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Mendoza

Mendoza is a city in western Argentina, in the desert Cuyo region. Mendoza is the center of the Argentinian wine industry, for which it is world renowned. It is also near the Aconcagua, the highest mountain outside of the Himalayas. Mendoza is the capital of the province of Mendoza.

Understand
Although it is in an extremely dry desert region, Mendoza has an extensive artificial irrigation system, which allows for greenery throughout the city as well as the growth of grapes used to make its wines. Most streets have irrigation channels on either side, with bridges for pedestrian and vehicular traffic. These are periodically flooded with water diverted from the river. The trees and the wide avenues give the city a beautiful ambience, a change from much of the bare feel of many Argentine cities.

To the immediate west is the Pre-Cordillera of the Andes towering over the city, with peeks at some of the snow-covered (throughout the year) Andes peaks beyond.

A siesta, or afternoon nap, is still taken in Mendoza. Most businesses close approximately 13:00-17:00, then re-open until about 20:30-21:30. Banks are only open in the mornings M-F 09:00-13:00.

Climate
Summers can be hot and dry in the city. January is particularly hot; temperatures of 40°C (104°F) are not uncommon. However, the lack of humidity makes both the heat and cool more bearable than, say, humid Buenos Aires. The nearby mountains are cool, though, even in the summer.

Winters are moderately cold in the city from late June to late August, and very cold in the mountains. Many ski centres are located near Mendoza (see below).

The Zonda wind, a wind characterized by warm, dry air descending from the mountains frequently occurs in the winter, causing temperatures to raise as much as 20°C (36°F) in a few hours. These events can cause temperatures to be warm to hot, even in the middle of winter.

Tourist information

 * Mendoza tourism website

By bus
The large bus terminal is about 2 km east of the city centre. Taxis and remis (private taxis) are readily available (USD3-4 to the centre), or it's a 15-minute walk (not recommended at night, the area between it and the centre borders on the red light district).

There are daily bus connections to all major destinations including Bariloche and Santiago, a beautiful 7-hour bus ride crossing the Andes. Santiago is not always reachable by bus as the Andes pass closes after the first heavy snowfall in the winter months, normally around late May, but when it does snow heavily, the pass is usually only closed for a few days at most. The joint immigration/customs control for Chile-out-stamps/Argentina-in-stamps (convenient) for entry into Argentina is at Los Horcones near Puente del Inca, and the one for entry-into-Chile/exit-from-Argentina stamps is at Las Libertadores in Chile, 5 km past the tunnel. The waiting time at the border which may be very long (up to 8 hours during high season).

Bus travel times to/from Mendoza:
 * 2 hours: San Juan
 * 7 hours: Santiago (But actually 8-9 with the border crossing)
 * 9 hours: Valparaíso, Chile
 * 10 hours: Cordoba
 * 13-17 hours: Buenos Aires
 * 14 hours: Tucumán
 * 18 hours: Bariloche Run by Andesmar and CATA, there is a daily direct bus even during winter (but not along Ruta 40)
 * 18 hours Salta
 * 36 hours: Puerto Iguazú, Andesmar
 * 42 hours: Río Gallegos
 * 60-74 hours: Lima, Peru (via Santiago)
 * 26 hours: Montevideo, Uruguay EGA bus lines

By plane

From the airport, you can take a remis (a type of taxi) for fixed posted prices (AR$225 to the centre in 2019). There is also a city bus (collectivo) that takes you downtown, but it comes only every 40 minutes and takes an hour to make its way downtown (but you need to buy a bus card, not available at airport).

Mendoza is a travel hub of sorts for Argentina.

Buses from Buenos Aires: Micros de Retiro.

By train
As of 2023, there is a limited passenger service from the capital Buenos Aires, travel time is about 28 hours for the full journey. Trains terminate at the western suburb of Palmira.

Get around
Central Mendoza is relatively compact and walkable: for example, it's a 20- to 30-minute walk from Plaza Independencia to Parque San Martin. However to get to the bodegas (vineyards) to the south, walking isn't recommended as it they are at least 10 km away.

In January 2019, there was the radical transformation of the public transport system, introducing Mendotran, a system which is based on the setting up of two different transport "webs": one that takes you into and out of the city proper, and one that connects the different areas of the periphery. Also be aware that bus stop signs may still be missing, and you'll have to rely on Mendotran's website, Google Maps, or the knowledge of people in the area (particularly store-keepers) to find your stop.

Buses are plentiful, but a little confusing at first. A single ticket is AR$70 as of March 2023, though it rises along with inflation every few months. You cannot pay cash for your fare, and it is necessary to purchase a SUBE card (the same as in Buenos Aires and some other cities) that you touch-in when boarding a bus. You can buy this card from some kioskos near a bus stop for AR$490 (March 2023), and charge it up at the same place. An interactive map of the city bus routes can be found on this city website: city bus map. You may also use Google Maps or other map apps to find the best way to get somewhere. The new system relies heavily on the need to change buses to get to your destination, and so it is common for Google Maps to suggest doing just that. Depending on how long your first journey is, you may not have to pay for your second one: after touching in, you have a 90-min period during which it is free to get on another bus.

The Metrotranvía (MTM) is a modern electric tram-train system. The Green Line connects the city center with the south-eastern suburb of Gutiérrez in Maipú district and is being extended to Las Heras in the north of the metro area. It uses the same prepaid-card system than the buses, and combinations with buses can be made at no cost.

Taxis are plentiful, use meters, and fairly cheap, costing about the same as in Buenos Aires. A trip from the bus terminal to Plaza Independencia will cost around AR$50 (May 2018)

Mendoza is one of the few cities in Argentina where Uber has a presence.

You can hire bicycles in town. Most hostels can put you in touch with a bicycle hire outfit. Prices are negotiable (i.e. they will charge you as much as they think you are willing to pay) but you shouldn't pay more than AR$80-100 per day. You will need some form of ID to leave as deposit. Ask to see the bike before handing over your money; many are old clunkers.

See

 * Parque San Martín. This huge park is nice for walking or biking around. There is also a zoo at the north-west corner of the park with animals in small cages. Behind the zoo begins a path up to Cerro de la Gloria where there is a large statue and nice view over the city and of the mountains. It is particularly pleasant at sunset. You can rent a bicycle at "Bicis del Parque - Bike the Park!".
 * Many bodegas (wineries) offer tours. Wine-tasting events are common; check the culture section of local newspapers or ask around. A good period to visit is during harvesting in March and April. Visiting wineries often requires reservations booked in advance (many are closed during the weekends). Some major wineries (Norton, Rutini, etc.) have regular "walk-in tours".
 * Festivals occur often and are usually free. Each has a different theme, and they usually have a stage with singing and dancing and booths that sell food around a plaza. The harvest festival at the end of February is a major event.
 * . There is a dancing fountain and light show set to pop music.

Do
Many companies organize trekking, expeditions, horseback riding, and whitewater rafting in the desert and the mountains. Mountain cabins in areas with spectacular scenery are easily rentable in the city. Check the classified ads in the newspaper.

 * Another rafting company above Potreillos (same run) is "Rio Mendoza", and for a more leisurely raft, Betancourt Rafting below the reservoir.

 * Aconcagua - America's highest peak Aconcagua (highest in the world outside the Himalayas) provides trekking and climbing possibilities. All travel agencies and backpacker hostels can organise trips - although a considerably cheaper and more flexible option is to take a Transportes Uspallata bus to the park from Mendoza's bus station. Probably you would be happy just paying the AR$25 at the park entrance to walk the short interpretive trail and lookout, rather than paying the hefty hiking fees past that you need to pay in town at the Provincial Park office in Parque San Martin (depending on how far and how many days you trek). If you want to see the top of Aconcagua, check the weather for the area before going, or you will waste your time and money.
 * Wine tour - The nearby vineyards will let you taste wine if you show genuine interest. It's possible to do a tour by bike, but there are also fully organised tours going from Mendoza. The most popular destination for biking and wine tasting is Maipu, a short bus (line 10-173) or cab ride out of Mendoza. Many outfits rent bikes and provide a map of the standard route. Do yourself a favor and choose your bike company carefully. For example, Mr. Hugo has well maintained bikes, but Bikes and Wines had terrible old clunkers and there is no better wat to spoil your day than to battle with an awful bike. The most popular high-end wine tours are Malbec Symphony Wine Tours, Ampora Wine Tours and Trout & Wine, which take small groups to better wineries and include a multi-course lunch. There are several excellent wineries on the typical route, including Tempus Alba, Viña El Cérno, Familia Di Tommaso, and Carinae. As an alternative, Bachhus Wines runs bike tours out of Chacras and will rent bikes for about AR$40, provide a map and call ahead to several vineyards. Please be careful with your belongings on the wine tours, as there have been cases of bags being snatched out of the baskets on bikes. Budget from AR$80 to 140 per person for "tastings", based on visiting between 4 and 6 wineries.
 * Cooking class - Ampora, who primarily does wine tours, also offers a cooking class for about AR$115 per person (less if paying cash). The four-hour course includes lots of wine, hands-on prep for several dishes and of course dinner. Finca Adalgisa, about 30 minutes from downtown, likewise offers a cooking demonstration several night per week. Unlike Ampora, this class is more of a demonstration than a hands-on class, but it is immensely popular. The teaching chefs for Ampora and Adalgisa both cooked under legendary Argentine chef Frances Mallmann (1884, Patagonia Sur).
 * Vines of Mendoza - around the corner from the Hyatt in downtown (Avenida Belgrano 1194), Vines of Mendoza is the premiere wine bar in the city. They choose top wines from the region and offer various flight options, each coming with five glasses. Options include the Iconos (top wines), whites, reserves, Uco Valley reserves, Sensory Tastings and even a Blending Lab where you experiment mixing different varietals and take home a bottle of your own personal blend. The Vines hosts a (meet the) Winemaker Night on Wednesdays (07:00-21:00) during high season. Their website has great local tourist information and the definitive "Insiders' Guide to Mendoza."
 * Paragliding (parapentes in Spanish) can be done in Mendoza every day of the year, depending on the winds of course. Tours include a tandem flight of about 15 minutes with an experienced pilot. Costs are about US$100. There are two companies going off Cerro Arco, both easily googleable: "zonadevuelo" (aka Fly Excursion) and "flyadventure"(aka mendoaventuras).
 * Skiing is popular in the winter, but the season is short. Closest are Penitientes (bigger) and Los Puquios (beginner) on the highway almost to the Chile border. You could either take the Espreso Uspallata milkruns, or by bus tickets or packages from the many agencies on Las Heras Street, between Mitre and Peru streets, where there are also lots of ski equipment and clothes rental shops.
 * Paragliding (parapentes in Spanish) can be done in Mendoza every day of the year, depending on the winds of course. Tours include a tandem flight of about 15 minutes with an experienced pilot. Costs are about US$100. There are two companies going off Cerro Arco, both easily googleable: "zonadevuelo" (aka Fly Excursion) and "flyadventure"(aka mendoaventuras).
 * Skiing is popular in the winter, but the season is short. Closest are Penitientes (bigger) and Los Puquios (beginner) on the highway almost to the Chile border. You could either take the Espreso Uspallata milkruns, or by bus tickets or packages from the many agencies on Las Heras Street, between Mitre and Peru streets, where there are also lots of ski equipment and clothes rental shops.

