival in America, and it's free to boot. The festival features three days jam packed with traditional music and dancing, local artisan demos, parades, and street food.
 * Bread and Roses Festival — First Monday in September, Lawrence. Celebrate the true meaning of Labor Day at the site of the famous workers' strike of 1912. Hundreds of vendors set up shop for one day, offering ethnic foods and artisan crafts. Informational booths detail everything from history and labor relations, to modern social justice movements.

Stay safe
The Merrimack Valley is safe for the most part, but Lawrence and Haverhill have their share of violence, especially muggings and assault. Areas to avoid are usually easy to spot (broken windows, poor lighting, trash on the streets), but be on your guards at night.

Go next

 * North Shore — A charming collection of wealthy towns and fishing villages; this region's many beaches make it a notable summer destination.
 * MetroWest — As the name implies, this is a collection of commuter suburbs and superb historic attractions just west of Boston.
 * Greater Boston — The most populated region in New England, this is the urbanized collection of towns that tightly surround the eponymous city.
 * Merrimack Valley (New Hampshire) — Comprising the three largest cities in the State (including the capital), this is as crowded as New Hampshire gets.
 * Seacoast (New Hampshire) — New Hampshire really makes the most of its only outlet on the sea.

title: Merrimack Valley (Massachusetts)


text:
Merrimack Valley (New Hampshire)

Merrimack Valley is a region in New Hampshire.

Go next

 * Merrimack Valley (Massachusetts)

title: Merrimack Valley (New Hampshire)


text:
Merritt

Merritt is a city of about 7,000 people (2016) in the Nicola River valley of the Thompson-Nicola region of British Columbia. There isn't much to see in town, other than a certain vintage Old West flavour, but as a location makes it a convenient place to stop for a rest or to get some food.

Understand
Ranching, farming, forestry, transportation and tourism are the primary industries. Merritt is the nearest large community to the Douglas Lake Cattle Company, Canada's largest working cattle ranch.

The annual Merritt Mountain Music Festival drew as many as 148,000 people at its peak in the summer of 2005. The festival, combined with the development of the Merritt Walk of Stars - a display of bronzed handprints of Mountainfest artists placed around the community - the Mural Project, the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame, Music in the Square and in the Park along with other tourism development activities have been used to solidify the city's branding as the Country Music Capital of Canada.

Nearby, there are four provincial parks, numerous lakes, and several recreational trails.

History
For years, the Merritt area was a gathering place for local European colonists and First Nations, as the area was a focus of transportation routes used by early pioneers. The grasslands eventually drew the attention of settlers interested in ranching, and the first ranches were staked in the mid-19th century.

In the 1880s three ranches at the confluence of the Nicola and Coldwater Rivers, owned by William Voght, Jesus Garcia, and the John Charters Estate, became the focus of a farming community known as "The Forks". With the completion of the Canadian Pacific Railway through British Columbia in 1885, interest increased in the coal deposits south of The Forks.

Part of the ranches owned by Voght, Garcia and Charters were surveyed in 1893 for the townsite of Forksdale, but the name did not catch on with locals. Instead, the name was changed in 1906 to honour William Hamilton Merritt III, a mining engineer and railway promoter. By 1907, the coal mines were in operation and with the completion of the railway from Spences Bridge, government and other offices starting moving from Lower and Upper Nicola to establish Merritt as the major settlement in the Nicola Valley. Other industries developed in the Valley, including ranching, copper, nickel, gold and silver mining, and forestry, and as a result, new business buildings were constructed.

Merritt and the Nicola Valley experienced prosperity until the passage of restrictive trade legislation in the United States in 1930. Because the city had financially backed one of the major sawmills, the loss of lumber markets caused the city to go into receivership from 1933 to 1952.

The next wave of immigrants, primarily Sikh, from the Punjab region of India, arrived in Merritt in the 1950s, but a large influx arrived in the late 1960s and early 1970s to work in the booming Forestry sector of the time and adding to the cultural mosaic of Merritt. Known as Indo-Canadians, they continue to play a crucial part in the economy—Aspen Planers Ltd., a major employer in the city, and many other businesses, restaurants and hotels in Merritt are owned by members of this group.

Get in
Merritt is at the junction of four highways, of which Highway 5 (Coquihalla Highway portion of the Yellowhead Highway) and Highway 97C (Okanagan Connector) are the most important. This makes it easily accessible by car from Vancouver (2½-3 hours), Kamloops (40-60 minutes) and Kelowna (1 hour).

Highway 5, and Highway 97C all intersect at Merritt with Highway 97C East connecting the city to Kelowna and Penticton, Highway 97C Northwest to Logan Lake, Highway 8 to Spences Bridge and Lillooet, Highway 5A South to Princeton, Highway 5A North to Kamloops, Highway 5 South to Hope, and Highway 5 North to Kamloops.

Get around
Downtown is definitely small enough to get around on foot, although getting from the downtown centre up to the newer developed areas can take up to an hour. Almost anywhere in the city can be reached by an hour on foot. A car or at least a good bike (with a good state of health) is recommended to explore around the city.

See

 * Walk of Stars A collection of hand imprints and painted murals of various country music stars spread throughout downtown.
 * Walk of Stars A collection of hand imprints and painted murals of various country music stars spread throughout downtown.
 * Walk of Stars A collection of hand imprints and painted murals of various country music stars spread throughout downtown.

Do

 * Mountain biking A dry climate and many mountains combine to make a great place for more adventurous mountain bikers. Trail maps and information are available in several downtown stores as well as City Hall. A more sedate bike trip can be found by following the abandoned railroad out towards Spences Bridge.
 * Fishing The Nicola Valley is home to many lakes and rivers and freshwater fishing is popular both during the summer and in the winter. Equipment can be purchased at the Canadian Tire or Powderkeg shop downtown. Nicola and Douglas lake are the most popular locations.
 * Swimming For people that don't mind the cold water, Nicola Lake is incredibly refreshing on an August day. Monck park operates a small beach on the Northern shore, which is probably the most popular place to swim. Two local swimming holes in the Coldwater river are also worth paying a visit. Ask for directions from a local to reach Little Box and Big Box. Big Box requires a good pair of hiking boots and about 45 minutes of hiking to reach.
 * On the water Nicola Lake is a very large lake with many summer homes and good winds. As such, during the summer months, motorboats, sailboats and wind-surfers can all be seen out on the water. Kayaking on Nicola or any of the smaller lakes can also be a pleasant way to spend an afternoon, but be warned that there are no rental companies in town.
 * Camping Several campsites are open year-round in the valley. The most popular campsite is Monck Park, roughly 20 km to the east of Merritt, although it is only open during the summer. Be sure to check the Wildfire Danger Level before going out camping to see if a campfire ban is in effect.
 * On the water Nicola Lake is a very large lake with many summer homes and good winds. As such, during the summer months, motorboats, sailboats and wind-surfers can all be seen out on the water. Kayaking on Nicola or any of the smaller lakes can also be a pleasant way to spend an afternoon, but be warned that there are no rental companies in town.
 * Camping Several campsites are open year-round in the valley. The most popular campsite is Monck Park, roughly 20 km to the east of Merritt, although it is only open during the summer. Be sure to check the Wildfire Danger Level before going out camping to see if a campfire ban is in effect.

title: Merritt


text:
Merseyside

Merseyside is a metropolitan county in the North West of England.

It consists of the city of Liverpool and the boroughs of Knowsley, Sefton and St.Helens on the east of the River Mersey, and the borough of Wirral, which is part of the peninsula of the same name, on the west of the River Mersey.

Towns

 * — famed for its football teams, the Grand National horse race, music (including The Beatles), vibrant nightlife and its links with the arts and culture
 * — a rewarding afternoon trip from Liverpool
 * and Eastham, Wirral
 * , Wirral
 * – picturesque model village and Bebington, Wirral
 * and New Brighton, Wirral
 * , Caldy, Hoylake and Meols, Wirral
 * , covering Greasby, Frankby, Irby, Upton, Woodchurch, Moreton and Leasowe
 * , covering Barnston, Brimstage, Thornton Hough and Raby
 * and New Brighton, Wirral
 * , Caldy, Hoylake and Meols, Wirral
 * , covering Greasby, Frankby, Irby, Upton, Woodchurch, Moreton and Leasowe
 * , covering Barnston, Brimstage, Thornton Hough and Raby
 * , covering Greasby, Frankby, Irby, Upton, Woodchurch, Moreton and Leasowe
 * , covering Barnston, Brimstage, Thornton Hough and Raby

Understand
Merseyside is one of the metropolitan counties of England, created in 1974. Before that, Wirral was wholly within Cheshire and the area north and east of the Mersey was part of Lancashire.

By plane

 * receives flights from Northern Ireland, the Isle of Man, Jersey, Eire, the Canary Islands, continental Europe and the Mediterranean.

The nearest airport for flights from North America, the Caribbean, Africa and the Middle East is Manchester Airport, which is about an hour away by car. Though, the major intercontinental routes are through Heathrow and Gatwick in London.

By road
The M62, M53, M57 and M58 motorways connect Merseyside to the national motorway network.

By coach
Long-distance coaches are provided by Flixbus, Megabus and National Express to Liverpool.

By train
Intercity services arrive at

By ferry

 * Dublin ferries arrive at the
 * Belfast ferries arrive at the
 * The Isle of Man ferry arrives at Liverpool's Pier Head.

