Mexico

Imagine swimming in an infinity pool of natural spring water on the top of a cliff with endless views of the surrounding mountains. To your right is a beautiful petrified waterfall that cascades into the valley below, appearing as if it has been frozen in time. This is the gorgeous scene at Hierve el Agua, Oaxaca.

Oaxaca is the paradise of mezcal. And if you’ve been in the city for a few days, you’ve probably started to see it for yourself. It’s the dominant liquor on most cocktail lists and there are even entire bars, called mezcalerias, devoted to sipping the spirit.  But perhaps most interesting are the small palenques of…

Oaxaca has long been celebrated for its rich culture. And one place that is best expressed is in its food. The best restaurants in Oaxaca have discovered a way to bring exquisite modernity to the traditional food of the region.  That’s not to say this list is simply one of modern, high-end Oaxaca restaurants. It’s…

Located at the foot of the Sierra Madre mountains is the beachside community of Mazunte, Oaxaca. Despite being discovered by travelers in recent years, this pueblo magico remains a tranquil oceanside town with a population of less than 1,000 people. Mazunte has a sense of community that is hard to find these days. It’s a…

At over 8,000 feet above sea level, in the misty mountains, is San Jose del Pacifico, Oaxaca. This small town has become a popular destination for travelers because of the magic mushrooms that grow in the wild. But you’ll soon discover that it has more to offer than a transcendental trip. As another traveler expressed,…

Sunset in Mazunte is elevated by the sacred hills of Punta Cometa. The three ridges that extend into the Pacific Ocean are the most southern point along the Oaxaca coast. In the winter, it’s a place where you can see whales navigating the seas below and birds migrating overhead.  Each evening, residents and visitors wander…

During my nearly two weeks in San Cristobal, one of the most surprising finds was the variety of restaurants. San Cristobal de las Casas has attracted a wide culinary range that includes a remarkable number of Asian and vegan restaurants. It’s amazing to find two places serving Korean food in a Mexican town of this…

Oaxaca City is magical. The residents of Oaxaca are deeply tied to their indigenous roots and their traditions infuse vibrancy into this colonial city. Between the bustling markets, incredible food, ancient ruins, and lively street parades (calendas), you’ll find plenty of things to do in Oaxaca. Are you planning to visit Oaxaca but need help…

Oaxaca tours manage to mix nature, history, and artisans in one, often with a mezcal tasting for good measure. The beauty of basing yourself in the city is the abundance of day trips from Oaxaca to the surrounding valleys. Click to discover the vibrancy of Oaxaca.