Learn
As with many cities in Argentina, there is a variety of Spanish courses and private lessons are available. There are two extablished language schools in Mendoza: Intercultural is the biggest, has a range of afternoon activities, and is slightly more expensive, Greenfields  (aka COINED) is smaller and feels even less well organised, but many of the teachers work at both schools.

Another great option for individual or very small tailor-made quality group lessons with a highly trained instructor:  Spanish in Mendoza, Argentina (SIMA).

Another interesting way to learn Spanish is by sharing accommodation. For people planning to stay for a couple of months, renting a room in a shared place could be the best option. Prices are reasonable low compared to hostels and hotels ranging from AR$700 in a student apartment to AR$130 for a homestay with no meals.

Buy

 * The wine is excellent and can be extremely inexpensive, although in terms of quality you most often get what you pay for. There are several wine boutiques which offer wine tasting. In general, you can buy the same bottles of wine at local supermarkets at lower prices.
 * Clothing tends to be fashionable and cheap for those paying in US dollars or euros.
 * Electronics are imported and thus expensive.
 * There are several mountaineering and trekking equipment shops offering a wide variety of outdoor equipment. A couple of shops are on Av Juan B. Justo near Av Belgrano.
 * Many unique home decor items are available at good prices.
 * Leather goods are also readily available and inexpensive. There are many shops on Las Heras Ave.

Eat
Good restaurants abound. For a round-up of Mendoza's more expensive eateries ask for the Guía Mendoza Gourmet from the tourist office. The main restaurant strip is on Aristides Villanueva, which runs east-west from Ave Belgrano (where the defunct railway tracks are) to Parque San Martin. It is difficult to have a bad meal here, although as a general rule be wary of special offers from places near the hostels - they may be cheap, but this shows in the quality. There are also some excellent (and pricey) restaurants on Ave Sarmiento running west from Plaza Independencia. A cluster of cheaper restaurants are on Ave Juan B Justo

Try world-famous Argentinian beef asado (roasted) from a parrilla (grill) restaurant, with a bottle of Mendoza's excellent wine. Mendoza's most famous varieties are the Malbecs from Maipú and Luján de Cuyo. Other good options are Cabernet Sauvignons and Merlots.

Even by Argentinian standards, Mendocinans eat late. On weekdays kitchens open around 21:00, but few diners arrive before 22:00. On Fridays and Saturdays things don't get going until 23:00.
 * 1884, Belgrano 1188 in the Godoy Cruz neighborhood. One of Francis Mallman's famous restaurants. The food is expensive but excellent and focuses on local meat and produce.
 * Tenedor Libres: (literally, free fork) Mendoza has many good buffets that serve reasonably priced lunches and dinners. Most offer 5-10 meat dishes freshly cooked on a giant grill and a variety of side dishes and desserts. The quality of the food can be quite good and it's an excellent way to try a selection of Argentine food.
 * Onda Libre Av. General Las Heras 446

Sleep
Although Mendoza is a very liveable city, and many choose to stay for a few weeks to take language courses and the like, there is not the same short term apartment rental infrastructure as in Buenos Aries. An internet search will bring up a few options but be wary of paying deposits before you arrive as the apartment may not live up to your expectations. Traffic noise can be a particular problem.

The most pleasant part of town is between Plaza Independencia and Park San Martin - with quiet street and well kept neighbourhoods, and the bars and restaurants of Aristes Villanueva within walking distance. East of the centre is the more low rent area, and contains the cheaper hostels.

Budget

 * Hostel Lagares Corrientes 213 Downtown Mendoza; ten minutes from the bus station and 2 blocks from Ave. San Martin +54 261-4234727 US$7.80-$18.20 A very friendly, welcoming hostel with big, bright rooms, each with a full bathroom, thick mattresses, daily cleaning service, lockers, Wi-Fi, breakfast, and large common rooms stocked with fun things to do.   Very close to all the downtown restaurants, bars, clubs, shopping, and more.
 * Hostel Lagares Corrientes 213 Downtown Mendoza; ten minutes from the bus station and 2 blocks from Ave. San Martin +54 261-4234727 US$7.80-$18.20 A very friendly, welcoming hostel with big, bright rooms, each with a full bathroom, thick mattresses, daily cleaning service, lockers, Wi-Fi, breakfast, and large common rooms stocked with fun things to do.   Very close to all the downtown restaurants, bars, clubs, shopping, and more.

Stay safe
Be wary of scams, especially around the bus terminal. Occasionally foreigners will pretend to have been robbed and use your sympathy to "borrow" money for a bus ride.

Be careful arriving early morning on overnight buses. If you put your bags down, someone may try to take them.

As everywhere in Argentina, be careful of the vehicles. They do not honour the right of way for pedestrians or stop-sign laws (the police just stand around and are mostly unhelpful). Intersections are death traps, this cannot be emphasized too much, the vehicles are usually driven erratically, fast, without attention, wandering and without signalling. Look everywhere, and make no assumptions. Especially be careful when there is a bus or taxi approaching from any direction. Many pedestrians choose to jaywalk (not a crime here) in the middle of the block to avoid endangering their lives and limbs at intersections!

Consulates

 * 🇧🇴 Bolivia
 * 🇮🇹 Italy

Go next
San Juan, the quieter, greener, "Ciudad Oasis" is 150 km, about 2 hours, to the north. Bus departures every hour or two.

During the December to March high season, July mid-winter break and holidays when bus usage is especially high, buy your bus tickets out at the terminal at least a few days before you leave.

title: Mendoza


text:
Mendoza (disambiguation)

There is more than one place called Mendoza:

Argentina

 * Mendoza - The capital of Mendoza (province).
 * Mendoza (province) - A province of Argentina.

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

title: Mendoza (disambiguation)


text:
Mendoza (province)

Mendoza is a province in the Cuyo region of Argentina. It is located at the center-west of the country, bordered in the north with the San Juan province, in the east with San Luis and La Pampa provinces, in the south with Neuquén province and in the west with Chile, the Andes mountain range being the natural border. It has an area of 150,839 square kilometers. It is located 1,098 kilometers away from Buenos Aires, and only 380 kilometers away from Santiago, the Chilean capital city. This province is an important tourist destination in Argentina. It has the principal ski resort in Argentina, the most famous vineyards and wine producers (internationally recognized), the highest peak in South America, and beautiful places to visit.

Cities

 * – The capital
 * – A major wine making city
 * – The second most important city in the province
 * – The second most important city in the province
 * – The second most important city in the province
 * – The second most important city in the province
 * – The second most important city in the province

Other destinations

 * The, the highest peak in the world outside Asia - ( over the sea) is located near the capital city. Because of this, an important number of mountain climbers arrive to this city each year, and provide a market on its own. Note that during low season, tourists are allowed to take only a short hike.  High season begins on November 15th.  Even towns that cater to tourists near Aconcagua have limited information about hiking, and it seems that hiking in the National Park is discouraged unless one hires a guide.  Nonetheless, the roads in this area are famed for their scenery, especially RN 7, which connects the city of Mendoza, the entrance to the Aconcagua Park, and Chile.  The surrounding scenery is well worth the drive, even if outdoor activities (with the exception of white-water rafting) are not well developed.
 * , near the city of Malargüe, is the most important ski resort in Argentina.
 * It has been a Protected Area since 1988 and now it is a reserve, in the south of Mendoza, near Malargüe City. It is a zone with suggestive beauty and there we have the sensation we are seeing what Earth was like at the beginning of times. In this area there are the four classes of volcanos together! The people in the area say that this doesn’t happen in other parts of the world and this region is almost the first on Earth in volcano density per km2. On this land, where no people live, there is a little fauna and no more plants. It is like a desert. The rain, when it comes, may be very strong, and the wind too. There are only small paths, so it is necessary to go there with people who know the place (because we can get lost), or by van, or horse-riding, perhaps! There are a lot of petroleum machines working, so the men who supervise come from time to time. There are amazing landscapes, with a lot of colours (black, red, yellow, different shades of brown). In some parts we can see it as a lunar landscape, and in others the view is similar to the Sahara Desert. The Reserve is 450.000 ha (very large), and it is similar to the Patagonia.

By plane
El Plumerillo

To fly from Buenos Aires takes 2 hours in LAN and Aerolíneas Argentinas. It takes less than 1 hour to get there from Santiago, Chile, (by LAN). Also, there are 3 flights a week direct from Lima, Perú with Avianca. Flying in on an international flight to Mendoza is a good way for USA, Australia and Canada passport-holders to avoid paying both the hefty Argentina (payable when landing at the 2 Buenos Aires airports) and Chile (when booking your bags through and not exiting immigration at the Santiago airport) reciprocity fees.

On Wednesdays and Saturdays, there are Aerolineas Argentinas flights coming and going from/to Bariloche, Salta and Iguazu.

By bus
Mendoza is approximately 13 to 17 hours from Buenos Aires and 7 hours from Santiago.

By car
By the routes 7 and 8 from Buenos Aires.

Get around

 * The route 40 goes all along the Andes, with incredible landscapes although it is not paved in some places. It connects with the cities of San Rafael and Malargüe

See
Bodegas (Wineries)
 * Bodega La Rural. One of the largest wineries in Mendoza is also one of the best for visits.  they offer tours in English which includes the history of the place, the Museo de Vino, the wine processes and storage containers and finally a tasting of wines only offered at the end of the tour.  Bodega la Rural makes 7 to 8 million liters annually and makes a full range of inexpensive to high quality wines.  Brands produced at Bodega la Rural include Felipe Rutini, Trumpeter, and San Felipe (characterized by an oddly shaped bottle).
 * Carinae
 * Familia Zuccardi
 * Finca Flichman
 * Bodega Chandon
 * Huarpe
 * Trapiche, one of the biggest and widely distributed wines in Argentina but it does not offer tours or tastings.

Learn
Learn Spanish in the city of Mendoza to appreciate the culture more.

As with many places in Argentina, there are a variety of Spanish courses and private lessons are available. There are two established language schools, both disorganized but fun, in Mendoza: Intercultural, has a range of afternoon activities especially appropriate for young partiers, and is slightly more expensive; Greenfields (aka COINED, after the web bookers) is smaller and feels even less well organised, but many of the teachers work at both schools.