By car and motorbike
Motorists should be aware that the two road tunnels, from Birkenhead and Wallasey to Liverpool, both have a toll for use. The toll booths are all situated on the Wirral side of the river.

By train and bus
Frequent and reliable Merseyrail services operate between many of Merseyside's stations. There is also an extensive bus network. Saveaway tickets are valid on all public transport in Merseyside. These can be purchased at any staffed railway or bus stations in Merseyside. An "all areas" ticket is best, particularly if intending to also travel to Chester and Ellesmere Port. The ticket costs about £5 per day, for off-peak use.

By bike
Passengers can take a bike on Merseyrail trains or the Mersey ferry at no extra charge. Cycling is not permitted through the Wallasey (Kingsway) road tunnel at all, and not permitted through Birkenhead (Queensway) road tunnel M-F 6AM-8PM, Sa 7AM-8PM, and Su 8AM-9PM. Cyclists will have to use the train or ferry to cross the river, during these times. If using the Queensway tunnel during the night, cyclists must also maintain a speed of at least uphill for about one mile, so a good fitness level is required.

Do

 * Golf: the Royal Liverpool GC is based at Hoylake. It hosts the Open Golf tournament in July 2023.

Go next

 * Cheshire
 * Lancashire
 * Isle of Man
 * Belfast, Northern Ireland
 * Dublin, Ireland
 * North Wales

title: Merseyside


text:
Mersin

Mersin is a city in Turkey on the Mediterranean coast, on the southwestern edge of Cilician Plains.

Mersin hosted the XVII Mediterranean Games in June 2013.

Understand
Once a small fishermen's village, Mersin grew as the export harbour of the surrounding region, as more and more of the wilderness of the Cilician Plains was ploughed up to produce cotton, which was in high demand the world around with the start of the industrial revolution in the textile sector. It still hosts the largest port of the country today, with its export articles being diversified.

By train

An hourly regional train from Adana takes 90 min via Yenice and Tarsus, for a fare in 2023 of 37 TL. Three of these per day start in Iskenderun, and one from İslahiye via Osmaniye. Change at Yenice for the Kayseri-Adana train.

By plane
See Adana for the airport, which has frequent flights from Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir. The direct shuttle bus from the airport to Mersin is axed.

By bus
There is a bus station in eastern part of the city. There are city buses running between the city center and the bus station. Usually each bus company has its own shuttles running between city center, western (coastal part) and the bus station.

From the bus station there are buses to almost every city in Turkey, including, among others, Gaziantep (5 hours, 25 TL) and to small cities and villages in Cilician Mountains (the rest of Mersin Province), such as Silifke (2 hours, 10 TL).

By boat
Ferries operated by Akgunlerdenizcilik connect Mersin with Kyrenia (Girne) and Famagusta (Mağusa) in Northern Cyprus. The Kyrenia line are fast-cats for foot passengers and only run in summer, taking just 80 min. They run from Mersin Su Tu Th at 21:00, and from Kyrenia M W F at 23:00. In winter, or with a car, you can only sail to Cyprus from Taşucu, 50 km west.

A ferry also runs between Taşucu and Tripoli in Lebanon, inquire at the port for up to date information about this route.

Do

 * Walk on the Antic Road, constructed in the Roman Period.
 * Mounted excursion in an ambient nature setting at the mounted sports club.

Buy
Buy very high quality leather jackets from the bazaar just beside Holly Mosque (local name Ulu Cami). Don't forget to bargain, and after bargaining for 15 minutes, you might be able to buy leather jacket for half price. There is an antique store behind the Mersin Hotel specialising in prayer beads. The prices range from 10 TL to over 5000 TL and it is hard to evaluate the price; the 50-100 TL range is adequate for a souvenir. Dösim Store is a trustworthy place to buy a souvenir; the prices are fixed (no bargaining) and often cheaper than other stores. Since it is a public institution, the products are authentic and usually come with a certificate in English. Dösim store is beside the Atatürk's House in Mersin.

 * Mersin Forum AVM is a large mall in Yenişehir district.

Eat
Tantuni, finely minced fried meat and onion wrap, is one of the most famous food in this region. Don't leave the city without tasting it. In the center of the city, you will see several small local restaurants with this special fantastic food.

Haslets are very common ingredients of the food in Mersin. There are dishes made with intestines, lung, liver, kidneys, stomach, brain. Even though there are restaurants serving this food all throughout the day, this type of food can be found easily late at nights. Especially soups with inner organs are drank late at night after consumption of alcohol.

Cezerye is a mix made of carrots and fig and lots of spices may also include nuts depending on where you buy it from.

Kerebic is dessert unique to this area. It is a dough filled with pistachios and served with vegetarian cream on top of it.

Künefe is also another dessert completely unique to the Arabic influenced areas. Its oven baked shredded pastry with salt-free cheese filling in thick syrup. Although its really requires a developed taste, it carries the spirit of the vicinity

Drink
Şalgam can be found on every street in Mersin even though it is a drink from Adana. Good examples of local brands are Serafressh (with double s) and Turnib (with b, not p). Since the cities in Çukurova all have similar cuisines taste of Salgam doesn't differ that much.

In the past there were many Boyan (licorice drink) sellers in the city center. Such drink still exists but cannot be found easily.

Kaynar is another local drink, generally served to celebrate a newborn. It is usually served hot with cinnamon and walnut. The ingredients of kaynar can be found in some stores and can be a cheap exotic gift.

Sleep
There are many hotels in the city, but one of the best ones is Sultasa Hotel. It is kind of in the city center. The entrance fee for this place is 35 TL excluding accommodation. For accommodation, you should pay 80 TL more.

Go next

 * Kizkalesi (Maiden's Castle) and Cennet-Cehennem (Heaven-Hell) are west of city, about 60 km away, on the Mediterranean shore.
 * Adam Kayalar — Near Cennet-Cehennem, a few km inland, are many ruins, ancient gravings and human body reliefs carved on rocks.
 * Tarsus to the east is a historical wonder by richness of religious and biblical entities' mausoleums.

title: Mersin


text:
Mersing

Mersing town is on the east coast of the peninsular Malaysian state of Johor. It is 136 km northeast of the state capital Johor Bahru. It is a gateway to nature and traditional culture. Most tourists will use this town to get to Tioman Island. Mersing town is thus best known for its passenger boat jetty where boats depart daily for numerous offshore islands.

Understand
Despite its estimated population of 21,000, Mersing town should not be viewed as a mere stopover, a transient path to an offshore isle. The town possesses a quiet charm that in many ways represents a fast disappearing small-town culture that once pervaded all of Malaysia. It has yet to see any typical signs of major economic and urban development.

Two main roads run through the town. There only two junctions with traffic lights and only two traffic roundabouts. The two main roads are lined with traditional and modern shop houses that provide a range of modern services. There are traditional fruit sellers, grocers and modern supermarkets, plus a range of local restaurants and fast food outlets, several open 24-hours.

Mersing is a throwback to the small town look and temperament that existed in Malaysia some 20 or 30 years ago. There is little if at all in the way of chic clubs, cafes or shopping malls. The town's appeal lies rather in its out-of-doors, its slow-paced life and natural surroundings such as jungle reserves and unspoiled beaches, rocky coasts and offshore kelongs for pleasure angling. Air Papan and Penyabung beaches are about 15 and 30 minutes drive north of the town respectively. There you can glimpse the remaining vestiges of traditional seaside Malay village life. A must do is to circumambulate the centrally orientated hill that shoots up right behind the Hindu temple, very near to the roundabout, a short walk from the bridge.

By bus
Several bus companies operate direct services to Mersing, e.g. Transnasional from Kuala Lumpur, Melaka, and Singapore, while others that use the east coast highway (e.g. Johor Bahru to/from Kota Bahru) also call at Mersing.

From Melaka, take the S&S International from Central Bus Station (it's the only direct bus). Departure times are 8AM, 12:45 and 6:15PM. It takes about 4½ hours to arrive at the Mersing Bus Terminal (15 min walk to the island boats).

From Singapore, the cheapest way to Mersing is to first take a bus from Queen Street Bus Terminal) to Larkin terminal in Johor Bahru. It takes about an hour off-peak. But it's important to note that direct onward buses from Larkin to Mersing are limited so get there in time to catch an early bus like 8:30AM, 9AM, 10AM, 11:30AM or 2:30PM (the latter being often too late to take the last ferry to Tioman). Buses heading to Kuantan will drop you off in Mersing. There is a direct Transnasional bus from Lavender Street Terminal. It could prove easier but it's three-times the cost. The first bus departs at 9AM and reaches Mersing by 1PM. You will likely need to book a day or more in advance.

When leaving Mersing, if you don't pre-book, the bus may be full. For travel to Johor Bahru (11:30AM) and Singapore (1PM), an alternative is to take the local bus to Kota Tinggi (less than 2 hr) and then another local bus to Johor Bahru's Larkin terminal (less than 1 hour), and then onward to Singapore (buses going all the time).

