Campeche: The Gem of the Yucatán Peninsula

• HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
• GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dee-ohs]
• YesSí
  [see]
• NoNo
  [noh]
• Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [pohr fah-bohr/deh nah-dah]
• Thank youGracias
  [grah-see-ahs]
• Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento
  [pehr-dohn/loh see-ehn-toh]
• How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
• Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [byehn. ee too]
• Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glehs]
• I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tee-ehn-doh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah behr ehl meh-noo, pohr fah-bohr]
• I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
• Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-lood]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah pah-gahr, pohr fah-bohr]

• Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
• Go away!¡Vete!
  [veh-teh]
• Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía!
  [yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!¡Llama a un doctor!
  [yah-mah ah oon dohk-tohr]
• I'm lostEstoy perdido
  [ehs-toy pehr-dee-doh]
• I'm illEstoy enfermo
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh]

• I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah kohm-prahr...]
• I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy meer-ahn-doh]
• How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwan-toh kwehs-tah]
• That's too expensiveEso es demasiado caro
  [eh-soh ehs deh-mah-see-ah-doh kahr-oh]
• Can you lower the price?¿Puede bajar el precio?
  [pweh-deh bah-hahr ehl pree-syoh]

• What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh oh-rah ehs]
• It's one o'clockEs la una
  [ehs lah oo-nah]
• Half past (10)Media (10)
  [meh-dyah (deez ee-syehs)]
• MorningMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
• EveningNoche
  [noh-cheh]
• YesterdayAyer
  [ah-yehr]
• TodayHoy
  [oy]
• TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
• 2Dos
  [dohs]
• 3Tres
  [trehs]
• 4Cuatro
  [kwa-troh]
• 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
• 6Seis
  [says]
• 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
• 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
• 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
• 10Diez
  [dyehs]

• Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está el/la...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah ehl/lah]
• What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwal ehs lah dee-rek-syohn]
• Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-dehs mohs-trar-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
• When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
  [kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-see-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ...)
  [oon boh-leh-toh (ah ...)]

Campeche was founded on October 4, 1540, by Spanish conquistadors led by Francisco de Montejo. The city was established on the site of the ancient Mayan city of Can Pech, which had been an important trading post for the Maya civilization. The Spanish aimed to create a fortified settlement to protect their interests and facilitate further colonization.

Before the arrival of the Spanish, the region was inhabited by the Maya people, who established the city of Can Pech around 1000 AD. The Maya in this area were skilled traders, craftsmen, and architects, leaving behind a rich cultural legacy that includes intricate stone carvings, ceremonial centers, and expansive trading networks. Several Mayan ruins, such as Edzná, can still be explored today.

During the 17th century, Campeche was frequently attacked by pirates due to its wealth and strategic location. To protect the city, the Spanish Crown ordered the construction of extensive fortifications. By the late 1600s, the city was encircled by massive walls and protected by several forts, including the notable Fort San Miguel and Fort San José el Alto. These fortifications are well-preserved and are a testament to the city's turbulent past.

Throughout the 18th century, Campeche prospered as a major port city. It became a key hub for the export of valuable resources such as logwood, which was used to produce dyes. The city's prosperity attracted settlers and merchants from Europe, leading to a blend of colonial architectural styles that can still be seen in the beautifully preserved historical center.

Campeche played a role in the Mexican War of Independence, which began in 1810. After Mexico gained independence in 1821, Campeche continued to grow and modernize. The 19th century saw improvements in infrastructure, such as the introduction of railroads and modern port facilities, which further cemented the city's status as an important economic center in the region.

In 1999, the historic fortified town of Campeche was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This recognition highlights the city's well-preserved colonial architecture, its unique blend of Spanish and Mayan influences, and its significant role in the history of the region. The city's colorful facades, cobblestone streets, and historic landmarks make it a vibrant destination for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.

Campeche is served by the Ing. Alberto Acuña Ongay International Airport, which is approximately 8 kilometers from the city center. Direct flights are available from major cities in Mexico like Mexico City and Cancun. For international travelers, connecting flights through Mexico City are a common route. Alternatively, you can reach Campeche by bus from other cities in the Yucatán Peninsula, such as Mérida, which is about a 2-hour drive away.

Within Campeche, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available and convenient for getting around. Public buses are also an option for traveling within the city and to nearby towns. For a more leisurely experience, consider renting a bicycle to explore the historic center. Renting a car is advisable for those looking to explore more remote areas and archaeological sites outside the city.

The official currency in Campeche is the Mexican Peso (MXN). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in the city. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available throughout the city, but it’s wise to withdraw sufficient cash before traveling to more rural areas.

Campeche is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, it’s advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings in crowded places. Areas with higher crime rates targeting tourists include the outskirts of the city and some less frequented neighborhoods. Always use reputable transportation services and avoid walking alone at night.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The city has several hospitals and clinics that provide quality medical care. It’s highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are numerous pharmacies where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. The local police station is also available for any legal assistance you may require.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably but modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your shoulders and knees when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a slight nod. A friendly 'Hola' is usually well-received. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Campeche like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city’s history and culture. Don’t miss the evening light and sound show at the historic city walls. For a unique dining experience, try the local seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants. Additionally, explore the lesser-known beaches and fishing villages for a more authentic experience.