Another great option for individual are very small tailor-made quality group lessons with a highly trained instructor: Spanish in Mendoza, Argentina (SIMA). This is a good option for those seriously interested in learning or improving their Spanish and the classes are very enjoyable.

Drink
You haven't gone to Mendoza if you haven't tasted its delicious wines. Mendoza's most famous varietal is Malbec from Maipú and Luján de Cuyo. Mendoza also grows very good Cabernet Sauvignons, Merlots and Syrah. Other important wine regions are Tupungato and San Rafael.

A very nice (and cheap) way to taste Mendoza's wines is to visit wineries around Mendoza city. You can see how the wine is made and then you can taste it. There are many wineries offering tours and wine tastings. Among the best are Bodega La Rural, which has a Museum of Wine, and Finca Flichman.

title: Mendoza (province)


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Mengla

Mengla (Chinese: 勐腊, Lü: ᦵᦙᦲᧂ ᦟᦱᧉ) is a city in Xishuangbanna. It is located near the China-Laos border in Southern Yunnan.

Villages
Guanlei - There are ferry boats to Thailand from Guanlei to Chiangsaen in Thailand four times a month.

Get in
Buses from Jinghong usually take 2½ to 3 hours. Buses leave Jinghong between 07:00 and 18:00 and cost ¥42.

This is the first big town/city for travelers arriving from Laos. Buses from Luang Namtha in Laos take around 4 hours. From Luang Namtha you can get a bus leaving at around 08:00, going to Boten (Chinese border) and Mengla. You must have a Chinese visa beforehand as there is no way to get one on arrival. The border is close (about one hour). Customs procedures will eat up a good hour. The trip costs about 45,000 kip.

It would be wise to have some local currency before-hand. There is an exchange office in the large duty free shopping mall not far from the border on the Laotian side that exchanges Laotian kip to RMB at normal rates, but the Luang Namtha bus does not stop there. The ladies who convert kip around the Chinese side of the border don't give a good rate. Banks in Mengla exchange currency at market rates, but there is no ATM for international bank cards.

When you arrive by bus you may be taken to a depot. There is a ticketing station across the road, perhaps 200 m north.

Get around
There are taxis and tuk-tuks that will take you around town for ¥6.

See
Mengla is the southern gateway to Xishuangbanna, surrounded by untouched rainforest good for trekking. Local Dai ethnic villages are within 10 km of the town that are untouched by commercial tourism if you have the time and are not in a hurry to leave they are worth visiting. New Bupan Aerial Skyway Park. The park gets its name from the skyway in the clouds attraction. Visitors literally walk through the canopy of the key rainforest species, Paraforestea, a tall, straight-trunked tree. You walk supported by cable-supported rope transoms that permit you to step along among the higher branches of the forest. It gives you a new perspective on the rainforest. Overall the park is easily accessed, clean and unique.

Yiwu (易武), hometown Of Pu'er Tea, is situated in the north of Mengla County. It is the hometown of Pu’er Tea as well as the starting point of the Ancient Tea-Horse Trail (Road). In old times, Yiwu was known as a commercial city. It serves as the linkage between China and Laos and an important gateway to Southeast Asia.

Do
Mengla is a fast growing border town. There is a market in the mornings that runs parallel behind the main street. The place is quite surreal so you might be interested in simply walking around the place for a couple of hours.

Tours – Village visits/overnight stays and trekking trips to pristine rainforest are available with the local guide, Peter Lee – 18608811499 – Very friendly, fluent English http://menglaadventures.zapd.net/

Buy
There are two well stocked supermarkets in town. If you are in need of a Chinese SIM card there are several China Mobile outlets. Locally made items are also available at reasonable prices if your bargaining skills are good.

Eat
There are some restaurants in the main shopping area in town. The restaurants all sell Yunnan and typical Chinese dishes but don't expect a very high standard. Meals should cost around ¥30–40 per person.

There is a splendid noodle restaurant on the right side, 10 shops south of the north bus station ticket office. Here noodles are made right in front of you when you order them. A meal is ¥7-14, you might even get a discount if you ask for the meat to be excluded. Staff is helpful and friendly.

Drink
There is a newly developed bar area down by the river close to the centre of town, behind the DICO’s chicken Western food outlet.

The Wine Barrel Bar: As you walk towards Dico’s turn right, large wine barrel above the entrance. This small bar serves cold beer, and is a relaxing place to sit and have a drink with its water feature and fish pond. A good sized bar, with live music from 21:00, dance floor, not too loud and a good place to mix with locals.

Sleep
There are many Hotels and guest house in Mengla, some options are: Jin Qiao Hotel (金桥大酒店): Right inside the bus station with good rooms. Rooms go for ¥60 with A/C or ¥40 with fan, larger rooms with telephone ¥80. Free domestic calls can be made at the reception and third floor.

Na La Bin Quan: Is a good option, quite clean with A/C for ¥40, the rooms are quite large with an area for washing and hanging clothes, closer to the shops, restaurants and bar area of town. Turn right as you leave the bus station, it is about 1 km down towards the centre of town (¥5 taxi fare) turn left at the Spider King shop and it is located 10-15m down on the left.

Cheaper, as you leave the bus station and turn right, walk approx 50 meters and there is a guest house on the right hand side near the Forest Cafe This place has no English name but is a pretty run down establishment. They have rooms for around ¥20-25 per night.

Connect
The best contact in town is the local guide, Peter Lee – 18608811499 – a fluent English speaker - he can offer advice on places to stay, eat and drink. As you get off the bus in Mengla, turn right and walk down the street about 50 m to the Forest Cafe. He can also be found at his restaurant, which is located a few restaurants left of the third intersection when you walk south from the north bus station.

In front of the bus station there is also a helpful man who will exchange money and also offer advice on accommodation, help you with directions and even offer his daughter to you (if you are single, male and western). He obviously takes a commission from places so be very specific about what you want and how much you want to pay. His exchange rates are poor but if you are in need of some Lao Kip just to be safe, it is worth exchanging some euros, dollars, Thai baht or anything else if you need to. He has a very wide range of currencies and is keen to show them off. His English is also pretty good compared to most locals.

South into Laos
The border crossing takes around an hour if you are on a bus. Much quicker if you are solo and the crossing is not busy.

Buses depart to Louang Namtha in Laos at around 09:00 and take around 4 hours. Expect a bumpy and hair raising journey during the rainy season. The cost is around ¥40.

Alternatively, you can head to Muang Xay/Oudomxay, the largest city in northern Laos and then onto Luang Prabang.

There is now a direct bus from Jing Hong to Luang Namtha.

North into China
There are loads of buses to Jinghong, the capital of Xishuangbanna. The cost is around ¥40. There are also 4 or 5 buses a day that leave for Kunming. The cost is about ¥250. Nowadays you can go to Yuangyang Terrace from Mengla by bus instead of going to Kunming directly, it is cheaper and less tiring.

title: Mengla


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Menlo Park

Menlo Park is a suburban, tree-lined community in San Mateo County midway between the major cities of San Francisco and San Jose. Menlo Park offers visitors easy access to Stanford, Palo Alto and Silicon Valley. It is best known for its old-fashioned train station and downtown, and for being the home of venture capital and Meta (formerly Facebook). It also encompasses the USGS Headquarters, Veterans Administration Hospital, SRI Campus, and portions of the Stanford University campus, including the Stanford Linear Accelerator (SLAC).

Understand
Menlo Park is relatively small (36,000 residents), nestled between the San Francisco Bay (and US 101) in the north, and the Pacific Coast Mountain Range (and I-280) in the south. The town is divided in half by El Camino Real (CA 82), the Caltrain railway and the downtown commercial center. The academic and business hubs of Stanford and Palo Alto are to the east, while East Palo Alto and Redwood City are to the north and east. To the west, Menlo Park it is bordered by the estates of Woodside and Atherton.

Leafy, suburban and with a mild year-round climate, Menlo Park is often considered to be one of the most pleasant towns on the San Francisco Peninsula. Northern portions of Menlo Park, north of US 101 tend to offer fewer attractions to visitors. In the south, Sand Hill Road is home to dozens of venture capital firms, which manage tens of billions of dollars for financing Silicon Valley technology companies that have become the economic backbone of Silicon Valley.

This article is primarily about Menlo Park's downtown area which is active during business hours. Since many businesses close by 8 or 9PM, visitors often turn to neighboring Palo Alto and Redwood City for late-night dining, beverage and entertainment options.

Get in
Downtown Menlo Park is accessible by automobile, rail, bus and plane from San Francisco (30 miles or 50 km away) and San Jose (25 miles or 40 km away).

By automobile
Primary access by car is via CA-82 (El Camino Real), US-101 (Bayshore Freeway) or the more scenic I-280 (Junipero Serra Freeway). Access from the East Bay, is via CA-84 and the Dumbarton Bridge. Menlo Park is served by local ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft.

By rail
Perhaps, the easiest way to get to and from downtown Menlo Park is by using Caltrain.

By bus

 * SamTrans is San Mateo County's regional bus system. It provides routes which service areas north of Menlo Park toward San Francisco.
 * Stanford runs a free shuttle called Marguerite that makes stops in Menlo Park. It's best suited for traveling between Palo Alto, Menlo Park, and Stanford.
 * VTA is Santa Clara County's regional bus and light rail system. It provides transportation from Palo Alto's train station to areas south of Menlo Park toward San Jose.

By plane
Menlo Park is roughly equidistant (about a 30-minute drive) to the San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and the San Jose Mineta Airport (SJC). San Francisco's status as a major airline hub means that travelers are more likely to come through SFO.

 * From San Francisco International Airport, it's possible to get to Menlo Park via public transit: take the BART train from the San Francisco Airport to the Millbrae station, then connect to Caltrain heading south and get off at the Menlo Park station. The combined BART/Caltrain trip will likely take 1 to 2 hours, depending on timing and train connections.
 * From San José Mineta International Airport, take the free shuttle bus #10 to get to the Santa Clara Caltrain station. From there take a Caltrain north to the Menlo Park station.

Get around
Menlo Park has an appealing and very walkable downtown area that is centered along Santa Cruz Avenue. It extends for about 10 blocks south (a 15- to 20-minute walk) from the Caltrain railroad station, across El Camino Real, and down to Camp Fremont Park.

Biking is a good option for exploring beyond downtown Menlo Park. Biking can also be combined with the train or bus. Caltrain and the regional SamTrans or VTA bus systems can get you to further destinations. Ride sharing apps, like Uber and Lyft are also good, but more expensive options.

Most Menlo Park residents drive a personal automobile when they are not walking or biking.