Transnasional Express Website

 * Kuantan, Terengganu, Kelantan, Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, Singapore

S&S International Express

 * Johor Bahru (RM11.70), Kluang, Muar, Melaka, Kuala Lumpur
 * Tel：07-7992246（Mersing), 07-2226246（JB), 07-7728246（Kluang), 06-2882246（Melaka)

Causeway Link Express Website

 * Johor Bahru （RM11.70)
 * Frequencies：8AM, 11:30AM, 7PM
 * Tel：07-2242244（JB)

Utama Ekspres

 * Kuantan, Terengganu, Kota Bharu, Pengkalan Kubor (Nightly 830pm)

Cepat Ekspres

 * Segamat, Kuantan, Terengganu, Kelantan, Teluk Intan, Lumut

Maju Ekspres

Sepakat Liner Ekspres

Sutera Liner Ekspres

Johora Ekspres

Tenaga Layar Ekspres

Five Stars Express

Mersing Omnibus (local bus)

 * Kluang Route:100
 * Endau Route:105
 * Kota Tinggi Route：103
 * Felda Nitar
 * Kem Iskandar

By car
Rental cars are available in the major Malaysian cities and town. There is as yet no reputable brand name car rental company in Mersing. Visitors are advised to make car rental arrangements elsewhere, but there are a few local rental agencies operating from the Mersing Bus Terminal including Green Matrix Car Rental Mersing Franchise and Mersing Car Rental.

From Johor Bahru
 * Johor Bahru (Federal route 3) - Ulu Tiram - Kota Tinggi - Jemaluang - Mersing

From Kuala Lumpur/Melaka
 * North South Highway - Ayer Hitam Toll - Kluang (Federal route 50) - Kahang - Felda Nitar - Mersing

From Kuantan
 * Federal Route 3 - Pekan - Rompin - Endau - Mersing

By taxi
Taxi transport to and out of Mersing is available from Johor Bahru (2:15) and other Malaysian towns, figure on around RM180 per car at peak hours (F and Su evenings) and as little as RM130 at other times. Taxis (official and unofficial) can be found waiting around the Tioman ferry pier.

There are also Taxis in Mersing to travel within the town and the surrounding areas.

Get around
Mersing town can be navigated easily by foot during the summer period. It is however advisable to travel by motor vehicle as there are many beaches to explore outside of Mersing town.

Mersing Harbour Centre

Officially opened by the Sultan of Johor on September 10, 2017, Mersing Harbour Centre has assumed a central role with regards to transport in and out of Mersing, both by road and by sea. But apart from bus and ferry counters, the complex also offers a F&B section, a number of retail outlets, as well as a range of useful amenities, including a tourism information desk. In addition, taxis, hotels and trips to nearby Endau can also be booked at Mersing Harbour Centre.

See
Mersing River and the traditional Malaysian fishing boats can be viewed from the bus terminal complex down river.

A Hindu temple is at the base of the hill near to the central roundabout.

Mersing Mosque is on a hill top 15 mins walk from the center of town. It has excellent views of the town.

Mersing esplanade and marine park is located walking distance from then town and nearing from Mersing Jetty.

The Beaches in the Penyabung area and at Air Papan. These beaches are all relatively isolated and visitors are advised to exercise care and caution.

Do
Take a walk through the town and savour traditional Malay "kueh" or confectioneries during the traditional teatime.

Have a picnic on a nearby beach.

Buy fishes and other seafood from Mersing morning market next to the Bus terminal.

Internet: an increasing number of shops, restaurants and hotels offer free wifi to customers, otherwise the standard charge in Mersing is reportedly RM 2 per hour.

You can visit Mersing year round. But it can be wet and windy in December and January. Beaches are best between March to October.

Buy
If you are on a budget, it is best to buy everything you may need before you visit Tioman island or the other islands off Mersing as mainland prices are cheaper. Otherwise, there is a large "Kini" Supermarket only 2 min walk from the Mersing Bus Terminal.

Eat

Sleep
There are numerous hotels and motels in Mersing town. However, early reservation is recommended especially when your visit coincides with Singapore and Malaysian holidays.

Budget
The smaller hotels are most suitable for budget conscious travelers and they are usually run by families. Prices range from RM20 per night for non-aircon rooms to RM50 for air-con.

Mid-range

These hotels are suitable for business and family vacation travelers.

Go next

 * Tioman - everybody's real destination
 * Besar Island - closer to the mainland than Tioman, very quiet, no night life. Swimming, snorkeling, beach and jungle walks. Don't forget a good insect repellent as there may be sandflies around! A few budget and mid range hotels. Book in Mersing at one of the travel agents in town or at the jetty - no regular ferry service! During the monsoon season (November to February/March) you still get accommodation, but food wise the choice may be reduced to instant noodles.
 * Sibu Island
 * Kukup - small fishing village with house on stilts

title: Mersing


text:
Merthyr Tydfil

Merthyr Tydfil (Welsh: Merthyr Tudful) is a town and County Borough in South Wales in the historic county of Glamorgan on the southern edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park.

Understand
Merthyr Tydfil is often abbreviated to "Merthyr".

Merthyr was a major centre of coal mining and steel manufacturing and the location of the invention of the steam locomotive. In the 19th century, its population exceeded that of Swansea and of Cardiff. In the latter half of the 20th century, it suffered from serious industrial decline. In the 2010s, it started to undergo regeneration as a dormitory town for Cardiff and Swansea, and exploiting its potential for tourism based on its history and location near the Brecon Beacons National Park.

By car
Merthyr Tydfil can be reached by A470 located 22 miles north of the M4 Junction 32 which is just north of Cardiff. The A470 connects with the "Heads of the Valley road" which connects Swansea with the M5. The road is a good-quality dual carriageway between Merthyr and Cardiff and a good trunk road to Brecon and the North.

The A465 now provides equally good road conditions east to the M5 and west towards Swansea.

By train
has a twice-hourly service to Cardiff Central station and a route to Cardiff Queen Street station.

Do
Merthyr Tydfil makes an excellent base camp for those wishing to see the Brecon Beacons with easier access to transport links and services.
 * Rugby Union: Merthyr RFC play in the Welsh Premiership, the amateur game's top tier. They play at The Wern west side of town.
 * Rugby Union: Merthyr RFC play in the Welsh Premiership, the amateur game's top tier. They play at The Wern west side of town.

Buy
There is a retail park in Merthyr with a wide variety of shops and food outlets. The town centre is mainly pedestrianised and there are some sandwich shops and small cafes with restaurants opening in the evenings.

Eat
The town has a variety or restaurants and takeaways mainly around the town centre or in one of the retail or leisure parks. It mainly offers the usual chains but there are a number of good restaurants offering Indian food, for example, in the evenings.

Go next

 * Brecon Beacons National Park is just outside the town - amazing scenery and walking opportunities.
 * Cardiff and its museums and excellent shopping is a stone's throw away from the town.
 * Swansea offers excellent leisure and cultural amenities, and a stunning coastline. Wales' second city is less than an hour's drive from Merthyr.

title: Merthyr Tydfil


text:
Meru

Meru is in the Southern Rift Valley region of Kenya. It is located on the north-eastern slopes of Mount Kenya massif.

The town consists of two main parts: central Meru, and junction town, which grew in the north, around the junction of B6 and the road to Maua.

Get in
There are minivans from
 * Nanyuki (1½ hours) Ksh300 for a 14 seat minivan.
 * Embu (2 hours).
 * Nairobi (5 hours) Ksh700 for a 11 seat minivan.
 * Isiolo (1½ hours).
 * Airkenya Express fly from Wilson Airport Nairobi to the small Meru airport.

Get around
As this is a small town, you can walk to most places. Or if you prefer, there are motorbike taxis.

Go next

 * Embu
 * Nanyuki

title: Meru


text:
Merv

Merv is an old city on the Silk Road 35 km east of the modern city of Mary in the Mary Province of Turkmenistan. There is a state park for the old city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The oasis of Merv is in the Karakum Desert at the crossing of the Amu Darya (or Oxus) River and the main route to Bukhara and Samarkand. It occupies an area of 86 x 75 km. Today the main city is Mary, which was mostly built during the Soviet period. However there are ruins of at least five older cities.

Understand
The earliest Bronze Age centers in the oasis of Merv date from 2500 BC to 1200 BC. They are in the northern part of the oasis.

The historic urban center developed around 500 BC in the eastern part of the oasis. It consisted of several walled cities, occupying an area of more than 1200 hectares. The oldest of these cities is Erk Kala. According to the famous trilingual inscription of Darius the Great at Behistun (Iran) Erk Kala dates back to the Achaemenid period (519 to 331 BC). The oasis was part of Alexander the Great's empire. Pliny the Elder reported that the city was founded by Alexander himself. It was rebuilt by the Seleucid king Antiochus I Soter (281 to 261 BC) and named Margiana Antiochia. This city is identified with Erk Kala and Giaur Kala and was occupied in the Parthian, Sasanian and early Islamic periods. It is suggested that Greek and Roman soldiers who survived the defeat of the Romans against the Parthians at Carrhae in 53 BC settled at Margiana. Islam was dominant after the death of the last Sasanian King Yazdigird III (651 AD).

The medieval city from the Seljuk period was erected west of the Giaur Kala. It was walled by Sultans Malikshah and Sanjar in the 11th and 12th century. The city extended over more than 600 ha. It was the capital of the Seljuk Empire (11th to 13th century) and one of the most important cities in this period, and by some accounts the largest city on Earth. It attracted scholars from all over the Islamic world, such as the famous astronomer and poet Omar Khayyam and the geographer Yaqut al Hamavi.

