A country that is both vast and varied, from desert to tropical forest, from one of the largest metropolises in the world to a remote beach, it is united by beauty, delicious food, and warm, welcoming people. With the history of its rich cultures and civilizations pulsating through excavated ruins, visits to some of the awe-inspiring pyramids and museums filled with carved stone artefacts, ceramic figures, and precious stone jewellery, offer a glimpse into the deep and complex history of this land.
Many travellers begin their journey in the vibrant capital to explore the beautiful historical centre of Mexico city, replete with graceful colonial architecture and the troubling symbols of conquest, wander down tree-lined streets, peruse the intimate contents of Frida Kahlo’s home, and indulge in some unforgettable fine dining.
Travelling south-west, it is well worth discovering Oaxaca. Its rich history and a variety of indigenous cultures make it a cultural and gastronomic treasure trove. The famed mole negro, an explosion of flavors in a dark sauce, is but one of the highlights of local cuisine. With the preservation of indigenous languages and culture in the areas surrounding Oaxaca city, many artisanal practices continue to flourish, from pottery to hand carved, brightly painted alebrijes, to beautiful, naturally-dyed hand-woven textiles. Mezcal, tequila’s increasingly popular cousin, is also native to the area and a visit to a local mezcaleria to sip on this alluring, smokey drink is a must.
The Pacific coast offers a respite from the city, and the enchanting mangroves and lagoons near Puerto Escondido hide stretches of pristine beaches, far from the noise of daily life. Palm huts overlook the beach as surfers catch waves at all hours of the day, pelicans soar, and turtle hatchlings make their twilight journey to the ocean. On a moonless night, a boat trip through the lagoon reveals the magical sight: the phosphorescent flashes of bioluminescent plankton.