See

Buy
There are many shops in downtown Menlo, the ones listed here are unique or especially popular.

Coffee and tea
Menlo Park has many coffee and tea shops. Local favorites are:

Alcohol
Most restaurants in Menlo Park close by 9PM, so a late night drink can be a challenge. While nearly all restaurants in town serve wine and beer, and some have a bar, there are several places that stand out for liquor and cocktails.

Connect
The area code for Menlo Park and the surrounding area is 650.

Free Wi-Fi is available at:

 * Most coffee shops like Starbucks, Peet's and CoffeeBar
 * Most coffee shops like Starbucks, Peet's and CoffeeBar

Phone and Computer Repair

 * Techloop Electronics Repair, 708 Santa Cruz Ave

Medical Care

 * Menlo Medical Clinic, 1300 Crane St. - Appointment required.

Print Media

 * The local newspaper is The Almanac. It's available for free along Santa Cruz Avenue in newspaper boxes.

Go next
Menlo Park is a good base of operations for visiting both Silicon Valley and San Francisco. It's close to Stanford, Palo Alto, and the Stanford Shopping Center.

title: Menlo Park


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Menominee

Menominee is a city in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. It is across the Menominee River from Marinette, Wisconsin.

title: Menominee


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Menomonie

For the town in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, see Menominee.

Menomonie is a city in Wisconsin.

Eat
For restaurants near Menomonie click here.

Go next

 * Altoona, Wisconsin, is about 25 miles to the east.
 * Eau Claire, Wisconsin, is about 24 miles (38 km) to the east.
 * The Twin Cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul in Minnesota are about 66 miles (107 km) to the west.

title: Menomonie


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Mentawai Islands

The Mentawai islands are a chain of islands in Indonesia off the western coast of Sumatra, recognized as having some of the most perfect surfing breaks in the world. However, because most waves break over very sharp and shallow coral reefs, only experienced surfers should attempt them.

Understand
Islands include Siberut, Sipura, North Pagai, and South Pagai. Pagai is a main settlement.

Talk
Mentawai people use Bahasa Indonesia and they also have their own Mentawai language.

Get in
Over 40 surf charter yachts are based in Padang harbour (the provincial capital of West Sumatra), around 100km away from the islands on the Sumatra mainland.

The most comfortable Ferry to Mentawai is Ferry Ambu Ambu (made from Steel). Since September 2009, the Ambu-Ambu Ferry travels overnight from Padang Bungus to Muara Siberut 2. and 3. Thursday nights of each month. From Muara Siberut to Padang Bungus, the ferry travels 2. and 3. Friday nights of each month. The ferry departs from Padang at 9PM and arrives at approximately 7AM the following morning. The Sumber Rejeki traditional Ferry (made from wood) travels overnight from Padang Bungus to Muara Siberut every Monday evening. From Muara Siberut to Padang, the ferry travels every Tuesday night.

Get around
Three ways to travel to the Mentawai Islands.

 * 1) Join an organized boat charter.
 * 2) Take a ferry (Ambu-Ambu ferry).
 * 3) Fly by seaplane.

Surfing
There are many surf camps and a few surf resorts on the Mentawai Islands, which are operated by local residents. Some of these surf camps have their own websites. For a summary of surf camps, click here.

Surf spots include:
 * Beng Beng. A very consistent world class wave, an extremely rippable left. This spot is loads of fun and probably one of the easiest waves to surf in the Mentawai’s. It’s the deepest and safest wave in the area and also pick up a bit more swell than other locales. 5 more breaks in the area, including E-Bay and Pitstops. Nestled inside a small bay with one of the most scenic views imaginable all around you.
 * E-Bay. This is a hollow left that barrels off the take-off with a short wall down the line. A great option when a lot of swell is hitting. A hollow, fast, powerful left. A world class wave for experienced surfers. Watch out for the two rocks on the inside. Great barrels, and turns into a surfing paradise at 6 feet offshore. There is a heavy warble that hits as you are taking off. Make the drop and don’t get thrown by that first warble and chances are you’ll get a mean aqua blue barrel. The scenery alone will blow you away. Besides its aesthetic beauty, double overhead E-bay is a beast and forces to be reckon with.
 * Nipussi or Pussies. A shorter right that breaks down the point from Bank Vaults. Definitely fun and rippable. Usually has fairly deep water from the takeoff to the inside. Ends in a riptide that sucks all the water back out to sea. A good option when there’s not much swell, and usually the most consistent spot in the area.
 * Pitstops. This is the right off the peak at E-Bay. A playful right that can offer some cover-ups off the take-off, but mostly a high performance wave with air sections at the end. Ends in a sandy channel.

Mentawei tribe
It's possible to visit Mentawei tribe but cost has increased a lot over time. At Mar 2024, it would be about 500€ for 3-4 days trip. If on budget, balance with cost of visiting whole Sumatra or other major islands and make your choice.

Stay safe
The Mentawai Islands is prone to earthquakes because it lies above the Sunda megathrust, a seismically active zone.

title: Mentawai Islands


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Menton

Menton (Italian: Mentone) is "The Lemon Festival Capital of the World". Located in Alpes-Maritimes, France, but next to the border of Italy, it is in many ways more Italian than French. It has its own microclimate, generally milder than the rest of the French Riviera, and became in the late nineteenth century a place where Northern Europeans with tuberculosis came to either regain their health or to die. As a result its cemetery is filled with the graves of notable Englishmen, Germans, and Russians. The old town is largely pedestrianised, which adds to the charm of this sedate resort.

Get in

 * A8 Exit Menton. Follow signs for Centre-Ville.
 * Bas Corniche from Monaco or Italy (Ventimiglia)

Menton has a curious one way system, it is probably a good idea to park near the port and not attempt to drive anywhere else. Although the climb up to the cemeteries is steep on foot it is considerably better than attempting to drive it.

Get around
Menton is reasonably compact and most points of interest are within walking distance.

Attractions such as the cemeteries and the churches are up steep hills and many steps however the views that can be gained are well worth the effort.

Being so close to the Italian border, one can literally walk to Italy. This is definitely more of a novelty than of practical use, as trips into Italy even to the nearby towns are far enough to be made either by rail or by road.

See

 * The charming is compact and largely pedestrianised.
 * Several impressive gardens dotted through the town including those at (Olive trees in Parc du Pian, Jardin Exotique, Villa Fontana Rosa).
 * Casino and the magnificent hotels Royal Westminster and.
 * Several impressive gardens dotted through the town including those at (Olive trees in Parc du Pian, Jardin Exotique, Villa Fontana Rosa).
 * Casino and the magnificent hotels Royal Westminster and.
 * Casino and the magnificent hotels Royal Westminster and.
 * Casino and the magnificent hotels Royal Westminster and.

Events

 * Festival de Musique de Menton is a music festival running through the last day of July to the middle of August. The music is primary classical, with artist and symphony orchestras from all over the world.
 * Festival de Musique de Menton is a music festival running through the last day of July to the middle of August. The music is primary classical, with artist and symphony orchestras from all over the world.

Outdoors

 * Sentier Le Corbusier is a path starting just west of the city of Menton, leading around Cap Martin, with nice views of the sea, and possibilities to go down to beaches or rocks next to the sea. The path continues all the way to Monaco, although the path doesn't have that much of a view after the Roquebrune-Cap Martin train station.

Buy

 * Citrus products
 * Souvenirs

Eat
There are numerous good restaurants in the Old Town and down towards the port, which offer good value for money. Expect to pay €15-20 for the cheapest three course meal set menu. Higher priced menus are, of course, also available.

Sleep

Go next

 * The perched villages inland (Sainte-Agnès and Gorbio).
 * Monaco and Italy are both less than 10 km away.
 * In Ventimiglia (Italy), about 7–10 km east of Menton, the flea market is held every Friday which is located around the main park and the roads by the Mediterrean sea. The vast majority of stalls sell clothes.
 * The town of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, a few kilometres to the west, features the world heritage listed Cabanon de vacances, the vacation home of the architect Le Corbusier (which he designed).

title: Menton


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Mentor

Mentor is a city in Lake County, Ohio.

By Car
Mentor lies in between I90 and SR2

Go next
Cleveland is just 10-20 minutes away on 90 West.

title: Mentor


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Menzies

Menzies is a small Western Australian town that has endured more than 100 years of decline after its gold rush era boom to retain a distinctive impression of the Goldfields' fickle fortunes. The graceful heritage buildings impart histories no less peculiar than the eerie sculptures at nearby Lake Ballard, making Menzies an intriguing destination for the inquisitive traveller.

Understand
Looking down Menzies' main street today you wouldn't suspect that it was a major town during the late 1800s. Gold was first discovered here in 1894 by a prospecting crew headed by L R Menzie who, while registering the claim in Coolgardie, inadvertently sparked rumour of a prodigious new gold field that ignited a minor stampede of fervent prospectors wanting to grab their own share. Lack of water forced some of the hopeful back but those who lasted the arduous trek, sustained with the promise of abundant fortune, were soon joined by numerous like-minded prospectors.

The burgeoning town was officially named in 1895 and within a year Menzies had a population of 10,000, 13 hotels, 4 churches and a brewery. Sapping heat, water shortages, fires and frequent typhoid epidemics all weakened the residents, but finally when the gold ran out so too did the fortunes of the town and with it the size of the population. By 1910 the population had withered to around 1000 and today the residents number a little more than 200. The handful of original buildings still standing are all that remain from Menzies' previous grandeur.

While Menzies has enough interesting things to see on its own, many travellers pass through here on their way to the sculptures on Lake Ballard. Not as well known, though no less interesting, are the nearby Goongarrie railway cottages and Niagara Dam.

By plane
Although there is an airport to the north of the town centre, it has no scheduled flights. Further afield, Kalgoorlie–Boulder Airport has flights from Perth Airport, which does have international flights.

By car
Menzies is 132 km north of Kalgoorlie–Boulder and 105 km south of Leonora on the Goldfields Highway, which passes through the middle of town.

Get around
Menzies is not large and the majority of sights line either side of a 300m long stretch of Shenton Street.

See
For such a small town, the places of interest in Menzies are surprisingly informative. Almost every building has an information board explaining the history and significance of what you are looking at. Dotted around the streets at relevant places are larger than life-size metal silhouette figures of miners, bakers, police, prostitutes and priests captioned with quotes from past residents that give a voice to bloodless names and dates.

Eat
Isolation and the general smallness of most country towns hinder them from having abundant eating options. Menzies can offer even less.

Self-catering is a practical option though you will need to be prepared as there are no supermarkets in town. Menzies Hotel have a very limited range of tinned or dry groceries. Stocking up in Kalgoorlie or Leonora with enough supplies to keep you going till you reach the other side will avert an empty stomach.