The city was sacked by the Mongols in 1221 and never fully recovered. Later (1370-1405) it became part of the empire of Tamerlane. The new city Abdullah Khan Kala was erected by Shah Rukh (1408-1471) on a new site to the south of Giaur Kala. That was destroyed by the Emir of Bukhara in the 18th century.

Get in
A drive from Mary to Merv and back, including visiting several sites of own choice (total 4 hours) cost 150 manat after negotiating (updated August 2018).

See

 * The Bronze Age Settlements Kelleli, Adji Kul, Tai, Gonur Depe and Togoluk date from 2500 to 1200 BC. They are situated in the Northern part of the oasis. Kelleli 3 and Kelleli 4 have a double external wall with towers and houses. Both sites are poorly preserved, but delivered important information of Margiana in the Middle Bronze Age. Taip illustrates the transition from Middle to Late Bronze Age. Gonur Depe is the largest Bronze Age site in Merv oasis. It covers an area of 55 ha. Excavations have revealed a huge palace, a fire temple and a large necropolis from the Late Bronze Age. Remains of large fortified buildings have been discovered in the excavations at Togoluk.
 * The Iron Age Settlements, and, in the northern part of the oasis date from 1200 to 300 BC. Takhirbaj Depe was the most important Iron Age center in this area and was occupied throughout the Achaemenid period. During excavations at Yazd Depe a great number of ceramics was found, providing the basic typology of this period. The well preserved fortress of Gobekli from Parthian-Sasanian times is nearby.
 * The Iron Age Settlements, and, in the northern part of the oasis date from 1200 to 300 BC. Takhirbaj Depe was the most important Iron Age center in this area and was occupied throughout the Achaemenid period. During excavations at Yazd Depe a great number of ceramics was found, providing the basic typology of this period. The well preserved fortress of Gobekli from Parthian-Sasanian times is nearby.

The historic urban center consist of three areas: Erk Kala, Giaur Kala and Sultan Kala.

 * The fortresses of Gobleki, Uly Kishman and Garry Kishman formed part of the earthen ramparts, 30 km long, built for protection against invasions from the steppes in the North.
 * The fortresses of Gobleki, Uly Kishman and Garry Kishman formed part of the earthen ramparts, 30 km long, built for protection against invasions from the steppes in the North.
 * The fortresses of Gobleki, Uly Kishman and Garry Kishman formed part of the earthen ramparts, 30 km long, built for protection against invasions from the steppes in the North.
 * The fortresses of Gobleki, Uly Kishman and Garry Kishman formed part of the earthen ramparts, 30 km long, built for protection against invasions from the steppes in the North.
 * The fortresses of Gobleki, Uly Kishman and Garry Kishman formed part of the earthen ramparts, 30 km long, built for protection against invasions from the steppes in the North.
 * The fortresses of Gobleki, Uly Kishman and Garry Kishman formed part of the earthen ramparts, 30 km long, built for protection against invasions from the steppes in the North.
 * The fortresses of Gobleki, Uly Kishman and Garry Kishman formed part of the earthen ramparts, 30 km long, built for protection against invasions from the steppes in the North.

Do
Owing to its historical significance (and its UNESCO status), pretty much everything to do in Merv relates to visiting the ruins. Wander the ruins and get a feel for what this city must have been like during its heyday.

Eat, drink and sleep
There are restaurants and hotels in Mary.

Go next
Aside from Mary, visitors to Merv will go on in one of two directions:

 * The first is to go to Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan
 * The second is to go to Turkmenabat up near the border with Uzbekistan

The ruins of Gonur Depe are close enough that some tours will hit each site on adjacent days.

For those who are fans of Great Game history, the Panjdeh area is south of Merv and has some monuments. This is where the Russians made a final push to annex territory before the borders of Afghanistan were defined in the 1800s.

title: Merv


text:
Merzouga

Merzouga is a village in the Sahara Desert in Morocco, on the edge of Erg Chebbi, a 50-km long and 5-km wide set of sand dunes that reach up to 350 m above the plain and 808 m above sea level.

Understand
Most visitors come here to take a camel safari into the dunes, and to get a taste of remote (but certainly tourism-influenced) Berber life.

The local population is mix of Arabs and Berber, which are generally welcoming and friendly. Although especially in and around Merzouga far more than usual people will display a touting behaviour and try you to sell a tour or a place to stay.

In general, it needs to be remembered that the dunes barely present an authentic Moroccan landscape. Many tourists come here, ride the camel and bring pictures back home, making people believe that this is what the desert looks like south. However, riding a camel through the dunes and staying in a tent there is nothing authentic about it—it is a touristy facade. Having said that the region is nevertheless beautiful and interesting, and even the regular stony desert is impressing in itself.

By plane
Airports around with international flights are in Fez and Marrakech. From there you can take an intercity bus to Merzouga.

From Casablanca you can fly to Ouarzazate, then continue to Erfoud, Rissani and Merzouga.

There are also weekly flights into Errachidia, about 2 hours north of Merzouga by car.

By bus

Supratours buses from Marrakech and also from Fez have one daily trip each that end in Merzouga village, for 160 dirham. CTM only goes up until Erfoud and Rissani.

By grand taxi
From Rissani to Merzouga, a grand taxi or van is 12-15 dirham and goes about every 30 min. If you don't want to wait for other people to fill your grand taxi, pay 60 dirham. If you arrive before sunrise (if you come in the 06:00-07:00 bus from Fez) you might have to pay up to 100 dirham for a grand taxi.

From Erfoud to Merzouga, a grand taxi is 25 dirham, every 1-2 hr.

If you're continuing on to one of the small villages nearby, such as Hassi Labied, the usual tourist price is a fairly steep 50 dirham (total, not per person) for the 5-km drive. Beware that overnight buses may sometimes arrive more than an hour early, putting you in Merzouga before sunrise. If this happens, you may find yourself with no cabs available, so be prepared to wait for someone to arrive.

Stay safe
Beware of guides in Rissani or Erfoud who offer to take you to Merzouga for 5 dirham each, but instead strand you at their auberge 20 km north of the village. If you decline their offers of camel rides and lodging, it is often quite difficult (and expensive) to make your way back to town.

By car
From Marrakech, drive east to Erfoud (2 days drive, stop for the night in or near Ouarzazate). From Fez, drive south to Erfoud (1 day).

From Erfoud, continue south 14 km to Rissani, carry on through the village and follow the road southeast for 40 km to Merzouga. The road has been asphalted to Merzouga, and also to Taouz, a southern military border town (foreigners cannot cross here). The short access roads (1- or 2-km long) from the main road to the hotels alongside the sand dunes are normally not asphalted, but well maintained. There is now an asphalt road to Hassi Lybed, a smaller village about 4 km before Merzouga.

By tour
Tour operators can arrange 4x4s with driver/guides from Marrakech or Casablanca and back.

Get around
The only way to get around Merzouga is on foot. It's fairly small and easily walkable, but you'll likely want to avoid the midday heat.

See
Sunrise/sunset over the dunes. Folk dances and black G'naui music. Visits to villages near Merzouga inhabited by Senegalese musicians and dancers such as Khamlia can be arranged with some guides, ask at your hotel.

 * Animals – See the ducks, and in early spring, flamingos, on the Dayet Srji salt lake, just west of Merzouga (according to the visitor information office in Hassilabied, there has been no water for at least the past 2 years, as of May 2018). There are many other species of birds (ruddy sheldrack and Kittllitz's plower during the spring migration, Tristram's desert warbler, the Egyptian nightjar, the Arabian buzzard and falcons), and the desert sparrows are unique to this region and can be seen all year round. There are also reptiles (Algerian sand lizards, Berber skinks and snakes), mammals such as gerbils, desert hedgehogs, field mice and desert foxes, and scarab beetles. In the morning, you can often see their tracks in the sand. Brown scorpions can occasionally be seen, but they come out at night and tend to avoid humans.

Do

Tours
Tour prices are highly negotiable, try 25% less than quoted and use the walking out trick. There is always more than enough companies. And always negotiate with the company directly, not through your accommodation or any arbitrary tout from the street.

Camel Safaris
Almost certainly the reason you came here in the first place. After taking you into the village to buy a proper head scarf (of course from their cousin for a special price) to protect you from the sun, you'll be thrown on a camel and lead off into the desert. (Good luck with your knees.) Meals, water, tents, etc should all be taken care of by your leader, but naturally you will have to confirm this when you do your negotiations beforehand and make sure you're very specific, and ask lots of questions. Speaking of negotiations, do your research before coming (ask other travelers in Marrakech, etc., for recommendations and for what they paid), and be prepared to bargain very hard(!)—the industry here is smooth and deceivingly vicious. On the first night, most groups end up at a pre-setup camp circle at the base of some large dunes, where the various tour operators have their "authentic" Berber tents set up. Dinner will be cooked here, often some music played, and you can frolic on the sand dunes under zillions of stars. If you're only on a 1-day trip, then you'll wake early, have some tea/breakfast, and head back before it gets hot. Others will hang out during the day, beating the heat in the tents all day, and either spend another night here or venture further out beyond the dunes and stay with a Berber family, where you'll then set out to return early on the third morning. A few operators have their own private camps that will offer a more remote experience, ask around if this is what you seek. This provides a more intimate setting with fewer people and noise where you can relax and enjoy the stars. Cost a little bit more but worth it. Also check to see if showers are included after the camel trek.

Money
There is apparently just at the north entrance of Merzouga, which might not be very reliable. It is better to stack up cash in Erfoud or Rissani.

