Which place is cheaper, Cumberland Island National Seashore or Merida?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
If you're trying to decide where to visit between Merida or Cumberland Island National Seashore, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.
Merida is a colonial, historical, and traditional city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Merida travel costs.
Cumberland Island National Seashore is a secluded, undeveloped, and untouched island. With stunning beauty, Cumberland Island National Seashore attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking. See Cumberland Island National Seashore travel costs.
Visitors will usually find more to do in Merida than Cumberland Island National Seashore, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Merida is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Cumberland Island National Seashore is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Merida is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is known for its vibrant plazas, long running history, and colonial architecture. Also, Merida is famous for Grand Plaza. Cumberland Island National Seashore is well known for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses.
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cumberland Island National Seashore and Merida. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Merida is a great city for its historical sights. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its sights and museums.
Merida offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is filled with culture and traditional heritage, and there are many museums and architectural landmarks that will educate and inform visitors on the area. Gran Museo del Mundo Maya is a highlight for many visitors. It's also worth visiting Museo Casa Montejo and Museo Palacio Canton. If you want to visit ruins, then the Dzibilchaltun Mayan Ruins are about 45 minutes outside of town.
Cumberland Island National Seashore offers a few options for museum-goers. There aren't any museums on the island, but on the mainland there's a visitor center as well as the Cumberland Island National Seashore Museum.
Merida is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.
The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Merida. It's a top foodie destination in the Yucatan region and visitors will enjoy the many local restaurants and diverse local dishes that are influenced by the Mayan, Spanish, and Caribbean cultures. The most well known local dish is cochinita pibil, which is marinated pork shoulder. Other popular dishes include sopa de lima (lime soup), papadzules (enchiladas with pumpkin seed sauce), and relleno negro (a local stew).
Most people don't head to Cumberland Island National Seashore for a culinary experience, but it does have restaurants to choose from. There are no restaurants on the island, so you need to pack any food that you might need before you arrive.
Merida is a great city for nightlife. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for nightlife and partying.
The nightlife in Merida has something for everybody. Most tourists take advantage of the nightlife scene in the city's downtown area, while locals congregate in the northern part of town. The city has bars, theaters, night clubs, and live music that keeps the energy high late into the night.
People don't go to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the nightlife. Stargazing is amazing on the island, but you're left to your own devices when it comes to evening entertainment options.
Cumberland Island National Seashore is terrific for the beach. However, Merida is not a beach destination.
The beaches in Cumberland Island National Seashore are among the best in the world. There are 17 miles of pristine beaches along the island. You'll also find wild horses and miles of hiking trails. Swimming is popular, but do take note that there are no lifeguards on the island.
Merida is not a beach destination.
Merida is a great city for its historic old town. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore does not have a historic old town.
Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Merida. Centered around the city's Grand Plaza, the old town is filled with colonial architecture and colorful buildings. The Catedral de San Ildefonso was the first cathedral built in the Americas. There are also monuments and examples of Mayan art and culture.
Cumberland Island National Seashore does not have a historic old town.
Cumberland Island National Seashore is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Merida is not a hiking destination.
Known for its hiking, Cumberland Island National Seashore draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. You'll find more than 50 miles of hiking trails on the island. They pass through a number of ecosystems such as wetlands, forests, and beaches. Most visitors come for the day and spend most of their time on the Southend of the island. This is where you'll find the highest concentration of hiking trails. Some of the most popular trails are Dungeness Roadways, River Trail, and Nightingale Trail.
Merida is not a hiking destination.
Merida is a great city for shopping. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its shopping opportunities.
Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Merida. There are colorful markets that are filled with artisan crafts and traditional clothing. Visitors enjoy discovering the unique vendors and picking up souvenirs that are unique to the area.
Cumberland Island National Seashore has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There aren't any shops or stores on the island so plan accordingly.
Cumberland Island National Seashore is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Merida is not a destination known for its beauty.
With stunning beauty, Cumberland Island National Seashore attracts visitors from all around. The barrier island has 17 miles of pristine beaches. It offers a truly beautiful setting that feels undiscovered and untouched.
Merida is not a destination known for its beauty.
Merida and Cumberland Island National Seashore are both notable destinations for the whole family.
Merida is a family-friendly city. The weekend is the best time to visit the city, as this is when there are the most activities. There are live performances that educate visitors on Mayan traditions. There are also historic museums, bike-friendly streets, and a vibrant central market.
You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore. In addition to the hiking trails, coastline, and wildlife, the island also has junior ranger programs and educational experiences for kids.
Cumberland Island National Seashore is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Merida is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.
Cumberland Island National Seashore makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will appreciate the pristine coastline, beautiful wildlife, and secluded hiking trails. Many people visit the island as a day trip, but it's also possible to stay at one of the island's campgrounds. For a truly romantic experience you could also stay at the Greyfield Inn.
Merida is a nice destination for couples. If you're interested in Mayan culture and history, then this is a wonderful destination. There are also romantic hotels, excellent restaurants, and plenty of fascinating activities that couples will enjoy.
Merida and Cumberland Island National Seashore are both very good destinations for backpackers.
Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Merida. It's a relatively large city with a number of hostels and budget hotels, so backpackers will have no problem finding a place to stay.
Backpackers come from all over to visit Cumberland Island National Seashore. Backpackers appreciate the secluded and pristine atmosphere. There are miles of hiking trails as well as campgrounds on the island for those who want to stay overnight.
Merida is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its public transit.
While Merida offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. While there are local bus routes, they can be a bit challenging to figure out when you first arrive.