If you can't be bothered cooking after the long drive the Menzies Hotel sometimes has food to go with your beer.

Drink
Menzies once had 13 bars. That number has declined to a solitary choice, so if you are particular about your booze it would be prudent to BYO as the nearest bottle shop is a few hundred kilometres away.

Sleep
Your options are very limited if you want a bed. Best to have either camping gear or a caravan if you're traveling to Menzies.

 * The sign outside the Menzies Hotel (see drink) says they have rooms but the owners are not too sure if they want you to stay in them. The rooms themselves look a tad worn and dated if you care about décor, but they are your only option for a bed.
 * The sign outside the Menzies Hotel (see drink) says they have rooms but the owners are not too sure if they want you to stay in them. The rooms themselves look a tad worn and dated if you care about décor, but they are your only option for a bed.
 * The sign outside the Menzies Hotel (see drink) says they have rooms but the owners are not too sure if they want you to stay in them. The rooms themselves look a tad worn and dated if you care about décor, but they are your only option for a bed.
 * The sign outside the Menzies Hotel (see drink) says they have rooms but the owners are not too sure if they want you to stay in them. The rooms themselves look a tad worn and dated if you care about décor, but they are your only option for a bed.

Stay safe
Falling into an abandoned mineshaft is not an inconceivable danger as the area is riddled with more than 100 years of mining activity. Many sites close to town have been filled in or otherwise rendered safe but mine sites in more remote areas are left open in various states of collapse. The area around Niagara Dam has numerous mine shafts along the access road. Most of these holes are not signposted or marked on maps, but you can readily identify a likely mine by the white pile of quartz or greenish waste soil nearby. Nonetheless, perfectly safe looking ground may be honeycombed with old tunnels mere meters underground that could, and do, give way without warning. It would be prudent to tell someone where you are going if you plan to go out exploring and be careful about where you step.

Phone
Mobile phone coverage is limited to the Telstra 4G network, and only within town. The signal becomes variable to non-existent the further away you get. Coverage maps show it's possible to get a signal with an external antenna as far away as Lake Ballard, but you should not rely on it. Other networks aren't available in Menzies.

A satellite phone would be useful to have in an emergency if you intend to spend an extended amount of time off the beaten track.

Internet
Mobile internet on the Telstra 4G network has the same coverage as the phones do. The Visitors Centre have two internet connected computers you can get online for $2 for 15 min or $6.50 for an hour.

Money
If you need it quickly, the old post office has an ANZ ATM on the Brown St side. The visitors centre provides banking services for other banks. If you need something special it might be worth asking them.

Go next

 * Leonora – The fascinating Gwalia ghost town is the main attraction but the still living town is a comfortable place to shake off the dust and restock your supplies.
 * Kalgoorlie–Boulder – A sprightly gold mining town with enough history and vibrant eateries to fill the giant hole in the ground where its fortune comes from.

title: Menzies


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Meppadi

Meppadi  is the most scenic village of the Wayanad District of the Malabar region in Kerala state, India. It has excellent opportunities for hiking and mountaineering. The main attraction of Meppadi are the undulating tea estates.

Understand
Meppadi is an unspoilt and undiscovered tourist spot of Kerala. Not being a tourist trap, you can walk in the tea estates not being disturbed by touts and other visitors.

Get in
Meppadi is 12 km from Kalpetta town in the Wayanad District. It is 78 km (1½ hr) from Kozhikode (Calicut), 106 km (2½ hr) from Ooty, and 281 km (5 hr 25 mim) from Bangalore.

Get around

 * Bus - Plenty of local bus services are available for transportation between the townships.
 * Autorickshaw - Autorickshaws are cheaper compared to taxis and can be used to reach the interior places from the townships.
 * Taxi - Local taxis are also available at cheap rates. In Wayanad, the term taxi is mostly in reference with a Jeep style vehicle.
 * Car - Driving is pleasant as traffic is thin and disciplined unlike other parts of Kerala.
 * Walk - Many places of attractions are near by the towns so you could walk between them.

Buy
Spices and souvenirs are available in the numerous shops of Meppadi town.

Eat
There are four Indian restaurants in Meppadi town. They all serve Kerala-style food with meat and fish. Breakfast is dosa and porottas and at lunch time delicious vegetarian thali with fish is available. Chappathis and fried rice are offered for dinner.

Drink
There are no bars in Meppadi. You can get alcohol only in Kalpetta town.

Sleep

 * Tearoute Homestay, Near Forest range office,Meppadi (2km) 9947147496 Budget Homestay, Car Parking and hotwater, Indipendent villa for families.
 * Tearoute Homestay, Near Forest range office,Meppadi (2km) 9947147496 Budget Homestay, Car Parking and hotwater, Indipendent villa for families.
 * Tearoute Homestay, Near Forest range office,Meppadi (2km) 9947147496 Budget Homestay, Car Parking and hotwater, Indipendent villa for families.
 * Tearoute Homestay, Near Forest range office,Meppadi (2km) 9947147496 Budget Homestay, Car Parking and hotwater, Indipendent villa for families.
 * Tearoute Homestay, Near Forest range office,Meppadi (2km) 9947147496 Budget Homestay, Car Parking and hotwater, Indipendent villa for families.
 * Tearoute Homestay, Near Forest range office,Meppadi (2km) 9947147496 Budget Homestay, Car Parking and hotwater, Indipendent villa for families.
 * Tearoute Homestay, Near Forest range office,Meppadi (2km) 9947147496 Budget Homestay, Car Parking and hotwater, Indipendent villa for families.
 * Tearoute Homestay, Near Forest range office,Meppadi (2km) 9947147496 Budget Homestay, Car Parking and hotwater, Indipendent villa for families.
 * Tearoute Homestay, Near Forest range office,Meppadi (2km) 9947147496 Budget Homestay, Car Parking and hotwater, Indipendent villa for families.
 * Tearoute Homestay, Near Forest range office,Meppadi (2km) 9947147496 Budget Homestay, Car Parking and hotwater, Indipendent villa for families.
 * Tearoute Homestay, Near Forest range office,Meppadi (2km) 9947147496 Budget Homestay, Car Parking and hotwater, Indipendent villa for families.
 * Tearoute Homestay, Near Forest range office,Meppadi (2km) 9947147496 Budget Homestay, Car Parking and hotwater, Indipendent villa for families.

Go next

 * Soochippara waterfalls. 13 km
 * Sulthan Bathery, 33 km
 * Ooty, 106 km
 * Gudalur — a small less frequented town near Ooty that has many natural attractions
 * Kalpetta — a small town close to the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary that is surrounded by dense coffee plantations and mountains

title: Meppadi


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Merano

Merano (German: Meran) is the second largest town in South Tyrol with a population of about 41,000 (2019). A slight majority (50.5%) of the population is German-speaking, while the others are Italian-speaking.

Merano, with its delightfully mild climate, lovely surroundings and rich, varied vegetation, is a famous health spa resort. It is protected from the winds and bad weather by high mountains to the north, east and west and lies in a valley open towards the sunny south. 324 m above sea-level, Merano attracts holiday-makers, mainly Germans, throughout the year, with local hotels having 4,739 rooms and known for their high standards of comfort, service and good food. There are 52 romantic, old castles in and around the town, some used as hotels or museums while others are still private residences.

History
The name of the town of Merano, once known as Mairania, made its first appearance in history in the year 857 but, as late as the thirteenth century we know that it was little more than a village at the foot of Mount St. Benedetto, precisely where the old town houses of Steinach now are. During the Middle Ages it was governed by the Bishops of Trento, a larger town to the south, and then, later, by the Counts of Tirol. It gradually assumed a greater political importance and became quite a busy centre, as can be seen from the large number of castles and manor houses still to be visited in the surrounding area.

The counts of Tirol chose the town for their capital in 1317 but, on the death of the last member of the Tirol ruling family, the famous Margaret Maultasch, Merano was handed over to the Habsburg family. It gradually became less and less important until, in the fifteenth century, Innsbruck was named as the capital of Tirol. Even the Merano mint, where the well-known “Tirol” coins had been minted in the past, was moved to Hall near Innsbruck and Merano was no longer the home of princes but just a small and insignificant country town, surrounded by Medieval walls. Merano first earned its reputation as a health spa resort in the 1830s and its exceptionally mild climate, lovely surroundings and varied and lush vegetation all contributed to its development in this field. Members of European royal families, nobility and aristocrats were in the habit of holidaying in Merano. The Austrian Empress, Elisabeth, for example, spent many happy times in the town and there is, in fact, a statue dedicated to her in one of the beautiful parks. Merano is still today a particularly pleasant holiday resort, attracting guests throughout the year, although spring and autumn are perhaps the busiest seasons. The mountains to the north of the town, some of which are over 3,000 m high, help protect it from the cold winds and the orchard-covered Adige/Etsch river valley extends down towards the mild and sunny south.

The Merano basin is an oasis of unusual Mediterranean plants and flowers and the soil has a certain natural radioactive content. The climate of the whole area has an obviously beneficial therapeutic effect and, even before the First World War, the Academy of Science in Vienna had done some research on the radioactive spring water. Later, in 1933, when the geologist prof. Trener discovered the springs at St. Vigilio and St. Martin the town really began to develop as a famous health spa.

Get in
Merano is outside of the Brenner line and whether you want to reach the town by plane, by train, by bus or by car you have likely to reach before Bolzano and from this point Merano. Merano is northwest from Bolzano.

By plane
The nearest airport is in Bolzano.

By train
In order to get in Merano by train you have to arrive in Bolzano first and from here you can take the train to Merano (every 40 minutes). When you buy the ticket at the departure station you can have the ticket from Bolzano to Merano included, saying that your destination is Merano. The Merano Central Rail Station is close to the town centre.

By bus
Some German, Austrian and Swiss travel agencies offer direct bus connection to Merano. Normally international bus lines stop in Bolzano and from here you can take the bus Bolzano-Merano at the Bolzano Bus Station or other stops inside Bolzano (like Dominikanerplatz). Buses are run by SASA, which uses the same orange buses you can find inside cities, and SAD, with grey-coloured buses (they operate on the same line). There is a departure every hour. A fare from Bolzano to Merano costs €4 (only 2.61 with value card).

By car
You have to exit at Bolzano South on motorway A22 and taking the modern freeway, called MeBo. It is named MeBo because it's the fastest connection between MErano and Bolzano. In Merano there are three exits: Sinich/Meran Süd, Meran Zentrum and Algund (freeway end). If you are coming from Landeck in Austria or Engadin, Switzerland, you can follow the signs along the road.

Get around
The best way in order to discover Merano is by foot, but it's covered by an excellent public transport system, which is composed by buses and a chair lift to the village of Tirol.