Eat
Most people eat meals at their lodge, but a few basic restaurants are scattered around the town if you are in need.

Stay healthy
For prepared food try to prefer places with enough customers. This is the desert and hygiene standards are lower than in the rest of Morocco.

Camping
Just head into the dunes and get a place on top of a dune or somewhere close to a tree to be safe from any vehicles. Even though at night probably no one is driving around, because it is too dangerous getting stuck. The desert here is relatively warm at night but a proper sleeping bag is necessary. Check the weather forecast for the temperatures.

Merzouga
Just near the village there are many small to larger estates made of mud which have decent rooms, running water, WiFi and breakfast available for prices starting from 170-300 dirham for a double.

Around Merzouga
There are about 50 small hotels of varying categories along the sand dunes, and most of them own camels or can at least arrange your trip into the dunes.

Touts
Basically everyone in Merzouga is a tout, trying to sell you a camel, ATV or 4WD tour, or anything else that can be had a commission from. Be sure not to fall for any guy that has nothing to do with the actual tour, operator or accommodation.

Romantic liaisons
As with many places, be cautious with anyone who seems interested in romantic entanglements, as incidents of foreign women being charmed by locals and then discovering that the "romance" was merely a cover to obtain sex, money, or other services are not uncommon and increasing. This seems especially true for young foreign travellers. The cosy camp surroundings and maybe some wine does the rest.

Go next
Supratours buses travel from the center of Merzouga village north to Meknes, Fez and also over to Ouarzazate and then Marrakech. This is new and an affordable way to get in and out the desert. But there are no stops to visit the Todra Gorge, Dades valley or Ait Ben Haddaou or Ifrane. Or to take rest stops at your leisure! They travel overnight from Fez and during the day from Marrakech.

title: Merzouga


text:
Mesa

Mesa, population 518,000 (2019), is in Maricopa County. It is Arizona's third-largest city, and is part of the Greater Phoenix urban complex.

Understand
Mesa was founded in January 1878 by Latter-day Saint or LDS (often nicknamed Mormon) pioneers and its population is still roughly one-tenth Mormon. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints operates one of its oldest temples in Mesa (the Mesa Arizona Temple, opened in 1927), and the city is a hub for Latter-day Saints residing in the Phoenix Metro area. Mesa is one of the United States' fastest-growing cities and ranks as the 38th-largest. The city has a larger population than better-known United States cities such as Cincinnati, Cleveland, Miami, Minneapolis, New Orleans, Saint Louis and Saint Paul.

Although it has a large population, Mesa is a "bedroom community." Neighborhoods across the city are diverse — some areas have experienced urban blight, while others contain elaborate custom homes.

By car

 * US 60.svg If you happen to be coming from an "easterly" direction (a.k.a. New Mexico), that means you'll probably be taking US-60 (the Superstition Freeway) right through the 17 exits that comprise Mesa, as part of the Greater Phoenix metropolitan area.
 * Arizona 87.svg SR-87 connects Tonto National Forest (in the NE) through the Salt River-Pima-Marico Indian Community, Mesa and Chandler, towards I-10 in Sweet Water Village. It goes north-south through Mesa as Country Club Dr.
 * Arizona 101.svg State Route (SR) 101 goes north-south between Scottsdale and Chandler. It divides Tempe from Mesa.
 * Arizona 202.svg SR-202 loops around the northern and eastern edge of Mesa, from it junction with SR-101 in the NW corner of Mesa to its junction with US Hwy 60 east of Mesa. Going west of SR-101 the 202 goes alongside the Salt River, along the northern edge of Tempe towards Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
 * There are various east-west roads (Rio Salado, Apache Blvd/Main St, Broadway Rd, Southern Ave) connecting Tempe to Mesa which are not designated as a state or US Highway except Apache Blvd/Main St which was US Highway 60 before the Superstition Freeway (present US 60) was built.

By plane

 * Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is to the west of Mesa and is the major air hub for all of Arizona and the southwestern United States. Flights arrive and depart to domestic and international destinations. If you're prone to airsickness, try to get flights into this airport that arrive either before noon or after sundown, particularly during late spring and early summer. The high elevation, hot sun, and spring winds combine to produce thermals that can make afternoon arrivals an extremely bumpy proposition.

By train
The Valley Metro Light Rail runs through Mesa along Main St, connecting to Tempe and Downtown Phoenix. It begins/ends at the in Mesa. There's a transit center next to the Gilbert Rd/Main St Station served by the 40 & 45 buses. The 136 bus passes by along Gilbert Rd and does not go into the transit center. From Sky Harbor Airport, take the PHX Sky Train (people-mover) to the light rail station. (44th St/Washington Station).

By bus

 * Valley Metro buses pass through Mesa on multiple routes, connecting Mesa into the neighboring cities of Tempe, Chandler and Gilbert.
 * Valley Metro buses pass through Mesa on multiple routes, connecting Mesa into the neighboring cities of Tempe, Chandler and Gilbert.

Get around
Mesa is laid out on a straightforward north-south, east-west grid pattern as regards its major streets. Center Street and Main Street are perpendicular to each other and, as suits their names, intersect in the city center in a manner that provides an excellent reference point and makes city navigation relatively easy.

See

 * Mesa Temple Visitors' Center, 455 E. Main St. The center includes a children’s play area, with interactive activities; a hang out room for teens; a community section, with displays explaining the city's diverse history and spiritual heritage built by Native Americans, Hispanic migrants and Mormon pioneers. There is also a coloring wall, an interactive justserve.org screen to locate local community service opportunities, a 3D-scale model of the temple, and a display where visitors learn more about God and Jesus Christ. In addition, there is a family research area with computer workstations and helpers where guests can work at their own pace researching, adding to their family history and connecting their family tree. Free admission. Open daily 10AM-9PM.
 * Mesa Temple Visitors' Center, 455 E. Main St. The center includes a children’s play area, with interactive activities; a hang out room for teens; a community section, with displays explaining the city's diverse history and spiritual heritage built by Native Americans, Hispanic migrants and Mormon pioneers. There is also a coloring wall, an interactive justserve.org screen to locate local community service opportunities, a 3D-scale model of the temple, and a display where visitors learn more about God and Jesus Christ. In addition, there is a family research area with computer workstations and helpers where guests can work at their own pace researching, adding to their family history and connecting their family tree. Free admission. Open daily 10AM-9PM.
 * Mesa Temple Visitors' Center, 455 E. Main St. The center includes a children’s play area, with interactive activities; a hang out room for teens; a community section, with displays explaining the city's diverse history and spiritual heritage built by Native Americans, Hispanic migrants and Mormon pioneers. There is also a coloring wall, an interactive justserve.org screen to locate local community service opportunities, a 3D-scale model of the temple, and a display where visitors learn more about God and Jesus Christ. In addition, there is a family research area with computer workstations and helpers where guests can work at their own pace researching, adding to their family history and connecting their family tree. Free admission. Open daily 10AM-9PM.
 * Mesa Temple Visitors' Center, 455 E. Main St. The center includes a children’s play area, with interactive activities; a hang out room for teens; a community section, with displays explaining the city's diverse history and spiritual heritage built by Native Americans, Hispanic migrants and Mormon pioneers. There is also a coloring wall, an interactive justserve.org screen to locate local community service opportunities, a 3D-scale model of the temple, and a display where visitors learn more about God and Jesus Christ. In addition, there is a family research area with computer workstations and helpers where guests can work at their own pace researching, adding to their family history and connecting their family tree. Free admission. Open daily 10AM-9PM.

Annual events

 * Mesa Temple Christmas Lights, 101 S. LeSueur. Hundreds of thousands of lights and Biblical displays adorn the north lawn and gardens of the Mesa Arizona Temple. This free event, which started in 1979, starts each year on the day after Thanksgiving and runs through New Year's Eve. The lights are on every night from 5 to 10PM. During the season, an International Nativity Display featuring more than 150 nativity scenes from around the world (many handcrafted) is held at the Visitors' Center at the northeast corner of the temple lot. Both events are free and free parking is available nearby.
 * Mesa Temple Christmas Lights, 101 S. LeSueur. Hundreds of thousands of lights and Biblical displays adorn the north lawn and gardens of the Mesa Arizona Temple. This free event, which started in 1979, starts each year on the day after Thanksgiving and runs through New Year's Eve. The lights are on every night from 5 to 10PM. During the season, an International Nativity Display featuring more than 150 nativity scenes from around the world (many handcrafted) is held at the Visitors' Center at the northeast corner of the temple lot. Both events are free and free parking is available nearby.
 * Mesa Temple Christmas Lights, 101 S. LeSueur. Hundreds of thousands of lights and Biblical displays adorn the north lawn and gardens of the Mesa Arizona Temple. This free event, which started in 1979, starts each year on the day after Thanksgiving and runs through New Year's Eve. The lights are on every night from 5 to 10PM. During the season, an International Nativity Display featuring more than 150 nativity scenes from around the world (many handcrafted) is held at the Visitors' Center at the northeast corner of the temple lot. Both events are free and free parking is available nearby.
 * Mesa Temple Christmas Lights, 101 S. LeSueur. Hundreds of thousands of lights and Biblical displays adorn the north lawn and gardens of the Mesa Arizona Temple. This free event, which started in 1979, starts each year on the day after Thanksgiving and runs through New Year's Eve. The lights are on every night from 5 to 10PM. During the season, an International Nativity Display featuring more than 150 nativity scenes from around the world (many handcrafted) is held at the Visitors' Center at the northeast corner of the temple lot. Both events are free and free parking is available nearby.
 * Mesa Temple Christmas Lights, 101 S. LeSueur. Hundreds of thousands of lights and Biblical displays adorn the north lawn and gardens of the Mesa Arizona Temple. This free event, which started in 1979, starts each year on the day after Thanksgiving and runs through New Year's Eve. The lights are on every night from 5 to 10PM. During the season, an International Nativity Display featuring more than 150 nativity scenes from around the world (many handcrafted) is held at the Visitors' Center at the northeast corner of the temple lot. Both events are free and free parking is available nearby.
 * Mesa Temple Christmas Lights, 101 S. LeSueur. Hundreds of thousands of lights and Biblical displays adorn the north lawn and gardens of the Mesa Arizona Temple. This free event, which started in 1979, starts each year on the day after Thanksgiving and runs through New Year's Eve. The lights are on every night from 5 to 10PM. During the season, an International Nativity Display featuring more than 150 nativity scenes from around the world (many handcrafted) is held at the Visitors' Center at the northeast corner of the temple lot. Both events are free and free parking is available nearby.