Public transit is generally limited in Cumberland Island National Seashore. The only way to the island is by ferry. It leaves from the town of St. Marys and advanced reservations are recommended.
Merida is a great city for its walkability. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its high level of walkability.
Merida is very walkable. It's a very walkable city and most visitors don't have a car.
Cumberland Island National Seashore is a somewhat walkable place. There are many hikes on the island, but the whole island is 18 miles long, making it difficult to walk in one day. Many visitors spend their time near the campgrounds where there's the highest concentration of hiking trails. This area is known as Sea Camp.
For even more information, also check out Is Merida Worth Visiting? and Is Cumberland Island National Seashore Worth Visiting?.
Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Merida and Cumberland Island National Seashore. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cumberland Island National Seashore than in Merida. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Merida, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cumberland Island National Seashore.
Families should spend more time in Merida than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Merida, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Merida than Cumberland Island National Seashore. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Merida that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Merida than Cumberland Island National Seashore if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Merida.
In Merida, you'll find nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.
Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.
Many people visit Merida for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.
Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.
Merida is a popular place to visit. The colonial city of Merida offers shopping and museums. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.
Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Merida. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.
Travelers enjoy the when visiting the pristine destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Cancun, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
The average daily cost (per person) in Merida is $99, while the average daily cost in Cumberland Island National Seashore is $175. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Merida and Cumberland Island National Seashore in more detail.
Looking for a hotel in Merida or Cumberland Island National Seashore? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.
Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.
Also for Merida, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
Prices for flights to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Merida change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.
For Merida, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Merida's activities, tours, and tickets:
For Merida, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Merida and Cumberland Island National Seashore, we can see that Cumberland Island National Seashore is more expensive. And not only is Merida much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Merida would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Merida and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Cumberland Island National Seashore would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cumberland Island National Seashore than you might in Merida.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Merida Expensive? and Is Cumberland Island National Seashore Expensive?.
Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.
The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Merida and Cumberland Island National Seashore. Many visitors come to Merida in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.
In the summer, Merida is cooler than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Typically, the summer temperatures in Merida in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Cumberland Island National Seashore averages at about 82°F (28°C).
People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of the year. In Merida, it's very sunny this time of the year. Merida usually receives less sunshine than Cumberland Island National Seashore during summer. Merida gets 254 hours of sunny skies, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 286 hours of full sun in the summer.
Cumberland Island National Seashore receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Merida usually receives less rain than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Merida gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the summer.
The autumn brings many poeple to Merida as well as Cumberland Island National Seashore. Most visitors come to Merida for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Cumberland Island National Seashore because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.
In October, Merida is generally around the same temperature as Cumberland Island National Seashore. Daily temperatures in Merida average around 21°C (70°F), and Cumberland Island National Seashore fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).
The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cumberland Island National Seashore. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Merida this time of the year. In the autumn, Merida often gets more sunshine than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Merida gets 233 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 214 hours of full sun.
Merida receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Merida usually gets more rain in October than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Merida gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.
Both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Merida are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Merida because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.
Merida is much warmer than Cumberland Island National Seashore in the winter. The daily temperature in Merida averages around 20°C (68°F) in January, and Cumberland Island National Seashore fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).
The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Merida. Merida usually receives more sunshine than Cumberland Island National Seashore during winter. Merida gets 209 hours of sunny skies, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 191 hours of full sun in the winter.
In January, Merida usually receives less rain than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Merida gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the winter.
Both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Merida during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city are the main draw to Merida this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the beaches and the natural beauty.
In the spring, Merida is around the same temperature as Cumberland Island National Seashore. Typically, the spring temperatures in Merida in April average around 21°C (70°F), and Cumberland Island National Seashore averages at about 68°F (20°C).
In Cumberland Island National Seashore, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Merida. In the spring, Merida often gets less sunshine than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Merida gets 260 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 285 hours of full sun.
It rains a lot this time of the year in Merida. Merida usually gets more rain in April than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Merida gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Cumberland Island National Seashore receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.
Merida | Cumberland Island National Seashore | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
Jan | 20°C (68°F) | 20 mm (0.8 in) | 53°F (12°C) | 3.3 inches (83 mm) |
Feb | 20°C (68°F) | 50 mm (2 in) | 56°F (13°C) | 3.9 inches (100 mm) |
Mar | 21°C (70°F) | 70 mm (2.8 in) | 62°F (17°C) | 3.7 inches (93 mm) |
Apr | 21°C (70°F) | 150 mm (5.9 in) | 68°F (20°C) | 2.8 inches (72 mm) |
May | 22°C (72°F) | 190 mm (7.5 in) | 74°F (24°C) | 3.7 inches (93 mm) |
Jun | 21°C (70°F) | 140 mm (5.5 in) | 80°F (27°C) | 5.7 inches (146 mm) |
Jul | 21°C (70°F) | 70 mm (2.8 in) | 82°F (28°C) | 5.4 inches (137 mm) |
Aug | 21°C (70°F) | 130 mm (5.1 in) | 82°F (28°C) | 7.8 inches (199 mm) |
Sep | 21°C (70°F) | 190 mm (7.5 in) | 79°F (26°C) | 7.1 inches (180 mm) |
Oct | 21°C (70°F) | 210 mm (8.3 in) | 70°F (21°C) | 2.9 inches (73 mm) |
Nov | 21°C (70°F) | 140 mm (5.5 in) | 62°F (17°C) | 2.2 inches (55 mm) |
Dec | 20°C (68°F) | 60 mm (2.4 in) | 56°F (13°C) | 2.7 inches (69 mm) |