By bus
In Merano there are 9 bus lines (generally 06:00-21:00) run by SASA and 1 of this have also a night service (21:00-01:00). Buses pass frequently (every 15–25 minutes). Buses run always on time.

Stamp your ticket at the start of its first use (there are green - on new buses yellow - stamping machines). You have to buy another ticket if you stop and you catch a bus after 45 minutes after the printing (only with single trip ticket or spent value card). Payment is by the honor system and inspectors check for valid tickets. If you don't have one, it's an instant €25 fine (plus the fare you were supposed to have paid). All timetables and bus maps you can find free in the tourist offices or in the bus station.

All urban buses stops are request stops (except end of the line): If you want to get off press the red (in some blue) button, while if you want to get on a bus you have to wave your hand.

By chair lift
Merano is connected with the village of Tirol - located on a hill above the town - by a chair lift, which is in service between April and November.

By taxi
Taxis are only on call available. Merano's taxi service is powered by Radio Taxi 24 hr calling 0473 21 20 13. or by private services called "Mietwagen mit Fahrer" Tel +39 3477523424

By bike
Merano has a good bike trail system - but not so developed as in Bolzano, though - but around the town it's excellent. Maps are available in tourist offices and online.

Rentals are available in the following places:
 * Rail Station
 * Spa Building
 * Tennis Centre

The service is available from April until mid of October (M-Sa 09:00-19:00) and it's free. You only have to pay a €5 bail - which is returned if the bike has not been damaged.

By car
The public transportation or your own feet should be enough in order to travel inside Merano. Finding a parking in the town centre can be complicated.

In winter (from November to March) the whole city is forbidden for the EURO 0 cars in order to prevent from air pollution. In cases of high concentration of polluted substances the streets are forbidden also for EURO 1 cars.

Museums, galleries, and memorials

 * City Museum - admission €2.00 (reduced €1.50) It's located in a former hotel, it shows interesting archaeological and historical founds.
 * Princely Castle Museum - admission €2.00 (reduced €1.50) de, it Building from the 15th century in the old town with an interesting exhibition for lovers of medieval history.
 * Jewish Museum - free entry. The small museum at the only South Tyrol's Synagogue reports the history and documentation about the Jewish community in South Tyrol.
 * Monument of Empress Elisabeth - is a statue at the Summer Promenade's entrance, which was modeled with white marble after Sissi's assassination in Geneva in 1898. The Empress of Austria visited Merano four times - the last time being one year before her death. During the fascist dictatorship it was deplaced, cutting off the statue's head. After World War II the statue was replaced and the head re-modelled. It shows an interesting parallel with the Monument of Walther von der Vogelweide in Bolzano.
 * Jewish Museum - free entry. The small museum at the only South Tyrol's Synagogue reports the history and documentation about the Jewish community in South Tyrol.
 * Monument of Empress Elisabeth - is a statue at the Summer Promenade's entrance, which was modeled with white marble after Sissi's assassination in Geneva in 1898. The Empress of Austria visited Merano four times - the last time being one year before her death. During the fascist dictatorship it was deplaced, cutting off the statue's head. After World War II the statue was replaced and the head re-modelled. It shows an interesting parallel with the Monument of Walther von der Vogelweide in Bolzano.
 * Monument of Empress Elisabeth - is a statue at the Summer Promenade's entrance, which was modeled with white marble after Sissi's assassination in Geneva in 1898. The Empress of Austria visited Merano four times - the last time being one year before her death. During the fascist dictatorship it was deplaced, cutting off the statue's head. After World War II the statue was replaced and the head re-modelled. It shows an interesting parallel with the Monument of Walther von der Vogelweide in Bolzano.
 * Monument of Empress Elisabeth - is a statue at the Summer Promenade's entrance, which was modeled with white marble after Sissi's assassination in Geneva in 1898. The Empress of Austria visited Merano four times - the last time being one year before her death. During the fascist dictatorship it was deplaced, cutting off the statue's head. After World War II the statue was replaced and the head re-modelled. It shows an interesting parallel with the Monument of Walther von der Vogelweide in Bolzano.

Do
The thermal spa centre, on the opposite bank of the river Passirio, was opened during the 1970s and is furnished with the most modern equipment for therapeutic treatment. It also houses an indoor swimming-pool filled with thermal water and the natural radio-activity in this water has a most beneficial pathological effect. The spa centre is open all year round and specialises in a vast selection of curative treatments. The horse race-course is one of the most beautiful in the world and is especially famous for the Grand Premium steeple-chase in September, which is run in connection with a rich national lottery. There are also many public open-air swimming-pools, an ice rink, 15 tennis courts of which 4 are covered for use in winter, a horse-riding and jumping school and a mini-golf course. The river Passirio, which flows through the centre of the town, is often chosen to host international and world-class slalom and down-hill canoe races. It was the scene of the 1971 World Championship, the 1980 European Cup and the 1983 World Championship competitions. The Tappeiner Walk, named after the doctor who planned it and laid it out and who, later in 1892, gave it to the town, is a walk meanders pleasantly along the sides of the gentle slopes of the glacial hill of Mount St. Benedetto as far as the Gilf, a ravine on the river Passirio. Merano is also a good base for walking enthusiasts and mountain climbers. There are excellent winter sports facilities too nearby, with good ski-runs at Merano 2,000, on the Hirzer mountain and in the Ultimo valley. Less than an hour away by car, the Senales valley with its permanent glacier and snow field, is the ideal place for summer skiing.
 * Thermal Spa centre
 * Race-course
 * Sport
 * Canoe
 * The Tappeiner Walk
 * Walking
 * Winter Sports

Tradition

 * Tradition and folklore still play a significant role in the every-day life of the town and its people and visitors to Merano greatly enjoy the weekly folklore evenings of singing and dancing with all the participants dressed in local Tirolese costume. Since the beginning of this century, the golden-coated Hafling horses from the little village of Avelengo or Hafling have competed against one another is a special race for amateur local riders which opens the horse-racing season on Easter Monday and in another race, later in autumn, to celebrate the grape harvest. Their riders, usually farmers or farmers’ sons, all wear local costume, too. The celebrations for the Grape Harvest are always held on the second Sunday in October and include a procession through the town with bands, orchestras, decorated floats and lorries, folk dancing groups and displays of various traditional costumes.

Go next

 * Timmelsjoch - a route to Austria.

title: Merano


text:
Merang

Merang is a port town in Terengganu, Malaysia.

Get in
Most visitors arrive from Kuala Terengganu and promptly continue by ferry to Lang Tengah or Redang.

From / to Kuala Terengganu, You can use Munipal bus Mybus.

title: Merang


text:
Merced

Merced is a city of 86,000 people (2020) in the San Joaquin Valley of California.

Located along State Route 99 which runs between the agricultural cities of the eastern San Joaquin Valley, Merced is also a gateway to Yosemite via State Route 140. Merced is less than two hours by car from Yosemite National Park to the east and Monterey Bay, the Pacific Ocean, and several beaches to the west.

Get in
Merced is approximately 110 miles (180 km) southeast of San Francisco and 275 miles (443 km) northwest of Los Angeles.

By car
Merced is served by one major highway (CA 99).

By train
Amtrak serves Merced via its Sacramento-Bay Area-Bakersfield San Joaquin route with seven departures per day. There are also bus connections between Merced and Yosemite National Park. is at 324 W 24th St.

By bus
Merced is served by Greyhound bus via its downtown station.

By bus
The M5 - Merced South-East route travels between the transportation center bus stop, Greyhound bus stop, Amtrak Station, and hotels along Motel Drive and Parsons Ave.
 * The Bus provides several routes in and around Merced.

See
The University of California's newest campus,, opened in 2005. The campus, on Lake Road to the northeast of the city, is open to the public.

Go next

 * Yosemite National Park - Less than two hours east along State Route 140 by car.
 * Merced National Wildlife Refuge - Located about southwest of Merced, this refuge hosts huge numbers of cranes, geese and other waterfowl during winter months.

title: Merced


text:
Merced County

Merced County is in the San Joaquin Valley region of California.

Understand
Merced County was formed in 1855 from portions of Mariposa County. The county is named for the Merced River, which begins in the Sierra Nevada mountains within Yosemite National Park before meandering down to the Central Valley, crossing Merced County from east-to-west, and joining the San Joaquin River at the county's western border.

Like much of the Central Valley, the county's economy is heavily reliant on agricultural. Dairy, poultry, almonds and cattle are the four largest revenue generators, followed somewhat surprisingly by sweet potatoes - Merced County is responsible for 90% of California's sweet potato crop. The Castle Air Force Base was a key employer from 1941 until its closing at the end of the Cold War in 1995, and today debate is ongoing about what to do with the remote base site.

Get in
The primary north-south route through the county is California State Route 99, which traverses the eastern side of the Central Valley from just north of the Grapevine up to Sacramento before ending in the northern part of the state near Red Bluff. Interstate 5 crosses the county's western side as it speeds travelers between Los Angeles and Sacramento.

Go next

 * - While still primarily an agricultural county known for its almond trees, parts of Merced County's northern neighbor have become a bedroom community for people trying to escape the high housing costs of the Bay Area. Travelers will find plenty of amenities, although most only see Stanislaus County while passing through on their way elsewhere.
 * - Merced County's northeastern neighbor was one of California's original counties at the time of statehood, and today offers a glimpse into the region's gold mining and logging history, as well as numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation. Portions of Yosemite National Park lie in the county, and with limited parking and lodging inside of the park, the YARTS shuttle system makes the county's towns an option to consider for park visitors.
 * - Located east of Merced County, Mariposa was the largest county in California at the time of statehood in 1850, but later ceded land that formed 12 other counties. Today it maintains a relatively small footprint in the Sierra Nevada foothills, but has kept one of the state's treasures: Yosemite National Park, home to impossibly tall granite cliffs, remote alpine wilderness, and an iconic valley.
 * - East of Merced County lies Madera County, whose agricultural western half offers plenty of hotels and amenities for travelers, while the mountainous eastern half features unspoiled Sierra Nevada wilderness that is home to portions of Yosemite National Park, the Ansel Adams Wilderness, and Devils Postpile National Monument with its impressive basalt columns and iconic Rainbow Falls. Be aware that there are no roads crossing the county from west to east, so it may be a very circuitous route for those who want to see everything Madera has to offer!
 * - Merced County's neighbor to the south, sprawling Fresno County is home to Fresno, California's fifth-largest city, and vast agricultural areas. The eastern side of the county is mountainous, featuring the remote wilderness of Kings Canyon National Park, which attracts visitors to its giant sequoias and unspoiled meadows that lie at the crest of the Sierra Nevada range.
 * - Southwest of Merced County, San Benito County is an inland county dominated by the Coast Mountain Range. It is relatively sparsely populated, with only about 55,000 inhabitants.  Pinnacles National Park and its dramatic rock formations lies in this county, as well as the town of San Juan Bautista and its historic mission.
 * - Merced County's western neighbor is home to Silicon Valley, headquarters to hundreds of tech companies including giants like Apple, Intel and Hewlett Packard. Visitors will appreciate the massive array of restaurants, museums, and cultural opportunities offered by the huge city of San Jose, while at the other end of the spectrum the tiny town of Gilroy is famous for garlic, with its annual festival attracting over 100,000 garlic lovers.

title: Merced County


text:
Mercedes (Corrientes)

Mercedes is a village in Corrientes in Argentina. It's a pretty nondescript town that strictly sticks to siesta. However, to visit Esteros del Ibera and Colonia Carlos Pellegrini it's the place to get a transport and also organise your stay and activities in Carlos Pellegrini though not necessary.