Stay safe
Mesa has a fairly high crime rate compared to some other American cities, but most of it is property crime of more concern to residents than to visitors.

Go next

 * Within in the Greater Phoenix area:
 * "Old Town" Scottsdale in the northeast Phoenix metropolitan area is the single most tourist friendly area in the valley.
 * Downtown Tempe has a lively night life, being a college town. Accessible by light rail.
 * Head to Phoenix – catch a show or a ballgame, or see the Phoenix Zoo or the Desert Botanical Garden.
 * There are many museums and other cultural venues in Phoenix. Accessible by light rail.

 * North of the Metro Phoenix area — on Interstate 17 North:
 * Visit the Grand Canyon – a four hours drive to the South Rim, north near Flagstaff.
 * Elsewhere north: Prescott, Sedona and Route 66.

 * South — on Interstate 10 East:
 * See South Central Arizona, with an hour-and-a-half drive to Tucson.
 * Elsewhere south: Picacho Peak State Park, Saguaro National Park, Santa Catalina Mountains.

 * West — on Interstate 10 West (via Loop 202 West):
 * Head towards the Palm Springs area in the California Desert, or continue onwards to Southern California for Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Hollywood.

title: Mesa


text:
Mesa Verde National Park

 Mesa Verde National Park is a United States national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the southwestern corner of the state of Colorado. The park is world-renowned for the incredibly well-preserved cliff dwellings it protects. Indeed, they are some of the most interesting archaeological sites in North America. Mesa Verde is also notable for its desert landscape of tall mesas and steep canyons.

History
The name of the park is Spanish for "green table", referring to the vegetation found at the tops of the plateaus in this area. The Ancestral Puebloans chose Mesa Verde as their settlement 1,400 years ago, establishing small pithouses (large holes in the ground with a wooden roof overhead) on the mesa tops. Back then they were more nomadic, and hunted game with spears and were skilled basketmakers. Over time they began to farm the mesa tops, learned how to create pottery, and fashioned bows and arrows instead of spears.

As the population grew, the Ancestral Puebloans moved from pithouses to pole-and-adobe houses built above ground. The pithouses became kivas (ceremonial rooms) as the mesa top villages became larger and more complex. Stone masonry replaced the poles and mud of earlier houses, as villages rose two or three stories high, became more compact, and had many rooms. During this time, pottery replaced baskets as a more desired craft.

Around 1200 CE, the Ancestral Puebloans began to move under overhangs found in the cliffs of the canyons. Here, they built cities with multi-storied structures that housed 100-400 people. However, the Ancestral Puebloans only used these incredible constructions for less than 100 years. By 1300 CE, they had left the area for reasons unknown, traveling south into New Mexico and Arizona.

Landscape
About 100 million years ago, Mesa Verde and the surrounding area were covered by a shallow sea, and sand deposits cemented into the sandstone layers that make up much of the park's geology. As the sea withdrew to the south, uplift in the area created the high plateau that is Mesa Verde. Over time, small streams have cut channels into the plateau, creating steep canyons which separate the individual mesas. Traveling south, the mesa extends like fingers into the desert.

From the park entrance in Montezuma Valley, the elevation climbs steeply to the rim of the flat mesa top. Elevations in the park range from about 6,100 feet (1,860 meters) to about 8,400 feet (2,560 meters) above sea level.

Flora and fauna
There is a lot of wildlife in the park. Mule deer are a common sight, as are wild turkeys since the park service reintroduced them. You might also see squirrels, skunks, or an occasional black bear around the campground. Other mammals seen in the park include coyote, gray fox, mountain lion, black bear, elk, marmot, porcupines, and wild horses. There is also a wide variety of birds in the park (Mesa Verde even has a bird checklist). In the canyons you could find warblers, flycatchers, woodpeckers, jays, hawks, chickadees, titmice, and other species. Hawks, golden eagles, and peregrine falcons can be seen on the rim of the mesa along the Montezuma Valley.

Mesa Verde is in the Upper Sonoran Life Zone, which is characterized by semi-arid climate, moderately high altitude, and pinyon-juniper forests. Big sagebrush, Douglas fir, and Ponderosa pine are quite common. Gambel oak is in abundance around the Morefield Campground.

Watch for poison ivy, particularly around Morefield Campground and in the canyons. If you've never seen poison ivy in the wild, the park's brochure for the Petroglyph Point trail—see below under "Do"—helpfully points out a place along the trail where it grows perennially, so that you can see what it's like. Look but don't touch!

Climate
Mesa Verde is a four-season park, with a dry high-desert climate. Summer can get hot, with temperatures sometimes reaching into the 90s (°F) (so drink plenty of water), but the evenings are quite cool (summer lows average in the 50s). Afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August. Winters are rather mild (with average temperatures in 40s), but Mesa Verde is at a high elevation so snow can happen as early as October and as late as May.

Visitor information

 * Park website

Orientation
The major attractions in the park can be seen in just a half day, while longer visits will allow time to explore some of the less busy ruins and to take time to visit rock writings.

Mesa Verde is something of a seasonal park. While it is open year round, to get the true experience it is best to visit when the park is fully open, from April through October. The only places open year-round are at the central part of Chapin Mesa: the museum, the Spruce Tree Terrace restaurant and Spruce Tree House. The drive from the park entrance to the top of the mesa is quite long and steep and, even during the summer months, can be a bit of a treacherous drive as there aren't always guard rails. It may be too daunting during the winter for many visitors.

Direct access to the main archaeological sights is only available on Park Ranger-guided tours. Tickets must be purchased at the Mesa Verde Visitor and Research Center. Otherwise, plan on viewing the sights from overlooks.

By car
Driving is just about the only way to get to Mesa Verde. The entrance to the park is 9 miles east of Cortez and 35 miles west of Durango on US Highway 160 (formerly US Highway 666). The road into the park is steep, narrow, and winding, so make sure your car is in good shape, that it has plenty of gas, and that its brakes are in proper working order. A gas station in the park is located at the Morefield Campground, which is still several miles from the top.

By plane
Cortez has a small airport with daily flights to Denver on Great Lakes Airlines. Durango has a larger airport with daily flights to Denver on United Express, and to Dallas/Fort Worth and Phoenix on American Eagle. Rental car outlets are available at both airports.

Fees and permits
Entrances fees are valid for seven days, allowing unlimited re-entry for the week. Fees as of 2020 are:
 * $10 - Per Person - Fall/Winter/Spring
 * $15 - Per Person - Summer Season
 * $20 - Per Vehicle - Fall/Winter/Spring
 * $25 - Per Motorcycle - Summer Season
 * $30 - Per Vehicle - Summer Season
 * $55 - Mesa Verde Annual Pass

Ranger-led tours of the Cliff Palace, Balcony House and Long House areas cost $5 per person per tour.

In addition, the concession-management company Aramark, which also operates the restaurants and inn in the park, offers considerably pricier -- in the $40 per person range -- guided bus tours of the park that take visitors around to all the major sites while offering history and commentary.

Get around
There are four main areas of the park: Morefield Campground is just inside the park, 4 miles from the entrance. Another 11 miles in is Far View, where you can drive another 6 miles to Chapin Mesa or turn right and drive 12 miles to get to Wetherill Mesa.

For the most part you will need private transportation in order to move throughout the park. The only public transit available is on Wetherill Mesa, where a tram services the area that is otherwise inaccessible to automobiles. The roads are steep, narrow, and winding, so make sure your car is in good shape and has plenty of gas. You can get gasoline at the Morefield Campground store. Watch out for rocks that may have fallen on to the road and take it slow. Be courteous to other drivers and stick to your side of the road. Keep in mind that the Park Rangers enforce safe driving on this road and will not hesitate to hand out tickets for unsafe driving.

Trailers and towed vehicles are not permitted beyond Morefield Campground. If you're not camping, you can park these vehicles in the parking lot located near the entrance station. The road to Wetherill Mesa (open Memorial Day to Labor Day) has sharp curves and steep grades, so vehicles on this road are restricted to less than 8,000 pounds and 25-feet in length.

