I am considering to spend some time (vacation and possibility of retirement) in Mérida (México). I read about this city. It sounds positive however I am wondering if what I read is just a tourist "trap"? México is "on the map" of several foreign ministries as a place not to go. Any suggestion/comments? Thank you in advance for your responses.
Been there once, it is a little dirty (got really sick) and the streets did not feel very safe (but I had no problems).
We can’t decide. There is a resort in Mexico I really want to go to, but we’d be going away in July and I don’t really see the point of going somewhere warm when it’s already warm. But anyways, here is my dream resort:
We are also thinking of doing Hawaii or an Alaskan cruise, but we like to have a few coctails, and don’t like the idea of no booze included.
So.. I need your help. Where would go you?? Our budget is $5,000 or less all included (meals, booze etc)
1. Iberstar Grand Paradiso, Mayan Riveria
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g663501-d647536-Reviews-Iberostar_Grand_Hotel_Paraiso-Playa_Paraiso_Yucatan_Peninsula.html
2. Hawaii
3. Atlantis Hotel, Bahamas
4. Alaskan Cruise
Atlantis hands down!!!
We went there a few years ago and it takes your breath away; it’s that beautiful.
In regards to alcohol; I’ve been on several "all inclusive" vacations and alcohol was NEVER included….So you might have a problem with that…
Congrats on your upcoming nuptials! 
going there over ‘Day of the Dead’ weekend.
For Restaurants:
On the high end you can try Trotter’s. It’s very nice but pricey. The same restaurateur also has Pancho’s closer to the main square, that’s a fun place and not as upscale as Trotter’s.
Also on the high end and just north of the city is the hacienda Xcanatun. They have a very nice restaurant. They have rooms too but that’s not in Merida and it’s $$$ for a room.
For more casual you can try La Parilla & El Argentino I’ve eaten at both on the Paseo de Montejo. I would recommend both. For lunch you can also try La Reina del Montejo for a taco stand type of experience. Good food and very cheap. Also, downtown is a restaurant called Las Vigas, I can’t remember the street though but it’s good, and very affordable if you happen to come accross it.
For hotels, there’s some links and names below. I live in the area so I don’t have much experience with the hotels.