Get in
The options to get in are few. There are direct buses from Parana in the South, Corrientes in the North and Paso de los Libres (on the Buenos Aires - Puerto Iguazu line).

Go next
One Bus Monday to Saturday to Colonia Carlos Pellegrini at around noon. 25 Pesos and about 3 hours on a dirt road. Book in advance at the hostel or the terminal.

title: Mercedes (Corrientes)


text:
Mercer

There's more than one place called Mercer:

United States of America

 * Mercer (North Dakota) - a small city in McLean County (North Dakota), Lakes and Gardens, North Dakota
 * Mercer (Pennsylvania) - a town in Mercer County, Pennsylvania
 * Mercer (Wisconsin) - a town in Iron County, Wisconsin
 * Mercer Island - an island city in Washington (state)

title: Mercer


text:
Mercer County

There's more than one place called Mercer County:

United States of America

 * Mercer County (Illinois)
 * Mercer County (Kentucky)
 * Mercer County (Missouri)
 * Mercer County (New Jersey)
 * Mercer County (North Dakota)
 * Mercer County (Ohio)
 * Mercer County (Pennsylvania)
 * Mercer County (West Virginia)

title: Mercer County


text:
Mercer County (New Jersey)

Mercer County is in the Delaware River Region of New Jersey.

Cities

 * — state capital
 * — home of The College of New Jersey (TCNJ)
 * — the site of the famous Ivy League university
 * — site where Washington crossed the Delaware River
 * - blue ribboned school district
 * — site where Washington crossed the Delaware River
 * - blue ribboned school district

Learn

 * Mercer County Community College, West Windsor
 * Princeton University, Princeton
 * Rider University Lawrence Township
 * The College of New Jersey (TCNJ), Ewing Township
 * Thomas Edison State College, Trenton

Stay safe
Trenton is one of the best cities in Jersey so enjoy it has a lot of fun things to do and it is top 10 of the best cities for young people

Go next

 * Burlington County
 * Hunterdon County
 * Middlesex County
 * Monmouth County
 * Ocean County
 * Somerset County

title: Mercer County (New Jersey)


text:
Mercer Island

Mercer Island is a city in King County, Washington.

By car
The only access to Mercer Island is by Interstate 90 (I-90): from the west, a pair of floating bridges connects Seattle with Mercer Island, and in the east I-90 provides access from the Eastside. Mercer Island is accessed through Exits 7A (77th Ave SE) and 7B (Island Crest Way) from the eastbound lanes of I-90 and through only Exit 7 (Island Crest Way) from westbound lanes.

By public transit
The transportation hub (bus station) in Mercer Island is the on N Mercer Way and 80th Ave SE, alongside of I-90. It is served by:
 * 550 Downtown Seattle - Bellevue
 * 554 Downtown Seattle - 142nd Pl SE & I-90 Ramp Stop - Issaquah
 * 554 Downtown Seattle - 142nd Pl SE & I-90 Ramp Stop - Issaquah

 * They operate the following in Mercer Island:
 * DART 204 serves as a local shuttle between the Mercer Island P&R (north) and Mercer Island Village Shopping Center (south).
 * DART 630 connects downtown Seattle and First Hill to Mercer Island Village Shopping Center via Mercer Island P&R during weekday afternoons and to Seattle during the weekday mornings. Check schedules.

Get around
Mercer Island has a Park and Ride near Downtown and I-90. From the Park and Ride, you can take three bus routes to the South end of the Island, near the Mercer Village Shopping Center. There are two major routes that many people use to go to the South end of the island. There is the direct Island Crest Way, which passes through the center of the Island. There is also the more scenic Mercer Way, which is divided into West Mercer Way, East Mercer Way and North Mercer Way. This route goes on the side of the Island and has many curves.

See
Luther Burbank Park is the most notable park on the north part of the island, followed by Pioneer Park in the middle of the island. The former park offers views of Bellevue and Medina, and has public docks, and the latter park is a nature preserve serving as a nexus for the many miles of trails on the island. There are horse stables just south of Pioneer Park if you are in the mood for horse riding lessons.

Many of the greatest views can be seen from the smaller parks which dot the island. These include Groveland Park, Clarke Beach Park, and the westernmost edge of Lid Park, which sits on top of I-90.

Buy
There are multiple places to go shopping on Mercer Island. The Mercer Village Shopping Center is at the south end of the island, having a grocery store, several coffee shops, a drug store and other shops that mostly cater to the locals.

Sleep
Mercer Island has no hotels or motels to stay at, so if you need to find one, your best bet is to hop on I-90 either into Seattle or Bellevue, as both cities have multiple, varied options for overnight stays.

title: Mercer Island


text:
Mercersburg

Mercersburg is a small town in the Pennsylvania Dutch Country region of Pennsylvania, not far from the Appalachian mountain chain that separates Mercersburg from McConnellsburg.

Get in
The main road that passes through the town is Route 16. Route 416 and 75 mold into Route 16 as it passes through the main section of the town.

The closest airport is Hagerstown Regional Airport, which is still over 30 miles away. There are also trains that come to Harrisburg, which is an hour and a half away from the town.

Get around
There is no public transportation available, so it will be necessary to bring your own vehicle. The town is also very walk and bike friendly.

See
Mercersburg has a historical presence that the residents take pride in preserving. Many homes and buildings on Main Street have remained almost unchanged in appearance. Several years ago, a fire revealed a log cabin from underneath a brick facade that is on the town square.

There are also many sights related to James Buchanan, the 15th president of the United States, who was raised and lived in Mercersburg. A statue of Buchanan is located next to the First National Bank of Mercersburg, and there is a house named after him and his First Lady, Harriet Lane. His birthplace cabin was relocated from outside of town to Mercersburg Academy.

 * Mercersburg Academy is an expansive private college preparatory high school that is on the eastern side of the town. Located on campus is a large stone chapel, the Lenfest Library, and the Burgin Center for the Arts.
 * Fairview Cemetery and Zion Union Cemetery are the predominant white and black cemeteries, respectively. Civil War soldiers are buried at both.

Do
Mercersburg is a relatively slow-paced town, so there is a lack of attractions. History buffs may enjoy visiting Civil War sights and taking in the town's scenery. There is a plentiful amount of trees and flora that make the town beautiful, especially in the spring and fall.

There is a small movie theater, called the Star Theatre, located on West Seminary Street. Be wary, it is only open on Fridays and Saturdays, only has one viewing room, and shows one movie per night. The plus is that an adult ticket only costs $5 and it's $4 for those 12 and under.

A small community park is on the southwestern outskirt of town and hosts the town fair in late August. Fireworks commence the beginning night of the fair, amusement rides are brought in, and musical guests perform.

Seminary Street is closed to vehicles for a day in September for the Fall Fest. Performances by local bands and dance troupes take place, and there are handcrafts, food and prizes available.

There are also parades held around Halloween and on Memorial Day.

Buy
There are few shops in town, but a handcraft store is close to the town square. A florist shop, grocery store and pharmacy are also within the town limits.

Eat
In town, there are a variety of restaurants and an area on the northwest outskirt of town where a McDonald's, Subway and Chinese restaurant are located.

Drink
Stoners On the Square (formally known as Flannery's) is located on the town square on Main Street.

Byron's Dining Room in The Mercersburg Inn offers a fine dining experience Thursday thru Sunday from 5:30PM to 8:30PM.

Connect

 * Sagee B's: Free Wifi Internet

Go next

 * Carlisle
 * Gettysburg
 * Hagerstown
 * Harrisburg
 * Philadelphia
 * Washington, D.C.
 * Waynesboro
 * York

title: Mercersburg


text:
Meredith

Meredith is in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire.

See
Lake Winnipesaukee is the primary attraction in Meredith. It is a major point on the lake, and has a large town-dock for boating day trippers. Plenty of places to eat and shop.

title: Meredith


text:
Meribel

Meribel is a group of three villages in the Savoie department of France.

Get in
Meribel, in France, is best accessed via train from Paris which goes direct to near-by Moutiers Salins where a short bus or taxi ride will take you to Meribel centre and surrounding areas. Eurostar offers direct services from London and Ashford on Friday evenings and Saturday mornings to Moutiers, returning on Saturday (morning or evening).

Other ways of getting to Meribel include flying to Geneva, Lyon, Grenoble or Chambery and transferring via bus or taxi. It is possible to drive to Meribel, but this is probably not the best way as traffic around the Alps can be awful and the mountain roads are rather hard to negotiate.

There is a direct coach service from London, stopping at a few other places in England which can give 8 days skiing, a very favourable low-cost option for the budget traveller.

The Olympe cable car links Meribel to Brides les Bains at the foot of the Alps, via Les Allués. The ride takes 26 minutes in small 6 seater cabins.

Get around
Meribel is a large resort by Alps standards but the best way to explore Meribel centre is by walking. If you are staying in surrounding villages, a free bus service operates 7 days a week and runs til late.

For example, you can drive to Bozel, in the Tarentaise Valley.

Do
Meribel offers some of the best Alpine skiing in the Alps and other resorts such as Courchevel, Les Menuires and Val Thorens can be accessed via the extensive lift network.

Buy

 * The Boot Lab are a specialist boot fitters based in Méribel Centre. They offer a comfort guarantee with every boot sold and have excellent client feedback.

Eat
Chez Kiki is a little steak place run and owned by an old French chap called Kiki. Their steaks are legendary but as with most restaurants in the Alps, extremely pricey and a 3-course meal with wine is likely to set you back at least €100 per head.

Drink
Le Pub, Barometer, the Tavern and Dick's Tea Bar are some of the most popular night spots in Meribel and are generally full of, and run by, English people. Dick's Tea Bar is open until 05:00 most nights. Be prepared to spend lots of money in these places, a pint of beer can set you back €6-8.