See

 * The park has many scenic vistas where you can observe the natural beauty of Mesa Verde. Just off the main park road is, , and . There are also good views from the Far View area, the Chapin Mesa Museum viewing deck, and the two loop roads on Chapin Mesa.

Wetherill Mesa sights
Wetherill Mesa is only open seasonally. The Wetherill Mesa road opens at 9AM and closes to incoming traffic at 4:30PM every day, from Memorial Day to Labor Day. At the end of the road is the, 12 miles from Far View. You cannot drive beyond the Wetherill Mesa Kiosk; instead, there is a special tram service which takes you to a few sites on Wetherill Mesa. The tram departs from the kiosk every half-hour on the half hour from 10AM-5PM, making stops at the Long House trail (accessible only by guided tour), the Badger House Trail, and the and. The Kodak House is a series of structures built between crevices in the horseshoe shaped cliff-side. There are two levels of structures which reach an elevation of approximately 75 feet high.

Ranger guided tours
Cliff Palace, Balcony House and Long House are some of Mesa Verde's greatest and most outstanding cliff dwellings. Guided tours are the only way to get up-close with them. Tickets cost $8 per person, per tour, and must be purchased online at recreation.gov or calling 877-444-6777. Due to the popularity of the Cliff Palace and Balcony House tours, visitors may be limited to only one of these two tours per day in summer (Long House can be visited on the same day, however). Try to arrive early for ranger-guided tours as they tend to fill up quickly, particularly in summer. By mid-morning you should be prepared for at least an hour long wait for a place in a tour group. Be forewarned that each tour does involve traversing uneven stairways and tall wooden ladders. While the overall distance you travel on the hiking tour isn’t very far, the nature of the trail, high altitude, and extreme temperatures all combine to make the hike a little grueling for the average couch potato.

Guided bus tours
Aramark operates half-day bus tours of Mesa Verde spring through fall. National Park Service Rangers provide information on short trails, overlooks, and a tour of Cliff Palace. Tickets may be purchased for $38-48 (adults) at the Mesa Verde Visitor and Research Center, Far View Lodge and Terrace, or the Morefield Campground Village. Half-day tours begin at the Far View Lodge at 8AM and 1:30PM.

Hiking trails
Mesa Verde offers several designated hiking trails. Backcountry hiking or overnight backpacking is not allowed, so as to protect the natural and archeological sites in the park. All the trails (except Soda Canyon Overlook and Knife Edge) are strenuous and involve steep elevation changes. Some trails offer little shade, and it can get pretty hot in the summer, so be sure to take along lots of water.

Morefield Campground trails: Chapin Mesa trails:

Wetherill Mesa trails:

Buy
The Mesa Verde Visitor and Research Center and the Chapin Mesa Museum have a bookstore, and gift shops are located in the Spruce Tree Terrance (near the museum) and the Far View Lodge. Buying postcards of the sites will save you the hassle of trying to get perfect shots of the sites with nobody else in them and allow you to focus on getting great photos of you having fun. There are also Native Americans in the parks that sell their arts and crafts. Take a look if Southwestern jewelry and art interest you.

For groceries, camping supplies, and gasoline, the camp store at the Morefield Campground is the only place in the park. They also have a laundromat.

Eat
Food is available at four locations in the park:

Drink
You can purchase soft drinks, juices, and drinking water at any of the restaurants and cafes around the park, including at Chapin Mesa, Far View, the Morefield Campground store, and the ranger station on Wetherill Mesa. There is an espresso bar at the Far View Terrace & Marketplace.

For alcohol, there's just about only one place in Mesa Verde where you can get it, and that's at The Metate Room restaurant in the Far View Lodge, which offers an extensive wine list.

Lodging

Lodging is also available in the nearby towns of Cortez, Dolores, and Mancos and farther away in Durango.

Backcountry
Backcountry camping or overnight backpacking is not allowed in Mesa Verde to protect the scenic and archaeological sights in the park.

Stay safe

Visits to cliff dwellings can be strenuous; many require climbing uneven steps and ladders, involve large elevation changes, or are near steep cliffs. Almost all of the trails in Mesa Verde are difficult. It can get very hot in the summer, and even in the winter it can be quite warm, so drink lots of water and put on the sunscreen.

Be careful while driving, as the roads are filled with sharp curves and often fallen rocks. Make sure your car is in good shape, especially your brakes, and make sure there's plenty of gas in the tank, as there is only one gas station in this large park, and that's at Morefield Campground near the base of the mountain. Many portions of the roads are up against cliffs, so keep an eye out for rocks that may have fallen onto the road.

To protect the fragile archaeological sights in the park, don't sit, stand, lean, or climb upon anything at the sights (that includes ancient walls, structures, ruins, etc.).

For current and constantly updated park information, you can tune your radio to 1610AM.

Go next

 * Durango is a charming city with a quaint and bustling, Old West downtown, an active skiing community, and a number of attractions including a historic narrow gauge railroad that does day trips into the mountain town of Silverton.
 * Cortez is located about 10 miles west of the park entrance. This small (population: 10,000), working-class town doesn't offer much in the way of culture or entertainment, but it's small downtown does offer a few decent, casual restaurants and bars and it has several affordable lodging options. The Cortez Cultural Center, also located downtown, has an outdoor theater and hosts cultural events such as art exhibitions, flute playing and Native American dancing demonstrations during the summer.
 * Hovenweep National Monument is a quiet park located nearby, and contains the ruins of several Puebloan-era villages.

title: Mesa Verde National Park


text:
Mesoamerican Barrier Reef

The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is the second longest barrier reef in the world, after the Great Barrier Reef off Australia's eastern coast and is the largest coral reef in the Western Hemisphere. The reef system includes many protected areas and parks including the Belize Barrier Reef, Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park, Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Sian Ka'an biosphere reserve, and the Cayos Cochinos Marine Park.

The reef system extends along the coast of four countries and includes several offshore islands.

Regions

 * The Inner Reef
 * The Middle Reef
 * The Outer Reef

Other destinations

 * Belize, the entire coastline is protected by the reef
 * Guatemala, the Maya Biosphere Reserve of 2,112,940 ha is the second largest forest in Central America after Bosawas
 * Honduras, the Caribbean Honduras including the Bay Islands of Utila, Roatán, Guanaja, the Hog Islands and the Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve
 * Mexico, the reef spans both the Riviera Maya and Costa Maya regions, including Cancun, Cozumel and Banco Chinchorro
 * Xcalak
 * Isla Contoy, a national park on the northern tip of the Yucatán Peninsula, the reef starts to the south of this 8.75-km-long, 230-hectare island park

Understand
The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System (MBRS) is also known as the Mesoamerican reef and often abbreviated MAR. It is composed of a string of barrier and fringing reefs, atolls and patch corals, lagoons, sea grass beds and mangrove stretching over 1,000 km (620 mi) from Isla Contoy at the tip of the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico, through the barrier reefs of Belize and Guatemala and then down to the Bay Islands of Honduras. The reef system includes various protected areas and parks including the Belize Barrier Reef, Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park, Arrecifes de Xcalak National Park, Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Sian Ka'an biosphere reserve, and the Cayos Cochinos Marine Park.

The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef structure is the largest coral reef in the Western Hemisphere and the second largest barrier reef in the world. The reef ecosystem provides a habitat for countless marine species and is a vital natural resource for coastal communities throughout the region. The reef supports major fisheries and local food supplies, provides coastal protection from storms, and supports a robust and growing marine tourism industry.

The reef system is home to more than 65 species of stony coral, 350 species of mollusk and more than 500 species of fish. The reef is home to numerous endangered and protected species, including the sea turtles (Green turtle, Loggerhead Sea Turtle, Leatherback turtle, and the Hawksbill turtle), the Queen Conch, the West Indian Manatee, the Splendid toadfish, the American crocodile, the Morelet's Crocodile, the Nassau grouper, Elkhorn coral, and black coral.

The reef system is home to estimated 1,000-1,500 manatees, one of the worlds largest population of these creatures. Some northern areas of the reef system near Isla Contoy are home to the Whale shark, the largest fish on the planet. These normally solitary fish congregate there in social groups to eat and to mate.

In the recent past initiatives such as the Coral Friendly Guidelines for Tourists have identified divers, snorkelers and other coral reef visitors as some of the strongest and most effective advocates for coral reef conservation. The previous ICRAN Mesoamerican Reef Alliance (MAR) project that drew to a close in 2007 was an example of a collaborative effort aimed at confronting the decline of the Mesoamerican coral reef ecosystem by improving economic and environmental sustainability through capacity building activities, the development of better practices, and building of partnerships with the private sector. In July 2006 voluntary standards were unanimously approved across the 4 countries of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System and included marine tour operator associations, park managers and conservation NGOs, the cruise ship industry, scientists, and concerned divers. The program was the world's first adoption of voluntary sustainable tourism environmental performance standards for reef marine recreation providers. Participants have agreed to adopt conservation process and marine tourism environmental business practices supporting conservation, sustainability and effectively managed marine parks. Visitors to the region may prefer to use providers who have adopted the voluntary standards in their business activities upon the reef.

By plane

 * Belize City's Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport in Belize is at the mouth of the Belize River on the coast of the Caribbean.
 * San Pedro Town Airport serves San Pedro and Ambergris Caye, the largest island of Belize, in the northeast of the country in the Caribbean Sea.
 * Cancún International Airport provides a gateway to the reef and the Mundo Maya (Riviera Maya). The airport is in Cancún, Quintana Roo, on the Caribbean coast of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, and is Mexico's second busiest airport.
 * Cozumel International Airport is an international airport in the island of Cozumel, Quintana Roo, on the Caribbean coast near Cancún, Mexico. It handles national and international air traffic for the island of Cozumel and may be convenient for nearby areas on the mainland
 * Tulum International Airport ( is a new international airport between the coastal town of Tulum and the inland town of Felipe Carillo Puerto. It handles mostly national flights until March 2024 when several international routes begin service.
 * Roatán's Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport (Aeropuerto Internacional Juan Manuel Gálvez) is on the island of Roatán in the Bay Islands Department in Honduras.
 * La Ceiba's Golosón International Airport (Aeropuerto Internacional Golosón) is on the western side of the city of La Ceiba, in the Atlántida Department on the north coast of Honduras. It is also known as La Ceiba Airport (Aeropuerto de La Ceiba)
 * San Pedro Sula's Ramón Villeda Morales International Airport (Aeropuerto Internacional Ramón Villeda Morales), also known as La Mesa International Airport, is 11 km (6.8 mi) from the city of San Pedro Sula, in the Cortés Department in Honduras. San Pedro Sula is connected to nearby port of Puerto Cortés on the Caribbean coast, 55 km north of San Pedro Sula via a modern 4-lane highway that covers the entire route between both Honduran cities. This is the major international airport in Honduras
 * Puerto Barrios Airport (Aeropuerto de Puerto Barrios or formerly Base Aérea de Izabal) serves the city of Puerto Barrios, the port of Santo Tomás de Castilla and the Guatemalan Caribbean in Guatemala. It is on the Gulf of Honduras in the northern part of the city of Puerto Barrios, near the shore of Amatique Bay. Being near the port of Santo Tomás de Castilla, the airport is of special interest for cruise ship operators, who carry passengers to important attractions throughout the country on chartered flights

By ship
Many cruise lines operate in this area.

Dive operators travel to the reef from the 4 nations that border the reef system.

 * Santo Tomás de Castillabay, is a port serving the city of Puerto Barrios in Guatemala, on the Gulf of Honduras. The port of Santo Tomás de Castillabay is close to the Puerto Barrios Airport (Aeropuerto de Puerto Barrios) and serves as a port and embarkation point for many of the local cruise ship operators.
 * Belize City is the largest city in the Central American nation of Belize at the mouth of the Belize River on the coast of the Caribbean. The city is the country's principal port and its financial and industrial hub. Cruise ships drop anchor outside the port and are tended by local boats.
 * Puerto Cortés is on the Caribbean coast, north of San Pedro Sula and east of Omoa. It is in a natural bay and is the main sea port of Honduras and considered the most important seaport in Central America. Puerto Cortes is connected to the nearby industrial city of San Pedro Sula via a modern 4-lane highway that covers the entire route of 55 km between both Honduran cities.
 * Cozumel is an island in the Mexican Caribbean about 20 km east of Playa del Carmen. It is a popular base for scuba diving trips into the reef system and a popular stop for several major cruise lines.
 * Mahahual in the Costa Maya region of Mexico is cruise ship port in the southern part of Mexico's Caribbean coast.

Get around
The region has domestic air links supplied by many regional carriers.

 * Aero Caribbean, Belize City, Havana, Guatemala City
 * AeroCaribe de Honduras, Roatan, Puerto Lempira, San Pedro Sula
 * Aerolineas Sosa, Tegucigalpa, Brus Laguna, Guanaja Island, La Ceiba, Puerto Lempira, Utila Island, Roatán, San Pedro Sula, Tegucigalpa
 * Aeroméxico, Cancún, Havana, Mexico City, Miami, Monterrey
 * Aeroméxico Connect, Mexico City
 * Aerotucán, Cancún, Cozumel
 * Central American Airways, La Ceiba, Tegucigalpa, Roatan, San Pedro Sula
 * Maya Island Air, Belize City, Cancún, Caye Caulker, Caye Chapel, Corozal, Dangriga, Guatemala City, San Pedro Sula, Placencia, Punta Gorda, San Pedro [Ambergris Caye], Savannah
 * MAYAir Cancún, Ciudad del Carmen, Cozumel, Mérida, Villahermosa
 * Avianca, Belize City, Cancún, Flores, Guatemala City, La Ceiba, Tegucigalpa, San José de Costa Rica, San Salvador, Cancún, La Ceiba, Tegucigalpa, Roatan, San Pedro Sula
 * Tropic Air, Belize City, Belmopan, Caye Caulker, Corozal, Dangriga, Flores, Kanantik, Placencia, Punta Gorda, San Pedro (Ambergris Caye), Sarteneja
 * Lanhsa, Roatan Island, Utila Island, Guanaja Island, San Pedro Sula
 * Volaris, Guadalajara, Mexico City, Puebla, Tijuana, Toluca

See
This region is one of the world's most significant aquatic areas, there is a lot to see including national parks and aquatic reserves.

Do

 * Turtle watching, all species of sea turtle are endangered and need protection, always use care and respect when swimming near them.
 * Whale watching
 * Diving, choose tour operators that use mooring buoys or drift diving techniques rather than anchors that can cause reef damage.
 * Snorkelling

Eat
Please see the individual destination articles for details.

Drink
Please see the individual destination articles for details.

Stay safe
Conditions throughout the area have many variables and there are no universally applicable guidelines for the region. Please see the individual destination articles for details.

Go next

 * Belize
 * Cuba
 * El Salvador
 * Mexico
 * Guatemala
 * Honduras
 * Nicaragua
 * Yucatán Peninsula
 * Bay Islands
 * United States of America

title: Mesoamerican Barrier Reef


text:
Mesopotamia

There is more than one place called Mesopotamia:

Argentina

 * Mesopotamia (Argentina) - A region of Argentina.

Middle East

 * Mesopotamia - An ancient region largely corresponding to modern day Iraq and northeastern Syria.
 * Ancient Mesopotamia - see this travel topic for archaeological and heritage sites in the region.

United States

 * Mesopotamia (United States) - A town in Ohio.

title: Mesopotamia


text:
Mesopotamia (Argentina)

Mesopotamia is a region in the northeast of Argentina bordered to the north by Paraguay, to the east by Brazil and Uruguay, to the south and west by the Pampas region, and in the northwest by the Chaco region.

Like its ancient eponym in the Middle East, the region is dominated by two rivers: the Paraná and the Uruguay, in this case.

Regions
The following provinces are considered part of Mesopotamia:

By plane
Corrientes, Posadas and Puerto Iguazú have airports with flights to Buenos Aires. Check Aerolíneas Argentinas and Fly Bondi.

By bus
Frequent connections between Posadas, Corrientes, Rosario and Buenos Aires.

See

 * The main highlight of this area is the Iguazú Falls in Misiones.
 * The ruins of Jesuit missions in San Ignacio Miní, on the road between Posadas and Puerto Iguazú.
 * The extensive wetlands of the Esteros del Iberá, in Corrientes province. Similar to the more well-known Pantanal in Brazil. The main centre for visiting this area is the town of Colonia Carlos Pellegrini.

title: Mesopotamia (Argentina)


text:
Mesquite

There is more than one place called Mesquite:

United States of America

 * Mesquite (Nevada) - a town in southern Nevada.
 * Mesquite (Texas) - a town in the Prairies and Lakes region of Texas.

title: Mesquite


text:
Mesquite (Nevada)

Mesquite is a city in Clark County, in Southern Nevada, about northeast of Las Vegas. It is immediately on the Nevada-Arizona border, near Utah. The town is on the north bank of the Virgin River, with the smaller settlement of Bunkerville on the south side of the river. Mesquite is a boomtown, attracting tourists and permanent residents. The town's population is about 19,000 (2018). Its biggest industry is tourism.

By car

 * Interstate 15 has two exits (#120 and #122) for Mesquite. The town has built up around the freeway and is a favorite truck stop for all sorts of travelers.  It is the only significant population center on the freeway between Las Vegas and St. George.

By plane
Commercial travelers are probably better off flying to  in Las Vegas.

By bus
Salt Lake Express provides limited intercity bus service.

Gambling
Mesquite has a few gambling opportunities.

Eat
Because of its longtime function as a highway stop, fast food is very common in Mesquite. Many varieties are available, including McDonald's, Del Taco, Dairy Queen, Jack in the Box, and KFC. Most casinos offer a typical Vegas-style low-cost buffet.

Sleep
There are several major resort casinos in Mesquite. The first of these was the Peppermill, now known as Oasis. Now closed due to economic pressures, and mostly demolished.

Go next

 * St. George - 30 miles northeast of Mesquite. Traveling to St. George via Interstate 15 offers some spectacular scenery in the Virgin River Gorge.
 * Las Vegas - 80 miles southwest of Mesquite.
 * Zion National Park - Zion, Bryce Canyon, and other natural wonders are within easy reach of Mesquite.
 * Grand Canyon–Parashant National Monument – the western end of the Grand Canyon largely only accessible via a 4WD

title: Mesquite (Nevada)


text:
Mesquite (Texas)

Mesquite, also known as the Rodeo Capital of Texas, and prior hangout of outlaw train robber Sam Bass, is an eastern suburb of Dallas.

Get around
Come with some thick skin if driving around on I-635, or any DFW Metroplex roadway, for that matter.

title: Mesquite (Texas)