The Rond Point, locally known as 'Ronnies' is possibly one of the most famous Apres-Ski spots in the world and is the only place to go for drinks on the slopes. Again, prices are eye-watering but the atmosphere is fantastic. Open to 19:00 daily.

title: Meribel


text:
Meriden

There is more than one place called Meriden:

England

 * Meriden (England) — A village in England.

United States of America

 * Meriden (Connecticut) — A city in Connecticut.
 * Meriden (Iowa) — A town in Iowa.
 * Meriden (Kansas) — A town in Kansas.
 * Meriden (New Hampshire) — A village in New Hampshire.

title: Meriden


text:
Meriden (Connecticut)

Meriden is a city in the Connecticut River Valley. Although not a major tourist destination, it does have an architecturally notable center.

By train

 * Routes stopping at Meriden:
 * Amtrak Hartford Line operating 3-5 trips per direction daily between Springfield and New Haven with stops in Windsor Locks, Windsor, Hartford, Berlin, Meriden, and Wallingford.
 * Northeast Regional operating twice daily between Springfield and Washington, D.C. with stops in Windsor Locks, Windsor, Hartford, Berlin, Meriden, Wallingford, New Haven, Bridgeport, Stamford, New Rochelle, New York City, Newark, Trenton, Philadelphia, Wilmington, Baltimore, and New Carrollton.
 * Vermonter operates daily between St. Albans and Washington, D.C. including stops in Essex Junction, Waterbury, Montpelier, White River Junction, Claremont, Bellows Falls, Brattleboro, Greenfield, Northampton, Holyoke, Springfield, Windsor Locks, Hartford, Meriden, New Haven, Bridgeport, Stamford, New York City, Newark, Trenton, Philadelphia, Wilmington, Baltimore, and New Carrollton.
 * Valley Flyer operates twice daily between Greenfield and New Haven including stops in Northampton, Holyoke, Springfield, Windsor Locks, Windsor, Hartford, Berlin, Meriden, and Wallingford.
 * Valley Flyer operates twice daily between Greenfield and New Haven including stops in Northampton, Holyoke, Springfield, Windsor Locks, Windsor, Hartford, Berlin, Meriden, and Wallingford.

title: Meriden (Connecticut)


text:
Meriden (England)

Meriden is a small historic village in the West Midlands, England. It is situated about half way between Birmingham and Coventry. It is said to be the centre of England, but the name of this village actually means "Merry Vale".

Get in
Car is the easiest way to reach Meriden, just off the A45 road from Birmingham or Coventry direction in about 20 minutes.

There is no railway station in Meriden, but the village can be accessed by bus. The main route through Meriden is the X1, running from Birmingham (taking 49 mins), Coventry (taking 26 minutes), or Birmingham Airport (taking 11 minutes). This bus typically runs every twenty minutes and the fare is £2.40 single or £4.00 for a day ticket. There is also an hourly X20 service to Solihull and Stratford.

Get around
The village is small, you can get around by foot, bicycle or car.

Eat
There are several places to eat in Meriden. At the local Manor Hotel, The Bull's Head pub, the Strawberry Bank Hotel. All these provide food, drink and accommodation.

Go next
There is plenty to see in the nearby city of Birmingham. Solihull is the nearest town for shopping etc. Kenilworth Castle and Warwick Castle are also nearby.

title: Meriden (England)


text:
Meridian

Meridian is a city in Mississippi. It was a titan of commerce of sorts during the Reconstruction era and up through the Great Depression, even after General Tecumseh Sherman had torched it, due to its being a hub to five major rail lines and manufacturing during its golden age. It is now a treasure trove for some of the architecture preserved from that period. Meridian is also noted for being the location of the US v. Cecil Price court case, where several Ku Klux Klan members were charged for the abduction and murder of three Civil Rights workers in 1964 in nearby Neshoba County, an event analogously portrayed in the film Mississippi Burning.

By car
U.S. Interstate 20 begins at Kent, Texas and ends at Florence, South Carolina. U.S. Interstate 59 begins at New Orleans, Louisiana and ends at Wildwood, Georgia. U.S. Route 80 begins at Dallas, Texas and ends at Savannah, Georgia.

By plane
Meridian Regional Airport has nonstop service on Silver Airways to Atlanta.

By train
Amtrak serves the city via its once-daily Crecent service between New York City and New Orleans. is centrally located at 1901 Front St.

See

 * , 601 22nd Ave, 16 story Art Deco building from 1929 whose financiers were ironically put out of business by the Great Depression thereafter, now commemorated indirectly with an annual Threefoot Arts Festival.
 * , 2200 5th St, also known as the Grand Opera House from 1889, in late Victorian/Empire Romanesque style, with a distinctive proscenium that has the face of a lady.
 * , 628 25th Ave, formerly a Carnegie library from 1913, of which there were actually two in Meridian, one for whites and one for blacks, the latter no longer in existence. Aside from its attractive Carnegie design, the building houses an intriguing array of art exhibits.
 * , 1430 30th St, the first school to be built for African Americans with public funds in the state of Mississippi, it's now more or less a shell with broken windows and such.
 * , 2422 5th St, this was the only hotel where African Americans could stay prior to Civil Rights Movement changes
 * , 2422 5th St, this was the only hotel where African Americans could stay prior to Civil Rights Movement changes

Sleep
There are no hotels in the city center, most are instead clustered around the Interstate highway south of Meridan.

title: Meridian


text:
Merimbula

Merimbula is a beachside town on the Sapphire Coast in the far south of New South Wales. Across Merimbula Lake is Merimbula's twin town of Pambula.

Understand
Merimbula is one of the southernmost towns in New South Wales. It attracts tourist both from NSW and Victoria, but mainly Victorians.

By plane
There is a cycleway that runs between Pambula and Merimbula that passes the entrance to the airport, so if you're not burdened with too much luggage, it's entirely possible to walk or cycle into town.

By coach
Premier Motor Services operates a twice daily coach between Sydney and Eden, that stops in Merimbula.

By car
Merimbula can be accessed by Arthur Kaine Drive which is accessible from Pambula off the Princes Highway from Melbourne. A 7 hour drive from Melbourne and a 3-3.5 hour drive from Canberra. A 7 hour drive south of Sydney.

Get around
It may be possible to get by in Merimbula without a car. You can fly to the local airport, and get a taxi into town. The town itself is walkable, and trips to neighbouring areas are possible by bus on weekdays.

There is a local bus service in Merimbula with Sapphire Coast Bus Lines. The service is limited to a few services Monday to Friday.

There is a taxi service in town. You can call it on the national number - 131 008.

See
Merimbula has six main beaches including Main Beach (Merimbula Beach), Mitchies Jetty, Middle Beach, Bar Beach, Spencer Park Beach, and Short Point.
 * Merimbula Wharf

Do

 * Magic Mountain Theme Park
 * Big Top Amusement Centre
 * Merimbula Lake Boardwalk
 * Merimbula Aquarium with feeding at 11:30AM on Wednesdays and Fridays

Scuba Diving

 * Sponge gardens at Yellow Rock
 * Empire Gladstone wreck of near Haycock Point

Eat
Merimbula and Pambula are well known for oysters, and there are a number of oyster farms in the area.

 * Merimbula RSL has great food at cheap prices, recommend the seafood platter for two.
 * Merimbula RSL has great food at cheap prices, recommend the seafood platter for two.
 * Merimbula RSL has great food at cheap prices, recommend the seafood platter for two.

Go next
SE Forest National Park is nearby and contains one of the last few patches of pristine wet temperate rainforests in southeastern New South Wales. Unfortunately, the roads to get to the park can be a bit chockers and should only be visited with the appropriate vehicle.

Beowa National Park protects the nearby coastal wilderness.

 * Bega
 * Canberra
 * Cooma
 * Eden
 * Narooma

title: Merimbula


text:
Merrick

Merrick is a hamlet in Long Island located on the south shore of Nassau County, New York. Merrick is approximately 40 minutes from Manhattan. It is named after the Meroke Indians, an Algonquin tribe that was indigenous to the area. The town of Merrick is divided into two sections, North and South with Sunrise Highway a six-lane road being the dividing point.

Understand
Merrick is a quiet, suburban town along the South Shore of Long Island. As of the 2010 census, the population of Merrick was 22,097. Merrick offers something for everyone. There are small starter homes, such as capes available in North Merrick. These might be 2-bedroom houses with one bathroom. As you travel south, the homes get larger and more expensive. The houses on the water are generally the most expensive and expansive, with docks in the backyard. There are also beautiful, stately homes in the Merrick Woods section.

Merrick is ten minutes away from Jones Beach, where people go to relax and occasionally see first-rate concerts at their stadium.

Merrick also has many houses of worship. There are five temples, two Roman Catholic churches (Sacred Heart and Cure of Ars), a Greek Orthodox church and the Indian Mar-Thoma church. Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield of Ben and Jerry's, Lindsay Lohan, singer Deborah Gibson, designer Michael Kors as well as Season 10's American Idol contestant Robbie Rosen come from Merrick.

Merrick has two libraries. Both of them are state-of-the-art facilities, one in South Merrick and the other in North Merrick.

Get in
There are at least four ways to get to Merrick. You can travel by car, train, bus or boat.

The Long Island Rail Road stops in Merrick, centrally located on Sunrise Highway and Merrick Avenue.

By car, you would take the Meadowbrook Parkway to exit M9 (Merrick Road) or M8 (Sunrise Highway).

Although there are bus routes that travel through the community, it is probably not the best way to get around. The N51 stops at the Merrick train station and runs through many towns as it reaches it final destination, Roosevelt Field shopping mall. There are other buses that run along Merrick Road stopping every few blocks.

You can also reach Merrick by boat. There is a marina that runs along Whaleneck Drive. You can dock your boat there for the day or season.

Get around
Having a car is the best way to get from place to place in town. The whole town is so walking is an option too. There are many shops and restaurants on Merrick Avenue and Merrick Road. You can park your car and easily walk from store to store. There are many, non-metered municipal parking lots, so parking, especially on weekends is not a problem.

Eat
Merrick offers an abundance of places to eat ranging from every imaginable fast-food establishment; McDonalds and Burger King are across the street from each other to more upscale and expensive eateries. There is something for every budget.

Go next

 * Bellmore - One town east with two movie theaters and many restaurants. In addition, Bellmore has a comedy club, The Brokerage. They offer two shows on Friday and Saturday nights. There is a two-drink minimum in addition to price of show.
 * Freeport - One town west Freeport is famous for its Nautical Mile, lots of restaurants, shopping and fishing boat tours. Many of the restaurants have live music during the summer months with outside patio seating.

title: Merrick